Ah, Tuscany, where sun-drenched vineyards meet medieval hill towns, and every winding road seems to lead to your next bowl of pasta. We can’t believe it’s taken us this long to embark on a Tuscany road trip in a campervan, but we’re eager to remedy this mistake and savour la dolce vita.
A motorhome is the perfect way to explore this dreamy Italian region. It gives you the freedom to sip Chianti in a vineyard one minute and soak in Renaissance art the next. This Tuscany itinerary can be completed in 7 days, although if you’d like to stretch your trip out to 10 days, we won’t tell if you won’t! There’s so much to see and do with this route of the best places to visit in Tuscany, so let’s hit the road.
Before you go
Quick pause before we dive into the Tuscany road trip itinerary for some important driving tips for your trip. Take a moment to learn more about visiting Italy in a motorhome.
1. Best time to visit? Late spring (May-June) or early autumn (September-October) for fewer crowds and golden light. Make sure your motorhome is ready for narrow streets and some hilltop climbs, and always carry coins for tolls and local parking machines.
2. Avoid city centres (ZTL zones). Many Tuscan towns have Zona a Traffico Limitato (ZTL), restricted traffic areas where motorhomes are absolutely not welcome, and the fines are steep. Always park outside historic centres and walk or take local transport in.
3. Embrace the scenic (but slow) routes. The best parts of Tuscany are found off the highways. Take the smaller strade provinciali for winding vineyard views and hilltop villages — just be prepared for narrow, curvy roads and take it slow. It’s part of the charm!
4. Plan fuel stops and parking in advance. Rural Tuscany isn’t packed with petrol stations or motorhome-friendly parking. Fill up when you can and use apps like Park4Night to scope out camper stops ahead of time, especially during peak travel months.
Day 1 - Florence
Our road trip in Tuscany will start in Florence and end in Pisa, but naturally, you could also reverse this direction if you prefer. Also, if you’ve already had your fill of Florence—not that we could ever tire of this incredible city—feel free to skip ahead and spend an extra day elsewhere on this Tuscany itinerary. But be warned, some of the best places to visit in Tuscany can be found right here.
Florence is the heart of the Renaissance, where every street feels like walking through an open-air museum of art, history, and grand architecture. From Michelangelo’s David to the iconic Duomo, the city blends cultural richness with a buzzing, modern energy. Whether you're sipping Chianti by the Arno or browsing leather markets near San Lorenzo, Florence is endlessly enchanting.
Things to do:
- Climb the Duomo: Kick off your trip in Florence with a heart-pounding climb to the top of Brunelleschi’s Dome for sweeping views of terracotta rooftops and the Arno River. Your legs may scream, but the view is worth it.
- Uffizi Gallery: Wander through the Uffizi and see Botticelli’s Birth of Venus — it's like seeing a celebrity in real life.
- Sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo: For the ultimate golden hour, drive or stroll up to Piazzale Michelangelo and watch Florence bathed in peachy light. Bonus points if you bring gelato.
- Stroll across the Ponte Vecchio: This iconic medieval bridge is lined with glittering jewellery shops and offers dreamy views of the Arno, especially at sunset. It’s touristy, but totally worth it.
- Browse Mercato Centrale: Head to this vibrant indoor market for local cheeses, truffle paninis and freshly made pasta. Upstairs, the modern food court is perfect for a relaxed, delicious lunch with plenty of Tuscan flair.
Staying at: Firenze Camping in Town
Tucked just outside the city centre, Firenze Camping in Town has an urban-cool vibe with a pool, shuttle bus to Florence, and even on-site pizza. It’s the perfect first-night soft landing, offering nature but with easy access to the city. It’s more affordable than what we’ve come to expect from urban campsites, and you’ll be very grateful for that pool after a sweaty day traipsing around the city centre.
Via Generale C. A. dalla Chiesa, 1/3, 50136 Firenze FI, Italy
43.764616, 11.316096
Day 2 - Florence to Chianti
Driving distance: 17.5 miles
Now the real Tuscan road trip truly begins, as we’re hitting the road [gently]. The drive from Florence to Chianti should take about 45 minutes, so you’ll likely do it in one go to maximise your time at your second destination.
