Florence and the coast



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If you lust for sea, beach and sunbathing, near Florence, on the Tuscan coast, you may find what you are looking for. The Tuscan coast offers something for everyone. Crazy nightlife or relax on the beach? Wild nature or bathing establishment? Depending on the kind of holiday that you are dreaming for, in Tuscany you may choose Versilia, Etruscan Coast or Maremma, the three main regions that compose the Tuscan Coast.

The coast offers different landscapes such as the long sandy beaches of Versilia and Etruscan Coast, the wild, uncontaminated nature of Maremma, the rocky promontory of the Monte Argentario, and the crystalline sea of the islands of the archipelago. Very few regions can boast the same variety of landscapes and natural environments as this area.

 

Versilia and its nightlife

From the villas to the museums, from sandy beaches to crazy nightlife Versilia is the favourite destination for young people and, in general, for anyone that loves a fashionable lifestyle made of shopping, cultural entertainments, elegant restaurant and glamourous nightlife. Versilia is definitely a place to catch sun and to be seen. In the evening you may enjoy a walk on the promenade with hotels, restaurants and discos looking over the sea. Don’t miss a night at La Capannina - a historical night club in Forte dei Marmi -, at Twiga - the most glamourous club -, or at Beach Club - bathing establishment, restaurant and club for each moment of the day. The beach in Versilia is very wide and long and goes from Marina di Massa to Torre del Lago. From Viareggio to Forte dei Marmi the coast is studded with bathing establishments that provide deckchairs and umbrellas, changing rooms, showers, bars with snacks and restaurants. Here you won't find a free beach. So, if you prefer this kind of beach, surely less expensive, it’s better for you to head south toward Livorno and Grosseto.

Etruscan Coast for families

Heading south to the Etruscan coast, the beaches get shorter and more narrow. This part of the coast is particularly suitable for families as the beach is protected from the open sea by large rock walls. Furthermore there are a lot of services for families with children. For example, your children will love AcquaVillage, a waterpark in Cecina, where they will surely enjoy among pools, slides and many other attractions. Marina di Pisa, Quercianella, Castiglioncello, Vada, Cecina, Marina di Bibbona, Castagneto Carducci, San Vincenzo are some vivacious and gracious towns along this coast. They offer boardwalks with bars, ice cream parlours and restaurants.

In front of the Etruscan Coast, the Tuscan Archipelago is the largest protected sea area in Europe, with a great variety of habitats, that hosts a wide range of species. From the beaches of Elba to the rocky cliffs of Capraia, a myriad of vegetable and animal species lives in this fascinating natural environment.

Maremma and its wild nature

The most southern part of the Tuscan coast is called Maremma. This area is very popular among Italians and foreigners. Families rent small apartments along the seacoast during the summer and move here for the month of August. There are many positive aspects in this part of the coast: the sea is clean and clear, there are long sandy beaches as well as some areas with reef, free beaches and bathing establishment. In short, a wide variety of possibilities. And, above all, here the nature is the most uncontaminated of all Tuscany. The Maremma Regional Park is located in the province of Grosseto. It is definitely worth visiting! It features a chain of hills that roll towards the sea with sandy beaches and cliffs, surrounded by marshes and pine groves. It covers 25 km of coast from the mouth of the Ombrone river to Talamone. Here you may enjoy wild nature discovering aromatic herbs, plants and animals.

Top Experiences and Tours in Florence

If youʻre booking your trip to Florence last minute, we have you covered. Below are some of the top tours and experiences!

Florence: Cinque Terre Day Trip with Optional Hiking or Pisa

Florence: Cinque Terre Day Trip with Optional Hiking or Pisa

Highlights

  • Discover the colorful villages that make up the Cinque Terre
  • Marvel at the houses built on steep cliffs overlooking the Ligurian Sea
  • Take a refreshing swim in the sea or explore local boutiques
  • Enjoy a boat ride along the coast and take pictures of the stunning coastline
  • Add Pisa to your itinerary and visit 3 Cinque Terre villages

