4 reasons to visit Tuscany in spring

The hills turn a vibrant green, fields burst into red poppies, and the air is filled with the scent of wisteria and jasmine. It is the season when nature awakens and reveals its most authentic side. If you are wondering when to visit Tuscany, spring is undoubtedly one of the best times of the year.
And Hotel Ilaria, in the heart of Lucca, is the perfect base for exploring the region at its finest. Here are four reasons why you should choose spring for your trip.

In spring, the Tuscan countryside is simply breathtaking. The rolling hills of Chianti and the Val d’Orcia glow with a brilliant green that contrasts with the dark cypress trees and white country roads. Vineyards begin to bud, olive trees blossom, and red poppies dot the rural paths. It is the ideal time to explore the region’s natural parks: from the Maremma Park, with its pine forests and wild beaches, to the Apuan Alps Park, where white marble mountains shine under the spring sun.
Even a simple walk along Lucca’s city walls, just a short distance from Hotel Ilaria, becomes a memorable experience beneath trees in bloom. And if you wish to combine nature with relaxation, Tuscany’s natural hot springs—such as Saturnia or Bagni San Filippo—are perfect: the warm water feels soothing without being overwhelming, while the surroundings are lush and green.

Spring offers bright days and mild temperatures, ideal for walking, visiting towns and cities without the intensity of summer heat. Mornings can be fresh, but by afternoon the sun feels pleasantly warm, and in the evening a light jacket is all you need.
This climate invites you to enjoy an aperitif outdoors in a piazza, stroll through local markets or take gentle hikes in the hills. Lucca, Florence, Siena, San Gimignano and Pienza: Tuscany’s art cities are best explored in spring, away from the crowds and the oppressive heat of the summer months.

Spring is considered the “low season”. This means less crowded museums, shorter queues at Tuscany’s iconic landmarks—such as the Uffizi Gallery or Florence Cathedral—and restaurants where you can find a table without booking weeks in advance.
This allows you to experience the region more authentically, without feeling part of a crowd. Medieval villages reveal their charm undisturbed, and you have the opportunity to connect with locals, discover artisan workshops and stop in small trattorias where traditional family recipes are still served. Prices are also more accessible: hotels, restaurants and tourist services tend to offer lower rates than in summer, allowing you to enjoy a high-quality experience while spending less.

Spring is the season of sagre—traditional local festivals dedicated to a patron saint or a typical regional product. These are authentic events where locals gather to dine together at long communal tables, dance outdoors and celebrate their culture. Taking part in a sagra means immersing yourself in local life and tasting traditional dishes prepared using recipes passed down through generations.
Local markets also come alive with seasonal produce: asparagus, artichokes, broad beans, peas, strawberries, cherries and apricots. It is the perfect time for a Tuscan picnic with pecorino cheese, cured meats, homemade bread and a good local wine. Wineries also begin to open their doors for spring tastings: Chianti Classico, Brunello di Montalcino and Vernaccia di San Gimignano await you in their places of origin.

Book your spring stay at Hotel Ilaria and explore our region at its most enjoyable time of year, when Tuscany reveals itself in its most authentic and enchanting form.