Tuscany Family Holiday

Tuscany is an ideal family destination if you’re planning to visit Italy with kids. With its picturesque countryside, charming medieval towns, delicious cuisine, and rich cultural heritage, Tuscany provides ample opportunities for families to explore, learn and bond over unforgettable experiences. From hiking in the rolling hills to visiting museums, castles, and vineyards, Tuscany has something for everyone, making it an excellent choice for a family vacation. Here are some reasons why you should go on a Tuscany family holiday:

• The beautiful and varied landscape, including scenic countryside, charming hilltop towns, and stunning coastline.
• Rich cultural heritage, including world-renowned art museums, medieval castles, and historic cities like Florence and Siena.
• Delicious cuisine featuring fresh, local ingredients and iconic dishes like pasta, pizza, and gelato.
• Plenty of outdoor activities for families to enjoy together, such as hiking, cycling, horseback riding, and water sports.
• Safe and welcoming atmosphere, with friendly locals and a low crime rate.
• Wide range of family-friendly accommodation options, including hotels, villas, and agriturismos (farm stays).
• Easy to get around with good public transportation and well-maintained roads.
• Educational opportunities for kids to learn about history, art, and culture in a fun and interactive way.
• A laid-back and relaxed pace of life, ideal for family bonding and quality time together.

Things to Do in Tuscany With Kids

Tuscany is not just for couples and wine lovers. Here are some things to do on a Tuscany family holiday:

1. Visit Florence: Take your family on a cultural tour of the birthplace of the Renaissance, and visit world-renowned museums, such as the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia Gallery, to see famous artworks like Michelangelo’s David.
2. Explore Pisa: Visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa and take a family photo, then explore the town’s many charming shops, cafes, and restaurants.
3. Bike ride in Lucca: Rent bikes and ride around the charming town of Lucca, which is entirely enclosed by a 16th-century wall, making it perfect for a family-friendly bike ride.
4. Go to the beach: Head to the Tuscan coastline, where you can relax on sandy beaches, swim in the clear waters, and enjoy water sports like windsurfing and paddleboarding.
5. Take a cooking class: Learn how to make delicious Tuscan dishes, such as fresh pasta and pizza, in a fun and interactive cooking class suitable for the whole family.
6. Visit a farm: Take your kids to a farm where they can interact with animals, learn about the production of local products like cheese and olive oil, and experience the rural lifestyle.
7. Explore medieval towns: Visit charming Tuscan towns such as San Gimignano, Montepulciano, and Volterra, where you can wander through the cobblestone streets, visit historic landmarks and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
8. Enjoy nature: Explore the scenic Tuscan countryside by hiking, horseback riding, or even hot air ballooning, where you can enjoy stunning views of the rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves.

Where to Go on a Tuscany Family Holiday

Here are some places to go in Tuscany with kids:

1. Florence: The birthplace of the Renaissance is a must-visit destination in Tuscany, with its stunning architecture, world-class museums, and iconic landmarks like the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio.
2. Pisa: Famous for its leaning tower, Pisa is a charming town with a beautiful historic center, where you can enjoy a relaxing stroll, visit museums and art galleries, and taste delicious Tuscan cuisine.
3. Siena: This medieval city is known for its beautiful piazzas, Gothic architecture, and the Palio horse race, which takes place twice a year in the historic city center.
4. Lucca: A charming town surrounded by a 16th-century wall, Lucca is a great place for a family bike ride, exploring the picturesque streets, and visiting historic landmarks like the Guinigi Tower.
5. San Gimignano: This stunning medieval town is famous for its many towers and is a great place for kids to explore, with its winding streets and historical landmarks.
6. Chianti: The rolling hills of the Chianti region are a great place for families to experience Tuscan life, with its picturesque vineyards, olive groves, and charming hilltop towns.
7. Maremma: The Maremma region of Tuscany offers a beautiful coastline, where you can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, as well as picturesque towns and stunning countryside.

