When was the last time you took a long vacation? The last time you woke up in a foreign country with absolutely nothing to do? The last time you tried foreign flavors, marveled at ancient architecture, and enjoyed the slow pace of living? If you can’t remember, it’s time to book a trip now! Our suggestion? Tuscany, of course!
This Italian region has a variety of must-visit destinations, produces delicious wine, and is full of magnificent Renaissance art. You’ve probably already seen its rolling hills, beautiful vineyards, and Medieval towns in some online posts and wondered whether such fascinating places truly exist. In this case, social media platforms are not fooling you. Tuscany is just as beautiful! If you’re about to go there, here is a list of the best views in Tuscany so you can take the best pictures to update your socials.
Why Tuscany Offers Some of the Most Stunning Views in Italy
Before diving into the main topic, let’s discuss why Tuscany offers some of the most stunning views in the country. This region has everything you can expect from Italy. Its renowned Chianti area is home to rolling hills that constantly change colors with the seasons. From the vibrant reds of autumn to the candid white of winter snow and the jolly green of spring and summer, you can take a perfect photo regardless of the month you choose to visit.
Unlike regions in the south of Italy, such as Puglia and Sicily, Tuscany also has an abundance of Medieval villages, with plenty of hill-top towns where Tuscany luxury villas, ancient mansions, and churches make the perfect subjects.
Of course, Tuscany’s capital, Florence, is also a must-visit. Regarded by many as the birthplace of Renaissance art, its unique skyline has been immortalized in millions of paintings and photographs throughout history and continues to attract tourists worldwide.
Lastly, unlike regions in the north of the country, Tuscany also has a coast. While not as famous as the Amalfi coast or the Cinque Terre, you can still see hills diving into the sea, colorful villages that seem to emerge from the Mediterranean Sea, and crystal-blue waters.
But where can you find the best Tuscany views? Here is a list of ten places you cannot miss.
Best Views in Tuscany: Iconic Panoramic Spots
There are plenty of things to do in Tuscany’s countryside, from wine-tasting experiences to enchanting villages to be discovered and even hot springs! Here are some locations perfect for a day trip and taking great pictures.
The Chapel of the Madonna di Vitaleta
Let’s start with an unusual spot. Located in the Val d’Orcia, between San Quirico d’Orcia and Pienza, this tiny chapel framed by two rows of cypress trees is the ideal spot for an iconic picture. Historians are not entirely sure when this now UNESCO site was built, but the first record of this chapel dates back to 1590. Unfortunately, the structure was severely damaged during an earthquake and had to be fully restored in 1884. Today, what makes this place so unique is not only its tiny size but also its gorgeous location in the middle of Tuscany’s rolling hills.
Near the Chapel of the Madonna di Vitaleta, you’ll also find Vitaleta Gourmet. This is one of the best restaurants in Tuscany where you can eat like a local, so if you have time, have lunch here.
Things to do:
- Have lunch at Vitaleta Gourmet
- Visit the Chapel
Piazzale Michelangelo
This is the place to go to take the perfect picture of Florence. While you’ll probably find plenty of tourists here, there is no better place to immortalize this historic city. From here, you’ll see all the main monuments of Florence, including the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Palazzo Vecchio, and the Tower of the Badia Fiorentina.
Another great spot for an unforgettable photo is the Arno River. While most people tend to visit the famous Ponte Vecchio, we suggest you opt for one of the two nearby bridges, Ponte Santa Trinitá or Ponte alle Grazie, so you can take the perfect photo.
Things to do:
- Head back to Florence for plenty of activities!
Sorano
Sorano is not the typical Tuscany town. This Etruscan village carved in tuff is perched atop a hill, balancing between two valleys. The ‘Insediamento rupestre San Rocco’ is the best spot to photograph this fantastic town.
Once there, you can also check out the Fortezza Orsini, the Masso Leopoldino di Sorano with its beautiful terrace, and the Cathedral dei Santi Pietro and Paolo. If you have time, you can also book a tour to learn more about the Etruscan population that inhabited these lands and visit some archeological sites in the area.
