The Best Places to Watch the Sunset in Tuscany
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For many, Tuscany is top of their travel bucket list this spring, and it’s easy to see why; sweeping panoramic views out over the rolling hills, as well as the terracotta towns with jagged skylines, the breathtaking landscape has so much to offer. If you’re looking for a picture-perfect destination for your next Italian getaway, then this should be one to consider.
Not only does Tuscany offer beautiful views for you to soak up, but it’s also a region that is rich in history. From cultural delights in Florence to splendid sightseeing in Pisa, it is a holiday destination that is perfect for all the family. With something on offer to suit all ages, the perfect end to a day spent navigating the winding streets, gazing upon the Renaissance architecture is by settling down to watch the golden sun disappear behind the horizon.
There are many different places in Tuscany that can provide you with an entirely different sunset experience, so here at Essential Italy, we have composed a list of a few of our favourite destinations to help you decide which location is best for you! Naturally, you could retire back to one of our villas to rent in Italy as the evening draws to a close, but we believe that these spots will make you fall in love with Tuscany even more!
Sant’Angelo, Colle
Tucked away in central Italy, the quaint village of Sant’Angelo in Colle is home to just over 200 residents. With that in mind, it is a wonderful place to allow a wave of tranquillity wash over you, and its hilltop position means that it provides one of the most incredible sunsets also. While in Sant’Angelo, you’re rewarded with a different landscape from every angle; the panoramic view allows you to cast your sights out over the patchwork blanket of vineyards from one perspective, with a glimpse of the Tyrrhenian Sea visible from another.
Piazzale Michelangelo, Florence
The sun setting in Florence is a spectacle enjoyed by many, so requires a little forward-planning if you’re looking to get the best views. Although the walk to Piazzale Michelangelo is steep and takes a little while (especially if you’re part of a group that includes little ones!) but is one of the most popular picks in the city to watch the sun go down and, after ascending the hill, it’s easy to see why! The skyline of the city is composed of some different buildings, and as the sun sets, the silhouette of the church spires and Renaissance architecture allows the brilliant orange and amber shades to pop.
San Domenico Church, Siena
A city that has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the medieval buildings that form Siena provide the perfect environment to watch the sunset. The mild temperature means that sitting and waiting for the horizon to capture the sun once more is enjoyable for everyone, and the San Domenico Church provides some of the best views of this. Not only will you be mesmerised by the sky, but the Basilica has some of the most intricate designs you will see on a church, with a striped Duomo in white and black.
Gorfigliano, Lucca
As the sun begins to lower itself down in the sky, still glistening on the cerulean blue lake, you’ll be happy that you came to Gorfigliano in Lucca to see the sunset. The lush greenery that surrounds the pool of water means that this is a wonderful location to visit during any time of the day, so arrive at the small town in the morning to enjoy a day wandering around the hamlet before settling down at the end of the day.
Ponte Vecchio, Florence
Although you won’t want to be stood on the impressive bridge that crosses the Arno River, viewing the sunset from this riverside location will provide you with views unlike any other. With Ponte Vecchio cast into a shadow, the contrasting of the fiery sky against the shadow of the bridge is just like a painting and, as the sun shimmers against the water, it is the ideal place to unwind at the end of a day on your feet.
Want to discover more? Why not read our blog on Tuscany’s Hidden Gems?