Winter in Tuscany: art cities, castles and the Carnival

In Tuscany, there are a host of opportunities to experience different kinds of winter wonderland environments. From art cities to seaside towns, a wealth of events are sure to please throughout the winter season. Particularly fun are ski sports activities in the Apennines.   

In wintertime, Florence becomes even more charming. A perfect way to see the city in a romantic and magical light is by taking a stroll along the Arno river at sunset, under the street lights that illuminate the Arno. To keep out of the cold, slip into one of the historical cafes in the city centre, and try a traditional Florentine pastry. Nineteenth and twentieth century artists and poets that refuted tradition used to meet in these cafes to debate and discuss their latest innovations.  

 The antique fair is an important monthly event in Arezzo, the city of gold. From the jewels of the Val di Chiana area to the treasures of the Casentino, castles in the Arezzo are the area's main protagonists. In the mountainous part, visitors can follow a religious itinerary to explore the churches, abbeys and convents that are immersed in the thick woodlands of the Casentino forest.  The ancient hermitages that are surrounded by natural treasures in this protected area have, nonetheless, keep their authenticity over the centuries.         

 In February, the crowd-pulling event that brings colour and joy to the grey days of winter returns to Viareggio. Carnival in Viareggio is marked by papier-mâché floats steeped in stinging satire, extravagant costumes and crazy street parties. The Versilia area is not only characterized by its golden beaches along the coastline, but also by its inland towns and exciting nightlife.  

Tuscan ski resorts in the Apennines are a definite paradise for skiers. The Pistoia Mountains, which has an extensive network of ski slopes, are perfect for everyone, from snow boarders to cross-country skiers. If skiing is not your thing, then go on an nature excursion to enjoy breathtaking views―in winter! The Apuan Alps, cloaked in the white of its marble and snow, have a long and important history. This is where Michelangelo chose the marble for his masterworks. From the peaks of the Apuan Alps, visitors can travel down to the Lunigiana, where a wealth of nature excursions reveal grottos, botanical gardens and natural parks.