Choose from 88 Fun Things to Do in Tuscany
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Museo Civico
The Museo Civico, housed in Palazzo Pubblico on Piazza del Campo, is one of the most important museums in Siena, with a large collection of frescoes, paintings, and sculptures from the Sienese school and others. The most significant is Ambrogio Lorenzetti's massive 14th-century fresco cycle The Allegory of Good and Bad Government.
The Basics
Palazzo del Pubblico has been Siena’s town hall since the 13th century, and its Museo Civico highlights works by the Sienese school. Dating from the late Middle Ages, these paintings and frescoes were some of the first to depict nonreligious themes, including government, justice, and patriotic devotion, in civic buildings. Other museum highlights include Simone Martini's Majesty (Maestà) altarpiece and Taddeo di Bartolo’s Life of the Madonna (Storie della Madonna).
Siena’s Museo Civico is a top attraction in the city center, so book skip-the-line tickets in advance to avoid a wait. The museum is often included in walking tours of the historical center along with landmarks such as the Piazza del Campo, the Torre del Mangia tower, and Siena Cathedral (Duomo di Siena). Siena is a popular stop on day trips to the Chianti region of Tuscany from Florence and Rome, which may include stops in Pisa or San Gimignano, as well.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A visit to the Museo Civico is particularly fascinating for art history enthusiasts.
- The Museo Civico is accessible to wheelchair users.
- Piazza del Campo is pedestrian only, an ideal spot to let kids run off a bit of steam.
- You’ll want to capture the picturesque medieval center of Siena, so be sure to bring your camera.
- Tours of Siena require a fair bit of walking, so choose comfortable shoes and dress for the weather.
How to Get There
The Museo Civico, in Palazzo del Popolo, is located in Piazza del Campo in the center of Siena. Walk or take a city bus from the train station, or join a small-group or private tour that includes transportation.
When to Get There
The Civic Museum often closes during the annual Palio, held in July and August in Piazza del Campo. Avoid touring the city during these crowded days unless you are specifically interested in participating in this raucous festival.
Siena’s Historic Palio Festival
One of the most popular historical festivals in Italy is the Palio di Siena, a biannual bareback horse race held in Piazza del Campo on one day in July and one day in August. Ten horses and riders representing 10 of the 17 contrade, or historical town districts, race around the piazza as the crowd cheers. The festival also includes pageants, banquets, and religious events.
Address: Piazza del Campo, Siena, Tuscany 53100, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 12
Ponte Vecchio
The historic Ponte Vecchio, or Old Bridge, is perhaps the most recognized symbol of Florence after Brunelleschi’s soaring red dome topping the Duomo. The three lower arches of this 14th-century bridge span the Arno River at its narrowest point between the Palazzo Vecchio and the Pitti Palace, and a stretch of the famous Vasari Corridor runs along its top. Situated on street level, the Ponte Vecchio is lined with pocket-sized jewelry shops and packed with locals and tourists taking a stroll or snapping photos of the colorful palazzi lining the river bank.
The Basics
The Ponte Vecchio is one of the most famous bridges in Italy and a popular, crowded sight in Florence. A visit to the bridge is often included in city sightseeing tours and small-group walking tours through the historic center of Tuscany's capital city, along with other Florentine highlights like the nearby Pitti Palace, Boboli Gardens, Uffizi Gallery, and Michelangelo's David (housed in the Accademia Gallery a short walk away).
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Ponte Vecchio is closed to traffic but is patrolled by police cars and other service vehicles.
- The bridge leads to the Oltrarno neighborhood, a trendy part of Florence on the opposite side of the river filled with excellent restaurants and cafés.
- There are no stairs on either side of the bridge, so it is fully accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
- The gold and silversmith shops on Ponte Vecchio are quite respectable—some have been there for a century—and are an excellent place to choose a special gift or souvenir.
How to Get to There
The Ponte Vecchio crosses the River Arno just a block from the Uffizi Gallery, linking the historic center to the Oltrarno neighborhood.
When to Get There
The center of Florence can be uncomfortably crowded during the popular summer months, and it can be a challenge to navigate the crowds on the bridge. Take an early morning or late evening stroll if visiting between April and October to savor the sunrise or sunset over the RIver Arno without the crowds.
The Vasari Corridor and the Ponte Vecchio
Located on the opposite banks of the Arno River, the 16th-century Vasari Corridor (Corridoio Vasariano) is an elevated passageway running between Palazzo Vecchio and Palazzo Pitti. Commissioned by Duke Cosimo I de' Medici in 1565 and designed by Giorgio Vasari, the walkway was once a secret route used by the Medici family to travel unnoticed through the city. Today, the corridor is used as an art gallery, and visitors can admire views over the Arno River from large windows added to the section of the corridor running over the Ponte Vecchio.
