Tuscany, a region in central Italy, is famous for its stunning Renaissance art, rolling vineyards, and picturesque hilltop towns. While cities like Florence, Pisa, and Siena draw the most visitors, Tuscany also boasts many lesser-known towns and villages that offer a quieter, more authentic experience. Here are ten such places worth exploring in 2027.
San Gimignano, one of Tuscany’s best-known small towns, sits atop a hill and is famous for its medieval towers. At its peak, the town had as many as 72 towers, though only 14 remain today. The town is also known for its charming local restaurants and scenic views.
Montalcino is a must-visit for wine enthusiasts. The region produces renowned wines like Brunello di Montalcino and Rosso di Montalcino. Surrounded by cypress trees, olive groves, and vineyards, visitors can enjoy wine tastings at places like Enoteca la Forezza, a popular spot in the town.
Pienza, located in the Val d’Orcia, is a medieval town with cobbled streets and historic buildings. The town’s main square, Piazza Pio II, features the cathedral, Palazzo Piccolomini, and Palazzo Borgia, which now houses a museum. Inside Palazzo Borgia, visitors can see artworks by the 14th-century painter Pietro Lorenzetti.
Greve in Chianti and Montefioralle are ideal for exploring the Chianti wine region. Greve in Chianti is centered around the triangular Piazza Matteotti, while Montefioralle, one of the oldest villages in Tuscany, is enclosed by its original defensive walls. Both towns offer a glimpse into the region’s rich wine-making heritage.
Volterra, once an important Etruscan city, is known for its medieval architecture and traditional Italian crafts. Highlights include the Duomo, the 13th-century Palazzo dei Priori, and a 2,000-year-old Roman amphitheatre. The town is also famous for its truffle-based dishes and aged Pecorino cheese.
Pitigliano, located near the Tuscan coast, is called "Little Jerusalem" because of its historical Jewish community. The town’s sandstone buildings are built on volcanic red tuff, and it features a palace-fortress, a Jewish Museum, an underground village, and a Kosher cellar.
Pietrasanta is known for its artistic heritage, with many art galleries and studios. Close to the coast, the town has the Duomo, Rocca di Sala fortress, and an archaeological museum. It continues to attract artists and art lovers from around the world.
Montepulciano, perched on a limestone hill, is famous for its Vino Nobile and natural thermal baths. Surrounded by vineyards, the town features notable structures like the Palazzo Comunale and the Temple of the Madonna di San Biagio.
Cortona, one of the oldest towns in Tuscany, dates back to the Etruscan civilization. With two kilometers of ancient walls, the town has a medieval heart filled with palazzos, narrow streets, and traditional Tuscan restaurants. The MAEC museum houses an Egyptian collection, an 18th-century library, and Etruscan and Roman artifacts.
Murlo, named after the Latin word "murulus" meaning "walled place," is enclosed by terracotta walls on a hilltop. The town features Fortified Murlo Castle, which dates back to the 12th century and houses an Archaeological Museum with Etruscan artifacts. The town also hosts the BluEtrusco festival, which celebrates Etruscan culture.
Ten Undiscovered Gems of Tuscany for 2027
AI-rewritten from original reportingHow it works
tuscanyhidden-gemswine-tastingetruscanhistorycultural-tourism



