Tuscany holidays

How to reach Tuscany

Flight time: Flights to Tuscany from London typically take around 2 hours 15 minutes. Other UK airports also offer direct and connecting flights to Florence and flights to Pisa, the two main airports serving the region.

Transfer time:

• From Florence Airport (Peretola) you can reach the city centre in as little as 15 minutes by tram.

• From Pisa Airport (Galileo Galilei), take the five-minute journey on the PisaMover shuttle train to Pisa Central Station. From there, you’ll be able to catch a local train to various Tuscan towns and cities.

Price:

• A tram ticket from Florence Airport to the city centre costs around €1.50.

• A single PisaMover shuttle fare from the airport to the train station costs €6.50.

• Taxi fares from Florence Airport to the city centre are approximately €25, while a taxi from Pisa Airport to Pisa Central Station typically costs around €10.

Best time to visit Tuscany

Choosing the best time to visit Tuscany largely depends on your tolerance for heat and crowds. The summer months can get hot and busy, but longer sunshine hours mean there’s plenty of time to explore the region’s medieval cities, towns and villages.

April to June is a delightful period to visit Tuscany, with mild temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C and only moderate rainfall. Spring also brings blooming flowers, making it a perfect time to appreciate the countryside.

July to August is Tuscany’s high season. Expect long sunny days with temperatures often hitting 30°C or more. This is the best time to visit if you enjoy the heat and don't mind busier tourist spots.

September to November offers a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere. Temperatures cool from around 28°C in September to 15°C in November. This period is ideal for wine enthusiasts, as the grape harvest takes place.

December to March sees fewer tourists, making it a great time for those who prefer a more tranquil travel experience. Winter temperatures range from 5°C to 10°C, with higher rainfall. Despite the shorter days, Tuscany’s festive atmosphere makes it an appealing off-peak option.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Italian is the official language, but you'll find that many people speak good English, especially in tourist areas.

• Local habits and customs: Italians are known for their warmth and hospitality. Embrace the leisurely pace of life, including the tradition of passeggiata (a relaxed evening stroll) and leisurely dining.

• Currency: Italy uses the Euro. ATMs are widely available, and you’ll find that credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants and shops, but it’s wise to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

• Getting around: The region of Tuscany is well connected by an efficient rail network. A daily train ticket from Florence to Pisa costs approximately €9, and a trip from Florence to Siena will cost about €11. Buses are another good option for exploring the countryside, with fares starting at €1.50. If you want more flexibility, consider renting a car. Prices start at around €30 per day, but remember to check your intended schedule and book in advance for popular routes.

• Electricity and plug types: Italy uses a 220V system, and sockets accept type C, F and L plugs. UK travellers will need to pack a suitable adaptor.

• Time zone: Tuscany operates on Central European Time, which is 1 hour ahead of GMT.

Best things to do in Tuscany

With its scenic rolling hills, rich history and picturesque towns and cities, Tuscany has been capturing visitors’ hearts and imaginations for centuries. Here are just some of the inspiring experiences Tuscany holidays can offer:

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Piazzale Michelangelo, Florence: This hilltop terrace offers panoramic views over Florence’s impressive cityscape, with the iconic Duomo, Ponte Vecchio and majestic Arno River spread out below. Head up at sunset for fabulous photo opportunities.

• Torre del Mangia, Siena: Climb Italy’s second tallest tower for breathtaking views of Siena’s medieval rooftops and the surrounding Tuscan countryside.

• Val d'Orcia: Drive through this UNESCO World Heritage Site for some of the most iconic landscape scenes in Tuscany. Take in the rolling hills, cypress-lined roads and charming medieval villages.

The best districts

• Oltrarno, Florence: Situated across the Arno River from the main tourist areas, Oltrarno is known for its quiet streets and artisan workshops, as well as its vibrant nightlife.

• San Frediano, Florence: Recognised as one of the coolest neighbourhoods in the world, in San Frediano you’ll find hip bars, innovative restaurants and an altogether more laid-back vibe.

• Monti, Siena: This district is famous for its medieval charm, narrow streets and the imposing Basilica di San Domenico.

Parks and gardens

• Boboli Gardens, Florence: Located behind the Pitti Palace, these expansive gardens are decorated with Renaissance statues, grottos and fountains. Head there if you fancy a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

• Giardino delle Rose (Rose Garden), Florence: This rose garden near Piazzale Michelangelo offers stunning views over Florence, as well as a beautiful, heady aroma when the flowers are in bloom during May and June.

• Parco delle Cascine (Cascine Park), Florence: This large park is perfect for a relaxing stroll, bike ride or a picnic alongside the Arno River.

Historical monuments

• Duomo di Firenze (Florence Cathedral): An architectural masterpiece, Florence’s iconic Duomo is famed for its stunning façade and Filippo Brunelleschi’s massive dome – an incredible feat of engineering. Brave the climb to be rewarded with incredible views of the city.