Description

Get a taste of 'la dolce vita' on this jam-packed tour to the Cinque Terre, a collection of quintessential Italian towns dotted along the coast of Tuscany. After meeting your guide in central Florence, listen to an insightful introduction about the Cinque Terre on the 2-hour bus journey to La Spezia, where you board the first train of the day. Arrive in Manarola, the first of the Cinque Terre villages you will visit. Here you will join a small guided walk through the vines, and then enjoy some free time to explore at your own pace. Next, take the train to Corniglia. (if you choose the tour option with Pisa, you will be visiting Vernazza, Monterosso and Riomaggiore with boat ride but no hike) Climb the steps to reach the center of the quaint village and wander around. Then, choose to either go on a guided hike to Vernazza, or if you prefer to take it easy, follow your guide and take a train instead. Once in Vernazza, sit at one of the local cafés, or take a dip in the sea. Next, board a train to Monterosso, the village renowned for its beautiful beaches and artisan shops. If the weather allows it, you will then board a boat to navigate along the coast of the Cinque Terre. Arrive in Riomaggiore, an ancient fishing village and the most southern of the 5 villages. After exploring this last village, board the train back to La Spezia and then take the coach back to Florence.

Includes

Return transportation by bus or minivan from Florence Knowledgeable and engaging expert guide Entry ticket to Cinque Terre National Park Boat ride (April to October only, weather permitting) Train tickets Guided hike from Corniglia to Vernazza (if hike option selected) Free time in Vernazza, Monterosso, Riomaggiore and Pisa (if Pisa option is selected)

Important Information

  • • The itinerary may change due to the closure of paths, bad weather, or unforeseen events
  • If you would like to stay in Cinque Terre after the tour ends, or depart from Florence by train after the tour, you are welcome to bring your luggage with you
  • It is recommended to book any rail travel from Florence after 9:30 PM, to allow time for any traffic delays on your return journey
  • From November 1 to March 31, the boat service is not available and will be replaced with transportation by train
  • In case of bad weather the boat ride will not be available. In this case, it will be replaced with transportation by train

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

Florence: Chianti Wineries Tour with Wine Tasting

Florence: Chianti Wineries Tour with Wine Tasting

Highlights

  • Head to the heart of the Tuscan countryside on this half-day trip from Florence
  • Visit 2 authentic vineyards and taste a variety of different wines
  • Admire the beautiful landscape of the rolling Chianti Hills
  • Sample local products such as cheese, olive oil, and other regional products
  • Learn about the history and culture of the local area from your expert guide

Description

After meeting your guide and boarding the coach, drive to the Chianti region. On the way to the first winery, your guide will share interesting facts and curiosities about the landmarks you will see along the route. Arrive at the first “cantina” of the day, where you will be welcomed by the winemakers. After listening to a brief introduction about the winery’s history and the types of wine made there, join a guided tour of the facilities and nearby vineyards. Learn all about the winemaking process, the materials used to make the barrels, and what it takes to be classified as a “Chianti Classico”. Then, begin your first tasting session of 3-4 different wines. You will hear an explanation of each of the wines that you taste, as well as some tips on how to savor the wine and understand its qualities. The wines will be accompanied by local snacks produced in the region, such as cheese, bread, olive oil, and salami. Jump back on the bus and continue your adventure to the second winery. At the second winery, learn everything about their production methods, what is unique about their wines, and how weather can affect the grapes. Explore the facilities during a short guided tour, and walk through the vineyards. Then, sample another round of up to 3 wines, as the local charismatic wine producer tells you about the peculiarities of each. After some free time, to enjoy the beauty of your surroundings and to take some great pictures, head back to Florence in your comfortable fully-fitted GT bus.

