Tuscany is every traveler's dream. Think rolling hills, scenic landscapes, and iconic landmarks. It’s one of the regions in Italy known for beautiful scenery, art, and rich culture. What if you want to explore this region without a car? Not to worry, many towns and villages in Tuscany have a compact layout and good transportation options, including bus and train services. Let’s get into the 15 best places to stay in Tuscany without a car.
1. San Gimignano
Nicknamed the “Town of Fine Towers,” San Gimignano is a beautiful hill town in the Tuscan countryside with scenic landscapes. Due to its compact layout, you can enjoy staying in San Gimignano without a car. It’s walkable, and easy to find a public transportation option, making it one of the best places to stay in Tuscany.
Whether you are in San Gimignano for a few-day trip or you’re planning to relocate to this beautiful haven, you don’t have to worry about living car-free. There’s so much you can do without a car. If you’re on a countryside excursion, you can climb the Torre Grossa, the tallest tower in San Gimignano, where you can see the countryside views.
During your countryside Italian travel time, other things you can do in this bustling town include trying out saffron dishes and gelato at one of the good spots there. A good recommendation is the Gelateria Dondoli, Zafferano, and Dulcis In Fundo restaurants. Regarding staying in San Gimignano without a car, there are various accommodation options available to cater to this need. You can stay in an area close to train and bus stations.
2. Pisa
Pisa is a city in Tuscany with a historical touch to it. Known for its Leaning Tower of Pisa, this city offers a rich history, as this historic site was once the capital of a former maritime republic. It's no surprise that it’s one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites worldwide. Often, travelers think of Pisa as a quick photo stop; beyond that, this historic city offers more than its famous leaning tower.
It’s one of the bustling towns that houses the vibrant University of Pisa, as well as stunning Romanesque architecture, piazzas, and riverfront cafes. Since it has a compact and walkable layout, you can easily take a 20-minute stroll from the local attractions at the center of town to the train station. Pisa is a perfect option for students looking forrward to studying in Tuscany. Likewise, it's a good idea if you plan on exploring places including Lucca, Florence, and even coastal towns such as Marina di Pisa and Tirrenia.
3. Siena
Siena feels like stepping into a storybook, and it's one of the Tuscan cities with well-preserved medieval architecture. Its winding lanes, ochre buildings, and fan-shaped Piazza del Campo historic horse race make it a type of experience you shouldn’t miss out on. Many things make Sienna one of the best places to stay in Tuscany without a car. Sienna is a fun city with different outdoor activities that make your stay eventful.
You can explore historic villas and the Siena Cathedral while trying out delicious food, such as Pici Pasta and Panforte. Getting public transportation is no issue, as you can easily access towns like Florence, Pienza, and San Gimignano without needing to take your car. The train station is located downhill, but regular buses and escalators provide easy access to the center.
4. Viareggio
If you’re dreaming of a blend of beach relaxation and cultural landscapes, Viareggio is your golden ticket. Sitting along the Tuscan Riviera, this vibrant seaside town has long been a favorite of tourists, and it’s easy to see why. Think palm-lined promenades, stunning beaches, and beautiful historic villas that whisper of 19th-century elegance.
Viareggio is one of the seaside towns in Tuscany that you can easily visit without a car. With its efficient train system, you can access direct train connections to major cities, including Florence, Lucca, and Pisa. Once in the city, you will be welcomed by Viareggo’s warmth. It’s a walkable town with everything you need at arm's length. Think of beautiful beaches, shops, art museums, and even seafood dining options.
So what can you do in this seaside town? You can relax on one of the town’s stunning beaches if you happen to lodge in one of the luxury villas in Viareggio. You know, being under the umbrellas, sunbeds, and with a drink in hand, this city offers a blend of beach relaxation. Taking a stroll and indulging in local cuisine is one good way to spend your stay in Viareggio.
5. Castellina
Rolling hills, vineyards, olive groves, and quaint villages, this hill town is one of the significant places in the Chianti region where you can stay without a car. Accessibility is not an issue, as you can explore Castellina and its neighboring towns, such as Siena and Florence, with the help of bus services.
Castellina features a compact layout and scenic walking trails that make walking a delightful experience. The best part is that the iconic landmarks and historical centers are car-free, creating a calm environment free from carbon emissions and allowing for a full-on rural experience.