• Leaning Tower of Pisa: One of the most famous landmarks in the world, the tower’s unique tilt makes it a must-see on holidays to Tuscany.

• Piazza del Campo, Siena: This shell-shaped square sits at the heart of Siena and hosts the famous Palio horse race twice a year, in July and August.

• San Gimignano: Known as “Medieval Manhattan” for its tall towers, this well-preserved hilltown offers a glimpse into Tuscany’s past.

Regional highlights

• Florence: The capital of Tuscany is a haven for art and architecture lovers. Visit the Uffizi Gallery to see masterful works by Botticelli and Michelangelo, or take a stroll through Florence’s historic centre to admire the Ponte Vecchio and magnificent Duomo.

• Chianti: Famous for its vineyards, this region is the perfect stop for wine tours and tastings. Don’t miss a visit to Greve, the heart of Chianti, where you can sample local wines and other delicacies.

• Lucca: Encircled by well-preserved Renaissance walls, the quiet town of Lucca is known for its cobblestone streets, Romanesque churches and charming piazzas.

• Pisa: Look beyond the Leaning Tower and take time to explore Pisa’s historic centre, including the cathedral, baptistry and surrounding Piazza dei Miracoli.

Activities for families in Tuscany

Tuscany is full of sights and activities to delight visitors young and old.

• Pinocchio Park: Located in Collodi, this theme park is dedicated to the famous wooden puppet. It’s a whimsical place filled with sculptures, gardens and rides inspired by the story.

• Cavallino Matto: Situated near Livorno, Tuscany’s largest amusement park promises a fun day out full of roller coasters, water rides and live shows.

• Pistoia Zoo: Home to over 400 animals, including big cats, primates and reptiles, this zoo offers educational programmes and interactive exhibits for kids.

• Parco Avventura Il Gigante (Adventure Park Il Gigante): This adventure park near Florence has tree-climbing courses, zip lines and rope bridges – great for kids and teens in need of some outdoor excitement.

• Livorno Aquarium: Discover marine life from the Mediterranean and beyond at this modern aquarium south of Pisa, which includes interactive exhibits and a touch pool for younger visitors.

Free things to do in Tuscany

Holidays to Tuscany needn’t be expensive – with so many of the region’s towns and cities perfectly designed for casual wandering, you can easily soak up the atmosphere without having to spend a single Euro.

• Florence’s historic centre: Stroll through Florence’s historic streets, taking in the architecture and ambience.

• Oltrarno artisans: Explore the workshops of Oltrarno in Florence, where you can watch artisans at work, expertly crafting everything from leather goods to jewellery.

• Churches and basilicas: Many of Tuscany’s churches are free to enter. Notable examples include Florence’s Santa Croce and Siena’s San Domenico, as well as numerous historic churches in smaller towns and villages.

Wellness in Tuscany

• Saturnia hot springs: These natural thermal springs in the Maremma region are renowned for their therapeutic properties. The Cascate del Mulino, a series of cascading waterfalls, is a popular spot you can visit for free.

• Montecatini Terme: One of Italy’s most famous spa towns, it offers luxurious spa treatments and thermal baths set within the grounds of beautiful gardens. Many of the spa complexes here have been welcoming visitors for centuries.

Local dishes in Tuscany

Traditional Tuscan cuisine is rooted in rustic simplicity, focusing on high-quality local ingredients that celebrate the natural flavours of the land. Here’s what you should try:

Some typical dishes

• Ribollita: A hearty soup that combines cannellini beans, kale and leftover bread to create a rich, filling dish.

• Pappa al Pomodoro: Another bread-based dish, this thick soup showcases the best of simple Tuscan ingredients, with tomatoes, garlic, basil and olive oil.

Meat dishes

• Bistecca alla Fiorentina: A famous T-bone steak, typically from the Chianina breed of cattle, grilled rare and simply seasoned with salt, pepper and olive oil.

• Cinghiale in Umido: Wild boar stew cooked with red wine, tomatoes and aromatic herbs, reflecting Tuscany’s love for game meat.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Cacciucco: A rich seafood stew from the coast that combines fish, shellfish, tomatoes and red wine.

• Baccala alla Livornese: Salt cod cooked with tomatoes, garlic and parsley – a classic from Livorno’s seafaring tradition.

Sweets and desserts

• Cantucci: Also known as biscotti, these almond biscuits are traditionally dipped in Vin Santo, a sweet dessert wine.

• Torta della Nonna: A custard-filled tart topped with pine nuts and dusted with icing sugar. A perfect embodiment of the comforting flavours of home cooking.

Local drinks

• Chianti Classico: A robust red wine with deep flavours of cherries and spices, often enjoyed with hearty Tuscan meals.

• Brunello di Montalcino: One of Italy’s most prestigious wines, known for its complex profile.

• Vin Santo: A sweet, amber-hued dessert wine typically served with cantucci.