Where to Stay in Tuscany With Kids

Here are some options for where to stay in Tuscany with kids:

• Agriturismo: These are working farms that offer accommodation for guests, usually in the form of apartments or villas. They often provide opportunities for kids to interact with animals, learn about farm life, and enjoy local products like olive oil and wine.
• Villas: Renting a villa can be a great option for families, offering privacy, space, and often a private pool. Villas can range from small cottages to large estates, depending on your needs.
• Hotels: Many hotels in Tuscany are family-friendly, offering amenities like swimming pools, children’s play areas, and organized activities for kids.
• Campsites: Camping is a popular way to experience the beauty of Tuscany, and many campsites offer facilities like swimming pools, playgrounds, and organized activities for kids.
• Bed and Breakfasts: These offer a more personal experience, with friendly hosts who can offer advice on local activities and attractions.
• Apartments: Renting an apartment can be a good option for families who want a home-like setting with the convenience of a kitchen and living space.
• Glamping: Glamping, or glamorous camping, is a trend that is gaining popularity in Tuscany. These accommodations offer the comfort of a hotel room with the outdoor experience of camping, often in beautiful natural settings.

Best Mid-Range and Kid-Friendly Accommodations in Tuscany

Here are some of the best mid-range and kid-friendly accommodations in Tuscany, according to TripAdvisor:

1. Agriturismo Poggio Covili – located in the heart of the Chianti region, this family-friendly agriturismo offers apartments and rooms with stunning views of the surrounding vineyards, a swimming pool, and a playground for kids.
2. Residence Casprini da Omero – situated in the town of Montaione, this family-friendly residence offers apartments with kitchenettes, a swimming pool, and a children’s play area, as well as organized activities like bike tours and guided walks.
3. Borgo Fontaccia – set in a beautifully restored 16th-century farmhouse, this family-friendly bed and breakfast offers spacious rooms and suites, a swimming pool, a children’s play area, and activities like cooking classes and wine tastings.
4. Hotel Piccolo Castello – located in Monteriggioni, this family-friendly hotel offers spacious rooms and suites, a swimming pool, a children’s play area, and a restaurant serving delicious Tuscan cuisine.
5. Agriturismo Il Poderaccio – situated near the town of San Gimignano, this family-friendly agriturismo offers apartments and rooms with stunning views of the surrounding countryside, a swimming pool, and a children’s play area, as well as activities like horseback riding and guided walks.
6. Camping Village Il Poggetto – set in a scenic location near the Tuscan coast, this family-friendly campsite offers a range of accommodations, including tents and mobile homes, as well as a swimming pool, playground, and organized activities for kids.
7. Hotel Villa Casagrande – located in the town of Figline Valdarno, this family-friendly hotel offers spacious rooms and suites, a swimming pool, a children’s play area, and a restaurant serving delicious Tuscan cuisine.

What to Eat in Tuscany With Kids

Tuscany is a region in Italy known for its delicious cuisine. Here are some popular dishes during your Tuscany family holiday:

1. Pizza – Pizza is a favorite food for kids, and in Tuscany, you’ll find many delicious varieties, including Margherita, Napoletana, and Quattro Formaggi.
2. Pasta – Tuscan cuisine is also known for its pasta dishes, such as Pappardelle alla Lepre (wide noodles with hare meat sauce) and Pici all’Aglione (thick spaghetti with garlic and tomato sauce).
3. Gelato – Tuscany is home to some of the best gelato in Italy, and kids will love trying different flavors like chocolate, vanilla, and fruit.
4. Panzanella – This refreshing summer salad is made with stale bread, tomatoes, onions, and basil, and is a perfect light lunch or dinner option for families.
5. Ribollita – This hearty soup is made with vegetables, beans, and bread, and is a filling and nutritious option for families.
6. Bistecca alla Fiorentina – For meat lovers, this famous Tuscan dish features a thick, juicy T-bone steak that’s grilled to perfection and served with a side of roasted potatoes or vegetables.
7. Focaccia – This savory flatbread is a popular snack or appetizer in Tuscany and can be topped with a variety of ingredients, including cheese, olives, and vegetables.