If you think you need a car to enjoy the essence of staying in Castellina, then you might be wrong. There are numerous outdoor activities to engage in when in Castellina, including wine tasting at famous wineries like Castello di Fonterutoli, renowned for its classic Chianti wines. Touring wine shops and artisan boutiques is a type of experience you should not miss out on when in Castellina.
6. Bagno Vignoni
Tucked away in the rolling hills of the Val d’Orcia, Bagno Vignoni is one of Tuscany’s most enchanting and unusual villages. Unlike other Tuscan villages, Bagno Vignoni offers a thermal bath instead of the traditional piazza. With this, you can enjoy a quiet and relaxing retreat, making it perfect for wellness seekers and travelers who want to unwind without worrying about bringing their cars.
If you're worried about public transportation options, you don’t have to worry because Bagno Vignoni is a remote area. You can easily access this area and find your way around on foot or by using the buses. To be honest, once you get into this picturesque countryside village, you’ll quickly realize that a car is not necessary. From historical Roman baths to natural hot springs and wellness hotels, everything is within walking distance.
7. Lucca
Peace, yes, peace. From the moment you step into this city, you feel peace. Located in the Tuscany region of Italy, Lucca is a city renowned for its well-preserved architecture, dating back to the 16th century. Unlike other Tuscan cities, Lucca is calm, with panoramic views that leave you in awe. The Guinigo Tower is one of the places in Lucca where you can catch a glimpse of Lucca’s scenic landscapes, as it offers a 360-degree view of the city and even the nearby towns.
Lucca is a perfect city for a slow getaway and perfect for destination weddings. You can move from Piazza to Piazza while having a taste of the proper Italian gelato. Another fun thing to do in Lucca is to ride a bike. You might say, ‘I don’t have a bike,’ but that doesn’t matter, as there are spots where you can hire a bike as you ride around the city walls. Overall, Lucca is easy to navigate on foot or by public transportation, as the train station, which connects to Pisa and Viareggio, is easily accessible.
8. Montepulciano
If you love wines and good architecture, Montepulciano might be the best place to explore on your next visit to Tuscany. Popular for its Vino Nobile di Montepulciano (a classic Italian red wine), this Renaissance town is as intoxicating as its wine. Its sloping street is a delight to walk on as it leads you to wine cellars built into the earth waiting to be discovered, and yes, you can explore it without needing a car.
What makes it one of the best places to stay in Tuscany without a car? Montepulciano is easily reachable via public transport. You can get city buses and shuttles from the Chiusi-Chianciano Terme train station to take you down to Montepulciano, which is just 30 minutes away. Once you’re in this Tuscan town, you'll forget about driving. This hilltop village overlooking Val di Chiana and Val d’Orcia is compact. Due to its compact layout, walking through the town is a breeze as you take in the stunning valley views.
9. Follonica
Here’s another city offering a coastal landscape with its beautiful beaches, standing out with its blend of beach relaxation and cultural landscapes. Follonica boasts a warm climate characterized by its bright sun and stunning beaches. Although it's not popularly known, it's one of the best places to stay in Tuscany without a car.
This seaside town is surrounded by pine forests and stunning beaches, making it the perfect destination for a car-free getaway. It’s pedestrian-friendly and ideal for travelers who don’t mind exploring on foot or by bike. During your stay in Follonica, you can explore the Maremma coast while you visit key spots like Punta Ala and Scarlino, which are stunning beaches.
You can explore the local culture, including the regional museum of ironworks, visit historic villas, and see iconic landmarks like the Church of San Leopoldo. Generally, Follonica is a seaside town that offers an extraordinary experience thanks to its unique blend of history and beauty.
10. Pienza
Here's another UNESCO World Heritage Site in Tuscany, which is so stunning to behold. Think panoramic views, Renaissance, and Gothic architecture. As one of the best places to stay in Tuscany without a car, Pienza is perfect for a quiet stroll. It’s such a delight to walk around this charming town known for its rolling hills and picturesque villages.
It boasts a breathtaking panoramic view that's postcard-worthy, so much so that it’s difficult to take your eyes off. You can explore the Via dell’Amore trail, the Monticchiello path, the church of Vitaleta, and the Gladiator. Pienza is a tiny town in Tuscany where you don’t need any transportation, and if you stay long enough, you'll know everyone in the town. However, in cases where you need transportation, there are various options available to assist you.
