Maremma Tuscany is a slice of land nestled between Tuscany and Lazio, offering uniquely beautiful landscapes. This region, stretching between land and sea, is ideal for those who want to escape crowded tourist destinations yet still enjoy stunning scenery.
Whether you’re looking to relax under the shade of a beautiful pine grove or take in splendid views while strolling along ancient Etruscan paths, Maremma has something for everyone.
Join us as we explore the hidden gems of this incredible land and get inspired for your next trip.
What to See in Maremma Tuscany: A Wild Land
Maremma is a stretch of land that overlooks the Tyrrhenian Sea, encompassing both Tuscan and parts of Lazio territory. While defining its boundaries precisely can be challenging due to its vastness, Maremma can generally be divided into three main sections:
- Upper Maremma (Northern Maremma), extending across the province of Livorno and part of Pisa, from the coast to the inland hills.
- Grosseto Maremma, stretching from the Gulf of Follonica to the mouth of the Chiarone stream, reaching as far as Mount Amiata.
- Lazio Maremma, covering the western part of Lazio, primarily in the Viterbo province.
This guide focuses specifically on the places of interest in Tuscany’s Maremma, unveiling the hidden wonders of this stunning part of Italy.
1. Castiglione della Pescaia
Castiglione della Pescaia is a charming medieval village on the Maremma coast, perched on a hilltop and surrounded by ancient walls. The village is dominated by the impressive Castello Aragonese (Aragonese Castle), offering views of the coastline and surrounding hills—perfect for memorable photos.
For hiking enthusiasts, there’s also a marina where you can set off to popular destinations like Isola d’Elba (Elba Island) and Isola del Giglio (Giglio Island), along with pine forests and green spaces for relaxing walks or a few hours of peace.
2. Massa Marittima
Although its name might suggest a seaside town, Massa Marittima is a medieval village located 18 km from the coast, surrounded by forests, vineyards, and olive groves.
This town boasts stunning ancient monuments, such as the majestic Duomo di San Cerbone (Cathedral of San Cerbone), a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture, and the Fortezza Senese (Sienese Fortress).
Strolling through the streets of this quaint town feels like stepping back in time, allowing you to admire the beauty of medieval neighborhoods (the Old Town, the New Town, and the Borgo), which together form a unique heritage.
3. Grosseto
Situated on a plain crossed by the Ombrone River and encircled by intact medieval walls, Grosseto is the Maremma town that most captivates tourists. Its historic center, enclosed within the mighty Medici Walls, offers unique views where visitors can admire palaces, churches, and museums that tell ancient stories—from the Etruscan empire to the Medici rule.
After exploring the center, tourists can unwind in the unspoiled landscapes of the nearby Maremma Regional Park, following trails winding through forests, beaches, and fascinating Mediterranean ecosystems.
Grosseto is also an ideal place to savor Maremman culinary delights, such as game dishes or the famous acquacotta soup, all perfectly paired with a glass of Morellino wine.
4. Monte Argentario
Monte Argentario is a true gem of the Tuscan coast. This promontory, connected to the mainland by the Giannella and Feniglia sandbars and the town of Orbetello, is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering numerous hiking and mountain biking trails, as well as pristine beaches of rare beauty.
Its two main centers, Porto Santo Stefano and Porto Ercole, are renowned for their marinas, where visitors can embark on trips to hidden coves, where the sea takes on surprising shades of blue and turquoise.
5. Sorano
Known as the “Matera of Tuscany,” Sorano is a village perched on a tuff cliff near the Lazio border.
Walking through the streets of the historic center, where the Etruscan heritage is still palpable, feels like a journey back in time, surrounded by ancient buildings from that era.
For those seeking relaxation, nearby are the Sorano Thermal Baths, a natural oasis where you can spend a day with friends or a partner.
6. Follonica
Located in the heart of Tuscany’s Tyrrhenian coast, Follonica is a popular summer destination. Once known for its ironworks, the town is now almost entirely devoted to tourism, offering a wide range of services suitable for all ages.
Just a few steps from the center lies a splendid protected natural area, perfect for those who love wild nature and want a break from city chaos.
Follonica also serves as an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions: in less than a 30-minute drive, you can reach Punta Ala, Cala Violina, and the historic locations of Baratti and Populonia.
7. Scansano
Scansano is a village nestled between the Ombrone and Albegna valleys, best known for its prized Morellino wine, one of Italy’s most renowned red wines.
