Where to stay in Tuscany with family: 7 Best areas and hotels

Wondering where to stay in Tuscany with family? In this post, I will share with you what I believe are the best areas to stay in Tuscany for families with kids along with a helpful map and the best family-friendly hotels to stay in each town.

Tuscany is a popular tourist destination in central Italy known for its picturesque countryside, with rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves. The region is home to famous cities and towns, including Florence, Siena, Pisa, and San Gimignano, which attract millions of tourists each year.

Florence, the capital city of Tuscany, is a cultural and artistic center. It is famous for its Renaissance architecture, including the iconic Duomo, the Uffizi Gallery, and the Ponte Vecchio. 

Siena, known for its medieval brick buildings and the Palio horse race, offers a glimpse into the region’s history. Pisa is renowned for its Leaning Tower, which is part of the Piazza dei Miracoli, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Tuscany is also known for its world-class wines, particularly Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vernaccia di San Gimignano. The region’s cuisine is characterized by simple and flavorful dishes, with ingredients like olive oil, herbs, and local meats playing a prominent role.

But, Is Tuscany a good family holiday?

Yes, Tuscany is an excellent destination for a family holiday. With its beautiful landscapes, historic cities, cultural attractions, and family-friendly activities, there is something for everyone. 

Children can enjoy exploring medieval towns, visiting museums, and indulging in delicious Italian cuisine, creating lasting memories for the whole family.

Where to stay in Tuscany with family?

The best areas to stay in Tuscany with family are Florence, Siena, Lucca, Pisa, Chianti,  Val d’Orcia, and Viareggio. Each location offers its unique charm and attractions, so consider  proximity to attractions and transportation options when choosing where to stay.

Tuscany is known for its agriturismi, which are farmhouses or rural accommodations. These provide a unique experience for families, allowing them to stay in the countryside and enjoy activities like farm visits, cooking classes, and outdoor adventures.

One of my favorite places in Tuscany is Florence. During my trip to Florence, I stayed at the Hotel Cerretani Firenze – MGallery Collection.  It was a beautiful mid-range hotel in the city center of Florence, a great base to explore the city and the region. My room was lovely and spacious.

Overview of best towns to stay in Tuscany with family

Here is an overview of recommended areas for family:

Florencethe capital city of Tuscany, ideal for families who appreciate art, history, and cultural experiences. It offers numerous museums, beautiful architecture, and famous landmarks like the Duomo and Uffizi Gallery. The city is well-connected and provides easy access to other parts of Tuscany.
Sienaa picturesque medieval town known for its narrow streets, historic buildings, and the Piazza del Campo. It’s suitable for families who enjoy exploring historical sites, participating in local festivals, and enjoy ambiance of a small Italian town.
Luccaa charming walled city with a relaxed atmosphere. It’s known for its intact city walls, beautiful churches, and well-preserved historic center. Families can rent bicycles and cycle along the wall or enjoy a leisurely walk through the town’s narrow streets.
Pisafamous for its iconic Leaning Tower. While the city itself may not require an extended stay, it can be a convenient base for exploring other parts of Tuscany, thanks to its central location and excellent transportation links.
Chianti The Chianti region, located between Florence and Siena, offers stunning landscapes, vineyards, and charming medieval villages. It’s an excellent choice for families who appreciate the countryside, enjoy wine tasting, and want to experience the Tuscan rural lifestyle.
Val d’Orciaa UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rolling hills, cypress-lined roads, and picturesque towns like Montalcino and Pienza. It’s perfect for families seeking a tranquil retreat, breathtaking views, and explore traditional Tuscan villages.
Viareggioa coastal town known for its long sandy beaches and lively promenade. It’s a suitable option for families who want to combine beach relaxation with cultural experiences. Viareggio also hosts one of Italy’s most famous Carnival celebrations.

Map of areas and Towns in Tuscany for family:

Map of the best areas to stay in Tuscany with family
Map of the best areas to stay in Tuscany with family

7 Best areas to stay in Tuscany for families:

1. Florence

Florence is one of the best areas to stay in Tuscany, especially for families. As the capital city of the region, Florence offers a wealth of cultural attractions, historic sites, and family-friendly activities.

Florence is renowned for its stunning architecture, including the iconic Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and Palazzo Vecchio. The city is also home to world-class museums such as the Uffizi Gallery, which houses masterpieces by artists like Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Leonardo da Vinci. Exploring these cultural landmarks can be an enriching experience for the whole family.

Additionally, Florence offers a variety of parks and green spaces where families can relax and enjoy outdoor activities. The Boboli Gardens, located behind the Pitti Palace, is a popular choice, featuring beautiful landscapes, fountains, and statues. The Cascine Park, located along the Arno River, is another great option with playgrounds, bike paths, and picnic areas.

Florence’s central location within Tuscany also makes it convenient for day trips to other picturesque towns and attractions in the region. You can easily visit places like Pisa, Siena, San Gimignano, and the Chianti wine region, all within a relatively short distance from Florence.

Moreover, Florence offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. You can find family-friendly hotels, apartments, and vacation rentals with amenities suitable for children, such as spacious rooms, swimming pools, and play areas.

