Embark on a road trip to remember around Italy’s Tuscany region discovering charming seaside towns, ancient buildings, local trattorias and hidden cobblestone laneways hiding dim-lit wine bars. Whether you’re travelling by car, Vespa or motorbike, we’ve got you covered with the ultimate road trip around Tuscany that ticks off all the regions must-see sights.
Florence’s beauty is world-renowned and it comes as no surprise that this sprawling city is one of Italy’s most popular places for tourists. The perfect place to start your road trip, Florence’s charms will seduce you with its incredible architecture – including the Duomo cathedral, Ponte Vecchio bridge and Palazzo Vecchio palace – and classic wine bars that spill out onto the Instagram-worthy streets.
Don’t miss the sultry tones of the music at the off-the-beaten-track Florence Jazz Club where you can unwind with a tasty feed and live jazz and blues sessions.
Driving time from Florence: 90 minutes
There is so much more to Pisa than its iconic Leaning Tower. Yes, you should see. Yes, you should pose for a cheesy photo next to it. And yes, it’s worth climbing to the top. But, it’s also worth giving Pisa a little more of your time so you can discover its hidden treasures. Pisa is home to many spectacular buildings including Piazza dei Miracoli, Duomo di Pisa and the Basilica Romanica di San Piero a Grado, as well as great cafes to grab an espresso at and charming, little pizzerias tucked away down quaint lanes.
Don’t miss grabbing some cheap and tasty street food at the Mercato delle Vettovaglie market (open every day except Sunday) where you can sample local meats, cheeses and delicacies in a bustling setting.
Driving time from Pisa: 25 minutes
Lucca is one of those cities where you could get lost for hours simply exploring the hidden lanes and charming local trattorias that sit inside the Renaissance-era city walls. Here, you can people watch for hours while enjoying a glass of wine and pasta dish in the Piazza Anfiteatro. Always remember to look up while exploring the city as some of the city’s taller buildings are architectural marvels that need to be admired.
Don’t miss strolling the cobblestone streets of the city centre during siesta time when the streets are almost empty and you can really admire the charms of this quaint city.
Driving time from Lucca: 30 minutes
Known for its famous annual carnival, the city of Viareggio is as lively as it is picturesque. Dating back to 1873, the carnival brings the city to life with its papier-mâché floats that parade along the beachside Viareggio Avenue. Beyond the themed floats and colourful costumes, the city is popular with Italians looking for laid-back vibes, beachfront gelato shops, seafood restaurants and shopping.
Don’t miss grabbing a pizza at Pizzeria II Piccolo Flaminio, a cute family run eatery that dishes up classic Italian-style pizzas including the fully loaded Pescatora with shrimp, octopus, calamari and fish on top.
Driving time from Viareggio: 25 minutes
Dolce & Gabbana, Gucci, Valentino and Moncler are just some of the high-fashion stores that you’ll find lining the streets of the stylish seaside town of Forte dei Marmi. Set against a backdrop of the Apuan Alps images of Forte dei Marmi could be mistaken for a skiing town in Austria, but when you actually visit this enchanting city you’ll see the true pièce de résistance is the seven miles of beautiful sandy beach lined with colourful bathing boxes.
Don’t miss dining at La Capannina de Franceschi where you can enjoy fresh seafood dishes followed by a lively carnival-style show that lasts well into the early hours.
Driving time from Forte dei Marmi: 55 minutes
Ok, so Cinque Terre isn’t technically in Tuscany but it is so easy to get to that we couldn’t leave it out. The perfect place to round off your Tuscan road trip, Cinque Terre is one of those places that everyone should see at least once in their lifetime. Set on the edge of Italy’s rugged coastline, the five fishing communities that make up Cinque Terre are drenched in romance and Instagram-worthy authenticity.
Don’t miss enjoying a glass of vino and jaw-dropping ocean views at Nessun Dorma Cinque Terre and dodging the tourists along one of the area’s many coastal walks.
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