Chianti is Tuscany at its best: a patchwork of rolling vineyards, cypress-lined roads and charming stone villages. It's world-renowned for its bold red wine, but the region also offers olive oil, scenic drives, and rustic trattorias with breathtaking views. Whether you're wine tasting in a centuries-old castle or simply enjoying the landscape with the windows down, Chianti is pure Tuscan magic.
Things to do:
- Scenic drive through the Chiantigiana (SR222): Climb into the postcards you’ll see all around, with rolling vineyards, olive groves and wine estates that look like movie sets.
- Wine tasting at Castello di Ama or Castello di Brolio: Sip ruby-red Chianti Classico at a 12th-century castle, where wine meets history and your taste buds cry happy tears.
- Stop in Greve in Chianti: This quaint village is ideal for a slow wander. Why not grab a wedge of pecorino and some wild boar salami at the Saturday market?
- Hike the Chianti trails: Lace up your boots and explore scenic walking paths between vineyards and olive groves; the routes from Radda to Volpaia are especially peaceful and full of postcard-worthy views.
Staying at: Agricampeggio Cipollatico
A small, family-run gem nestled among vineyards, with views over the valley that make you feel like you're in a Renaissance painting. Agricampeggio Cipollatico is a charming campsite that attracts repeat customers year after year. The real highlight is the outdoor pool, which offers stunning views over the rolling hills. Bonus: The attached restaurant makes its own wine and olive oil, so you can enjoy the perfect pairing with a side of bread.
M4J6+7Q Montespertoli, Metropolitan City of Florence, Italy
43.680654, 11.111837
Day 3 - Chianti to Siena
Driving distance: 28.6 miles
A slightly longer drive this morning, which should take about an hour, or more if your van is a little heavier after you went a little crazy buying bottles of wine and olive oil at the campsite.
Siena is a medieval gem where time seems to have paused; its narrow streets, Gothic architecture, and terracotta rooftops feel straight out of a storybook. The fan-shaped Piazza del Campo is the city’s beating heart, best known for the thrilling Palio horse race held twice a year. With its striking black-and-white cathedral, cosy trattorias and rich history, Siena is a must-stop on any Tuscan road trip.
Things to do:
- Piazza del Campo: Start in the shell-shaped heart of Siena, where horses race twice a year during the Palio. Today, it’s perfect for coffee and people-watching.
- Climb Torre del Mangia: Conquer the 400 steps for panoramic views and a serious glute workout.
- Siena Cathedral: A jaw-dropping Gothic cathedral with zebra-striped columns and a floor so intricate it makes mosaics jealous.
- Gelato at Kopakabana: Trust us, it’s a local fave for a reason. Tip: Try the ricotta and fig.
Staying at: Camping Colleverde Siena
Located on a hill with views over Siena’s old town, this site has a pool and easy public transport to the city, which is ideal because parking in Siena is a medieval nightmare. Camping Siena Colleverde is dog-friendly and filled with green spaces. Short stays can’t be booked in advance, so be sure to arrive on time to secure your spot.
Italien, Str. di Scacciapensieri, 47, 53100 Siena SI, Italy
43.337082, 11.331215
Day 4 - Siena to Val d’Orcia
Driving distance: 30.1 miles
Enjoy one final coffee under your awning, and then it’s time to continue on your road trip in Tuscany. Today’s drive should take just under an hour along calm and fairly straight roads.
Val d’Orcia looks like it was pulled from a cinema screen: think golden hills, winding roads lined with cypress trees, and stone farmhouses basking in soft light. This UNESCO-listed region is home to charming towns like Pienza, Montalcino and San Quirico, each offering rich history, incredible views, and plenty of pecorino and wine. Whether you’re soaking in natural hot springs or chasing the perfect photo, Val d’Orcia is effortlessly romantic and impossibly beautiful.
Things to do:
- Drive to Pienza via Crete Senesi: The landscapes here are so surreal they feel like CGI, so expect winding roads, cypress-lined drives, and golden wheat fields.
