Dreaming of a Tuscan getaway with the little ones? Look no further! Our family adventure through Tuscany was all about stunning landscapes, mouth-watering food, and unforgettable moments together. Here’s how you can experience Tuscany with kids, ensuring everyone—from toddlers to teens—has the time of their lives.
Kid-Friendly Fun in Florence
Our Tuscan adventure kicked off in the heart of Florence, a city brimming with history, art, and (of course) incredible food. Knowing that our kids had limited patience for museums, we streamlined our Florence visit, spending just one night to hit the highlights. The Accademia Gallery was our top pick, where Michelangelo’s David stole the show. This colossal statue left even our youngest in awe—proof that Renaissance art can captivate kids!
Where to Stay in Tuscany with Kids
Finding the right accommodations is key when traveling as a family. In Florence, we opted for the Grand Hotel Cavour, which offers spacious family suites at a reasonable price. These suites feature separate sleeping areas—an absolute must for us to get a good night’s sleep. Florence is full of great options, but choosing a place that balances comfort with convenience made all the difference for us.
While Tuscany is famous for its charming agriturismos, we decided to take it up a notch by staying in a real castle! Castello de San Fabiano, our home base in the Tuscan countryside, offered an authentic experience steeped in history. The family-owned castle welcomed us with warm hospitality and a breakfast spread fit for royalty. Though the rooms are more rustic than luxurious, the atmosphere and setting more than made up for it.
Where to Eat in Tuscany with Kids
Let’s be honest—kids may tolerate art, but they’re really in it for the food. Florence did not disappoint! Our first stop was the Mercato Centrale, a bustling food hall where we devoured some of the best pizza we’ve ever had. If you’re looking for a sit-down meal, don’t miss Alla Vecchia Bettola, a hidden gem where we had the most divine penne alla vodka. The kids loved it so much that they’ve been asking for “vodka pasta” ever since!
And what’s a trip to Florence without indulging in gelato? As the birthplace of this creamy delight, the city offers countless spots to satisfy your sweet tooth. Our favorite? Gelateria La Carraia—where even the pickiest eaters found flavors they loved.
Pro tip: use gelato as a bribe for good behavior (it worked wonders for us!).
Family Fun in Tuscany: A Hands-On Cooking Class at Casa dell’Abate Naldi
Tuscany isn’t just about eating—it’s about making memories in the kitchen! We had the pleasure of cooking with a local nonna at Casa dell’Abate Naldi where our kids got hands-on with making pici, a traditional Tuscan pasta. The highlight for the little ones? Crafting (and devouring) chocolate salami. This immersive experience was one of the most memorable parts of our trip and something our girls still talk about today.
Exploring Siena: Medieval Magic and Sweet Treats
Next on our Tuscan itinerary was Siena, a medieval town that felt like stepping back in time. The kids were fascinated by the unique slanted shape of Piazza del Campo, where they spent hours running around (and trying to roll down the slope). While they played, we enjoyed a well-deserved cocktail at a nearby café.
A trip to Siena wouldn’t be complete without tasting ricciarelli, the delicious almond biscuits that are a local specialty. Nuovo Pasticceria is the place to go for these sugar-dusted treats. Just a heads up—many Tuscan towns, including Siena, have strict traffic regulations, and we learned the hard way when we received a ticket after returning home!
San Gimignano: Where Medieval Towers Meet Gelato Dreams
Did you know that Tuscany had its own version of skyscrapers? San Gimignano, known for its medieval towers, was a fascinating stop on our journey. During the Renaissance, merchant families showed off their wealth by building increasingly tall and splendid stone towers. At one point, there were 72 of them. Today, only 15 remain, but it makes for a striking skyline.
Our favorite spot in San Gimignano was Da I’ Mariani a tiny charcuterie shop where we sampled local meats, cheeses, and wine. It was exactly the kind of authentic, hyper-local meal that makes travel so special. Naturally, we ended the day with yet another gelato from the famed Gelateria Dondoli., renowned for its inventive flavors.
Wine Tasting in Tuscany with Kids: Yes, It’s Possible!
Tuscany is renowned for its world-class wines, and while kids might not appreciate the nuances of a good Chianti, that doesn’t mean the whole family can’t enjoy a visit to a vineyard. We found that with a little planning, wine tasting in Tuscany with kids can be an enjoyable experience for everyone. Here’s how we made it work and some additional recommendations for a family-friendly wine adventure!