Address: Ponte Vecchio, Florence 50125, Italy
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Free
From $ 9
Piazza dell'Anfiteatro
The Piazza dell'Anfiteatro is a large square in the center of historic Lucca. As the name suggests, it was once the site of a Roman amphitheatre, one that was built in the first century and could hold up to 10,000 people. The remains of that structure now lie more than nine feet underground, but the oval shape of the piazza is a direct result of the outline of the amphitheatre.
The Piazza dell'Anfiteatro was built in 1830 by demolishing some buildings that had been constructed in the space. It became the site of the town's market, and is the heart of the old city today.
Practical Info
Piazza dell'Anfiteatro in the northeast area of the historic walled city of Lucca. Some elements of the ancient amphitheatre are still visible in the area, including along Via dell'Anfiteatro.
Address: Piazza dell'Anfiteatro, Lucca, Tuscany 55100, Italy
From $ 12
Piazzale Michelangelo
The most famous scenic overlook in Florence, Piazzale Michelangelo is beloved for its breathtaking views over the city’s rooftops. From this 19th-century square set on a hillside in the Oltrarno neighborhood, panoramic views stretch over the Rose Garden, Ponte Vecchio spanning the river Arno, the tower of the Palazzo Vecchio, Florence's iconic Duomo and bell tower, and the Tuscan hills beyond.
The Basics
A stop to take in the stunning view from Piazzale Michelangelo is a must during any sightseeing tour, shore excursion, or day trip in Florence and can be paired with a private tour of the nearby church of San Miniato al Monte. Though the overlook can be reached on foot during a walking tour, its location along a panoramic road winding up the Florentine hills also makes it a popular destination for tours of the city by car or Vespa scooter.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The square, dedicated to Michelangelo, is dotted with bronze casts of his sculptures. The most famous is David, the original of which is on display in the Accademia Gallery.
- For a romantic evening, watch the sun set over Florence from Piazzale Michelangelo, or end your day by taking in the beautiful view of the twinkling lights of the city at night.
- There is no shade on the square, so bring a hat and sunscreen if visiting during the day.
- During summer, a number of nearby cafes and nightclubs with outdoor seating and music offer a taste of Florence's vibrant nightlife.
How to Get to Piazzale Michelangelo
By foot, cross the Ponte alle Grazie bridge near the Santa Croce basilica and make your way to Piazza Poggi. From there, climb the steps and pathways leading uphill from the river to the square. The walk is pleasant but steep, so allow at least 45 minutes. Otherwise, bus lines 12 and 13 both stop near the overlook.
When to Get There
Since the square is most crowded during the middle of the day, a sunrise or sunset visit means that you can enjoy the best view of Florence in relative peace.
San Miniato al Monte
Further up the hill, San Miniato al Monte is considered Tuscany's finest Romanesque church and one of the most scenic in Italy. The church dates back to 1013 and is adjoined to an Olivetan monastery where monks produce liqueurs, honey and herbal teas, sold in the monastery's shop.
Address: Piazzale Michelangelo, Florence 50125, Italy
Hours: Open daily
Admission: Free
From $ 27
Piazza di Santa Maria Novella
With its beautiful grassy expanses and Renaissance basilica of Santa Maria Novella, Florence’s Piazza di Santa Maria Novella is beloved by Florentines and visitors alike. The centrally located square, lined with historic townhouses, restaurants, and cafés, has been a popular gathering place for 800 years.
The Basics
Piazza di Santa Maria Novella was built in the late 13th century and quickly became a center of Florentine life. Over the centuries, a number of festivals and tournaments were held here, and the two large obelisks sitting atop four bronze turtles by Giambologna that still decorate the square’s center were erected in the 1500s as marks for chariot races. One of Florence’s most beautiful churches, Santa Maria Novella, dominates this busy square, which is also home to the former Hospital of San Paolo, famous for its loggia decorated with majolica reliefs by Andrea della Robbia.
Many private or small-group Florence walking tours and tours by Segway or electric bike include a stop in Piazza di Santa Maria Novella along with visits to highlights like the Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, the Accademia Gallery (Galleria dell'Accademia), Piazzale Michelangelo, the Florence Duomo, and Santa Croce (Basilica di Santa Croce). Another unique way to experience the piazza is by joining a street-food tour that stops at the cafés and gelato shops around the square.
Things to Know Before You Go
- With its large open spaces, gelato shops, and public benches, Piazza di Santa Maria Novella is a convenient stop for kids.
- Santa Maria Novella also has a pretty cloister and historic pharmacy selling herbal teas, perfumes, and soaps just off the square.
- Most cultural and food tours of the historic center of Florence and Piazza di Santa Maria Novella are on foot, so choose comfortable shoes and bring a sun hat.
- This public square is pedestrian only and perfectly flat, so easy to access with a wheelchair or stroller.
How to Get There
Piazza di Santa Maria Novella is in the historic center of Florence, just across the street from the city’s main train station that shares its name.
When to Get There
The square is particularly lovely at night, when Florentines gather for an evening stroll with their gelato against the backdrop of the illuminated church facade.