11. Chiusi
Far from the crowds and the bustle of major cities, Chiusi is ideal for countryside excursions and for those seeking a tranquil travel destination. It’s a location straight out of the storybook that leaves you daydreaming all day, with many accommodation options available in Chiusi, offering relaxed hospitality and friendly staff.
But is this Tuscan countryside area worth staying without a car? The answer is yes; in fact, it is one of the best places to stay in Tuscany without a car. Chiusi offers frequent trains, making commuting easy; in fact, it can be considered a transportation hub with its numerous public transportation options. One of these is its amazing Chiusi-Chianciano Terme train station, which offers a direct train route connecting Florence, Cortona, Siena, and Montepulciano.
On getting into the town center, you will be engulfed by numerous outdoor activities waiting for you to explore. One of the top places you visit is the Etruscan art collections at the National Etruscan Museum. Another thing you can do is explore the Underground Labyrinth, try local wines, or climb the Cathedral Bell Tower for jaw-dropping panoramic views across the Tuscan rolling hills.
12. Florence
Florence doesn’t just welcome you; it traps you in its beauty. One minute, you’re gazing at the mesmerizing Duomo dome; the next minute, you’re munching a taste-bud awakening sandwich, sipping on a cappuccino vehicle, getting lost in its scenic landscape. You are in one of the larger cities in Tuscany, and you don’t have a car; you don't have to worry. Florence is one of the best places to stay in Tuscany without a car for a reason. It's also one of the best wedding destinations abroad.
The city is compact and easily walkable, with every major attraction within a 30-minute stroll. You can also easily access transportation hubs without getting lost, with Santa Maria Novella station serving as a central hub. Florence boasts an excellent public transportation network featuring buses and trams, and most major attractions are within walking distance.
Florence also makes a fantastic base for day trips by train or bus to other Tuscan gems. You don’t need a car here—just a pair of good shoes and an open heart to explore this vibrant city. Some of the key spots you can explore in Florence are the Duomo, the Uffizi Gallery, Piazzale Michelangelo, and the iconic Ponte Vecchio.
13. Greve
Greve is an excellent option if you want to stay in Tuscany without a car. Located between Florence and Siena, Greve is a place where you can explore the full swing of Chianti wine culture. As one of the main towns in the Chianti Classico region, it offers a historical charm and gentle hills, giving you access to its beauty.
You can easily access Greve by bus from Florence, and you don’t need to worry about cars as every place is walkable. Staying in Greve is an excellent option, as you can explore the main square, the Piazza Matteotti, and the vibrant life of Greve, complete with its lined-up wine shops, dining options, and boutiques. You can also visit Chianti Hills, one of the Tuscan hills that connect Greve to nearby villages.
14. Arezzo
Arezzo is a Renaissance beauty with a rich Tuscan history. It boasts romantic alleys and medieval towers that showcase its rich history. Being one of the best places to stay in Tuscany without a car, it offers a pedestrian-friendly, walkable environment and is packed with things to see and do. There’s no need for a vehicle here—the atmosphere is slow, cultural, and captivating.
From historic villas tucked into leafy neighborhoods to central boutique hotels, you’ll be comfortable when you stay here. Likewise, there are so many things to see, including the Legend of the True Cross and the Medici Fortress, and you can even go antique shopping and explore the ancient palazzi.
15. Quercianella
One of the reasons why Quercinella is perfect without cars is its train connections, as it is connected by regional trains with direct access to Pisa and Livorno. In addition to asessibility, Quercianella is a small town that requires just a good pair of sandals, a swimsuit, or maybe a book to read by the sea as you enjoy the cool sea breeze.
Quercianella is a coastal town in Tuscany, characterized by its rugged coastline, clear waters, pristine beaches, and peaceful atmosphere. Since it’s in a coastal area, there are many water activities you can do, including swimming and snorkeling. Likewise, you can stay in a historic villa that has been converted into a charming luxury villa or guesthouse in the city, taking you back to the 20th century.
Conclusion
If you’re planning to explore Tuscany slowly and scenically, then this guide to the best places to stay in Tuscany without a car will make it worthwhile. From hilltops to stunning beaches and slanted towers, you don’t need four wheels to enjoy an extraordinary experience on your trip. All of the places mentioned in this guide are walkable charms that make walking and exploring on foot attractive.
