3 days in Tuscany

Word from curator

Catherine, Tuscany expert

The Duomo di Firenze, also known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, is a stunning Gothic church located in the heart of Florence.

Its construction began in 1296 and was finally completed in 1436, making it one of the largest and most impressive cathedrals in the world.

The cathedral's most iconic feature is its massive dome, which was designed by Filippo Brunelleschi and is still the largest brick dome ever constructed. You can climb the 463 steps to the top of the dome for incredible panoramic views of Florence and the surrounding hills.

Aside from the dome, the exterior of the cathedral is decorated with intricate marble facades and statues. The interior is equally impressive, featuring beautiful stained glass windows, frescoes, and sculptures. The cathedral also houses a museum with a collection of artwork and artifacts from the cathedral's history.

Overall, the Duomo di Firenze is a must-see for anyone visiting Florence, offering a glimpse into the city's rich history and stunning architecture.

Word from curator

Catherine, Tuscany expert

Piazzale Michelangelo is a breathtaking terrace that provides panoramic views of Florence. Located just outside the city center on a hillside, the square is accessible by car or bus, and by walking up the stairs or taking an escalator from the San Niccolò neighborhood.

The piazzale was designed by architect Giuseppe Poggi in the late 19th century and is dedicated to Michelangelo Buonarroti, the famous Italian artist who lived in Florence during the Renaissance period.

Enjoy stunning views of the city, including the iconic red roofs of Florence's historic center, the Arno River, and the rolling hills beyond. The square is surrounded by beautiful gardens and features a bronze replica of Michelangelo's famous David statue.

At sunset, the piazzale is especially magical, with the sun casting a golden glow over the city.

Word from curator

Catherine, Tuscany expert

The Square of Miracles, or Piazza dei Miracoli, is a walled 8.87-hectare area in the city of Pisa, Italy, known worldwide for its magnificent medieval architecture.

The square is home to four remarkable religious monuments: the Leaning Tower, the Cathedral (Duomo), the Baptistry, and the Camposanto Monumentale (monumental cemetery).

The Leaning Tower is, of course, the most famous and easily recognizable structure in the square, and one of Italy's most iconic landmarks. But the other three buildings are also masterpieces in their own right.

The Cathedral, with its white marble facade and striking black-and-white striped exterior, was built in the 11th century and features stunning Gothic interiors, including a beautifully carved pulpit by Giovanni Pisano.

The Baptistry, dedicated to St. John the Baptist, is the largest in Italy and boasts a unique acoustical quality.

Finally, the Camposanto Monumentale, a rectangular cemetery with a central lawn and Gothic arcades, houses a collection of Roman sarcophagi, frescoes, and other art from the Pisan school.

Word from curator

Catherine, Tuscany expert

Abbazia di San Miniato al Monte is a beautiful Romanesque church located on a hill overlooking Florence. The church was built in the 11th century and has a stunning façade decorated with green and white marble in geometric patterns. The interior is equally impressive with intricate mosaics, frescoes, and beautiful stained glass windows.

The church is located on a hill in the Oltrarno district of Florence, and the walk up to the top is worth it for the incredible views of the city. The church is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, and it is especially beautiful at sunset when the light casts a warm glow over the city. You can also tour the cloisters and cemetery to learn more about the history of the abbey.

Abbazia di San Miniato al Monte is a unique and peaceful retreat from the bustling city of Florence, and it offers a glimpse into the city's rich history and religious heritage. Whether you are a history buff, an art lover, or just looking for a beautiful spot to relax and take in the views, this abbey is a must-see attraction in Florence.

Word from curator

Catherine, Tuscany expert

The Accademia Gallery is a must-see for art lovers. The gallery houses an impressive collection of artwork, with the most famous piece being Michelangelo's "David." You can also see other works by Michelangelo, including "Prisoners" and "St. Matthew."

Additionally, the gallery features an extensive collection of Renaissance paintings by Florentine artists, such as Sandro Botticelli and Domenico Ghirlandaio.