However, it’s worth noting that Florence can be quite busy with tourists, especially during peak seasons. Therefore, it’s advisable to plan your visit in advance, book accommodations early, and be prepared for crowds, particularly in popular areas.

Best places to stay in Florence with family:

BEST HOTELS IN FLORENCE

2. Siena

Siena is a wonderful area to stay in Tuscany for its medieval architecture, beautiful squares, and charming streets. It offers a range of attractions and activities that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.

Siena is steeped in history and culture. The historic center of Siena, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a pedestrian-only zone, making it safe and convenient for families to explore.

Siena’s main square, Piazza del Campo, is a focal point of the city and has a unique shell shape and is known for the famous Palio horse race, held twice a year. Kids can enjoy running around the square and exploring its surroundings.

Siena has several museums and attractions that can appeal to children and adults alike. The Museo Civico, located in the Palazzo Pubblico, and The Santa Maria della Scala Museum offers interactive exhibits and activities designed for younger visitors.

Siena is an excellent base for exploring the surrounding areas. You can easily take day trips to nearby towns like San Gimignano, Monteriggioni, and the Chianti region, which offer additional family-friendly attractions and beautiful landscapes.

Best places to stay in Siena for families:

BEST HOTELS IN SIENA

3. Lucca

Lucca is a charming and picturesque city known for its well-preserved Renaissance-era walls, narrow streets, and beautiful squares. It offers a family-friendly environment with a relaxed atmosphere and plenty of attractions and activities for all ages.

Lucca’s historic center is mostly pedestrianized, allowing families to easily navigate the city on foot or by renting bicycles. The absence of heavy traffic makes it safer and more convenient for families with children.

Lucca boasts several parks and green spaces where families can relax, have picnics, and let the kids play. The most famous is the city’s expansive Renaissance-era walls, which have been transformed into a tree-lined promenade.

Lucca offers a variety of attractions suitable for families, such as the Guinigi Tower, which kids will enjoy climbing for a panoramic view, and the Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, a circular square that used to be a Roman amphitheater and now hosts restaurants and shops.

Lucca is known for being a bicycle-friendly city. You can rent bikes and explore the city and its surroundings through the well-maintained cycling paths that run along the walls and into the countryside.

Lucca is conveniently located in central Tuscany, making it an ideal base for exploring other popular destinations in the region, such as Pisa, Florence, and the Tuscan countryside.

Best places to stay in Lucca with family:

  • Luxury ($$$): Hotel Alla Corte degli Angeli, 4-star hotel located within the ancient walls of Lucca, a 10-minute walk from the cathedral.  
  • Mid-range ($$): La Bohème, great accommodation, located within a short walk from Lucca’s historic city walls, near Piazza San Michele, easy access to Lucca railway and bus stations. 
  • Budget ($): Hotel Diana, located in the heart of Lucca’s historic center, right around the corner from the Duomo di San Martino Cathedral, close to Lucca train station.
BEST HOTELS IN LUCCA

4. Pisa

Pisa is a popular destination in Tuscany primarily known for its iconic leaning tower, Piazza dei Miracoli, and its historical significance. 

The Piazza dei Miracoli itself features the Pisa Cathedral, the Pisa Baptistery, and the Camposanto Monumentale (monumental cemetery). These structures showcase the Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles.

Pisa is also home to one of the oldest universities in Europe, the University of Pisa, which was established in 1343. The university is renowned for its scientific research and has produced many notable scholars, including Galileo Galilei.

In addition to its historical and cultural attractions, Pisa offers a charming old town with narrow streets, beautiful squares, and lively markets. The city has a vibrant atmosphere, with numerous restaurants, cafes, and shops that cater to both tourists and locals.

Pisa itself is a relatively small city, and its major attractions can be explored in a day or two. If your main focus is on visiting the famous sites in Pisa and you prefer a lively urban environment with a range of restaurants, cafes, and shops, staying in Pisa can be convenient.

Best places to stay in Pisa with family:

  • Luxury ($$$): Hotel Bologna, 4-star hotel, in the historic center of Pisa, 5 minutes’ walk from the train station, and 12 minute walk from Campo dei Miracoli and the famous Leaning Tower.
  • Mid-range ($$): Casa per ferie religiosa Figlie di Nazareth, a sustainable bed and breakfast, located within easy walk from the train station.
  • Budget ($): Secondopiano, great accommodation, located close to the central station, and around 20 minute walk from Piazza dei Miracoli.
BEST HOTELS IN PISA

5. Chianti 

Located in the heart of Tuscany, the Chianti region offers a picturesque landscape of rolling hills, vineyards, and charming villages. It is known for its world-renowned wine production, making it a great destination for wine enthusiasts.

The countryside in Chianti is incredibly beautiful, with vineyards, olive groves, and cypress trees dotting the landscape. It provides a serene and visually appealing environment for families to relax and enjoy nature.

Chianti offers a range of family-friendly accommodations, including farmhouses, villas, and agriturismos (farm stays). These accommodations often provide spacious rooms or apartments, outdoor spaces, and amenities suitable for families with children.

