Charming Villages to Visit in Tuscany

However, if you plan to stay in Tuscany for an extended period, we recommend not limiting yourself to our city but exploring the countless gems just a few kilometers away.

Tuscany embraces lush countryside, renowned art cities, and enchanting villages that you should visit during your stay at Hotel Ilaria in Lucca.

Perched on a hill a few kilometers from Florence, Certaldo is a medieval gem perfect for a day trip. The unique charm it exudes takes you hand in hand into distant centuries: live stone walls, terracotta floors, and medieval banners inhabit the narrow streets of the historic center, located in the upper part and reachable by a panoramic funicular.

Here, the original medieval nucleus - Certaldo Alto - is enclosed by imposing walls that open in three gates, revealing a fascinating ancient microcosm before you.

Certaldo's main street - Via Boccaccio - is dedicated to the great poet who was born there. Along this street, you'll find the Palazzo dei Priori, an exemplary synthesis of medieval architecture: high crenellated walls and an imposing structure leave no room for doubt. To enjoy an unparalleled view of the Tuscan countryside, reach the highest point of the palace. Capture unforgettable souvenir photos and fully immerse yourself in the authentic atmosphere of a bygone era.

The birthplace of the scientist ahead of his time, Leonardo, Vinci is a tranquil town with stunning views of the surrounding greenery. Here, you must visit the Leonardo Museum, which houses machines and models inspired by the drawings of the Tuscan genius: an incredible journey into Leonardo's discoveries that leaves you speechless.

Continue your tour to the Birthplace of Leonardo, a unique experience to delve into the life and environment where the great artist was born.

Last, but not least, Vinci boasts excellent wineries to taste and purchase the finest wines of the region: take advantage of the trip for a wine tasting immersed in the Tuscan nature.

Volterra is one of those places that fascinate tourists visiting the surroundings of Florence and Pisa the most. The pronounced medieval atmosphere, enclosed in the still intact city walls and stone squares, is enriched with a unique personality.

In Volterra, you will distinctly perceive the Etruscan origins of the village, inhabited since the 8th century BC. The best way to thoroughly understand this enchanting civilization is to visit the Guarnacci Museum, entirely dedicated to the Etruscan people.

Before returning to Hotel Ilaria in Lucca, treat yourself to a purchase in one of the many artisan shops scattered in the main square: bring home a piece of Etruscan-inspired jewelry or an alabaster artifact, a pride of the Tuscan town.

The Val d'Orcia resembles the palette of an impressionist painter: the green forest of tall cypresses, the ochre of the terrain, the emerald of the vast hills, the clear blue of the sky... a true masterpiece of Tuscan nature.

In such a background, San Quirico d'Orcia fits perfectly, a village of pure tranquility reachable through a scenic road with breathtaking views. The incomparable views are just the beginning of a sequence of delightful experiences: from the splendid Collegiata Romanica in local stone that shines under the sun to the absolute tranquility of the ancient village.

Immerse yourself in its history, admire the panoramas, and let yourself be enveloped by the peace of San Quirico d'Orcia: it will be an unexpected escape from the daily hustle and bustle.

Book your stay at Hotel Ilaria now and embark on the discovery of Tuscany's fairy-tale villages.