Five days out for enjoying spring in Tuscany
From the Livorno coast to the San Galgano monastery
When the warm weather comes around, there's nothing better than spending the day exploring some of Tuscany's most unforgettable spots. To get you started, here are 5 places where you'll discover some of the region's most breathtaking hidden treasures.
1.Start your adventures on the coast
The Tuscan coastline is the perfect springtime destination since summer crowds have yet to arrive. Head to Livorno for a bit of morning sun and enjoy the waves from the lovely Terrazza Mascagni or in the Venezia neighborhood. After lunch - spent sampling the typical local fish stew, cacciucco - choose between the childhood home of artist Amedeo Modigliano or the Aquarium, a perfect spot for kids.
How to reach
Via dei Lanzi, 1, 57123 Livorno LI, Italia
Directions(opens in a new window)2.Venture south
In Versilia you'll find an unusual Tuscan treasure that’s all about nature: the LIPU Oasis of Massaciuccoli. On the shores of Massarosa, explore the lake adored by composer Giacomo Puccini, while in Massaciuccoli you can almost literally walk on water thanks to the wooden walkway built over the swamp. Immersed in a spellbinding silence and surrounded by grassy hills and a picturesque lake, the dreamlike experience will seem to keep you suspended in time.
How to reach
Via del Porto, 143, 55054 Massaciuccoli LU, Italia
Directions(opens in a new window)3.Look for the sword in the stone
If you love places shrouded in mystery, visit the majestic San Galgano Abbey, a spot not far from Siena and only a few miles from Chiusdino. Your first moments in this centuries-old abbey will be unforgettable, a structure now in ruins and without a roof. Here, you’ll also find the San Galgano Chapel in Montesiepi where you can see the world's only real "sword in the stone," which legend says the saint drove into the ground when he gave up his social life.
How to reach
Strada Comunale di S. Galgano, 167, 53012 Chiusdino SI, Italia
Directions(opens in a new window)4.Lead to Cortona
Cortona will take your breath away: the city vaunts stunning views that reach as far as Lake Trasimeno, not to mention its delightful alleyways and shops selling crafts and local food products. Make sure to visit to the MAEC, the Etruscan museum, a haven of noteworthy archeological finds. And be sure to try one of the local dishes, such as pici alle briciole (thick spaghetti with breadcrumbs and pecorino cheese) or Chianina steak.
How to reach
Via Roma, 6, 52044 Cortona AR, Italia
Directions(opens in a new window)5.Dive into the green mountains
If hiking is your sport, take a trip to the mountains to the green Pratomagno, the mountains that divide the Casentino area from the Valdarno. Start in the town of Loro Ciuffenna and hike as far as Croce: the views from the top are some of the most beautiful in all of Tuscany, reaching as far as Lazio and Umbria.
Check out the website of CAI Valdarno Superiore and find out various itineraries you can follow.
How to reach
Via Panoramica del Pratomagno, 52024 Loro Ciuffenna AR, Italia
Directions(opens in a new window)What’s nearby?
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