Hidden gems in Tuscany

Introduction

Tuscany is a region in central Italy known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, art, and world-famous cuisine. It’s the birthplace of the Renaissance and home to cultural hubs like Florence, Siena, and Pisa. Tuscany’s rolling hills are dotted with vineyards, olive groves, and medieval hilltop towns, making it a dream destination for travelers seeking a blend of natural beauty, historical depth, and culinary excellence. The region also boasts thermal springs, scenic coastlines, and charming villages, offering something for every kind of visitor.

1. Pitigliano – The Cliffside Village of Stone and History

Carved into volcanic rock and dramatically perched on a cliff, Pitigliano is often called “Little Jerusalem” due to its rich Jewish heritage. Wandering through its narrow alleyways feels like stepping back in time, where medieval architecture and Etruscan caves coexist. The Jewish Quarter, with its restored synagogue, tells the story of a community that once thrived here. As dusk falls and the village glows golden against the setting sun, Pitigliano becomes one of the most photogenic and peaceful corners of Tuscany.

2. Bagni San Filippo – Tuscany’s Natural Spa

Unlike the polished thermal spas of Chianciano or Saturnia, Bagni San Filippo is a wild and free thermal wonder tucked in the woods of Val d’Orcia. The area is known for its steaming white limestone formations and warm, mineral-rich pools. The most famous spot, “La Balena Bianca” (The White Whale), looks like a frozen waterfall made of calcite. A soak here is both relaxing and surreal, especially in cooler months when the steam rises through the forest.

3. Barga – The Scottish Town in the Mountains

In the Garfagnana region of northern Tuscany lies Barga, a hilltop town with strong Scottish ties. Many locals have roots in Scotland, and the town even hosts an annual “Sagra del Pesce e Patate” (Fish and Chips Festival). Beyond the cultural quirks, Barga charms visitors with its cobbled streets, pastel buildings, and panoramic views from the cathedral. It’s an artist’s haven and a peaceful retreat from Tuscany’s more touristed cities.

4. Castiglione della Pescaia – Coastal Beauty Without the Crowds

If you crave the sea but want to avoid the buzz of places like Viareggio, head to Castiglione della Pescaia. This medieval seaside village offers both pristine beaches and a charming old town with castle ruins overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea. It’s popular with Italians but relatively unknown to international tourists. You can enjoy seafood right by the harbor, stroll along pine-lined promenades, or bike through the nearby Diaccia Botrona Nature Reserve.

5. Volterra – Etruscan Legacy and Twilight Fame

While some may know Volterra from its cameo in the “Twilight” saga, the town’s true magic lies in its ancient roots. It boasts one of the best-preserved Etruscan walls in Italy, a Roman amphitheater, and artisan alabaster workshops that still operate today. Volterra sits high above the surrounding countryside, offering sweeping views and an atmosphere that blends the mystical with the medieval. It’s a destination for those who love history and a slower pace.

6. San Quirico d’Orcia – A Tuscan Dreamscape

Often overshadowed by nearby Pienza or Montalcino, San Quirico d’Orcia is a postcard-perfect town in the heart of Val d’Orcia. With its Renaissance gardens, quiet piazzas, and stunning stone churches, it captures the essence of Tuscany without the tour buses. The town is also a great base for hiking or cycling through the surrounding hills, where cypress-lined roads and golden fields seem to stretch endlessly.

7. Lari – A Pasta Lover’s Paradise

Tucked in the Pisan hills, the tiny town of Lari is famous for its historic pasta factory, Martelli, where pasta is still made by hand. A visit here means more than just sightseeing—you can actually watch the pasta-making process and sample fresh spaghetti just meters from where it’s produced. The town also has a well-preserved castle with panoramic views and a charming local vibe that makes it a delight for slow travelers.

