Tuscany by car: the Most Scenic Routes

Lucca never fails to surprise and enchant, no matter how many times you return. With its perfectly preserved city walls, panoramic towers and intimate piazzas, a stroll through the historic centre is a timeless pleasure that stays with you.

By staying at Hotel Ilaria, you’ll be perfectly placed to soak up the city’s distinctive charm and relaxed pace, with exceptional service and a warm, professional welcome.

But Lucca is also the perfect base for exploring the rest of Tuscany by car. Just like our city, the entire region offers postcard-perfect scenery, timeless villages, and roads that seem lifted from the pages of a fairytale. Setting off on day trips from Hotel Ilaria is easy and enjoyable – here are three breathtaking itineraries you won’t want to miss.

The Strada Statale 222, more famously known as La Chiantigiana, links Florence to Siena, winding through the heart of Chianti Classico – a land renowned for its fine wines and stunning landscapes.
From Lucca, it’s a simple drive: take the motorway towards Florence, then turn south onto this historic wine route. The road gently curves through rolling hills, lush vineyards, ancient castles and charming villages like Greve in Chianti, Panzano, Radda and Castellina.

Every stop is a chance to savour a glass of local red wine, visit age-old wineries and embrace the slower pace of Tuscan country life. If you love scenic views, authentic flavours and the art of slow travel, La Chiantigiana is your ideal route.

To the south of Siena lies the Val d’Orcia, one of the most photographed corners of Italy – and rightly so. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this area is famous for its dreamy landscapes: velvety hills, cypress-lined roads, solitary farmhouses and picturesque medieval villages.
Taking your time, you can easily reach gems such as San Quirico d’Orcia, Pienza, Bagno Vignoni and Montalcino within a day.

Each bend in the road opens up a new panorama, and each village invites you to stroll, sample local cuisine or simply pause to soak up the peaceful surroundings. This route is perfect if you’re looking for awe-inspiring views and the calming beauty of the Tuscan countryside.

The area between Lucca, Pisa, Volterra and San Gimignano is a treasure trove of delights just waiting to be explored by car. The roads of Central Tuscany are often less crowded than other routes, but just as captivating – flanked by olive groves, vineyards, Romanesque abbeys and authentic little villages.

From Lucca, head towards Volterra, a former Etruscan city known for its artisan workshops and stunning views, or continue to San Gimignano, famous for its medieval towers that rise high above the hills.
Another unforgettable route leads to Certaldo, birthplace of poet Giovanni Boccaccio, or to the enchanting walled village of Monteriggioni. Each destination tells its own story and reveals views that will stay with you long after your journey ends.

Book your stay at Hotel Ilaria and set off to discover Tuscany by car: every route is a new adventure, where beauty and relaxation go hand in hand.