Autumn in Tuscany is an enchanting time for the region. From September to November the hills and vineyards have the most beautiful hues of yellow, red and amber tones. The intense summer crowds wean off and the area is left with a more relaxed and peaceful atmosphere. Whether you are wandering the cobblestone streets of Florence or strolling through the medieval towns of Siena or Lucca, fall in Tuscany offers a spectacular blend of beauty and relaxation.
During the autumn season, the cooler weather allows you to enjoy outdoor activities. It is the perfect time for hiking, cycling and partaking in a vineyard tour. Many local festivals take place in the autumn in Tuscany as well as harvest celebrations and the start of truffle season. Join us and we discover all the charms of Tuscany in the fall.
The weather and climate in Tuscany during the Fall
The weather in Tuscany during the fall months is refreshingly cooler than the hot summer. It is the ideal time to visit as the weather allows for a more pleasant experience with temperatures ranging from 15°C – 20°C. Of course, in late November there is a shift to crispier air, especially in the early mornings and later in the evening.
Rain does become more frequent in the region, especially in October in the countryside. It is typical to have misty mornings with dense fog along the vineyards and olive groves. Early fall is the best time to take part in vineyard tours, while November is the perfect time for wine tastings and truffle hunting.
Top attractions to visit in Tuscany in the autumn
There is plenty to experience in Tuscany and the fall is the ideal time to enjoy it. Here is a list of our favourite places to visit in the region:
Florence
Florence is a must-see any time of year, but fall brings a quieter and more relaxed vibe to the city. Since there are fewer tourists in the fall compared to the summer, accessing many of the iconic attractions like the Uffizi Galler and the Duomo is much easier.
At the Uffizi Gallery, you can see popular works by Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci. It is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 8:15 AM to 6:30 PM and 9:30 PM on Tuesdays. Tickets start at €25.
The Duomo on the other hand is a Renaissance cathedral designed by Brunelleschi. You can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the city from the top. There are a variety of ticket packs available, so please check their official website for your best option.
Lucca
Lucca is one of Tuscany’s most charming cities, and autumn is the perfect time to visit.
The city is famous for its well-preserved Renaissance walls, now a pedestrian promenade ideal for walking or cycling. Highlights include the Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, where you can enjoy a coffee while people-watching, and the Guinigi Tower, with trees on its rooftop offering great city views.
Don’t miss the beautiful San Martino Cathedral, which houses important works of art. Lucca’s peaceful atmosphere and rich history make it a must-visit in Tuscany.
Siena
Another medieval town, Siena is beautiful in the autumn. Stroll through the Piazza del Campo where you can see the popular Torre del Mangia. The tower offers panoramic views of the town, and you can climb up for €10. The tower is open daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Also, don’t miss your chance to visit the Duomo di Siena, known for its intricate facade.
Val d’Orcia
If you are looking for a real Tuscan experience in the countryside, Val d’Orcia is the ideal destination. The rolling hills, olive groves, and vineyards change colour this time of year, creating the most beautiful views. Pienza and Montalcino are hilltop towns worth visiting, and the hot springs of Bagno Vignoni are the ideal spot to relax.
Chianti Wine Region
Fall is harvest season in the Chianti region. Many vineyards offer wine tours and tastings where you can see the grape harvest up close. There are a variety of tours available that include tastings.
Fall festivals and events in Tuscany
Autumn in Tuscany is all about celebrating the local harvest. For wine lovers, the Impruneta Grape Festival in late September and the Festa dell’Uva in Chianti are the perfect chance to enjoy local wine and taste some traditional food.
If you enjoy truffles, don’t miss the San Miniato Truffle Fair in November, one of Italy’s largest.
Head to the Marradi Chestnut Festival in October, where roasted chestnuts are celebrated. Finally, take part in the olive harvest in Montemurlo where Festa dell’Olio Nuovo is celebrated. Here, you can sample freshly pressed olive oil straight from the source.
Seasonal cuisine and wine in Tuscany
Autumn in Tuscany offers some of the best dishes and flavours. The luxurious truffle is in full swing in many local dishes including both the white and black truffle. It is common to add it to pasta dishes and risotto. Heartier meat dishes like pappardelle al cinghiale, pasta made with wild boar is commonly eaten paired with a glass of Chianti Classico red wine. Finishing off with castagnaccio, a traditional chestnut cake is another autumn speciality that can be found all over Tuscany.
What to wear in Tuscany in the fall
- Layering is key during this season as temperatures can rise and fall with the sun. Pack a mix of lightweight sweaters, scarves, and jackets. The mornings and evenings are typically cooler than mid-day.
- Comfortable footwear is a must for all of the walking tours you will be doing within cities and the countryside. So make sure you are prepared with comfy sneakers and hiking boots.
- Rain protection is a needed item when visiting Tuscany in the autumn. Make sure to pack a light rain jacket and portable umbrella.
Come and enjoy Tuscany in the fall
From exploring iconic cities like Florence and Lucca to enjoying outdoor adventures in Val d’Orcia, and savouring the flavours of truffles, chestnuts, and wine, autumn is an unforgettable time to visit. When planning your holiday to Tuscany, rely on Lucca Apartments and Villas for a comfortable and enjoyable place to stay. Offering comfort and convenience with a variety of properties, it provides the perfect base to explore Tuscany in the fall.