Best Mid-Range and Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Tuscany

Here are some of the best mid-range and kid-friendly restaurants in Tuscany, according to TripAdvisor:

1. La Cantina del Gallo Nero – located in the heart of the Chianti region, this family-friendly restaurant offers traditional Tuscan cuisine, including pasta dishes, grilled meats, and homemade desserts.
2. Trattoria Il Rosso – situated in the town of San Gimignano, this family-friendly trattoria serves various dishes, including pizza, pasta, seafood, and delicious desserts like tiramisu and panna cotta.
3. Osteria La Porta – set in a charming medieval town, this family-friendly restaurant offers a menu of traditional Tuscan cuisine, including homemade pasta, grilled meats, and local cheeses.
4. Da Nerbone – located in the heart of Florence’s Mercato Centrale, this family-friendly trattoria serves a variety of traditional Tuscan dishes, including tripe, roasted meats, and grilled vegetables.
5. La Bottega del Buon Caffè – situated in the Oltrarno neighborhood of Florence, this family-friendly restaurant offers a menu of contemporary Tuscan cuisine, including fresh seafood, homemade pasta, and delicious desserts.
6. Trattoria da Burde – located in the town of Florence, this family-friendly trattoria serves traditional Tuscan cuisine, including pasta dishes, grilled meats, and homemade desserts.
7. La Taverna del Capitano – situated in the town of Livorno, this family-friendly restaurant serves a variety of dishes, including fresh seafood, grilled meats, and homemade pasta, as well as delicious desserts like tiramisu and gelato.

When to Go to Tuscany

Tuscany is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences and interests. Here’s a breakdown of the seasons in Tuscany and what you can expect:

1. Spring (March to May) – Spring is a great time to visit Tuscany if you enjoy mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and blooming flowers. The countryside is particularly beautiful during this time, with fields of poppies, sunflowers, and other wildflowers in full bloom.
2. Summer (June to August) – Summer is the busiest time of year in Tuscany, with lots of tourists and hot temperatures. However, if you’re looking to enjoy the beaches and coastal areas of Tuscany, summer is the perfect time to do so.
3. Fall (September to November) – Fall is a great time to visit Tuscany if you enjoy cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and autumn colors. The harvest season also begins during this time so that you can enjoy wine tastings and food festivals.
4. Winter (December to February) – Winter is the least busy time of year in Tuscany, and while it can be chilly, it’s a great time to enjoy the Christmas markets and holiday festivities in Florence and other towns.

Overall, the best time to visit Tuscany depends on your preferences and interests. If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy milder temperatures, spring and fall are great times to visit. However, if you want to enjoy the beaches and coastal areas, summer is the best time to go.

How Long to Stay in Tuscany

The length of your stay in Tuscany depends on several factors, including your travel preferences, budget, and itinerary. Here are some factors to consider when deciding how long to stay in Tuscany:

1. What are your interests? – Tuscany has many things to see and do, including visiting historic cities, exploring medieval towns, tasting wine, and enjoying the countryside. The more interests you have, the longer you may want to stay.
2. How much time do you have? – The length of your stay in Tuscany will depend on how much time you have available for your trip.
3. What is your budget? – Tuscany can be an expensive destination, so you will need to factor in the cost of accommodation, food, and transportation when deciding how long to stay.
4. How much do you want to see? – Tuscany is a relatively small region, but there is still a lot to see and do. You may need to stay for a week or more if you want to see everything.

Based on these factors, most travelers choose to spend at least 3-4 days in Tuscany, but ideally, a week or more would allow you to see and do more. This would give you enough time to explore the cities of Florence, Siena, and Pisa, as well as the picturesque hill towns of San Gimignano, Montepulciano, and Montalcino, and enjoy some of the region’s famous wine and food.

3 Days in Tuscany

Here’s a sample 3-day itinerary for Tuscany:

Day 1: Florence and Pisa

• Arrive in Florence and explore the historic center, including the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and Ponte Vecchio.
• Take a day trip to Pisa to see the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Cathedral and Baptistery in the Campo dei Miracoli.

Day 2: Siena and San Gimignano

• Visit the beautiful city of Siena, including the Duomo and the Piazza del Campo.
• Drive to the medieval hill town of San Gimignano, known for its towers, and wander through its charming streets.

Day 3: Chianti and Volterra

• Drive through the scenic Chianti countryside, stop at a vineyard for wine tasting and lunch.
• Visit the hill town of Volterra, famous for its ancient Etruscan ruins and Roman theater.