Chianti is home to several charming medieval towns and villages, such as Greve in Chianti, Radda in Chianti, and Castellina in Chianti. These towns offer opportunities to explore historical sites, local markets, and experience authentic Tuscan culture.

The countryside of Chianti offers plenty of outdoor activities for families. You can go hiking or biking through the vineyards, have picnics in scenic spots, or even take a horseback ride through the rolling hills.

Chianti is renowned for its excellent food and wine. Families can indulge in delicious Tuscan cuisine, including pasta, cheese, and locally produced olive oil. You can also visit wineries for tastings and learn about the winemaking process.

Best places to stay in Greve for families with kids:

  • Budget ($): Antico Pastificio, located just behind the main square with its restaurants and shops. It has a children’s playground and a sun terrace overlooking the Tuscan hills.
  • Budget ($): Albergo Casa Al Sole, 3-star hotel, in the center of Greve in Chianti on the famous wine road.
  • Budget ($): B&B Grano e Lavanda, located in the main square of Greve in Chianti, a short distance from a bus stop to Florence and Siena.
BEST HOTELS IN GREVE

6. Val d’Orcia

 Val d’Orcia is a picturesque region, known for its rolling hills, charming medieval towns, and beautiful landscapes. 

Val d’Orcia offers stunning natural beauty with its scenic countryside, vineyards, and olive groves. The area is renowned for its postcard-perfect views, making it a delightful place for families to explore and enjoy outdoor activities together.

The region is dotted with several enchanting towns, such as Pienza, Montalcino, Montepulciano, and Bagno Vignoni. These towns feature well-preserved medieval architecture, narrow streets, and lovely squares.

Val d’Orcia is rich in cultural heritage and offers various opportunities for families to learn about Tuscany’s history. You can visit historical landmarks, castles, and museums to discover the region’s past. 

The region provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities suitable for families. You can go hiking or biking in the countryside, have picnics in scenic spots, or even enjoy hot springs in Bagno Vignoni.

Additionally, there are numerous vineyards and farms where families can participate in wine tastings, olive oil tours, or cooking classes.

Val d’Orcia offers a wide range of family-friendly accommodations, including hotels, agriturismos (farm stays), and vacation rentals. Many properties provide spacious rooms, gardens or outdoor areas for children to play, and amenities catering to families.

Best places to stay in Val d’Orciawith family:

  • Mid-range ($$): Il Miraggio in Val d’Orcia Relais & Spa, 5-star hotel, located in  San Quirico dʼOrcia, which is a charming, hilltop medieval town.
  • Mid-range ($$): Agriturismo Il Macchione, an 18th-century stone farmhouse, located outside Pienza, featuring a swimming pool that overlooks Val d’Orcia Natural Park.
  • Budget ($): Agriturismo La Collina, located on a hill just outside Pienza. All rooms and the restaurant offer a panoramic view of the Tuscan countryside.

7. Viareggio

Viareggio is a popular coastal town in Tuscany, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant atmosphere. Viareggio has long sandy beaches, which can be a major draw for families with children who enjoy spending time by the sea.

The town offers a range of entertainment options, including amusement parks, water sports, and a lively promenade with shops and restaurants. This can be appealing for families looking for activities and attractions for both kids and adults.

Viareggio has good transport links, making it convenient for exploring other parts of Tuscany. It is located close to other popular destinations like Pisa, Lucca, and Florence, which can be easily reached by car or public transportation.

Viareggio offers a variety of accommodations, including hotels, vacation rentals, and resorts. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can find suitable options for family stays.

On the other hand, Viareggio is a bustling tourist destination, particularly during the summer months. If you prefer a quieter and more tranquil atmosphere, you might consider other areas in Tuscany, such as the countryside or smaller towns.

Additionally, if your family is more interested in exploring historical sites, art, and culture, you might find other areas in Tuscany, like Florence or Siena, to be more suitable.

Best places to stay in Viareggio with family:

  • Mid-range ($$): Palace Hotel, 4-star hotel, on Viareggio’s seafront, 15-minute walk from Viareggio Train Station, with connections to other towns in the Tuscany region.
  • Mid-range ($$): Hotel President, a 10-minute walk from Viareggio Station, offering easy access to Lucca, Florence, and other Tuscan towns. Also close to Viareggio’s harbor and a bus station.
  • Budget ($): Hotel London, 3-star hotel, conveniently located close to the railway and bus stations, and the picturesque harbor. 
BEST HOTELS IN VIAREGGIO

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In conclusion, Florence, Siena, Lucca, Pisa, Chianti,  Val d’Orcia, and Viareggio are some of the best places to stay in Tuscany for families with kids. Florence caters to art and culture enthusiasts, Siena captures the charm of a medieval town, while Lucca provides a relaxed atmosphere. 

Pisa serves as a convenient base, Chianti showcases the countryside, Val d’Orcia offers tranquil retreats, and Viareggio combines beach relaxation with cultural experiences.

About Author: Ocean Cameron

I'm Ocean, founder and main editor of travelhotelexpert.com. I’m a passionate traveler who specializes in uncovering the best hotels and locations in every city, especially for first-timers, all without the need for a car.

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