The Ultimate 3-Days in Tuscany – Live La Dolce Vita in 72 Hours
Unsure how to plan 3 days in Tuscany (and how to budget)? I’ve got you covered in this article with a little bit of all the must-see sights.
Just hearing the name “Tuscany” conjures up a sense of wanderlust, doesn’t it? Close your eyes for a second. Imagine the rolling hills blanketed in vineyards, the aroma of fresh pasta wafting through the air, and historic cities that feel like stepping back in time. And, did you know that the idyllic Italian region is home to at least eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites? That’s more than 20% of Italy’s total UNESCO sites, all packed into one region!
So, it is not the allure of cities like Florence and Siena that make Tuscany a favorite tourist destination year-round for millions of tourists annually; it’s also its unique and absolutely captivating landscapes. Whether you are an art aficionado, a wine connoisseur, or someone who simply loves to bask in natural beauty, Tuscany has something for everyone.
Got 3 days to spend? Well, you are in luck, as I am about to take you on a 72-hour Tuscan adventure that will give you a bit of everything. Put on your best pair of walking shoes and fasten your seatbelt. The guide I’ve put together will reveal local haunts, must-see attractions, and a few hidden gems that even seasoned travelers might not know about.
What to Know Before Your 3 Days in Tuscany
Before you set foot in this Italian paradise, there are a few essentials you’ll want to sort out. Trust me, a little prep work goes a long way in ensuring your trip is smooth sailing from start to finish.
Where to Stay in Tuscany
Expect to be spoiled for choice, from budget-friendly dormitory-style rooms starting at just €30 per night (ideal for backpackers and solo travelers) and mid-range hotels that provide comfort and convenience, with rates averaging around €150 per night (ideal for couples or small families) to high-end experience options, such as luxury farmhouses, castle-like mansions and luxury villas.
Location-wise, I’d suggest a central base for your explorations to travel from daily. Florence and Siena are obvious options, but some of the most strategic spots (given the selected itinerary) are San Gimignano or Certaldo. Also, Montecatini Terme is also a great idea (a spa town situated almost halfway between Florence and Lucca, offering relaxation and easy access to both cities).
My top recommendations are:
- Hostel: Staying in a hostel in Tuscany offers an affordable gateway to immerse oneself in the local culture, meet fellow travelers, and enjoy the rustic charm of the region, all while being centrally located to explore its renowned landscapes, historical sites, and vineyards. Florence is a great place for hostel life.
- Hotel: Opting for a hotel in Tuscany provides guests with a blend of opulent amenities, personalized service, serene privacy, and the tranquil ambiance of the Tuscan landscape, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a more refined and restful experience.
- Luxury villas: If you want to go all-out and discover the Epitome of luxury in Tuscany, rent one of many incredible villas available in the area! Dive into lavish hilltop villas with breathtaking views. Every villa boasts top-tier amenities, including a personal concierge, sauna, jacuzzi, and your own private gym. Stroll through serene gardens and take a dip in secluded pools. Looking for the best pricing? Check out Kinglike Concierge portfolio for the most epic and affordable luxury villas in Tuscany for a true dream escape.
Getting around Tuscany
Navigating Tuscany is relatively straightforward, but it’s good to know your options. First of all, the region has an extensive bus and train network with cheap bus rides (costing around €1.50).
Of course, you may also rent a car, especially if you are looking to explore the countryside, and expect to pay around €10-€50 per day (depending on the selected vehicle). Or you may hire a private driver and opt for a high-end experience (prices average around €50 per group of 6-8 individuals).
Needless to say, Tuscany is also a cyclist’s dream, particularly in the Chianti region. Bike rentals start at €15 per day. See my article 4 Reasons You Should Travel Tuscany by Bike!
3 Days in Tuscany Day 1: Florence and Surroundings
Florence is the birthplace of Renaissance and a city that’s practically an open-air museum! This is a fantastic starting point for 3 days in Tuscany. It deserves more time, but if you only have 3 days, one should be spent here. Here is how to make the most of your first epic day in Tuscany.
Breakfast in Florence
Start your day with a hearty Italian breakfast at Caffe Gilli, one of Florence’s oldest cafes. A cappuccino and a cornetto will kickstart your day like a true Italian.
Florence Cathedral, Duomo & Uffizi Gallery
First, you must check out the most iconic sight of Florence – the Cathedral and Duomo! you can enter the cathedral, but the true sight comes when you climb the Duomo and take in amazing views of Tuscany from the top.
Next, head back to Florence and dive into the world of Renaissance art at the Uffizi Gallery. It is best to book in advance to skip the long queues, and tickets are € 19 for adults over 17 years of age (children up to 17 years old pay just two euros while larger groups get special discounts).
Mercato Centrale & Stibbert Museum
After soaking all that art, refuel at the bustling market of Mercato Centrale and grab a panini or some pasta; you are in Italy, after all! Feel free to visit the lesser-known Stibbert Museum, a kid-friendly hidden gem with a fascinating collection of historical artifacts and armours. Tickets are around € 8 per person.
Ponte Vecchio and Florence Cathedral
After lunch, make your way to Ponte Vecchio, the iconic bridge that has stood since the 14th century. Just a 10-minute walk from there is the Florence Cathedral, with its awe-inspiring dome designed by Brunelleschi. Fun fact: The cathedral took nearly 140 years to complete!
