Springtime in Tuscany is the perfect time to visit this beautiful region known for its engaging landscapes and abundance of historical monuments.
As you are probably aware, Tuscany captures the imagination whatever the season but it’s in Springtime before the burning summer sun has scorched the land when Tuscany is at its best.
Welcoming weather keeps you at ease
Springtime is all about blossoming flowers and wonderful weather to keep you at ease as you discover Tuscany’s treasures. Experience warm sunny skies and white fluffy clouds sitting high in the sky but expect to encounter the odd shower!
To feel at home with the fashion-conscious Italians dress in layers in the colours of spring and don’t forget to pack your lightweight raincoat and umbrella!
So where should I go in Tuscany at Springtime?
To embrace the joys and colours of Spring we suggest staying in one of the small towns or villages surrounded by vineyards, olive groves and meadows.Find yourself a perfect base ideally located for visiting the must-see Tuscan sights and cities.
Live like a local in a small Tuscan town
We personally just happen to be lucky enough to live in a small hidden gem of a Tuscan town, ideally located for visiting Pisa, Lucca and Florence. Our small Medieval town of Vicopisanooffers the chance to live like a local and escape the hustle and bustle of the cities at the end of a day of sightseeing.
To get around you can jump on a local bus to the City of Pisa or to the nearby town of Pontedera. From Pisa and Pontedera there are trains to Florence, Lucca and even links to the Cinque Terre.
To really explore or cram more into your day we suggest that you rent a car. The less accessible nearby towns like Volterra and Vinci are easily reached with 4 wheels and within 30 minutes, you can be tasting wine at the vineyards of Terriccola or strolling along the seafront on the Tyrrhenian coast.
What can I do in Vicopisano?
Vicopisano is home to a historic Medieval centre serving as a hub for hidden lanes and ancient piazzas.
It’s crowning glory is La Rocca di Vicopisano, a Medieval fortress built by the Renaissance master architect Filippo Brunelleschi. It is one of Vicopisano’s main attractions and a history lover’s dream.
A tour of the fortress will take you back in time as you visit the Medieval prison cells and climb a series of wooden steps and ladders to the top of the 34-metre watchtower.
From the top there’s a stunning view of the surrounding hills and countryside and it’s a great spot to click for those selfies.
A playground for walkers, cyclists and those who love nature
Vicopisano is surrounded by pine-covered hills known as Monte Pisano and boasts of beautiful olive groves and pink peach blossoms.
The hills are a retreat for mountain bikers, hikers, and cyclists alike. Additionally, you can choose paragliding from the highest peaks or horse riding and gentle walks in the foothills.
Springtime will provide you with carpets of daisies through the olive groves and scattered red poppies along the trails and pathways which surround the town.
Step out of your door and follow the trails away from vehicles and everyday life!
There’s a walking festival held in Vicopisano every year at Springtime, but if you didn’t make this year’s festival it’s always possible to link up with English speaking cyclists and walking enthusiasts who’ll be happy to be your guide
Avid walkers and mountain bikers should pick up the map of the Monte Pisano available at the local library.
Experience Tuscany like a local
For those who have finished all their sightseeing and are looking to kick back and relax and enjoy life like a local, Vicopisano offers a pizzeria and a handful of family-run restaurants, a small grocery store along with a baker and a weekly market. The central square or piazza is the place to gather for that morning cappuccino or wind down with a glass of Prosecco at the end of the day. Modern-day necessities are also at hand with 2 ATMs, a post office, and a pharmacy
For foodies and wine lovers
A Tuscany vacation is incomplete if you don’t taste the local delicacies and it is here in the small towns and villages where Tuscan cuisine is at its most genuine.
At the edge of town, there’s an organic olive farm where high-quality extra virgin olive oil is produced and processed. You’ll get to taste the local flavour and try out some other products as well, including a very nice red wine to sip with your crostini(small toasts drizzled with flavoured olive oil) and other local products.
Where to stay?
There are a number of Tuscany vacation rentals available for every budget, most of which are Medieval houses lovingly restored and owned by the local residents. Whether you’re on a family holiday, travelling with friends or searching for the perfect place for a romantic getaway or honeymoon you can truly experience Medieval living to suit your budget. Remember if you book direct you will nearly always get a better rate along with a dollop of insider knowledge from the property owner or manager!
Lorenzo and I just happen to be the proprietors of Casa Colomba a romantic Medieval tower house in the historic centre of town. We are also the creators of Authentic Tuscany which offers a small selection of characteristic properties handpicked by us. Most of our properties are located in Vicopisano and in the countryside close to Palaia and Lucca.