The Santa Maria Novella Church
In addition to its magnificent 15th-century facade designed by Leon Battista Alberti, this Renaissance monument is home to artistic masterpieces by Masaccio, Filippino Lippi, Brunelleschi, and Giotto in addition to Domenico Ghirlandaio’s beautiful Tornabuoni Chapel.
Address: Florence, Tuscany, Italy, Italy
From $ 16
Leaning Tower of Pisa
Perhaps one of the world's most beloved architectural mistakes, the Leaning Tower of Pisa's imitable tilt has made the UNESCO World Heritage site an icon of Tuscany and all of Italy. Travelers flock to take the must-have photo in which they pose as if holding up the famous leaning tower, which was originally intended as a bell tower for Pisa Cathedral. If you're up to the challenge of ascending the leaning tower's 294-step spiral staircase, you'll be rewarded with stunning views over Pisa. And you won't have to worry about toppling over—thanks to expert engineering using cables and counterweights, the tower is completely stable.
The Basics
Due to the Leaning Tower of Pisa's global renown and unstable subsoil, tickets to the 12th-century tower are strictly limited and visits are timed. With that, booking in advance is a must and skip-the-line tickets are highly recommended—jumping a long queue could save you hours of precious sightseeing time.
All Pisa tours cover the Leaning Tower, generally depart from Florence or Rome, and often include other Pisa sights such as the Piazza dei Miracoli and the Piazza dei Cavalieri, which boast the sublime Pisa Baptistry and Duomo, a marvel of Romanesque architecture. Travelers short on time can combine a visit to Pisa with whistle-stop tours of Lucca, Siena, San Gimignano, and Florence, all of which travel through the serene Tuscan countryside.
The Basics
Due to the Leaning Tower of Pisa's global renown and unstable subsoil, tickets to the 12th-century tower are strictly limited and visits are timed. With that, booking in advance is a must and skip-the-line tickets are highly recommended—jumping a long queue could save you hours of precious sightseeing time.
All Pisa tours cover the Leaning Tower, generally depart from Florence or Rome, and often include other Pisa sights such as the Piazza dei Miracoli and the Piazza dei Cavalieri, which boast the sublime Pisa Baptistry and Duomo, a marvel of Romanesque architecture. Travelers short on time can combine a visit to Pisa with whistle-stop tours of Lucca, Siena, San Gimignano, and Florence, all of which travel through the serene Tuscan countryside.
Things to Know Before You Go
How to Get to the Leaning Tower of Pisa
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is located on Piazza dei Miracoli, locally known as Piazza del Duomo (Cathedral Square). From Pisa Central, take either the LAM verde, 2, 4, or 13 metro line to station Pacinotti 1, from where the tower is about a 10-minute walk. From Florence, the RV Express train departs for Pisa every 30 minutes and takes one hour; from Rome, take a direct train to Firenze and make your connection to Pisa from there. If arriving in Livorno by cruise ship, catch a bus or metro into the city center and you'll find that direct, 15-minute trains to Pisa Central Station depart regularly.
When to Get There
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is open daily. Hours are from 9am to 6pm in November, February, and March; from 10am to 5pm in December and January; from 9am to 8pm from April to September; and from 10am to 7pm in October. If visiting in June, expect large crowds and festive euphoria in equal measure—La Luminara di San Ranieri celebrations take place on June 16, illuminating the city with thousands of candles and fireworks.
- Book skip-the-line tickets in advance to avoid disappointment and dodge the long lines.
- Opt for a private tour of Pisa, Tuscany, or the Cinque Terre to travel with a tour guide who will customize your itinerary.
- Children under the age of 6 are not permitted to ascend the tower.
How to Get to the Leaning Tower of Pisa
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is located on Piazza dei Miracoli, locally known as Piazza del Duomo (Cathedral Square). From Pisa Central, take either the LAM verde, 2, 4, or 13 metro line to station Pacinotti 1, from where the tower is about a 10-minute walk. From Florence, the RV Express train departs for Pisa every 30 minutes and takes one hour; from Rome, take a direct train to Firenze and make your connection to Pisa from there. If arriving in Livorno by cruise ship, catch a bus or metro into the city center and you'll find that direct, 15-minute trains to Pisa Central Station depart regularly.
When to Get There
The Leaning Tower of Pisa is open daily. Hours are from 9am to 6pm in November, February, and March; from 10am to 5pm in December and January; from 9am to 8pm from April to September; and from 10am to 7pm in October. If visiting in June, expect large crowds and festive euphoria in equal measure—La Luminara di San Ranieri celebrations take place on June 16, illuminating the city with thousands of candles and fireworks.