Things to do:
- Book a tour to learn more about the Etruschi
- Check out the Cathedral dei Santi Pietro and Paolo
- Visit the Fortezza Orsini
Podere Belvedere
It’s time to discuss another iconic location you saw in plenty of photos, the Podere Belvedere, an iconic Tuscany valley view. This is the ideal spot for those wanting a photo of Tuscany’s rolling hills and fields. You will find this location before arriving at the town of San Quirico d’Orcia to the left, driving from Pienza.
It may take some time to find the perfect spot for your photos, but with a bit of luck, you’ll get one of the best pictures of your life. The ancient podere, a local farmhouse, is surrounded by cypress trees, with endless hills in the background, making it the perfect subject. Try to arrive at sunrise for the best light.
Things to do:
- Visit the nearby San Quirico d’Orcia
- Book a wine tour in the area
San Gimignano
It’s now time to visit a traditional Medieval village. If you’re a photographer or are eager to upgrade your Instagram account with exciting pictures, you cannot miss San Gimignano. Renowned for its many towers, this walled Medieval town is among the most beautiful in Tuscany.
Piazza della Cisterna is among the most popular options because it allows you to include some of the city’s towers in your photo. Once here, you can try one of the many wine tours available, visit a local winery, explore a Medieval tower, or check out the unique Museum of Torture!
Things to do:
- Visit The Museum of Torture
- Check out Piazza della Cisterna
- Book a wine tour
Siena
Tourists heading to Tuscany always opt for a visit to Pisa. While this city with its famous tower is surely a must-visit, Siena, a local Medieval city with plenty of sites to explore, may be even more enchanting. You will stop at every narrow street, palace, and antique square to take a picture. While you will also find tourists here, there’s no comparison with the massive crowds of Pisa.
Some of the best places to take a photo are the cathedral with its beautiful pink colors, and the famous Piazza del Campo. It is here that the world-renowned Palio, a local horse race, is held every year. The square is characterized by a unique paving resembling a shell, the magnificent Palazzo Pubblico with its high Torre Mangia, and ancient houses.
Things to do:
- Visit Palazzo Pubblico
- Check out Piazza del Campo
- See the Cathedral
Cascate del Mulino
Not many people know that Tuscany is also home to various free thermal baths open to the public all year round. One of the most famous ones is the Cascate del Mulino, translated as ‘Mill waterfalls.’ This can be a great spot to spend a relaxing afternoon and get creative with your photography skills. The steaming hot water, the small waterfalls, and the ancient mill create the perfect composition for a unique photo.
Things to do:
- Relax at the hot spring
- Visit the town of Saturnia
The Best Coastal Views of Tuscany
Once in Tuscany, you should also try to make the most of its beautiful beaches and seaside towns.
Forte San Giorgio
This fortress is a must-visit for photographer lovers. The most exciting news is that this is a very underrated spot, meaning there is a very low chance of finding tourists here. On the negative side, Forte San Giorgio is located on the Isola of Capraia, an island off the coast of Italy. So, reaching this destination may take some time.
This imposing fortress overlooking the sea was built in 1540 to protect the entire population in case of threats. Once in Capraia, you can take a 7-hour hike to reach Lo Zenobito, an ancient tower overlooking the sea, or relax at the Spiaggia del Frate, a local beach.
Things to do:
- Relax at Spiaggia del Frate
- Hike to Lo Zenobito
Spiaggia di Capo Bianco
This beautiful beach on the Isola D’Elba is renowned for its dramatic white cliff. Located on the island’s northern side, this is the ideal place for a picture and to spend a day relaxing and enjoying one of Tuscany’s most iconic beaches. Here, you’ll find a variety of fish, making it the perfect place for some snorkeling. You can access the beach via a steep road, so if you have mobility problems, you may have to find an alternative.
Things to do:
- Relax at the beach
- Try some snorkeling
Castiglione della Pescaia
Castiglione della Pescaia is a small town facing the Mediterranean Sea in the province of Grosseto. As with most Italian seaside towns, the historic center is on the seafront, meaning you can get an amazing picture of the town’s ancient houses, palaces, and fishermen’s boats anchored at the harbor. You can sunbathe and swim on one of the many nearby beaches or explore the Diaccia Botrona Natural Reserve.
Things to do:
- Relax at the beach
- Explore Diaccia Botrona Natural Reserve