- Explore Pienza: This tiny town is cheese heaven (look for pecorino di Pienza) and romantic to the core. Every street is Via dell’Amore vibes.
- Thermal baths at Bagno Vignoni: Soak your feet in ancient Roman baths while sipping a spritz. Need we say more?
- Walk the Gladiator filming road near Pienza: Movie buffs will recognise this iconic dirt road from Gladiator; it’s a short stroll, but the sweeping views and cinematic vibes make it unforgettable.
- Visit the Abbey of Sant’Antimo: Just outside Montalcino, this peaceful Romanesque abbey is surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. You can step inside to hear Gregorian chants echo through its ancient stone walls.
Staying at: Gitavillage Le Marze (near Montalcino)
Park your motorhome among olive trees with epic sunset views. Gitavillage Le Marze is nestled among a pine forest, a short distance from the beach. You’ll find everything you need at this Tuscan campsite, including a supermarket, restaurant, kids' centre, and more. You can rent bikes at the reception to explore this stunning region in more detail.
SP delle Collacchie, 58100 Grosseto GR, Italy
42.745128, 10.947342
Day 5 - Val d’Orcia to Montepulciano and Lake Trasimeno
Driving distance: 68.2 miles and 15.7 miles
We recommend waking up a bit earlier on the fifth day of your Tuscany road trip itinerary, as you’ve got a longer drive ahead of you. The first leg of your trip will take about two hours, heading back inland. You could always split this into two parts if you’d like to stretch your legs or just get it over with immediately.
Montepulciano is a stunning hilltop town famed for its Renaissance architecture, dramatic views and full-bodied Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. Wander its cobbled streets to discover wine cellars tucked beneath ancient buildings and panoramic terraces overlooking the Val d’Orcia. With its elegant piazzas and slow, romantic pace, it’s the kind of place where you’ll want to linger — preferably with a glass in hand.
Then it’s time for a short half-hour drive to Lake Trasimeno, ideally combined with the sunset if you can. Lake Trasimeno is a peaceful, underrated gem that straddles the Tuscan-Umbrian border, perfect for a swim, lakeside aperitivo or a ferry ride to its quiet islands.
Things to do:
- Wander Montepulciano: Another hilltop stunner, famous for Vino Nobile and dramatic alleys perfect for pretending you're in a period drama.
- Wine tasting at Cantina Contucci: Family-run, historic and wildly atmospheric, complete with wine cellars under the city.
- Cool off at Lake Trasimeno: Cross briefly into Umbria for a refreshing dip or lakeside aperitivo in Passignano sul Trasimeno. It’s chill, charming and crowd-free.
Staying at: Badiaccia Camping Village
No further driving is required, as Badiaccia Camping Village is situated right on the lakeshore. This campsite has shaded pitches, a private beach, and dreamy lake views. Bonus: they have regular pizza nights and wine tastings, just in case you weren’t already living your best life.
Via Pratovecchio, 1, 06061 Castiglione del Lago PG, Italy
43.180399, 12.016217
Day 6 - Lake Trasimeno to San Gimignano and Volterra
Driving distance: 70 miles and 19.1 miles
We hope you had a good night’s rest at Badiaccia Camping Village, as now it’s time to tackle another section of your Tuscany itinerary in 7 days. The end is near, but don’t fret, as some of the best places to visit in Tuscany are on today’s route.
Drive an hour and a half to San Gimignano. San Gimignano is a striking medieval town known for its skyline of ancient stone towers, often dubbed the "Manhattan of the Middle Ages." Within its fortified walls, you’ll find winding lanes, artisanal shops and some of the best gelato in Italy. The views from Torre Grossa stretch over vineyards and olive groves, offering a picture-perfect slice of Tuscany from above.
Then hop back in your motorhome for a forty-minute drive to Volterra. It’s a moody, mysterious hilltop town with deep Etruscan roots, ancient ruins, and a slightly gothic edge. Its quiet charm, alabaster workshops, and dramatic cliffs make it feel like a forgotten corner of Tuscany.
