How to decide what season you should go to Tuscany? From climate and temperature to seasonal events and when to avoid the tourist crowds, this guide will help you choose the ideal time to explore the Tuscan countryside, its historic cities such as Florence, its beaches, and its cultural treasures, all while enjoying the comfort of our villas in Tuscany, Italy.
In this part of northwestern Italy, temperatures are pleasant in spring and autumn, ideal weather for visiting the region in a peaceful atmosphere. Summers, on the other hand, can be very hot. In addition, tourist crowds increase during this period in the major cities. Winters are generally mild, and in December, the festive season attracts many visitors, particularly to Florence and other historic cities.
The inland areas in central Tuscany, such as Chianti, have a drier climate, while the areas near the sea are more humid.
Spring is one of the best times to visit Tuscany. April and May are the best months in Tuscany for mild temperatures. The countryside is in full bloom and the crowds are still moderate. Enjoy the poppy fields in Val d'Orcia or a horse ride in Chianti. In Florence, the regional capital, or Siena, the medieval jewel of Tuscany, museums are less crowded and more accessible. It is also the season for traditional markets, open-air festivals and Easter celebrations, a great way to immerse in the rich local cultural heritage. Vespa rides through the hills are particularly enjoyable at this time of year, offering landscapes dotted with cypress trees and full of beautiful colours. For inspiration on the most picturesque towns to visit, check our guide to Tuscany’s most beautiful villages.
In summer in Tuscany, the temperatures can exceed 35°C, especially in July and August. Florence and Lucca are very crowded with tourists, so it is better to stay in the countryside or on the coast, near Forte dei Marmi, the island of Elba or the Tuscan Archipelago. Whether swimming, taking a boat trip or relaxing in a villa with a private swimming pool, Tuscany is the perfect place for a holiday combining nature, beaches and culture. Though the weather is hot in Tuscany in June, July and August, this is the peak season for festivals, local celebrations, and live music in the villages.
Autumn in Tuscany, particularly September and October, offers pleasant weather, milder temperatures and vibrant colours in the hills. Food lovers will enjoy this season marked by white truffles, the finest wines, fresh-pressed olive oils, and the Chianti grape harvest festivals in September. The towns of San Gimignano, Montepulciano and Pienza can be visited in a peaceful atmosphere. One of the best destinations for travel in October, Tuscany offers an authentic experience for those who want to discover its wineries and lush landscapes, far from the crowds, the Tuscany that gave birth to Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo.
From December to March, Tuscany retains its appeal. The weather is more mild than northern Europe, with temperatures ranging from 5 - 15°C. In Florence and Lucca, museums, Christmas markets with roasted chestnuts, and illuminations warm up the winter days. It is a quieter period, ideal for cultural outings, visits to historic sights, and cosy meals in trattorias. The Christmas market in Montepulciano is particularly magical. Tuscany is an ideal destination for an off-season getaway.
Villanovo offers a selection of luxury villas for rent in Italy and in the most beautiful locations in Tuscany. Stay in an exceptional house in Florence, Siena, Val d'Orcia, Arezzo, Lucca or San Gimignano.
Charming stone villas, properties with swimming pools and large gardens, or in the heart of vineyards, Villanovo has the perfect rental home for every season in this spectacular region.
Our concierge service tailors your trip to Tuscany to your desires: wine tasting, guided tours of Tuscany's historic towns, Vespa rides, private chefs or horse riding excursions. Whether you are travelling as a family or a couple, in summer or winter, every moment becomes a tailor-made experience, with a travel diary provided on arrival at your villa. In it, you will find all our recommendations for restaurants, shops and other experiences to discover like spots to do wild swimming.