What to do in Tuscany in spring

In spring, cycling is the ideal way to experience Tuscany at a slow pace, amid scents of new grass and views that open up around every bend. 
Among the most iconic routes is that of the Eroica, along 125 miles or 200 kilometers of gravel roads through the Chianti hills, the Val d’Orcia and the Crete Senesi, a true paradise for fans of cycling and fine landscapes.
Along the way, a stop in San Giovanni d’Asso gives the pleasure of a taste of the marzuolo truffle, the star of the Mostra Mercato celebrating the genuine flavors of the Tuscan spring.

Spring is the time when nature explodes, as wildflowers, blossoming trees and butterflies color the parks and nature reserves.
Among the most beautiful places to explore on foot are the national and regional parks of Tuscany. On Elba Island, for example, the Butterfly Sanctuary allows visitors to see extremely rare species.
Those who love the coast can plan an excursion to the Maremma Regional Park, where nature bursts in all its vitality during spring, amid flowering dunes, migratory birds and the season’s chicks. Those who prefer the mountains can enjoy the “Prade”, where the landscape opens up among pastures, flowers and ancient watchtowers.
In early May in Logarghena, celebrate the Daffodil Festival, a traditional event that marks the arrival of spring. The meadows are transformed into a fragrant carpet of white and yellow blooms, creating a unique natural spectacle, perfect for walks and hikes among nature and history.

Sorano, Lari, Suvereto, Santa Fiora and Sarteano are just a few of the inland Tuscan villages awarded the Touring Club Italiano’s Bandiera Arancione (Orange Flag), a symbol of excellence in hospitality and in the enhancement of historical and environmental heritage.
These little gems tell of an authentic and genuine Tuscany, comprised of quiet piazzas, artisan workshops and views that invite you to take it slow. 
Perfect for an unhurried getaway, they are places where time seems to flow more gently, amid history, tradition and everyday beauty.
In May in Lucignano, during the Maggiolata, the village’s four districts compete against each other with floats decorated with fresh flowers, while in Lari, from late May to early June, gourmands can enjoy the most delicious symbol of the area during the annual Cherry Festival.

Spring is the ideal season to discover historic villas and gardens that grace the landscape.
Among the 12 Medici villas declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites are the Boboli Gardens—a perfect example of an Italian-style garden and an authentic open-air museum. Then there is the Pratolino Medici Park in Vaglia, dominated by the famous Apennine Colossus sculpted by Giambologna. Just outside the city is Villa La Petraia with its elegant flowering terraces and the Medici Palace of Seravezza that today houses the Museum of Work and Folk Traditions of Historical Versilia. 
Places where art, nature and history intertwine in an all-Tuscan harmony.

Bolgheri, Chianti, Carmignano, Colli di Luni—each Wine Route is a journey through landscapes and flavors that reveal a different face of Tuscany.
Among golden rows of vines and in villages built in stone, historic wineries and innovative companies meet, where wine comes to be from passion and tradition.
For the last weekend in May, wineries large and small welcome visitors for tastings, guided tours and meetings with producers during the Cantine Aperte (Open Cellars) event.

Nothing is more rejuvenating than bathing in the warm thermal waters surrounded by nature.
In Tuscany, wellness springs directly from the heart of the earth. In addition to renowned spas are free hot springs where you can relax outdoors year-round.
The sulfurous waters of Petriolo, the spectacular waterfalls of Saturnia, the striking baths of San Filippo ... each place offers an experience of pure relaxation, where body and mind find perfect harmony.

Monumental sculptures, visionary installations and fairy-tale characters enliven some of Tuscany’s most amazing art parks.
In Capalbio, the Tarot Garden invites you on a journey among the 22 imposing figures of the Major Arcana, colorful works that combine symbolism, dreams and imagination.
In Collodi, Pinocchio Park brings to life the dream of the famous puppet with sculptures, interactive games and sceneries to delight children and adults alike.
In Chianti, in Castelnuovo Berardenga, the Chianti Sculpture Park blends contemporary art and nature in an itinerary among holm oak forests and installations perfectly integrated into the landscape.
But the story doesn’t end there! Tuscany is also a land of open-air art where works dialogue with nature and the landscape becomes an integral part of the experience along with the viewer’s gaze.