Address: Piazza del Duomo, Pisa, Tuscany 56126, Italy
Hours: Daily April–Sept 9am–8pm; Oct 10am–7pm; Dec–Jan 10am–5pm; Nov, Feb–March 9am–6pm
Admission: Tower climb €30
From $ 12
Prada Outlets
Italian style is famous the world over, and one of the most recognized fashion labels from Italy is Prada. To find this popular designer’s chic bags, shoes, and clothing at discounts of up to 50 percent off retail prices, head to the large Prada outlet (aka Space) just outside of Florence.
The Basics
The Prada outlet stocks the luxe brand’s clothing, cosmetics, shoes, and bags for men, women, and children as well as with fashion and accessories by Miu Miu. Expect to find deep discounts on the entire stock, which focuses on classic looks from this trendy label.
The best way to visit Space is by joining a shopping tour from Florence so you can concentrate on browsing without having to worry about transportation. Many shopping tours also include a stop at the nearby Gucci outlet or the Mall, an outlet center hosting a number of Italian and international labels including Armani, Pucci, Fendi, Burberry, and La Perla.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Prada outlet is a must for luxury-brand lovers and shopaholics.
- Only 200 customers are allowed inside the store at one time, so you must get a numbered ticket from the automatic machine next to the front door to enter.
- Credit cards and cash in a number of currencies are accepted.
- Space’s café serves drinks and light snacks.
- The outlet is entirely accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
Space is outside Montevarchi, about 31 miles (50 kilometers) south of Florence. Take the train to the Montevarchi train station and then take a taxi to the outlet. Alternatively, join a shopping tour that includes transportation from Florence.
When to Get There
The Prada outlet is open from 10:30am to 8pm Sunday to Friday, and from 9:30am on Saturday; last entrance is at 7:30pm. It can be very crowded on weekends and holidays, so visit during the weekdays. Shop during Italy’s two sale seasons—beginning January 1 and July 1—for even better bargains.
Shop ‘Til You Drop at the Mall
Just a short drive from the Prada outlet, the Mall is one of Tuscany’s most famous outlet shopping centers, with dedicated stores selling luxury fashions and accessories from some of the most famous designer labels. The Mall also includes a Gucci-brand restaurant as well as bus and shuttle services from Florence.
Address: Levanella Spacceo, Strada Statale 69, Montevarchi, Florence 50060, Italy
Admission: Free
From $ 107
Museo dell'Opera del Duomo
Opened in 1891, Museo dell’Opera del Duomo houses works and artifacts from Florence’s Duomo Cathedral, including Lorenzo Ghiberti’s original doors for the Baptistery of St. John (Battistero di San Giovanni), Donatello’s Penitent Magdalene statue, and the unfinished Florence Pietà—aka The Deposition—that Michelangelo intended to cover his own tomb.
The Basics
Themed tours—including food and wine, architecture, and Dan Brown tours—typically offer a museum admission ticket as a part of a Duomo Complex tour, which includes the Cathedral and Baptistery (Battistero di San Giovanni). Private tours of Florence offer a more intimate experience, allowing you to include the Duomo and Museo dell’Opera in the day’s customized itinerary, while private tours of the Duomo Complex alone offer more in-depth information about the history and architecture of the Cathedral, Baptistery, and Museo dell’Opera. Private Duomo Complex tours typically include skip-the-line access to the Bell Tower and Dome.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Museo dell’Opera del Duomo is a must for history buffs, art aficionados, and Duomo Cathedral visitors.
- Save time with a skip-the-line admission ticket, often included with small-group tours of the museum.
- Light snacks and drinks are available at the museum café, which overlooks the rear of the Duomo.
- Bathrooms are located in the entrance.
- Download the Firenze Turismo app to access maps, cultural event calendars, and tourist information.
How to Get There
The centrally located Museo dell’Opera del Duomo is in Piazza del Duomo, just steps from the Cathedral. If arriving by taxi, simply provide the Duomo as your destination. The museum is easily accessible using the city’s bus system: nearest stops are Santa Maria Maggiore on bus 22 and Vecchietti on bus 6.
When to Get There
Museo dell’Opera del Duomo is open from 9am to 7:30pm Monday to Saturday and 9am to 1:30pm Sunday. The museum is busiest at midday, though the galleries rarely feel overly crowded—nevertheless, go in the morning for a quieter experience. Educational talks and cultural events are held often in both Italian and English; see the museum’s website for a full calendar.
Michelangelo’s Unfinished Business
Renowned Renaissance sculptor Michelangelo was 72 when he started the Florence Pietà, a depiction of three figures holding the body of Jesus Christ. After working on the sculpture for eight long years, Michelangelo attempted to destroy it in a fit of rage for reasons that art historians can only speculate. When observing the sculpture at the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo, look for signs of the artist’s self-inflicted damage.
Address: Piazza del Duomo, 9, Florence, Tuscany 50122, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 49
Loggia dei Lanzi
In a corner square of Florence, Loggia dei Lanzi is an open-air museum containing some of the world’s greatest works of art. Known most for its collection of Renaissance art statues, which many consider to be masterpieces, it contains works such as Cellini’s Perseus, Giambologna’s Rape of the Sabine Women, and an ancient Roman statue of Menelaus that used to be part of the Ponte Vecchio.
