Tuscany is one of the most famous regions in Italy, but what is Tuscany Italy known for? Tuscany is a destination for many travelers seeking to experience its stunning landscapes, delicious food and wine, and rich culture. It’s no wonder so many people flock to this beautiful region! In this article, you’ll learn what Tuscany is known for and discover how to explore it all when traveling there.
Its Famous Italian Cities
While Tuscany itself is well known, many people are unable to answer the question, “Where is Tuscany?” It’s located in central Italy, and it borders the regions of Emilia-Romagna, Marche, Umbria, and Lazio. Pisa, Florence, and Siena are just a few of the many cities located within Tuscany, with Florence being the capital. These cities are world-famous for their incredible architecture and artwork. They’re also well renowned for their delicious Italian cuisine. The cities alone answer the question, “What is Tuscany famous for?”
In Pisa, you can visit the iconic Leaning Tower. You can choose to see the tower with skip-the-line tickets on our Pisa Tour from Florence. Speaking of Florence, you can see its stunning Duomo Cathedral and more with a Florence Tour. Meanwhile, Siena boasts some of Italy’s best Renaissance art in its museums and churches. View this art and architecture while learning about Siena’s rich history with our Insider Siena City Tour.
Sweeping Landscapes
From rolling hills and vineyards to old-time villages and ancient castles, there are a lot of breathtaking landscapes to explore in Tuscany!
The Tuscan countryside is dotted with farmhouses, olive groves, vineyards, and fields of sunflowers in the summer months. Tuscany is also home to many famous gardens, such as the Boboli Gardens near Florence and the Tarot Garden near Pescia.
And don’t forget Castello di Brolio! This impressive castle on top of a hill in the Chianti Classico region offers stunning views over the valleys below. Join our Chianti Hillside Horseback Riding Tour to explore this gorgeous region on horseback. Or, indulge in wine and adventure on the Taste of Chianti 4×4 Back Road Safari Tour from Florence.
History
Tuscany is one of the oldest regions in Italy, with a rich history of many famous groups and civilizations that have lived there. The Etruscans were among the earliest inhabitants of Tuscany. They were followed by the Romans who conquered it in the 3rd century BC.
During medieval times, Florence became an important cultural center as well as a powerful city-state. Later on during WWII, Tuscany was occupied by Nazi forces until 1945 when Allied forces liberated parts of Italy including Tuscany.
Through the years, different cultures have left their mark on this beautiful region making it an interesting place to visit. To get the most out of your experience in Tuscany, consider booking one of our guided tours. The Medici Walking Tour in Florence is a great way to see the sights, learn about Tuscan history, and get some exercise!
Art & Architecture
Tuscany has a long and rich history, and the region’s art and architecture are evidence of this. It was home to many famous artists such as Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Brunelleschi, whose work remains there. Perhaps one of the most recognizable pieces of art in Tuscany is Michelangelo’s David statue which can be found in Florence.
Additionally, Botticelli’s Birth of Venus painting can be viewed at the Uffizi Gallery in Florence. You can see this gallery and more on the Florence City and Gallery Tour. Moreover, visitors to Tuscany should not miss out on seeing Brunelleschi’s Dome at the Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral in Florence. Taking the Florence Duomo Complex Tour will make sure you don’t.
In addition to these famous works of art, Tuscany is home to many impressive buildings and landmarks. The Leaning Tower of Pisa is perhaps the most well-known landmark in the region, but other towns have their architectural wonders as well. San Gimignano has its medieval towers and Siena boasts the beautiful Piazza del Campo square. Watch the Tuscan sunrise with our Tuscan Sunrise, San Gimignano, Pisa & Lucca Tour for an unforgettable adventure.
Tuscan Food
One of the first things that comes to mind when thinking of Tuscany is its delicious food. What is Tuscan food? Only the best in Italian cuisine, from hearty pasta dishes to exquisite desserts. But what food is Tuscany known for? Some popular examples include ribollita (a thick soup made with beans and vegetables), panzanella (bread salad with tomatoes and onions), and fettunta (toasted bread rubbed with garlic).
The best way to sample authentic Tuscan food from local chefs is with a culinary tour, like the Florence Historical Food Tour. Or you can learn to cook these delicious dishes yourself with one of our best Tuscany cooking classes. A popular guest favorite is our Tuscany Pizza and Gelato Cooking Class from Florence.
Tuscan Wine
The wines from Tuscany are highly sought after, and it’s no wonder why. They boast complex aromas and flavors that make them truly unique. But what wine is Tuscany known for? There are actually quite a few! Brunello di Montalcino is a full-bodied red wine made with 100% Sangiovese grapes grown in the hills of Montalcino, near Siena in southern Tuscany. It has been recognized as one of Italy’s most prestigious wines for over a century. Taste this wine in an intimate setting with the Brunello Wine Tasting Tour from Siena.
Chianti is another well-known Tuscany wine, produced in the Chianti region of Tuscany and made from Sangiovese grapes. It is also one of Italy’s most famous wines, with its distinctive flavor and aroma that have been enjoyed by wine lovers around the world for centuries. You can sample Chianti on our Chianti Safari and Wine Tour or our Chianti Wine Tour in the Heart of Tuscany.
Finally, Montalcino is a small town located south of Siena where some of Tuscany’s best red wines are produced. The vineyards here produce high-quality Brunello di Montalcino and Rosso di Montalcino wines. Explore Montalcino and try their wines on our Val d’Orcia Wine Tour in Tuscany.
Travel Tuscany in Style with Tourist Italy!
There’s more to Tuscany than meets the eye. And the best way to discover it all is with Tourist Italy. With our wide range of Tuscany tours, you’re sure to find one that fits your time frame, budget, and more. The best way to have all the experiences listed above, however, is with a package tour. We’ll take care of the planning, transportation, and hotels, while you get to immerse yourself in Tuscan culture. Our Tuscany from Venice 4-Day Tour Package, for example, lets you see two incredible regions in just a few days! Perhaps you want to feel like royalty in a castle, in which case our Brunello Wine Tour & Lunch in a Tuscan Castle is perfect for you.
If tours aren’t your speed, we’ve still got your back! With our Tuscany travel guide, tips on where to stay, recommendations on the best things to do, and even a transportation guide for traveling from Florence to Pisa, we’re here to help with all your travel needs.
