Tuscany

Tuscany is an historic hub of art and culture in central Italy. Tuscany is also known for its stunning landscapes, rich history and gastronomy. The region’s history dates back to ancient times, with remnants of the Etruscan civilization, visible today. Its stunning landscapes with charming medieval towns with cobblestone streets exude a sense of timeless beauty. Tuscany is the birthplace of the Renaissance and it’s associated with masterpieces by artists like Leonardo da Vinci, Masaccio, Michelangelo, Botticelli, architects like Brunelleschi, Arnolfo di Cambio and Michelozzo, and writers like Dante, Machiavelli and Boccaccio. Writers from the world over have come to Tuscany, to Italy, where they have been inspired to write poetry, novels, music, plays and to create art. It houses world-renowned museums and galleries. This region is famous for if world-class wines, particularly Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino. The countryside is rural and offers serene landscapes which make it a popular destination for retreats and thermal spas. The region is also a major producer of high-quality olive oil. Tall, slender cypress trees are a hallmark of Tuscan scenery. Tuscany’s cultural traditions, festivals and local craftsmanship are integral to its identity. Tuscany hosts numerous festivals, events, and fairs throughout the year. These range from the historic Palio di Siena to contemporary events like the Comics & Games convention in Lucca.

Festivals in Tuscany in 2024

March

15-17: Mercato Europeo, in Foligno

16-17: Palio dei Somari (Donkey Races), in Torrita di Siena

21-29: Korea Film Festival, in Florence

25: New Years, in Florence

31: EASTER, a National Holiday

31: The Scoppio del Carro, in Florence

April

1: Easter Monday, National Holiday

13-13 of June: Maggio Musicale Fiorentino Festival, in Florence

20-21: Vin Santo Festival, in Motefollonico

25-1 of May: Tuscan Tiber Valley Craft Exhibition, in Anghiari. Ancient crafts and new skills.

25: Liberation Day, National Holiday

25-28: Game Fair Italia, in Groseto

25-1 May: MIDA International Crafts Exhibition, in Florence

May

1: Labour Day, National Holiday

Dates TBD: Maggio Musicale Fiorentino Festival, in Florence

1st Sunday of May: Palio dei Micci (Donkey Races), in Versilia

2nd Sunday of May: Giorno della Mamma, Mother’s Day

Every 4th Sunday of May: Aprilante-Handcrafts and Vintage Market, in Panzano

17-19: Blackhorn Festival & Shepherd’s Days, in Pieve Santo Stefano

24-26: Food & Street Around the World of Taste, in Sansepolcro

June

2: Republic Day, National Holiday

24: Feast Day of San Giovanni (Patron Saint of Florence) - Celebrations, in Florence and other cities

July

1-31: Music Festival, in Lucca

7-8: Rod Stewart Concert, in Lucca

November

1: All Saints’ Day, National Holiday

16-1 of Jan 2025: Christmas Markets & Tyrolean Village, in Arezzo

December

First Sunday of the month: Antique Fair, in Arezzo

8: Feast Day of the Immaculate Conception, National Holiday

25: Christmas, National Holiday

26: Saint Stephen’s Day, National Holiday

Great sites with City Itineraries of Festivals

For Florence: https://www.destinationflorence.com/en/blog/460-be-ready-unmissable-events-in-florence-2024

Our Favorite for Cities to Visit in Tuscany

Florence (Firenze) - If you could choose one town in Tuscany, Florence would be that town for the founder. It is a gem - for all of humanity. A MUST SEE. This is where the Renaissance began, thanks to Lorenzo di Medici (also known as The Magnificent.) The remnants of the Renaissance are beautifully on display in the architecture, churches and museums. It is a living museum with treasures on every street. Check out Antonia’s Italy - Walking Tours of Florence, Its Art, Food & Fun on Amazon for many suggestions on what to do, see and eat in this historic town. The author is the founder who lived here for a year and in that time of daily studies and adventures, did not have nearly enough time to explore all of Florence’s treasures. Plan to stay here for at least a week or more during the early Spring, late Fall, or winter. Avoid the summer months.

Siena - Another Tuscan gem with Medieval and Renaissance architecture, historical treasures and great cafes.

Certaldo - Birthplace of Boccaccio and charming for a break from the Tuscan crowds.

Val d’Orcia - A UNESCO World Heritage Site with some of the most iconic Tuscan vistas. Cypress trees abound.

Anghiari - A charming Medieval town that has preserved much of its historic character. It is associated with the famous Battle of Anghiari in 1440 which bolstered Florence’s influence and independence. (Milan lost the battle.) Another reason we recommend a trip to see this gem is to visit the Busatti linen factory, operating since 1842! Tour the ancient looms in the basement while they are producing exceptionally exquisite textiles.

