Tuscany, Italy Guide

Know Before You Go...®

Tuscany is a region in central Italy known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and delicious cuisine. With its rolling hills, picturesque vineyards, and charming medieval towns, Tuscany embodies the quintessential Italian experience. From the iconic leaning tower of Pisa to the Renaissance art of Florence, this region offers a plethora of cultural and historical treasures to explore. Tuscany is also home to some of the world’s most renowned wines, making it a paradise for food and wine lovers. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing countryside retreat or an immersive cultural adventure, Tuscany has something for everyone to enjoy.

Why Tuscany, Italy?

  • Tuscany is home to the Leaning Tower of Pisa, one of the world’s most famous monuments.
  • The region is renowned for its vineyards and is home to some of the world’s most famous wines, including Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino.
  • Tuscany is known for its stunning landscapes, including the rolling hills of the Chianti region.
  • The capital city of Florence is one of Italy’s most popular cities and is home to many Renaissance masterpieces.
  • Tuscany is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, such as Viareggio and Forte dei Marmi.

Tuscany, Italy Weather/Climate

Average Temperatures

January
52° F
° F
February
55° F
° F
March
61° F
° F
April
66° F
° F
May
73° F
° F
June
81° F
° F
July
86° F
° F
August
86° F
° F
September
81° F
° F
October
72° F
° F
November
61° F
° F
December
54° F
° F

Average Rainfall

January
2.9 inches
February
2.7 inches
March
3.2 inches
April
3.1 inches
May
2.9 inches
June
2.2 inches
July
1.6 inches
August
3 inches
September
3.1 inches
October
3.5 inches
November
4.4 inches
December
3.6 inches

History

Tuscany, a region located in central Italy, is known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and exquisite cuisine. The history of Tuscany dates back to ancient times when it was inhabited by the Etruscans, a mysterious civilization that flourished between the 8th and 3rd centuries BC.

The Etruscans were skilled artisans and traders who built numerous cities and left behind a legacy of impressive artworks and artifacts. However, their civilization declined with the rise of the Roman Empire, and Tuscany became a part of the Roman province of Etruria.

During the Middle Ages, Tuscany was divided into several rival city-states, including Florence, Siena, and Pisa. These cities were centers of art, commerce, and banking, and their wealthy families, such as the Medici, played a significant role in shaping the region’s history.

In the 14th century, Florence emerged as the dominant city-state in Tuscany under the rule of the powerful Medici family. The Medici were patrons of the arts, and their support of renowned artists like Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci helped to establish Florence as the birthplace of the Renaissance. The city flourished culturally, economically, and politically, and its influence spread throughout Europe.

However, the Medici rule came to an end in the 16th century, and Tuscany was then ruled by the Grand Duchy of Tuscany, a branch of the Habsburg family. During this time, Tuscany experienced a period of relative stability and prosperity, with the development of new industries and trade routes.

In the late 18th century, Tuscany became a part of the Kingdom of Italy, and in the 19th century, it played a significant role in the unification of Italy. Florence was briefly the capital of Italy before Rome took its place.

Today, Tuscany continues to attract visitors from all over the world, drawn by its rich history, cultural heritage, and breathtaking landscapes. Its cities, such as Florence, Pisa, and Siena, are home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks and artworks, while its countryside is dotted with charming villages, vineyards, and olive groves. Tuscany’s history is deeply intertwined with its present, making it a region that continues to captivate and inspire.

Transportation on Tuscany, Italy

Getting to Tuscany, Italy and getting around. Our transportation tips will help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.

Entry Documents

  • Passport valid for the duration of your stay.
  • Visa not required for most nationalities for stays of up to 90 days within the Schengen Area.
  • Return/onward ticket required for proof of departure.

Departure Tax

No specific departure tax; taxes are included in airfare.