Under the Aldobrandeschi family, this town became a strategic fortress, later becoming part of the Grand Duchy of Tuscany under the Sforza. Besides its charming historic center, Scansano is also famous as a refuge for families during the summer to escape the malarial plains.
In this place, you’ll be welcomed by rolling hills with vineyards and olive groves stretching down to the sea, creating an unforgettable experience.
8. Orbetello
Surrounded by the enchanting lagoon that forms the famous Giannella and Feniglia beaches, Orbetello is a place rich in history and natural beauty. Its historic center holds valuable monuments, such as the Concattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta (Co-Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta), with Romanesque origins, and the Chiesa della Madonna delle Grazie (Church of Our Lady of Graces), adorned with precious frescoes from the Sienese school.
Even out of season, Orbetello is an ideal base for exploring the Maremma: the lagoon excursions and the town’s rich Etruscan and Spanish heritage provide visitors with an authentic, fascinating experience all year round.
9. Gavorrano
This expansive area offers visitors a typical Tuscan rural landscape dotted with olive groves, vineyards, and the iconic cypress-lined paths.
In addition to its scenic landscapes, Gavorrano is known for the Parco Minerario Naturalistico (Natural Mining Park), where the famous ancient mines of Tuscany are still visible today.
For history lovers, a short distance from town are the Etruscan tombs, remnants of the ancient civilizations that inhabited this land.
To end the day in the best way possible, a visit to one of the area’s prestigious wineries, designed by architect Renzo Piano, is a must, where you can enjoy tasting top-quality wines.
10. Saturnia
Saturnia is a well-known area of Maremma, famous above all for its natural sulfur hot springs. These waters, known since Etruscan-Roman times for their therapeutic properties, are one of the main attractions in the area. Along with the Cascate del Mulino (Mill Falls), they provide the perfect spot for a rejuvenating bath amidst stunning scenery.
But Saturnia isn’t only famous for its hot springs. This medieval village is also rich in historical buildings and fascinating ancient artifacts, such as the remarkable Necropoli Etrusca del Puntone (Etruscan Necropolis of Puntone), making it a must-see for those who wish to explore the area’s origins.
11. Sovana
Perched on a tuff base and surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, Sovana traces its roots back to Etruscan times, when it was known as “Suana.” This village is home to splendid historical monuments, such as the Concattedrale dei Santi Pietro e Paolo (Co-Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul) and the Chiesa di Santa Maria Maggiore (Church of Santa Maria Maggiore).
Another highlight of this place is the Museo di San Mamiliano (San Mamiliano Museum), which houses the famous “Tesoro di Sovana” (Sovana Treasure), a discovery of nearly 500 gold coins dating back to the 5th century.
12. Manciano
Known as the “Sentinel of the Maremma” due to its privileged panoramic position, Manciano is a village offering stunning views of the sea, especially from the Rocca Aldobrandesca (Aldobrandeschi Fortress), a 12th-century fortress that provides vistas reaching as far as the Isola del Giglio (Giglio Island).
Manciano’s historical roots run deep, as evidenced by numerous archaeological finds in the area. However, it’s the many trails winding through the Tuscan hills that make this place so enchanting and beloved by tourists worldwide.
13. Porto Ercole
Porto Ercole, a charming seaside town nestled on the eastern coast of the Monte Argentario (Mount Argentario) promontory, is the ideal destination for a Mediterranean getaway.
The town is divided into two areas: the tourist port, perfect for those who enjoy a lively atmosphere, and the historic center, perched on a hill south of the bay—a maze of alleys leading to panoramic viewpoints and ancient fortifications.
Among these, Rocca Spagnola (Spanish Fortress), Forte Filippo (Filippo Fortress), Forte Santa Caterina (Santa Caterina Fortress), and Forte Stella (Star Fortress) stand out, each offering breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding landscape.
Final Tips for Enjoying Maremma Tuscany
As you’ve read in this guide, every corner of Maremma Tuscany is fascinating and full of surprises.
To fully experience the beauty of this area, it’s worth spending an entire week here to have time to discover all its most iconic spots. However, if you’re short on time, we highly recommend not missing the renowned Saturnia hot springs, a scenic hike at Porto Ercole, and a visit to Monte Argentario.
Whether it’s a long stay or a short escape, to ensure complete relaxation and flexibility, consider staying in a villa with a pool. Accommodations like these provide every comfort and allow you to plan your vacation at your own pace with the added benefit of total privacy.
At Anita Villas, we offer a selection of accommodations in various areas of Tuscany, ideal for making your trip comfortable and unforgettable, allowing you to easily discover the most beautiful places in this extraordinary region.