The Accademia Gallery is a popular destination, so it's important to book tickets in advance to avoid long lines.

The gallery is open every day except for Mondays. A visit to the Accademia Gallery is an unforgettable experience for anyone interested in art and history.

Word from curator

Catherine, Tuscany expert

A beautiful and historic church in the heart of Florence, one of the largest Franciscan churches in the world and has a rich history dating back to the 13th century.

The church is renowned for its stunning Gothic architecture and is adorned with beautiful frescoes and works of art by some of Italy's most famous artists, including Giotto, Cimabue, and Donatello. It is also a resting place for many notable figures, including Michelangelo, Galileo, and Machiavelli.

The basilica is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, and its grandeur and historical significance make it a must-visit attraction in Florence.

Word from curator

Catherine, Tuscany expert

Basilica di Santa Maria Novella is a beautiful church located in the heart of Florence. It was founded in the 13th century by the Dominican friars, and its architecture is a beautiful blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles. The exterior of the basilica is adorned with beautiful marble decorations, intricate carvings, and a stunning facade that catches the eye of any visitor. Inside, the basilica boasts some of the most significant works of art in Florence, including frescoes by masters such as Ghirlandaio, Masaccio, and Botticelli.

The basilica is also home to many chapels, each with its unique artwork and history. The Cappella Tornabuoni, for example, is adorned with frescoes by Domenico Ghirlandaio, while the Spanish Chapel contains stunning frescoes by Andrea di Bonaiuto. The basilica's most famous work of art is undoubtedly the crucifix by Brunelleschi, located in the sacristy. You can also admire the beautiful cloisters, which are an oasis of calm from the bustling city.

Overall, Basilica di Santa Maria Novella is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the art, architecture, and history of Florence. Its beauty and historical significance make it an unforgettable experience for any traveler.

Word from curator

Catherine, Tuscany expert

Piazza Della Signoria is one of the most famous and bustling squares in Florence, situated in the heart of the city and is surrounded by some of Florence's most significant landmarks — Palazzo Vecchio, the Uffizi Gallery, and the Loggia dei Lanzi. The square dates back to the 13th century and has since then played an important role in Florence's political and cultural life.

One of the most prominent features of the Piazza Della Signoria is the imposing Palazzo Vecchio, which has been the seat of government in Florence for centuries. The palace's tall tower, the Torre di Arnolfo, dominates the skyline and is a distinctive feature of the city's skyline. You can tour the palace and see some of its stunning frescoes and architectural features. The Piazza Della Signoria is also home to numerous other significant sculptures and statues, including a replica of Michelangelo's David, the Fountain of Neptune, and the Perseus with the Head of Medusa.

The Piazza Della Signoria is a popular gathering place for tourists and locals alike, with numerous cafes and restaurants lining the square's edges. It is also a site of various events throughout the year, such as political demonstrations, concerts, and art exhibitions. The square's open space allows for beautiful views of the surrounding architecture, making it a must-visit location for anyone traveling to Florence.

Word from curator

Catherine, Tuscany expert

Ponte Vecchio is a historic bridge over the Arno River in Florence, known for its picturesque and romantic views. The bridge has been a part of Florence's skyline since the 1300s, and it has survived floods, wars, and even destruction attempts.

Ponte Vecchio is a popular attraction due to its unique architecture and its reputation as a romantic spot for lovers.

What sets Ponte Vecchio apart from other bridges in Florence is the presence of shops on both sides of the bridge. The bridge is lined with jewelry stores, art galleries, and souvenir shops, making it an ideal place to shop for a special gift or souvenir. Ponte Vecchio also offers stunning views of the Arno River and the surrounding city, making it a great spot for taking photographs or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll.

Word from curator

Catherine, Tuscany expert

The Boboli Gardens are a stunning oasis filled with winding paths, beautiful fountains, and breathtaking views of the city. This magnificent park, which stretches over 111 acres, was originally created for the Medici family in the 16th century and was later expanded by the Lorraine family.