Originally intended to be a space for public ceremonies, construction on the area began in 1376. It was designed in a late Gothic style, a predecessor to the emerging Renaissance style. It is named for the Swiss personal guards (‘lanzi’) of emperor Cosimo I, who were once encamped here.
The loggia opens to the street under three wide arches, seamlessly integrating with the rest of the city. The arches are supported by Corinthian capital, creating a canopy over the sculptures. It remains completely free and open to the public.
Practical Info
The Loggia dei Lanzi is located in the Piazza della Signoria in the historic center of Florence. It is free to visit.
Address: Piazza della Signoria, Florence 50121, Italy
From $ 22
Perseus Statue
The Statue of Perseus, or Perseus with the Head of Medusa, is a bronze figure that was sculpted by Benvenuto Cellini in 1545. It depicts the story of Perseus destroying Medusa, a mythological Gorgon with snakes for hair and whose eyes turned humans to stone. The statue shows Perseus holding Medusa’s severed head raised triumphantly in one hand, having beheaded the monster. The statue stands upon a bronze base of relief panels depicting the story of Perseus and Andromeda. Cellini was the first to incorporate narrative reliefs into the sculptures at the Piazza della Signoria, where it still stands.
The Perseus Statue was added to the square amongst some of the more significant statues of the time, such as Michelangelo’s David and Bandinelli’s Hercules and Cacus. As these are stone statues of men, it is believed by scholars to be a motif response to these works. One can still see the unique craftsmanship as a prominent bronze sculpture with great detail (Cellini was first and foremost a goldsmith). The statue is considered to be a masterpiece of Italian Mannerism.
Practical Info
The Perseus Statue is located in the Loggia dei Lanzi of the Piazza della Signoria in Florence, just around the corner from the Uffizi. It is free to see.
Address: Loggia dei Lanzi, Piazza della Signoria, Florence, Italy
From $ 36
Piazza Santa Croce
Piazza Santa Croce, dominated by the Basilica of Santa Croce, is one of the most important squares in central Florence. Home to the intricately frescoed 17th-century Palazzo dell’Antella and the 15th-century Palazzo Cocchi-Serristori, this vibrant public space hosts a number of outdoor markets and fairs each year.
The Basics
Adjacent to the magnificent Basilica of Santa Croce, which houses a treasure trove of works by Giotto, Gaddi, della Robbia, and Donatello, Piazza Santa Croce is a highlight of any visit to Florence. The basilica is among the most visited in the city and there are often long lines to enter; book a guided tour with skip-the-line entrance in advance in the crowded summer months.
Most city walking tours or sightseeing tours by Segway, bike, or electric golf cart include a stop at Piazza Santa Croce and its basilica along with other famous sights like the Uffizi and Accademia Gallery (Galleria dell'Accademia).
Things to Know Before You Go
- Piazza Santa Croce is lined with restaurants and cafés, perfect for a snack or drink.
- Flat and paved, the square is easy to navigate with wheelchairs or strollers.
- Be sure to wear a hat and sunscreen if visiting in summer as the square has no shade.
- The Basilica of Santa Croce requires modest clothing covering shoulders and knees to enter.
How to Get There
Piazza Santa Croce is in the historical center of Florence, just a short walk from the cathedral (Duomo), Piazza della Signoria, and Santa Maria Novella train station.
When to Get There
Florence is one of the most visited cities in Italy, and its main squares are hot and crowded in summer. Visit in spring or fall to enjoy these outdoor spaces with milder temperatures and smaller crowds. Piazza Santa Croce hosts a number of markets and fairs each year, including a Christmas market, antique markets, food fairs, and a raucous historical-football match each June.
The Basilica of Santa Croce’s Famous Tombs
The Santa Croce Basilica was long the preferred burial place for famous Italian artists and luminaries, and the church is home to dozens of tombs and funerary monuments honoring everyone from Leonardo da Vinci to Enrico Fermi. The most famous tombs are those of Michelangelo, Galileo, Ghiberti, and Machiavelli.
Address: Italy
From $ 17
Piazza della Signoria
Home to the imposing Palazzo Vecchio, Piazza della Signoria is the most important public square in Florence. The political heart of the city for centuries, today the square is also a vibrant social hub, where locals and tourists gather at the Loggia dei Lanzi and Neptune fountain to soak up the elegant atmosphere.
The Basics
Piazza della Signoria is best known as site of 14th-century Palazzo Vecchio, the crenellated fortresslike city hall and museum that anchors one side of the L-shaped square and was once seat of the Florentine Republic. The square is also home to the sculpture collection housed under the open-air Loggia dei Lanzi, the 16th-century Fountain of Neptune, a replica of Michelangelo’s David where the original once stood, and a number of important Renaissance palaces. The Uffizi Gallery is just off the square.
