Travelling is all about unique experiences that you won’t forget, memories that will last a lifetime, shared with people you love, new friends, or even just made on your own as you expand your horizons. Sometimes these experiences involve ticking a famous sight off your bucket list and finally seeing something with your own eyes. Sometimes it’s something big. Other times, however, it is the small things that stand out most, the little moments. These sorts of travel experiences and memories mostly can’t be planned but you can set yourself up to have one of these quietly wonderful moments by being in the right place, at the right time, with the right attitude. Come with a spirit of whimsy and joy and you’ll really make the most of it while you vacation in Tuscany...
Piazzale Michelangelo at Sunset
This spot has always been one of the best places to take in a view over the city’s iconic skyline if you book a villa in Florence but, in recent years, it has become especially popular at sunset, drawing musicians, tourists, locals, and more, who gather to eat dinners picnic-style, sip a drink, listen to music, chat, and watch the city painted in glowing shades as the sun sets. For some, the hustle and bustle might be off-putting but if you lean into it, go along with it, and soak it all up, the opportunity to have fun with strangers, enjoy some gorgeous views, and make lifelong memories is right there!
Chasing the Mist
The Val D’Orcia is a famously lovely part of the Tuscan countryside that is charming at all times. However, if you get up really early and head out in search of blankets of fog, you’ll be able to enjoy the scenery at its most exceptionally picturesque. Maybe you’ll find the views you’re looking for, maybe you won’t but if you head out to explore, make sure to stop for something tasty along the way, and keep your eyes open for all sorts of beauty even beyond those postcard-perfect shots, then it will be in no way a wasted effort! In fact, the sense of adventure behind this idea alone is sure to set you up for an unforgettable day during a stay in one of our holiday rentals in the Val D’Orcia!
Rain on Cobblestones
Heading to a villa in Tuscany off-season? Maybe in the fall or spring? Well, you’re a little more likely to encounter rain at these times of the year. While this can be annoying, it can also be picturesque, if you look at it the right way. Dress for the weather (but maybe with a slightly chicer, Italian flair) and duck between museums, churches, eateries, bars, and more, all while enjoying the smaller tourist crowds. Best of all, lots of Tuscan towns look rather charming in the rain, especially when the cobblestones glisten with it – just be sure to watch your footing as they can be slippery when wet!
Aperitivo Time
We recently wrote about the best places to enjoy an aperitivo in Florence but we would emphasise here how much taking on local customs and lifestyles can really make everything so much more delicious! Slow down, enjoy your surroundings, chat over meals for hours, and be sure to enjoy some aperitivi while sitting out in pretty piazze, letting the world go by... now that’s la dolce vita.