The gardens are filled with an array of sculptures, including works by renowned artists such as Giambologna, Michelangelo, and Ammannati. The most famous statue is the Fountain of Neptune, which is located in the center of the gardens and was created by Bartolomeo Ammannati in the 16th century.

One of the most spectacular features of the gardens is the breathtaking view of Florence that can be seen from the top of the hill. You can take a leisurely stroll along the winding paths, relax on one of the many benches, or enjoy a picnic in the shade of the trees.

With its tranquil atmosphere and stunning beauty, the Boboli Gardens are a great place to take in the Florence vibes.

Word from curator

Catherine, Tuscany expert

The Uffizi Gallery is one of the most famous art museums in the world, located in the heart of Florence. The museum is housed in a stunning 16th-century building, which was originally designed to serve as offices for the Florentine magistrates.

Today, the Uffizi Gallery is home to an extensive collection of artwork, including paintings, sculptures, and tapestries, dating back to the medieval and Renaissance periods.

Some of the most famous works of art on display at the Uffizi Gallery include Botticelli's "The Birth of Venus" and "Primavera," Michelangelo's "Tondo Doni," and Caravaggio's "Bacchus." The museum's collection also includes works by other great Italian artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Titian, and Fra Angelico.

You can enjoy guided tours or explore the galleries on your own. The museum is open six days a week, closed on Mondays, and advance booking is highly recommended.

With its world-renowned collection of masterpieces, the Uffizi Gallery is a must-visit destination for art lovers and history buffs alike.

Word from curator

Catherine, Tuscany expert

Villa di Poggio a Caiano is an elegant villa located in the town of Poggio a Caiano, just a short drive from Florence.

Built in the early 16th century by Lorenzo de' Medici, the villa was a favorite retreat for the Medici family, who used it as a hunting lodge and a place to entertain guests.

Today, visitors can tour the villa's opulent interior, which features beautiful frescoes, intricate stucco work, and other fine decorative details. The villa is also home to a collection of important artworks, including pieces by Andrea del Sarto and Pontormo.

In addition to the villa itself, you can explore the surrounding gardens and park, which were designed in the classic Italian style. The gardens feature fountains, sculptures, and a number of beautiful terraces that offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Overall, the Villa di Poggio a Caiano is a must-visit for anyone interested in Italian Renaissance architecture and design.

Word from curator

Catherine, Tuscany expert

Villa la Petraia is a magnificent villa located in the hills of Florence. The villa was built in the mid-16th century for the powerful Medici family, and it was used as a summer residence. The villa boasts a beautiful garden that was designed in the Baroque style, complete with terraced gardens, fountains, and grottos. The garden also features a lemon grove, which has been preserved since the Renaissance period.

Today, Villa la Petraia is open to visitors, who can tour the villa and its beautiful gardens. You can marvel at the impressive architecture and beautiful frescoes that adorn the villa's interior. The garden is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, and you can stroll through the terraced gardens and take in the beautiful views of Florence.

One of the most notable features of Villa la Petraia is its stunning location. Situated on a hilltop overlooking Florence, the villa offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside. You can take in the views from the garden, or from the villa's terrace, which offers an unparalleled vista of the city.

Villa la Petraia offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of this magnificent city.

Word from curator

Catherine, Tuscany expert

Taking a local train is the most convenient way to enter Cinque Terre region and reach each of the five villages. You can also hike along the scenic trails that connect the five villages.

It takes 9 minutes to reach Riomaggiore from La Spezia, then only a few minutes to get from one village to another by train, or 1-2 hours on foot, following the iconic scenic walk.

Word from curator

Catherine, Tuscany expert

A ferry from La Spezia is another scenic way to to reach and navigate Cinque Terre region. It is less convenient and more expensive, but much more scenic. You can buy a day pass and hop on and off between all villages except Cornigla which does not have water access.

Word from curator

Catherine, Tuscany expert

Hiking is another scenic way of getting into Cinque Terre, but it will take some additional time. Park your car in La Specia, and follow a scenic path through the hills to Riomaggiore (3h) or even further to Manarola (5h). Check the AllTrails link for more details.