A stroll through Piazza della Signoria is one of the highlights of Florence walking tours and sightseeing tours by Segway or bike. Most private and small-group tours also include skip-the-line tickets to top attractions including the Duomo, the Uffizi, and Accademia Gallery. Kid-friendly Florence tours stop in Piazza della Signoria, and food tours pair a visit with beer, wine, or gelato tastings.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Piazza della Signoria is lined with restaurants and bars, including the historic Café Rivoire, perfect for a snack or drink.
- The square is flat and paved, easy to navigate with wheelchairs or strollers.
- Wear a hat and sunscreen if visiting in summer, as the square has little shade.
- Be sure to bring your camera to Piazza della Signoria, as it is one of the most picturesque spots in central Florence.
How to Get There
Piazza della Signoria marks the heart of Florence’s historical center and is a short walk from the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and Santa Maria Novella train station.
When to Get There
Florence is one of the most popular destinations in Italy for day trips and shore excursions, and Piazza della Signoria is particularly hot and crowded in summer. Visit in spring or fall to enjoy the square with cooler temperatures and fewer tourists. A number of important historical and religious processions pass through the square each year, including the Cavalcade of the Three Kings on January 6 and the Carnival parade in February.
Savonarola
Piazza della Signoria was the site of the 1497 bonfire of the vanities, a Catholic reformist uprising led by the Dominican monk Savonarola who preached against the excesses of secular culture and urged his followers to burn works of art and literature. After defying Pope Alexander VI, Savonarola was hanged in the square, and today there is a plaque marking the spot of his execution.
Address: Italy
From $ 3
Leonardo Museum (Museo Leonardiano di Vinci)
Dedicated to one of the greatest artists of the Italian Renaissance, the Leonardo Museum (Museo Leonardiano di Vinci) is housed in two adjacent buildings—Palazzina Uzielli and Castello dei Conti Guidi—in the historic center of Vinci. The collection features models of Leonardo’s weaponry, clocks, and flying machines, as well as his drawings and notes.
The Basics
The Museo Leonardiano in Leonardo da Vinci’s hometown showcases the genius of Italy's original Renaissance man, with sections where you can discover his inventions in construction and textile manufacturing, timepieces, and machines of war, and explore his innovations in architecture, mechanics, and flight. In addition, there are sections devoted to da Vinci’s scientific studies of optics and land and water transportation. Many of the displays are paired with digital animations and interactive applications, and the museum route ends in the video room, where Leonardo’s Renaissance technologies are brought to life in film.
Vinci is just 40 minutes from Florence, from where the Leonardo Museum is a popular day trip. It’s also a stop on some general sightseeing tours from Florence or shore excursions from Livorno that can also include the Tuscan towns of Pisa, Lucca, and San Gimignano. Family-friendly private tours of Florence and Tuscany often incorporate a visit to this interactive museum along with Leonardo’s birthplace. Vinci is also home to the Leonardo Library (Biblioteca Leonardiana), where you can view a limited selection of historical documents and publications.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Leonardo Museum is a must for science and engineering buffs.
- Because of the many interactive and multimedia displays, the Leonardo Museum is especially fun for kids.
- Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather if planning on walking between the museum in Vinci and Leonardo’s birthplace in nearby Anchiano.
- The museum is fully accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
The Leonardo Museum is located on Piazza dei Guidi in Vinci, a pretty hilltop town about 18 miles (30 kilometers) west of Florence. It is easily accessible by car along the Florence-Livorno highway; exit at Empoli.
When to Get There
The museum is open every day of the year. The town of Vinci holds the annual Leonardo Celebrations during the weeks marking the anniversaries of Leonardo's birth (April 15, 1452) and death (May 2, 1519) with special exhibitions, conferences, shows, and guided tours.
Leonardo’s Birthplace
Casa Natale di Leonardo is in the village of Anchiano, 2 miles (3 kilometers) outside of Vinci. The state-of-the-art exhibit here focuses on Leonardo the artist, with a multimedia review of his life and achievements, and interactive digital representations of his famous works, including The Last Supper and his “lost” painting, The Battle of Anghiari.
Address: Piazza dei Conti Guidi, 1, Vinci, Florence, Tuscany 50059, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 77
Piazza dei Miracoli
One of the most famous sights in all of Tuscany—perhaps all of Italy—stands in the Piazza dei Miracoli in Pisa. This grassy expanse is home to the city’s cathedral complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes the Duomo, Monumental Cemetery, and Opera del Duomo Museum. The headliner, however, is the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
The Basics
Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles), also known as Piazza del Duomo (Cathedral Square), attracts throngs of visitors snapping pictures of the Leaning Tower, but the square is home to much more than this iconic landmark. The magnificent Duomo and baptistery are splendid examples of Pisan Romanesque architecture, the Monumental Cemetery (Camposanto Monumentale) is home to a pretty central courtyard and 14th-century frescoes, and the Opera del Duomo Museum holds an important collection of religious art.