Piazzale Michelangelo and Dinner
As the sun starts to set, make your way to Piazzale Michelangelo. The panoramic views of Florence are the perfect backdrop for a stunning sunset that remind me of the days I studies abroad here in college!
Wrap up your day at Trattoria Za Za, known for its delicious Tuscan cuisine and family-friendly atmosphere. You may also try authentic Tuscan meals at Trattoria Mario, with dishes like ribollita and bistecca alla fiorentina stealing the show. Expect to spend around €20-€30 per person for a 3-course meal.
3 Days in Tuscany Day 2: Siena and Chianti Region
The second day takes you away from the hustle and bustle of Florence and into the heart of Tuscany – Siena and the Chianti wine region. Nothing can prepare you for the medieval charm of the first and the intoxicating beauty of the latter. Trust me, you’ll want to have your camera ready for this one!
Breakfast in Siena
Siena Cathedral and Piazza del Campo
Your ventures can start with exploring the architectural marvel called the Siena Cathedral. The intricate facade and stunning interior are a feast for the eyes. Tickets are around €9 per person. Just a short walk from the cathedral lies the iconic square of Piazza del Campo, famous for its ancient Palio horse race and a perfect spot for a coffee break and some people-watching.
Saltalbero Adventure Park
Located near Siena, this adventure park offers rope courses, mini-golf, and archery. It’s a fantastic outing for families and those looking for a bit of adventure. Prices start at €15 per person.
Wine tour in Chianti
Head to the Chianti region for some wine tasting – 3 days in Tuscany would not be complete without some wine!
Many vineyards offer grape juice tasting for kids, so it is a win-win for everyone! The Chianti region is just a 30-minute drive from Siena. Tours start at around €50 per person, and quite higher at renowned vineyards like Castello di Ama and Fattoria Vignavecchia.
Dinner at Osteria Le Logge
Wrap up your day at Osteria Le Logge, a cozy spot known for its authentic Tuscan dishes and focus on local ingredients. It is also one of the top-rated restaurants in the area with a great atmosphere dinint right in the old town. Expect to spend around €30-€40 per person.
3 Days in Tuscany Day 3: Pisa and Lucca
Your final day in Tuscany is a dreamy trip to two iconic cities: Pisa, home to the world-famous Leaning Tower, and Lucca, a charming retreat with Renaissance walls and adorable piazzas. Get ready for a double-header as we explore these two.
Breakfast in Pisa
Begin the day at Filter Coffee Lab, a modern cafe that provides a mix of Italian and international breakfast options. Expect to spend around €10 per person.
Leaning Tower of Pisa
No trip to Tuscany is complete without seeing the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Tickets to climb the tower are around €18 per person, and it is best to book in advance to skip the long lines (and potentially land on exclusive early-bird deals). Did you know? The tower leans at an angle of 3.97 degrees!
Lunch at Osteria in domo
Just a short walk from the Leaning Tower is Osteria in domo, a cosy spot that serves a variety of delicious Tuscan dishes, with prices around €15-€20 per person.
Get Lost in Pisa’s Historic Town
Take some time after lunch to walk off the delicious meal you undoubtedly just had! Pisa has tons of treasures to discover, from a scenic walk along the river to other historic sites. Some other places to check out Piazza dei Miracoli, the Baptisterium, and Cattedrale de Pisa as you explore.
Lucca’s Renaissance Walls and Guinigi Tower
Lucca is a truly charming, smaller Tuscan town to visit on your 3 day Tuscany itinerary. Arrive in Lucca early in the afternoon (it’s just a 30-minute train ride from Pisa) and rent bikes to take a ride along the city’s ancient walls. Bike rentals are around €5 per hour.
You could also squeeze in a short visit to the scenic Piazza dell’Anfiteatro. And, if you still have some energy left after that, you must climb the Guinigi Tower for panoramic views of Lucca (tickets are about €5 per person).
Dinner at Buca di Sant’Antonio
End your Tuscan adventure at this famous restaurant that has been serving authentic Tuscan cuisine since 1782. Expect to spend around €35-€45 per person on delicious authentic and creative twists on Italian favorites.
Other Recommendations for Tuscany
If you find yourself with some extra time, or if you are looking to customize your 3-day Tuscany itinerary, some additional activities and culinary delights worth considering are:
- Italian cooking classes
- hot-air balloon rides from Florence, Tuscany, and more
- hiking in the Apuan Alps
- Learning to make pasta like a true Italian
- get a bird’s eye view of Tuscany’s stunning landscape
- walk along some of the best hiking trails in Tuscany
For food and drinks, a hearty bowl of Papa al pomodoro (a tomato and bread soup), accompanied by Cantucci and Vin Santo (almond biscuits dipped in sweet wine- a classic Tuscan dessert) and a glass of Chianti Classico (a staple local red wine) is a combination for which your palate will thank you forever.
Wrapping up 3 Days in Tuscany
There you have it – a jam-packed 3-day itinerary that takes you through the heart and soul of Tuscany. From the art-filled streets of Florence to the rolling vineyards of Chianti, and from the emblematic Leaning Tower of Pisa to the hidden charms of Lucca, this guide has got you covered with a bit of all the best things to see.
Although 72 hours is not enough time to see, feel, taste, hear, and experience everything this fairy tale-like Italian region has to offer, you do manage to get a glimpse into what is on the other end of such a trip. Let’s face it. Tuscany is not just a destination; it’s a state of mind!