One of the things I love to do when I go to a new country or region is immerse myself in the local culture. Italy is one of my all-time favorite countries, and one thing I love about it is all of the regional differences. One of the places that I have loved learning more about is Tuscany as it has such an interesting culture and needs to be on any classic Italian itinerary! From its art and architecture to its food, Tuscany really has something for every type of traveller. Here are my must sees of Tuscan culture and how to see them
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How to get around to see all the Tuscan sites
Tuscany is a really easy place to get around! There is a really great and easy to navigate train system which is definitely how I would recommend getting around f city to city. However if you are anything like me you might want to experience the beautiful Tuscan countryside! When we travel to Tuscany we will often hire a car and rent a beautiful property on the countryside and drive ourselves to nearby train stations to then go into the urban centres! And if you don’t want to just visit urban centres there are plenty of scenic drives through the Tuscan countryside!
Here are some great tips for driving in Tuscany!
The other great way to get around in Tuscany is by bike! But cyclists beware those Tuscan hills are pretty steep!
Tuscan Art and History Cultural Sites
If you want to see Tuscan art and culture then the first stop should be Florence! Below are some highlights but for an in-depth Florence itinerary check out this post !
See the David at Galleriea dell’Accademia
Perhaps the best known sculpture in the world, David by Michalangelo is housed in Galleria dell’Accademia in the centre of Florence. If the queues are too long or you are short on time, there is a replica statue in the piazza. But it is definitely worthwhile queuing up to go inside!
Birth of Venus at the Uffizi Gallery
Another of the world’s most famous artworks is housed in the Uffizi Gallery. A spectacular artwork that is worth the admission fee alone!
It is worthwhile booking tickets in advance especially if you are traveling in peak season!
For more hidden cultural gems in Florence check out this post!
The Best Tuscan Architecture
For me, Tuscany is home to some of the world’s most beautiful Renaissance architecture. There are so many spots that you simply must go and have a look around, and get your picture at!
Duomo di Firenze
Florence Duomo with its green, pink and white marble is a breathtaking church. A UNESCO world heritage site, The Florence Duomo is one of the most magnificent churches in the world and is a must see on a visit to the city.
Giotti’s Campanile
A free standing structure which is part of the Florence cathedral complex. The campanile is considered to be one of the most beautiful in all of Italy! It is well worth climbing the 414 steps to get to the top of the Campanile to get unrivaled views of Florence.
Siena Cathedral
Smaller than its counter part in Florence but no less beautiful. Duomo di Siena is worth a visit into for its’ magnificent interiors.
While in Siena, make sure our visit there nearby beautiful walled town of San Gimignano
Torre del Mangia & Palazzo Pubblico
A bell tower in central Siena adjacent to the world famous Palazzo Publicco.
Leaning Tower of Pisa
Perhaps the most iconic of all of the Tuscan sites, no visit to Pisa is complete without taking the obligatory photo of you holding up the tower! Or perhaps you can think of something more inventive to do!
The Walls of Lucca
Beautiful walls that offer respite from the busier tourist experiences in Florence and Siena. One of the more fun ways to see the historic city is to cycle all around the city walls!
Tuscan Food Culture
For me a culture isn’t truly experienced until you have tried its food and Tuscan food culture is one of the best in the world. You can no leave Tuscany until you have tried
bistecca alla fiorentina
The regionally dish! The most mouth watering and delicious rib eye you will ever taste.
Panzanelle
Basicallya bread salad but a regional specialty and a tasty one at that!
Chianti
And finally you can’t visit Tuscany without trying a glass or two … or maybe three of the regional wine Chianti!
What are you tips for experiencing Tuscan culture? Is culture for you about amazing art and architecture or do you learn about a place through food?