- Explore Beyond Major Cities: While Florence and Siena are must-visit cities, you might also try exploring smaller towns for your first time in Tuscany, like Pienza, San Gimignano, and Volterra. These towns offer unique charm and fewer crowds, allowing for a more authentic experience.
- Wine and Food Culture: Tuscany is renowned for its wine, particularly Chianti (Greve is stunning!), Brunello, and Montepulciano. You can also explore local wines specific to the regions you are in. Don’t forget to try local cheeses, especially Pecorino!
- Plan for Market Days: Many towns have specific days for local markets, which can be a delightful experience. For example, Montepulciano hosts a market on Thursdays (8AM-1PM in Piazza Pietro Nenni), providing an opportunity to engage with local culture and cuisine.
- Summer Heat: Tuscany can get quite hot (almost unbearably) in the summer, and air conditioning is not as common. If you go during the summer season, do stay hydrated, plan indoor activities during peak heat hours, and enjoy the cooler evenings.
- Transportation Tips: Renting a car is often recommended for exploring the Tuscan countryside, as it allows for flexibility in visiting various towns and vineyards. However, parking (and accidentally driving on ZTLs -Zona a Traffico Limitato or Limited Traffic Zones) in cities can be challenging, so plan accordingly.
- Gelato Quality Matters: Not all gelato is created equal. Look for “gelato artigianale” for the best quality, and avoid shops with overly flashy displays that indicate mass production.
- Language Barriers: While English is spoken in tourist areas, it is less common in rural parts. Learning a few basic Italian phrases can greatly enhance interactions and experiences.
- Cultural Differences in Dining: Dining in Tuscany can be different from what you’re used to here in the U.S. Meals can be leisurely affairs (dinner is served later than what you’re probably accustomed to). And then there’s coperto (a cover charge), the matter of tipping, finding non-touristy restaurants, etc. There’s certainly a cultural adjustment to be made.
- Get Lost: Some of the best experiences come from wandering off the beaten path. Having an itinerary is perfectly fine. But sometimes, to get a truly authentic feel of a place, just get out and wander around.
- Timing Your Visits: Popular tourist spots can get crowded, especially during peak hours. Visiting early in the morning or later in the evening can provide a more enjoyable experience with fewer crowds. And visiting in low peak season could work out more favorably for you with flight and accommodation costs. Did I forget to mention less tourists? Yes please!
If you are visiting Tuscany for the first time, I hope these insights help you make the most of your trip! Check out 15 Ways to Enjoy Florence for Free
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