8. Abbey of San Galgano – A Roofless Gothic Wonder

In a quiet valley south of Siena lies the hauntingly beautiful Abbey of San Galgano—a 13th-century Gothic church that now stands roofless, open to the sky. It’s one of the most atmospheric ruins in Tuscany and a photographer’s dream. Nearby, the Chapel of Montesiepi houses a mysterious sword embedded in stone, said to have inspired the Arthurian legend. The site is peaceful, spiritual, and steeped in legend.

9. Sovana – Ancient Tombs and Timeless Streets

Part of the “Citta Del Tufo” triangle (along with Pitigliano and Sorano), Sovana is the least visited and most tranquil of the three. Its Etruscan necropolis, including the awe-inspiring Tomb of Ildebrando, lies hidden in the surrounding countryside. The village itself features a lovely Romanesque cathedral and just a handful of cafes and craft shops. It’s ideal for travelers looking to combine history with quietude.

10. Lucignano – The Spiral-Shaped Jewel

One of Tuscany’s best-preserved medieval towns, Lucignano is uniquely built in a spiral pattern, winding upward to a central piazza. The town’s highlight is the “Tree of Love,” a gold and coral reliquary housed in the local museum and believed to bring luck in love. Lucignano’s tidy streets, blooming flowerpots, and family-run trattorias make it a romantic and peaceful stop on any Tuscan itinerary.

Where to stay in Tuscany

1. Florence – Best for Art, Culture, and First-Timers

• Why stay here: Central, walkable, and packed with Renaissance art, museums, and great food.
• Ideal for: History buffs, art lovers, and short stays.
• Stay options:
  • Luxury: Portrait Firenze
  • Mid-range: Hotel L’Orologio
  • Budget: Plus Florence Hostel

2. Siena – Medieval Charm and Easy Day Trips

• Why stay here: Smaller and quieter than Florence, with stunning medieval architecture and central access to southern Tuscany.
• Ideal for: Couples, history lovers, and foodies.
• Stay options:
  • Luxury: Grand Hotel Continental
  • Mid-range: Hotel Athena
  • Budget: B&B Il Corso

3. Chianti Region – Wine Country Retreat

• Why stay here: Rolling hills, vineyards, wine tastings, and postcard-perfect countryside.
• Ideal for: Wine lovers, scenic drives, and romantic getaways.
• Stay options:
  • Luxury: Castello di Spaltenna
  • Mid-range: Villa Vignamaggio
  • Budget: Agriturismo Poggio Bonelli

Things to do in Tuscany

1. Explore Florence’s Renaissance Masterpieces

• Visit the Uffizi Gallery and see works by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and da Vinci.
• Climb the Duomo for panoramic city views.
• Walk across the historic Ponte Vecchio Bridge.

2. Take a Wine Tour in Chianti

• Sip world-class wines directly at the source in Chianti Classico vineyards.
• Join tastings that include local cheeses, olive oil, and traditional Tuscan meals.
• Consider visiting Greve, Radda, or Castellina in Chianti.

3. Soak in Natural Hot Springs

• Relax in open-air thermal baths at Bagni San Filippo or Saturnia.
• Enjoy mineral-rich waters surrounded by nature, especially in cooler months.

Day trip from Tuscany

1. Cinque Terre – Colorful Coastal Villages

• Distance: ~2.5 hours from Florence by train
• Highlights: Hike the coastal trail, swim in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy fresh seafood.
• Tip: Start early and visit 2–3 of the five villages like Vernazza and Manarola.

2. Bologna – Food Capital of Italy

• Distance: ~1.5 hours from Florence by train
• Highlights: Taste fresh pasta (like tagliatelle al ragù), explore medieval towers, and visit the oldest university in Europe.
• Tip: Don’t miss a walk under Bologna’s famous porticoes.

3. Assisi – Spiritual and Scenic

• Distance: ~2 hours from Siena or Florence by car
• Highlights: Visit the Basilica of St. Francis, hike Monte Subasio, and enjoy panoramic views.