This itinerary offers a glimpse into the history, culture, and natural beauty of Tuscany, with a mix of city sightseeing and countryside exploration. Keep in mind that Tuscany has much more to offer and you can always adjust the itinerary based on your interests and pace.

1-Week Tuscany Itinerary With Family

Here is a sample 1-week itinerary for a Tuscany family holiday:

Day 1: Arrival and settling in

• Arrive in Florence and settle into your accommodation
• Take a stroll around the historic center of Florence

Day 2: Exploring Florence

• Visit the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and Ponte Vecchio
• Enjoy a gelato in the Piazza della Signoria
• Climb the bell tower of the Palazzo Vecchio for panoramic views of the city

Day 3: Day trip to Pisa

• Visit the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa
• Explore the Campo dei Miracoli, which also includes the Cathedral and Baptistery
• Enjoy lunch in Pisa before returning to Florence

Day 4: Siena and the Chianti countryside

• Drive to Siena and visit the Duomo and the Piazza del Campo
• Visit a local winery in the Chianti countryside and enjoy a wine tasting and lunch

Day 5: San Gimignano and Volterra

• Visit the medieval town of San Gimignano and its famous towers
• Drive to the hilltop town of Volterra and explore the ancient Etruscan ruins and the Roman theater

Day 6: Montalcino and Montepulciano

• Visit the hill town of Montalcino and enjoy a Brunello wine tasting
• Drive to Montepulciano and visit the historic center and enjoy some wine and food

Day 7: Relaxing in Tuscany

• Spend a day relaxing at your accommodation or explore some of the smaller towns in the area
• Visit a local farm and try some authentic Tuscan cuisine

This itinerary offers a mix of cultural sightseeing and countryside exploration, as well as plenty of opportunities to try the region’s famous wine and food. However, feel free to adjust the itinerary to fit your family’s interests and pace.

How to Get Around Tuscany

Tuscany is a beautiful region with plenty of small towns, villages, and countryside to explore. Here are some ways to get around Tuscany:

1. Rent a car: Renting a car is a popular way to explore Tuscany, especially if you want to visit small towns and villages that may not be easily accessible by public transportation. You can rent a car from the airport, train station, or rental agencies in larger towns and cities.
2. Train: Tuscany is well-connected by train, with major cities like Florence, Pisa, and Siena having direct train connections to other cities in Italy. Train travel is efficient and relatively affordable, but it may not be the best option if you want to explore smaller towns and villages.
3. Bus: Several bus companies operate throughout Tuscany, connecting major cities and smaller towns. Bus travel can be more affordable than train travel, but the schedules may not be as frequent.
4. Bicycle: Tuscany is a great region for cycling, with many scenic routes and quiet country roads. You can rent bicycles from rental shops in larger towns and cities, or join a guided cycling tour.
5. Private driver/tour: If you prefer a more personalized and guided experience, you can hire a private driver or join a guided tour to explore Tuscany. This can be a more expensive option, but it allows for flexibility and the chance to see lesser-known areas of Tuscany.

How Much to Travel to Tuscany

The cost of traveling to Tuscany can vary greatly depending on your travel style, itinerary, and the time of year you visit. Here are some estimated costs to help you plan your budget:

1. Accommodation: Mid-range hotels and apartments in Tuscany can cost anywhere from €70 to €150 per night, depending on the location and amenities.
2. Food and drink: A typical meal at a mid-range restaurant in Tuscany can cost between €15 to €25 per person, while a glass of wine can range from €3 to €10. Grocery stores and markets are also great options for more affordable meals.
3. Transportation: Renting a car in Tuscany can cost around €30 to €50 per day, while train and bus tickets can range from €5 to €20 per journey.
4. Sightseeing and activities: Many museums, churches, and historical sites in Tuscany charge admission fees, which can range from €5 to €20 per person. Guided tours and wine tastings can cost between €20 to €50 per person.

Overall, a mid-range budget for traveling to Tuscany for one week, including accommodation, food, transportation, and activities, can cost around €800 to €1200 per person. However, costs can vary greatly depending on your travel preferences and itinerary.