Tuscany Travel Guide

Decide between a city base and the countryside

A Florence base suits art and rail day trips. Siena puts you in a smaller hill city with different bus options. A rural property offers another kind of stay, but ask how you will reach dinner, groceries and your next destination. A nearby railway station on a map may still be several kilometres away along roads without a useful walking route.

For a short trip without a car, choose a base with a clear arrival and one or two outings. Read the Florence, Pisa and Siena guides before comparing nights.

Plan hill-town buses in both directions

For places such as San Gimignano, search the train and connecting bus as a complete journey. Use Autolinee Toscane for the correct service day and validation rules. A Sunday or holiday timetable can be very different from a weekday.

Arrive with enough time for the last return, and decide what you would do if a connection is missed. Do not assume a taxi will be waiting outside every small-town stop.

Book a tasting as a visit

Ask a winery what the tasting includes, how long it lasts and whether food is available. Match the reservation to your transport. If driving, arrange a non-drinking driver or choose a transfer. A town wine bar can be an easier way to try a few wines without travelling between rural properties.

Keep city and excursion budgets separate

The Florence and Tuscany spending article shows a city-day example. Add the actual train, bus, tour or tasting cost for an outing, rather than assuming Florence's local transport allowance covers it.

If you hire a car, add parking, fuel and any collection conditions to the price. Historic centres often restrict vehicle entry. Ask the property about permitted access before following navigation to its door.