This public square is one of the most popular destinations in Tuscany and is very crowded in the summer. Booking a skip-the-line Piazza dei Miracoli tour ahead of time helps avoid a long wait and enjoy priority admission to the cathedral, baptistery, and bell tower. Consider a Leaning Tower family tour if traveling with kids, or pair your Piazza dei Miracoli visit with a walking or bike tour of Pisa’s other attractions.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Even if you don’t have tickets to visit the cathedral complex, you can stroll through Piazza dei Miracoli to view the Duomo and Leaning Tower from outside.
- Ticketed visitors can use the restrooms and store bags and luggage in the cloakroom for free.
- The square is a large lawn area closed to traffic, so a safe place for kids to play.
- A number of restaurants and cafés are located around the perimeter of the square.
- Piazza dei Miracoli is accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
Piazza dei Miracoli is about 1 mile (1.5 kilometers) north of the Pisa train station across the River Arno, about a 20-minute walk through the historical center of Pisa. Buses 4 and 21 run between the station and the square.
When to Get There
The piazza and the cathedral complex are most crowded from late morning through the afternoon. The best time to tour is in the early morning before the throngs of daily visitors arrive.
The Duomo Complex in Piazza dei Miracoli
Pisa’s vast Duomo complex is made up of a number of sights and buildings. In addition to the cathedral, baptistery, and bell tower, visitors can tour the Monumental Cemetery. The complex’s two museums are the Sinopie Museum, which holds preparatory sketches for the cathedral’s frescoes, and the Opera del Duomo Museum, with a collection of works of art that once decorated the Duomo and baptistery.
Address: Piazza dei Miracoli, Pisa 56126, Italy
Admission: Free
From $ 13
Pienza
UNESCO-listed Pienza was little more than a sleepy hamlet until the reign of Pope Pius II in the first half of the fifteenth century. Pienza, then called Corsignano, was the pope’s home town, and he enlisted the help of architect Bernardo Rossellino to transform the village into an ideal Renaissance town. The reconstruction began in 1459 and only lasted four years, but the result has put Pienza on the radar of many a traveler to Tuscany.
The town’s historic center offers excellent examples of Renaissance architecture, particularly the cathedral, Palazzo Piccolomimi and Palazzo Borgia, all flanking charming Piazza Pio II. While it’s easy to breeze through the tiny town — it only takes five minutes to walk from one side to the other — it’s also an inviting place to savor a local specialty, sheep’s milk pecorino cheese with a bit of honey drizzled over the top.
Practical Info
Pienza can get extremely crowded on summer weekends, so if possible, plan your visit for a weekday or shoulder season.
Address: Pienza, Tuscany, Italy, Italy
From $ 81
Palazzo Davanzati
This ancient home grants a peek into history going back to the Middle Ages, and is a way to experience the wealthy merchant homes of the Renaissance era. It was built by the Davizzi family in the mid-14th century and later purchased by the Davanzatis in the 16th century. With three towers and five stories, it is decorated from floor to ceiling — complete with period furniture and frescoed walls. There are both medieval and Renaissance architectural elements, allowing for a comparison of the two styles and the history of the transition.
The traditional layout of the home makes it a magnificent example of a medieval Florentine home. Some of its highlights include a central courtyard, stone and wood staircase, and underground gallery. Historic art, lace, furnishings and even coats-of-arms throughout the palace demonstrate the trends and styles as they have progressed through the ages.
Practical Info
The Palazzo can be found at Via Porta Rossa 13 in Florence. It is open daily from 8:15 am to 1:50 pm. It is closed some Sundays and Mondays, so it is better to check before heading out. Admission costs €2.
Address: Via Porta Rossa, 13, Florence 50123, Italy
Admission: €2
From $ 16
Livorno Cruise Port
The Livorno cruise port, a busy shipping terminal set on the Tuscan coast, serves as a gateway to this famous Italian region and its capital city of Florence. With few attractions of its own, the port city of Livorno is primarily a jumping-off point to explore the Tuscan cities and countryside.
The Basics
Travelers docking at the Livorno cruise port generally head out on full-day shore excursions that include transportation and guided tours of some of the most famous cities in Tuscany, including the Renaissance capital of Florence, home to the Uffizi Gallery and Michelangelo’s David; Pisa and its famous Leaning Tower; and the small medieval towns of Siena and San Gimignano. Other popular excursions explore the Chianti wine region and the picturesque hilltop villages in the Tuscan countryside.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Florence’s Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and Accademia are among the most visited attractions in the Tuscan capital, so be sure to book a tour with skip-the-line tickets.
- Most Italian churches require that you wear modest clothing that covers the shoulders and knees.
- Many city and countryside tours include significant stretches of time outdoors. Bring a hat and sunscreen in the summer months.
- City tours require a fair amount of walking, so wear comfortable footwear and weather-appropriate clothing.
- Some wineries and hilltop villages may be difficult to navigate for wheelchair users; check in advance.
