For those who like to travel when tourist crowds are at their smallest, winter is a great time to visit Tuscany: it is when you can readily visit the most famous and popular tourist attractions without having to queue for long periods of time, when prices for things and various travel costs are often at their lowest, when things are most authentic and locals have the most energy for visitors as they aren’t coming in their swathes, and it is when the whole region seems like a different place entirely without the tourist crowds that arrive in summer.
However, you might also wish to experience many of the traditions and festivals that only take place during the high season in Tuscany. If this is the case, then fear not as the town of Buti, near Pisa, has the answer for you and makes for an ideal winter destination in Tuscany. If you are looking for the best time of year to visit Pisa, then come in time for the Palio di Buti. Find a vacation rental in Pisa and head to this town and this festival to get a slice of the palio tradition while enjoying the most peaceful time of the year in the region.
However, you might also wish to experience many of the traditions and festivals that only take place during the high season in Tuscany. If this is the case, then fear not as the town of Buti, near Pisa, has the answer for you and makes for an ideal winter destination in Tuscany. If you are looking for the best time of year to visit Pisa, then come in time for the Palio di Buti. Find a vacation rental in Pisa and head to this town and this festival to get a slice of the palio tradition while enjoying the most peaceful time of the year in the region.
Taking place on the first Sunday of January after the Feast Day of Sant’Antonio Abate, the Palio di Buti dates all the way back to the 17th century, though the first modern edition was technically in 1961, making it one of the oldest palio events, or traditional horse racing and jousting events in Italy. While less famous than the well-known palio in Siena, this event is no less fascinating and far less fraught and crowded. Starting on the 19th of January 2020 next year, it will open with the presentation of the horsemen in Piazza Garibaldi at 6pm.
Then, on the 20th, at 8am, there is the traditional tripe and wine breakfast in the various contrade (or neighbourhoods of town, which will compete against each other) followed by a historical re-enactment with competitors and others parading through town in costume, and then a blessing of the horses. The actual races will then begin around 2pm and take place along an uphill route for about 750m along the town’s main road. Then there is a big ceremony to award the winner.
The whole thing is vibrant, traditional, unique, and fascinating and a must-see for those spending time in Tuscany next January!
Then, on the 20th, at 8am, there is the traditional tripe and wine breakfast in the various contrade (or neighbourhoods of town, which will compete against each other) followed by a historical re-enactment with competitors and others parading through town in costume, and then a blessing of the horses. The actual races will then begin around 2pm and take place along an uphill route for about 750m along the town’s main road. Then there is a big ceremony to award the winner.
The whole thing is vibrant, traditional, unique, and fascinating and a must-see for those spending time in Tuscany next January!