Driving

  • Driving License: EU licenses are valid; non-EU licenses require an International Driving Permit (IDP).
  • Driving Side: Right-hand side.
  • Road Conditions: Roads are well-maintained, though rural and hilltop areas may have narrow or winding roads.
  • Speed Limits: 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas, 90 km/h (56 mph) on rural roads, 130 km/h (81 mph) on highways.
  • Traffic Rules: Be cautious of narrow roads in historic villages and ZTL (Zona a Traffico Limitato) zones in cities like Florence and Siena, where access is restricted. Renting a car is ideal for exploring Tuscany’s countryside and smaller towns. Parking can be challenging in historic centers; plan to use public parking areas outside town centers.

Local Transportation

Tuscany offers a range of transport options to discover its charming towns, rolling hills, and world-renowned vineyards. Renting a car is the best way to explore the countryside at your own pace, especially when visiting smaller villages and remote attractions that are not easily accessible by public transport. Trains connect major cities like Florence, Pisa, and Siena, providing an efficient way to travel between them while enjoying the picturesque landscape. Buses are available for shorter journeys, particularly within the towns and surrounding areas, though they may not be as frequent. Taxis and private transfers are also convenient choices, especially for those seeking comfort or traveling with luggage.

Know Before You Go...® - Tuscany, Italy Travel Tips

Before making their way to Tuscany, Italy , vacationers like to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a look at our travel tips to make your time in villas in Tuscany, Italy even more relaxing.

Capital: Florence
Population: 3.75 million (estimated)
Size: 8,878 square miles (estimated)
Electric Current: 230
Official Language: The official language spoken in Tuscany is Italian. However, there are some regional dialects of Italian spoken, such as Tuscan and Florentine dialect. In addition, English is widely spoken and understood in major cities and tourist areas.
Currency:
  • The official currency of Tuscany is the Euro (€).
  • Cash is still widely used in Tuscany, especially in smaller towns and villages. Therefore, it is recommended to always carry some cash with you.
  • Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Tuscany, especially in larger cities. Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted, followed by American Express and Diners Club. It is always a good idea to inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with using your card abroad.
  • ATMs are widely available throughout Tuscany, and most accept international cards. However, it is advisable to check with your bank about any fees or restrictions before using your card at an ATM.
  • Traveler's checks are not widely accepted in Tuscany and may be difficult to exchange. It is recommended to use other payment options instead.
Tipping and Taxes:
  • Tipping, is not mandatory, however in the service industry, it is still appreciated and expected to some degree.
  • A service charge is often included in the bill, typically ranging from 10-15%. If a service charge is not included, a small tip of 5-10% is customary, but not mandatory. It is also acceptable to round up the bill to the nearest euro or leave loose change as a tip.
  • There is also a value-added tax (VAT) of 22% that is included in the price of goods and services in Sicily.
Dress Code: The dress code in Tuscany is typically casual and comfortable, with a touch of elegance and sophistication.
Topography: Tuscany's topography is characterized by rolling hills, fertile valleys, and rugged mountains, making it a diverse and picturesque region in central Italy.
Telephone: * Telephone Country Code: +39 * Mobile Networks: Reliable coverage across the region, including rural and hilly areas. * Wi-Fi: Widely available in hotels, cafes, and public spaces. Many accommodations and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi for guests.

Tuscany, Italy Weddings and Honeymoons

In Tuscany Italy, getting married involves a few clear steps and required documents.

Apply for a marriage license at the local Comune (Town Hall) in the chosen municipality in Tuscany.

Required documents include:

  • Valid passports or national ID cards for both parties.
  • Birth certificates (translated into Italian and certified with an Apostille).
  • Certificate of no impediment to marriage (Nulla Osta) issued by your country’s embassy in Italy.
  • Divorce decree or death certificate (if applicable).
  • Application form provided by the Comune.

Civil ceremonies are legally binding and conducted in Italian by a registrar. An interpreter may be required if the couple does not speak Italian.

Costs: Marriage fees vary by municipality but typically range from €200 to €500 for non-residents. Additional costs may apply for translations, Apostilles, and optional arrangements.

Optional Religious or Scenic Venue Ceremony: Tuscany offers picturesque venues for symbolic or religious ceremonies, including vineyards, historic villas, and charming hilltop towns. Popular locations include the rolling hills of Chianti, the Piazza del Campo in Siena, and luxury estates in Florence or Val d’Orcia. These ceremonies are not legally binding without a civil ceremony.