How to Get to Livorno from the Livorno Cruise Port
Large cruise ships moor at a busy shipping dock, so travelers are not permitted to walk around the area. Shore excursion tours generally include port pickup and dropoff, but shuttle buses are also available to take visitors from the port of Livorno to Piazza Grande in the city center. From here, you can grab a taxi or take a five-minute ride on bus No. 1 to the train station and then head to Florence and Pisa.
Port Information
Most of the largest cruise lines stop at the Livorno cruise port. Italian is the most widely spoken language, though English is also understood in Florence and other large Tuscan cities. The local currency is the euro.
Address: Porto di Livorno, Livorno, Tuscany, Italy
From $ 108
Piazza del Campo
Siena’s central Piazza del Campo is one of the most beautiful and famous squares in Tuscany. This sweeping, shell-shaped space is anchored by the magnificent Palazzo Pubblico (home to the Museo Civico) and soaring Torre del Mangia tower, and hosts the historic Palio di Siena festival each July and August.
The Basics
The 14th-century Piazza del Campo is the heart of Siena’s historic center, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In addition to the medieval town hall and bell tower, the square is home to the Fonte Gaia, a 15th-century white-marble fountain that is both a focal point and meeting place at the top end of the piazza. The square is ringed by late Gothic buildings and palaces, once residences of the most powerful families in Siena and now filled with bustling restaurants and cafés.
Appreciate the beauty and history of Piazza del Campo by joining a walking or Segway tour of Siena’s historic center. Many small-group and private tours also include skip-the-line access to Siena’s cathedral (Duomo), a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and one of the city’s most impressive sights. Siena is a popular day trip from Florence and Rome, and many tours also include stops in Pisa or San Gimignano.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Piazza del Campo is one of the most striking squares in Tuscany and makes for memorable photos, so be sure to bring your camera.
- The square is accessible to wheelchair users, but has a slight slope down towards the Palazzo del Pubblico.
- Kids love to play in the traffic-free square, though the fountain is closed off with protective fencing.
- There are a number of cafés and restaurants along the perimeter of the square, perfect for a snack or meal with a view.
How to Get There
Piazza del Campo is in the very center of Siena’s old town, and you can walk or take a city bus to the square from the train station. The most convenient way to visit, however, is with a small-group or private tour that includes transportation so you can also explore nearby Tuscan villages.
When to Get There
Home to one of the most famous and popular medieval festivals in Italy, Piazza del Campo is off limits to anyone who hasn’t come specifically to see the biannual Palio, held in July and August. The square offers little shade so is best explored in early morning or late afternoon in summer, or in spring or fall when the temperatures are milder.
Siena’s Palio Festivities
Piazza del Campo is one of the most recognized public squares in Italy thanks to the popular Palio di Siena, the historical festival held there each year on one day in July and one day in August. Festivities focus around a bareback horse race among 10 horses and riders representing 10 of the 17 contrade, or historical town districts. The horses race along a track encircling the square surrounded by screaming crowds, and the celebrations also include religious services, pageants, and banquets.
Address: Piazza Il Campo, 1, Siena, Tuscany 53100, Italy
From $ 35
Piazza della Santissima Annunziata
Florence is a city filled with quaint squares, picturesque landscapes and plenty of old-world architecture that’s ripe with European charm. This is particularly true amid its famous squares, and travelers agree that few are as beautiful as Piazza della Santissima Annunziata.
A massive bronze statue of Ferdinando I de’Medici on horseback stands at the center of the square, with two notably strange fountains on either side. Visitors can relax in the sun and lounge as locals wind through the square on a busy afternoon, or duck into the Santissima Annunziata church, which was built in the 15th century and gave the square its name. Ospedale deli Innocenti—the oldest orphanage on the continent—also flanks the square and offers travelers a unique opportunity to explore the city’s past. Ceramic glazed reliefs of swaddled newborns line the façade and visitors can check out the circular stone where women could leave their unwanted newborns without fear of repercussion.
Practical Info
Piazza della Santissima Annunziata is located off of Via della Colonna and accessible via the number 6 and 31 buses.
Address: Via della Colonna, Florence, Italy
From $ 37
Piazza Grande
The oldest square in the Tuscan city of Arezzo has the appropriate name of Piazza Grande, or Great Square. Dating back to the Medieval era, the piazza was once the site of the city's main market. Today, it plays host to the monthly antiques market that is one of the largest in Italy. It's also where the annual Joust of the Saracen is held.
Notable buildings surrounding the Piazza Grande include the 14th-century Fraternita dei Laici palazzo, a loggia designed by Giogio Vasari, a 13th-century Episcopal Palace, and part of the 13th-century Romanesque Apse of Santa Maria della Pieve.
Practical Info
Piazza Grande is located in the historic center of Arezzo.
Address: Piazza Grande, Arezzo, Tuscany, Italy 52100, Italy
From $ 139