A trip to the home of Renaissance cities, of the lyrical landscapes and the best farmer kitchen...this is definitely a must-visit destination in Italy, but when? Discover with us which is the best time to visit Tuscany.
Tuscany will surprise you with its ancient roots, its culture rich in history and art: from the Etruscan footprints, through the Roman Empire, getting to Humanism and Renaissance, up to the edgy city street art of the 21st century. But what is art without a great culinary tradition? Well, Tuscany won’t let you down. The slow food here is a real thing: you’ll be able to truly appreciate this gourmet destination and its goodies, such as wine, cheese, fresh handmade pasta, the majestic T-bone steak (Fiorentina) and much more.
If you’re experiencing an abroad program living in Florence, in any other Italian city, or you’re planning a trip to Tuscany, you should think about the most appropriate period to visit this incredible land. Here we are with some tips about the best time to visit Tuscany and the areas to stay for your road-trip experience.
Which months to choose? The best time to visit Tuscany
Tuscany has broadly a typical mediterranean climate, therefore its summer is hot and humid, against its rainy and cold winter. But the most comfortable seasons are autumn and spring, where temperatures swing between 10 and 25 degrees (depending on the areas).
Many international tourists come to visit Tuscany in the summer months, when the weather is quite hot (up to 30-33 degrees) to enjoy the iconic hills and cypress alleys, hiking in the forests and admire the huge vineyards while visiting those uncountable medieval villages.
But this is also the time when cultural sights and dining spots are more crowded (from late June to early September).
If you want to avoid heavy crowds, our tip is to visit Tuscany during the spring and autumn seasons (from April to June and from September to October): in this moment you’ll beat the summer visitors, have the most of the touristy places in Florence and still enjoy comfortable temperatures.
Also winter could offer sunny days, but the weather is way way cooler: January and February have a temperate climate swinging from 3 to 7 degrees in the hill and inland areas. In the mountains, you’ll freeze but this also can be the perfect time for a winter holiday with skiing and fun activities on the famous Italian Apennines.
Exploring the region: the best areas to stay in Tuscany
While you’re living in Florence, you may want to explore the neighbouring cities, towns, hills and villages of the most coloured region in Italy (of course, if it’s your first time in Tuscany, Florence is a must-visit destination you can’t miss at all!).
Therefore, here we’ll list some unmissable places to visit in Tuscany.
Beautiful Renaissance cities in Tuscany
Siena
Fall in love with Piazza del Campo, with the enchanting Duomo and the beautiful alleys of Siena, the cradle of the oldest (and most famous) horse race in the world, the Palio. Here local folks are absolutely crazy about it: each neighbourhood has its name, its history, its flag and you’ll be amazed by these traditions.
Lucca
The architecture in Lucca is one of a kind, more from the Renaissance period and way less from the Medieval one. Moreover, the historic centre is a pedestrian area mostly walkable or, if you prefer, to explore by bike. The city has a grid pattern, designed by the ancient Romans.
Pisa
Pisa is quite popular for its Leaning Tower (and for hosting the airport where the low cost airlines mostly operate in the region). This attraction is worldwide famous, located between Arno and Serchio rivers and it was secured only in the last two decades!
Beside this attraction in Pisa, our tip is to move fast to the countryside and explore the enchanting medieval villages while tasting some delicious homemade farmers’ kitchen.
Medievals towns in Tuscany
But what is it that truly makes Tuscany a unique place to visit in Italy? Well, beside greeny vineyards and red-clay landscapes, when moving a little further from the biggest cities you’ll spot some incredible medieval villages. Here you’ll spot a patchwork of medieval stones, cobblestoned streets, red-tiled roofs, crumbling getaways and incredible views above the large surrounding fields. The most loved and visited towns are:
You now have all the information to plan a great road trip around Tuscany...what are you waiting for?!
