hikes in Tuscany

Tuscany is a very diverse region in Italy. Lined by coast on one side and bordered by the Apennine Mountains on the other, the landscape in between is quite varied which makes for excellent hiking options. There are walks to meet every level from beginner to expert; you can head out for a half day or embark on a lengthy or even multi day hike through the countryside.

One of the great things about walking in Tuscany is that once you are out of the main center, you will find a mix of back roads, dirt roads, and pathways that will take you anywhere you want to go. Very few fences or impediments will stop you from exploring, not to mention the varying landscape. If you enjoy walks that hug the coast, or hiking into the mountains, or perhaps making your way through the countryside - Tuscany has it all.

We have made our way through the various landscapes, towns, and cities to find the best trails in Tuscany. There is sure to be something for everyone, from families to experienced hikers, those wishing to see it all and those wishing to take in a walk for a day.

Hiking in Tuscany in 2024

Expect hiking conditions in Tuscany in 2024 to be best during the spring and fall months, specifically April, May, September, and October. These periods are going to be ideal due to milder temperatures and less crowded trails. Summer months, particularly mid-summer, are usually very hot and 2024 is not expected to be an exception, which can make hiking less enjoyable and more challenging.

Best walks in Tuscany

1. Volterra Loop (10.9mi, 1886ft, 4.5 - 5.5h): Volterra is a walled town in the Tuscan countryside just southwest of Florence. Walking the Volterra Loop is a phenomenal way to see the town and the countryside, taking you high into the hills. The Volterra Loop is also a much less crowded hike than others nearby, which is a pleasant way to meander through Tuscany.
2. Enfola Peninsula (2.9mi, 627ft, 1.5 - 2h): Walking out along the Enfola Peninsula on Elba is a walk-through history. The hike is on a well signed path, with magnificent views, and takes you past several German bunkers left over from WWII. You can stop at the beautiful beaches to cool off after!
3. Lago Scaffaiolo and Corno Alla Scale (8.4mi, 2274ft, 4.5 - 5.5h): The hike to Lago Scaffaiolo and Corno Alla Scale takes you through the Appennino Tosca Emiliano range. The beauty of this area is in what appear to be towering peaks, but once walking through them are more like undulating hills passing towards the lake and the Corno alle Scale.
4. Monte Croce from Palagnana (4.7mi, 1818ft, 3.5 - 4.5h): The hike up Monte Croce from Palagnana is a fantastic walk in Tuscany. Beginning higher in the mountain region above Tuscany this hike yields fantastic views of the whole region and also tends to be a little quieter than some others.
5. San Gimignano Loop (10.6mi, 1522ft, 4 - 5h): Walking along the San Gimignano Loop is a great way to see the Tuscan countryside. Hiking along gravel roads and country lanes, you wind your way through wineries and olive groves. It is a perfect morning out, taking some time for lunch in San Gimignano afterward.
6. Pienza to Montepulciano (9.9mi, 2041ft, 3.5 - 4.5h): Walking between Pienza and Montepulciano is a magnificent way to spend your day. This Tuscan hike takes you between two classic Italian villages. Enjoy the beautiful countryside and the history of two beautiful hill towns in Tuscany.
7. Monteriggioni to Siena on the Via Francigena (13.0mi, 1037ft, 4.5 - 5.5h): The hike along the Via Francigena is a historical pilgrimage route that has recently been recovered. Hiking between Monteriggioni to Piazza del Camp Siena not only takes you along this historically significant route, but is a classic beauty of a hike through the Tuscan countryside.
8. Radda Loop (8.8mi, 2146ft, 4 - 5h): Hiking the Radda Loop is an excellent way to spend your day. The quiet roads lead you through olive groves and vineyards and past two wonderful wineries, which provide a great spot for a break. As you continue through Volpaia you will find excellent places to stop for lunch before making your way back to Radda. All in all, a perfect way to spend a day.
9. Fiesole to Firenze on the Via degli Dei (6.8mi, 308ft, 2 - 3h): Walking from Fiesole to Firenze is a classic hike in Tuscany. It takes you along the famous Via Degli Dei (the Route of the Gods), which was an ancient Roman military road connecting Bologna and Fiesole. However, if you are short on time, we have a quick loop for you to take instead!
10. Gaiole Loop (9.3mi, 1070ft, 1.5 - 2.5h): The hike around Gaiole takes you to the magnificent Badia Coltibuono Abbey before heading on to the village of Montegrossi. The hike begins up high with wonderful views of the countryside before descending into forest for a break from the heat and your return to Gaiole.