Let’s embrace those moments of pure Tuscany: perfectly paralleled vineyard paths, the Strade Bianche–the Italian wine country’s winding white gravel roads, and the region’s iconic brick facades, rosy in the light all year long. But even more than these experiences is that incomparable feeling bestowed by Italy’s quintessential way of life—la dolce vita. No matter when you choose to go, it’s always a magical experience in Chianti Classico with Cuvée. Below, the best of all four seasons in Tuscany.
Winter Holidays
Nativity scenes and markets are the quintessential symbols of the holiday season in every Tuscan city and hamlet, filled with tradition and authentic celebrations. The widely recognized Weihnachtsmarkt German market and Siena’s festive “Mercato del Campo” are perfect places to roam the stalls and browse crafts and local products for the holidays.
During the height of the season, Vino Novello is a popular seasonal wine tasting of young grapes as well as chestnuts galore, bringing an array of preparations and delicious chestnut recipes. Tuscany rings in the each new year with several lively festivals and music throughout the region to kick off the year in celebratory fashion.
Spring
Easter is one of the biggest spring celebrations, including the Scoppio del Carro attracting thousands to Florence’s piazza del Duomo. While the Tuscan landscapes are blooming with flowers and greenery, visit the flower fields and parks in Florence or the UNESCO Medici parks and villas and enjoy a picnic next to these magnificent sites.
Two unrivaled food and wine festivals of the spring are Mostra del Chianti and Cantine Aperte, and if you can’t get enough vino, wineries open up their cellars for special visits and tastings on the last weekend of May.
Summer
Summer sparks a chain of Medieval Festivals throughout Tuscany, Calcio Storico Fiorentino and Palio di Siena are both must-see festivals with historic tradition. Catch some sun island hopping off the coast of Tuscany to get your fill of the Mediterranean and snorkeling throughout Procchio Gulf. A Sagra (an Italian food festival) is the best place to get your fill of regional delicacies, live music, and the essence of Tuscan summer charm.
Villas to rent in Tuscany
Harvest
In Autumn, the scent of harvesting vineyards and vibrant truffle season recipes carry throughout the region. Experience the beloved truffle season with annual festivals to participate in the hunt, tastings and pairings, and buying traditional Tuscan products from the open-air market stalls.
This time of year also brings Vendemmia, Tuscany’s sacred picking of the grapes which is a truly special activity to witness at a local winery. During this captivating season, food fairs are in their prime, featuring the “green gold” olive oil, porcini mushrooms, and chestnuts.