Tuscany is a beautiful region in Italy all year, but there are some practical considerations to think about when planning a trip to Tuscany. Some of the best months to visit Tuscany are May, June, September and October. These are the Tuscany high season months. However, with some of the best months also comes larger crowds and higher prices for hotels, as it goes in any place with many tourists once the high season comes along.
If you are looking for a time to visit Tuscany when most of the crowds have gone, consider visiting during the off-season from November to April. The weather is still generally comfortable, most of the other tourists are gone leaving fewer crowds to fret and fight.
Summer heat in Tuscany can be sweltering. July and August are the months when it’s generally the hottest – with temperatures in the high 80s and 90s. Some people say these are the worst months to visit Tuscany. Only some hotels actually have air conditioning, so if you are traveling at this time and sensitive to the heat – you may want to consider booking a hotel that’s more upscale that does have air conditioning to help make your visit more pleasant.
Some people also enjoy visiting Florence during the winter. The temperatures are generally in the 40s and 50s. In Florence, the spring and the fall can be cold. Keep in mind that most hotels don’t turn on their heat until winter, so you want to pack smart and plan ahead.
Another thing to keep in mind when planning your Tuscany trip is the days of the week. For example, most major tourist attractions in Florence are closed on Mondays.
In Italy, there are a number of holidays and festivals that surround saints and religion. They pop up at seemingly random times, so that’s another thing to research before you go. Most hotels are usually full on Easter, April 25, May 1 and June 24 in Florence. So, if you’re going to be here on one of those days, you need to reserve your hotel quite far in advance. Be aware that these holidays also can affect train travel, restaurants, shopping and other services such as the post office and tourist services.
Sundays also can be another tricky day in Italy. Many tourist attractions are open, but banks and shopping venues many be closed. Some restaurants also may be closed. Additionally, some restaurants, shops and other attractions may close early on Saturdays. Be sure to plan ahead to ensure a smooth trip!