Includes

Transportation by fully-fitted GT bus Wifi on board Tour leader Guided wine tasting at 2 different Chianti wineries Tasting of 3-4 wines at each stop Tuscan products tasting (bread, extra-virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salami)

Important Information

  • If you are traveling with a group of friends but each of you makes a single booking, there is no guarantee that you will be assigned to the same bus.
  • The group may be split into two smaller groups for the winery tours. • After each wine tasting experience, you will be able to enjoy some free time. roaming around the winery at your own pace or simply relaxing and taking in the beautiful views of the Tuscan vineyards.
  • At both wineries, you will have the opportunity to purchase wine by the bottle or by the box and can take it home with you or have it shipped.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

From Florence: Siena, San Gimignano & Monteriggioni Tour

From Florence: Siena, San Gimignano & Monteriggioni Tour

Highlights

  • Visit San Gimignano, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Discover the views in Monteriggioni, a dazzling hilltop town
  • Wine tasting is provided in a farmhouse located in the heart of Chianti

Description

Experience the charm of Tuscany on a day trip to Siena, San Gimignano, and Monteriggioni from Florence. Try a variety of Chianti wines paired with snacks and admire the picturesque Tuscan hills.  Cross the beautiful Chianti hills as you ride south from Florence in an air-conditioned GT bus. The first stop is at Monteriggioni, a medieval hilltop town that is famous for its intact medieval city walls. After some free time, head to the world famous Siena. Explore the Piazza del Campo, that is known for the Palio Horse Race and for its splendid examples of Gothic civic architecture. Have time to visit the magnificent Palazzo Pubblico.  Arrive in San Gimignano, a medieval town declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Take time to wind your way through the narrow streets and admire the lush landscape. Finally, head to the Chianti area and enjoy postcard-perfect landscapes. Conclude your day at a famous wine estate and taste fine Chianti red wine along with homemade snacks.

Includes

Round-trip transportation in air-conditioned bus Free time in Siena, San Gimignano, and Monteriggioni Visit to a wine cellar Wine tasting Oil and balsamic vinegar tasting Snack A guided tour of Siena (if option selected)

Important Information

  • This tour is conducted in multiple languages at the same time
  • English and Spanish languages are always guaranteed; a minimum of 4 pax is required for French, Italian or Portuguese
  • Please note that semi-independent options do not include the guided tour in Siena
  • The order of the towns visited on the route is subject to change

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

From Florence: Chianti Tour with Two Wine and Food Tastings

From Florence: Chianti Tour with Two Wine and Food Tastings

Highlights

  • Explore the scenic Chianti hills along the historic Via Chiantigiana
  • Visit two authentic family-run organic wineries in the Chianti Classico area
  • Enjoy guided cellar tours and learn the secrets of traditional winemaking
  • Taste a selection of premium Chianti wines paired with local Tuscan products
  • Walk among vineyards, olive groves and postcard-perfect Tuscan landscapes

Description

Discover the authentic heart of Tuscany on a journey through the world-famous Chianti wine region, celebrated for its rolling hills, ancient vineyards, and timeless charm. Travel along the scenic Via Chiantigiana, surrounded by olive groves, cypress-lined roads, medieval villages, and historic estates. Your first stop is a welcoming organic Chianti Classico winery, where the owner will guide you through the vineyards and cellars, revealing the secrets of traditional winemaking. Enjoy a guided tasting of their finest wines paired with delicious local products. Continue through the breathtaking countryside to a second family-run winery, known for its passion, authenticity, and outstanding wine quality. Walk among the vines, explore the cellar and aromatic garden, and delight in a tasting of four selected wines perfectly matched with Tuscan flavors. A unique opportunity to savor, learn, relax, and bring home a taste of Tuscany at its finest. Reserve your place and experience Chianti like a local. Please note that the order of the visits may change

Includes

Multilingual staff assistance at the meeting point Round-trip transport by air-conditioned coach Licensed tour guide for the entire experience Guided visits at two organic Chianti wineries (cellars and vineyards) Two Chianti wine tastings paired with local Tuscan products

Important Information

  • Please be advised that it is required to bring your original ID with you during the tour. Please note: this tour involves uphill and downhill walking routes in hilltop villages. Therefore we regret to inform you that it is not suitable for people with wheelchairs or with impaired mobility. Clients with motor disabilities or wheelchair users are encouraged to notify the tour organizer in advance and seek medical advice to ensure suitability of services. Our tours and transportation are not suitable for people with motor disabilities or wheelchair users, so to prioritize the safety and well-being of all involved, the driver and tour manager retain the right to decline participation if they believe it may compromise safety. This decision rests solely with them, and no compensation will be provided in such cases. By accepting these terms, clients agree to respect decisions made by staff regarding participation.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

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