Lucca - This charming town’s historic center is encircled by a Renaissance-era wall adorned with trees, benches, a cafe and beautiful views of the city and surrounding countryside. It is an ideal village to visit for a calming walk and a delicious meal. You can explore this 2.7-mile loop on foot or by bike in less than an hour. Lucca was originally founded by the Etruscans and later became a Roman colony in the 2nd century B.C.E. You will find fabulous shopping in Lucca, especially for textiles. Lucca was a popular destination for pilgrims walking from Spain to Rome and then on to Jerusalem. So, there are many churches and banks in town so as to exchange money for the visiting pilgrims. Climb the tour, (built for a noble’s lover, his wife), and enjoy a beautiful view of the old and new in Lucca. Lucca is the birthplace of Puccini. For opera lovers, try to stay for at least one evening. Every night, year-round, opera is performed in the deconsecrated Church of San Giovanni at 7 pm. Lucca is overwhelmed with people dressed as their favorite comic book characters and superheroes every year for the annual Comics & Games Convention. Il Mecenate and Trattoria Da Leo are my favorite restaurants inside the walls.

Montepulciano - This charming hilltop town, with its well-preserved Medieval walls and gates is picturesque and can boast of its excellent wine, particularly the Vino Nobile. Check out the Cantucci cellars. For art and architecture lovers, the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and its beautiful frescoes are a must-see. For the ultimate relaxation, drive to the thermal baths in nearby Chianciano Terme.

Montefollonico - Our friends, Louree and Nicco, have refurbished a charming medieval structure to offer a B&B where they offer cooking classes and tours of the surrounding area, which is like a picture postcard. An hour from Florence. Exceptional hospitality. Check out Borgo di Sotto. https://www.borgodisotto.com/

Arezzo - This ancient Eturuscan town is full of charm. If you want to see native Italians bargain for antiques amongst each other, Arezzo hosts an antique fair on the first Sunday of each month. Any other day, there’s quite a bit to see in this charming village. One of my favorite stops is a home belonging to Georgio Vasari. He was a significant writer and artist of the Renaissance. The Lives of The Artists is a must-read for those interested in the Renaissance. Vasari wrote short bios of the artists of this glorious period and included his personal spin on some. His home is now a museum dedicated to his life and work. The Medici fortress is massive and serves now as an Etruscan museum. The Basilica of San Francesco houses frescoes of Piero della Francesca, the Legend of the True Cross, some of the finest examples of Italian Renaissance art.

Cortona is charming. Renovated in 2000 for the Pope’s visit during the Jubilee with repaired red tile roofs, updated drainage and flattering storefronts meticulously stylized. You may recognize the name from the film Under the Tuscan Sun since it was filmed here and in the neighboring hillside. Nearby, you can visit La Verna - the Franciscan Sanctuary nestled on top of a nearby mountain. The church includes some gorgeous Della Robbias.

Bagno Vignoni - Near Siena is the Val d’Orcia Natural Park you will find ancient thermal, Roman baths in Bagno Vignoni. For centuries, visitors here have been bathing in these restorative waters for healing, rest and relaxation. The main tank at the center of the village (pictured above) is the source of the water which is from a volcanic source. This has been a holiday destination for centuries. You will be in the company of Saint Catherine of Siena and Lorenzo de Medici who rested here. The Posta Marcucci Hotel and Resort offers outdoor baths and other amenities for a break from the crowds of the cities with modern amenities.

Pienza - In 1996 Pienza became a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is the home of Pope Pius II and several Renaissance Palazzos, sitting in the heart of the breathtaking Val d’Orcia. Pienza is also known for its cheese from sheep. This jewel is not to be missed.

Chianti Country

Tuscany is known not only for its beautiful landscapes and art. Tuscany is also one of the finest grape-growing regions in the world. Here you will be able to explore Chianti and other varietals. You will recognize family names that have been tilling the soil in the wine industry for generations like the Antinori.

Other Favorite Towns in Tuscany

San Gimignano

Volterra

Pitigliano - (Italy’s Little Jerusalem)

Pisa

Siena

Monteriggioni

Castiglione della Pescaia

Viareggio

Pieve Santo Stefano

2023 Festivals in Tuscany

August

19-20th: Tordello Pasta Festival in Stazzema (near Lucca)

October

27-29th: La Sagra del Tordo, (near Siena). A Medieval festival since 1958. https://rove.me/to/tuscany/sagra-del-tordo

November

10-25th: La Sagra del Tartufo Bianco in San Miniato (near Pisa). One of the largest truffle festivals in Italy.