Things to do:
- Climb the fortress walls at Rocca di Montestaffoli: This peaceful park atop the town’s old fortress offers sweeping views of the surrounding countryside, and often features live music or wine festivals in summer.
- Try world-champion gelato at Gelateria Dondoli: No, really, this gelato wins awards.
- Visit Volterra: Moody, mysterious, and slightly spooky, Volterra is an Etruscan hill town with vampire drama history (yes, it was featured in Twilight).
- Explore the Etruscan Museum in Volterra: The Guarnacci Museum houses one of Italy’s oldest and most important Etruscan collections, with eerie funerary urns and artefacts that bring the town’s ancient history to life.
Staying at: Camping Le Balze Volterra
Quiet, scenic, and super close to town, this campsite is surrounded by Tuscan hills and olive groves. Camping Le Balze Volterra is the perfect place to enjoy a peaceful sunset after a day of tower climbing and gelato sampling. You can walk to and from Volterra, and then cool off with a dip in the well-maintained swimming pool.
Via di Mandringa, 15, 56048 Volterra PI, Italy
43.412180, 10.850783
Day 7 - Volterra to Pisa and Lucca
Driving distance: 39.2 miles and 12.3 miles
And just like that, we’ve reached the final day of your 7-day Tuscany road trip. It’s a packed one, so if you feel like adding an extra day, this would be the time. If not, just set off early and prioritise your final activities.
The first leg of the trip to Pisa should take just over an hour, but you’ll be rewarded with some of the best places to see in Tuscany. Pisa is world-famous for its iconic Leaning Tower, but there’s more to this university town than its famous tilt. The Piazza dei Miracoli is a stunning complex of white marble architecture, including the cathedral and baptistery, all glowing beautifully in the afternoon sun. Beyond the crowds, you’ll find lively streets, riverfront cafes and a youthful energy thanks to its student population.
The second leg will take about twenty-five minutes, and you’ll want to avoid commuter traffic for that. But Lucca is definitely worth the effort, we promise. Lucca is a charming walled city where you can cycle or stroll along its perfectly preserved Renaissance ramparts. Inside, you’ll find shady piazzas, cobblestone streets, and a relaxed, local vibe that makes it one of Tuscany’s best-kept secrets.
Things to do:
- Snap that Leaning Tower pic: Yes, it’s touristy. Yes, you still have to do it. Lean with it, pose with it, own it.
- Explore the Piazza dei Miracoli: The cathedral and baptistry are stunning too, so don’t just run in for the tower.
- Visit Pisa’s Botanical Garden: Often overlooked, this peaceful 16th-century garden (one of the oldest in Europe) is a quiet retreat just steps from the Leaning Tower, filled with exotic plants, lily ponds, and hidden benches.
- Bike the walls of Lucca: End your trip with a leisurely bike ride around Lucca’s perfectly preserved Renaissance walls, followed by a long lunch in a piazza.
- Climb the Guinigi Tower (Lucca): This unique tower is crowned with ancient oak trees growing on top and offers gorgeous views over Lucca’s terracotta rooftops.
Staying at: Area Camper Il Serchio
Situated along the Serchio River, Area Camper Il Serchio offers 50 shaded pitches with services like water refill, grey and black water disposal, hot showers, and laundry facilities. It’s just outside of Lucca, but it offers a more peaceful place to toast to the end of an excellent Tuscany road trip.
Via del Tiro a Segno, 704, 55100 Lucca LU, Italy
43.850233, 10.485915
From rolling vineyards to medieval hilltops, Tuscany is the ultimate motorhome playground, where every twist in the road brings a new postcard-perfect view. Whether you’re sipping wine in Chianti, wandering ancient streets in Siena or soaking up sunsets over Val d’Orcia, this region effortlessly blends adventure with la dolce vita. With cosy campsites to rest your wheels and endless charm around every corner, your Tuscany road trip will be unforgettable. So pack your bags, hit the road and get ready to fall in love with the heart of Italy, one scenic stop at a time!
Need to hire a motorhome in Italy? Curious how much a campervan road trip in Italy costs? You’ll find everything you need on our blog.