Our Experience Wine Tasting with Kids at Azienda Agricola Palagetto
When we visited Azienda Agricola Palagetto, we were pleasantly surprised by how accommodating they were for families. While we savored a selection of their exquisite wines, the kids had plenty to keep them engaged. The vineyard’s spacious grounds allowed them to run around, explore, and play games while we enjoyed our tasting session. The welcoming staff even set up a small play area with toys and activities for the little ones.
Family-Friendly Wineries in Tuscany
Castello di Verrazzano
- Location: Greve in Chianti
- Highlights: Nestled in the heart of Chianti, Castello di Verrazzano is more than just a vineyard—it’s a family-friendly experience. While adults indulge in wine tastings featuring some of the best Chianti Classico, kids can explore the estate’s vast grounds, interact with farm animals, and enjoy a dedicated play area. The tour is engaging for all ages, with a peek into historic cellars and fascinating stories of the castle’s past.
Fattoria Poggio Alloro
- Location: San Gimignano
- Highlights: Located near the picturesque town of San Gimignano, Fattoria Poggio Alloro offers a relaxing environment for both adults and children. The vineyard is not only known for its excellent wines but also for its working farm. Children can visit the farm animals, which include cows, chickens, and horses, making it an educational and enjoyable visit for the whole family. The vineyard also offers cooking classes, where the entire family can get hands-on with traditional Tuscan cuisine.
Tenuta di Capezzana
- Location: Carmignano
- Highlights: Tenuta di Capezzana provides an immersive experience that goes beyond wine tasting. The estate offers family-friendly tours where kids can learn about olive oil production and explore the beautiful vineyards. The guided tour includes a visit to the historical cellars and a wine-tasting session for adults, while kids can enjoy the scenic surroundings and discover the history of the estate.
Castello di Brolio
- Location: Gaiole in Chianti
- Highlights: Castello di Brolio is a magnificent castle and vineyard where history and wine blend seamlessly. The estate offers a comprehensive tour that includes a walk through the vineyards and gardens, a visit to the castle’s museum, and, of course, wine tasting for adults. For children, the guided tour includes stories of the castle’s rich history and a chance to explore the castle grounds. The estate is large enough for kids to roam freely and safely while parents enjoy the wine.
Tips for Enjoying Wine Tasting with Kids
1. Choose the Right Time and Setting
- Opt for wineries with large outdoor areas where kids can play freely. Scheduling your visit during quieter times can also ensure a more relaxed experience.
2. Look for Family-Friendly Activities
- Many Tuscan wineries offer activities designed for children. Look for those that provide farm animals, play areas or interactive tours.
3. Prepare for a Short Visit
- Keep wine tastings brief if you’re traveling with young children. Plan to spend part of your day at the vineyard and then head to a nearby attraction or park where the kids can burn off some energy.
4. Bring Snacks and Entertainment
- Pack snacks, drinks, and small toys or games to keep the kids content during the tasting. Some vineyards offer light refreshments or snacks that kids can enjoy as well. Now isn’t the time to be a hero. If a screen and headphones will give you an hour of peace to enjoy wine and adult conversation, then fire that bad boy up!
5. Engage the Kids in the Wine Experience
- Involve your children in the wine-making process by discussing how grapes are grown and harvested. Many wineries offer educational tours that can be made interesting for kids.
By planning your wine-tasting excursions with these tips and recommendations in mind, you can ensure a delightful experience for both adults and kids. Tuscany’s vineyards offer more than just fine wine—they provide memorable experiences for the whole family!
Farm Animals and Fantastic Tuscan Photos
I only regret that we didn’t get to Podere Il Casale earlier. This farm and garden produce everything it serves at its restaurant, and it struck the perfect balance between kid-friendly fun and refined flavors. The kids were overjoyed to mingle with farm animals and were bummed when it was too dark to see them. The drive through Pienza to arrive passed cypress trees and one of the most stunning sunsets I’ve ever seen. Other must-see photo spots in Tuscany include Podere Belvedere and the Cypress Road in Monticchiello.
The Secrets of Visiting Tuscany with Kids Revealed
Tuscany with kids is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be uncovered. And if you need a little boost, remember the magic word—gelato! Happy exploring!
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