Simply put, Tuscany in June is a lovely time to explore all that the region has to offer. It offers the perfect combo of things to do and see amidst the delightful climate.
The month sees numerous festivals and traditional celebrations, including a flower market and a cherry festival. Towns exhibit their rustic charm with medieval games and competitions. Nature comes to life as things warm up, resulting in flourishing green hills and blooming flowers. There’s certainly no shortage of fascinating things to do during this time.
Keep reading to best prepare for your dream Tuscan trip in June.
Weather in Tuscany in June
The weather in Tuscany in June is generally pleasant, with plenty of sunshine and warmth as summer begins. The territory comes to life with daytime temperatures around 60 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit. Rain showers aren’t common, but can happen.
What Are the Best 10 Things to Do in Tuscany in June?
1. Feast of San Giovanni in Florence
Every year, Florence celebrates the city’s patron saint, San Giovanni, on June 24th. Since it’s a public holiday, many restaurants and stores will be closed, but there’s plenty to do during the whole day.
Things get started in the morning with a historical procession from Piazza Signoria to the Baptistry, which was dedicated to the saint. The parade is a colorful array of costumes, banners, and drums and ends with an offering of candles in the baptistry.
The final match of the Calcio Storico Fiorentino, or historic Florentine soccer, occurs in the afternoon. It’s one of the most popular events of the day.
Don’t forget about the dazzling fireworks show that takes place at night. The best gathering spots to watch from are along the Arno River, including Ponte alla Carraia and Ponte Santa Trinità.
Read more: The Top 12 Books About Florence
2. The Luminara in Pisa
Although Pisa is most famous for its leaning tower, Luminara in Pisa is a magical spectacle held annually in the city on June 16th. The event, which celebrates the patron saint San Ranieri, illuminates the city’s skyline above the Arno River.
Thousands of wax candles are placed along the river’s banks, and floating candles are put into the flowing waters. The historic buildings that line the Arno are adorned with lights, while the famous leaning tower is decorated with oil lamps.
As dusk approaches, a soft golden glow bathes the city and transforms it into a scene out of a fairytale.
Festivities are met with a grand fireworks display later in the night, adding a pop of color to the night sky. The tradition dates back to 1688, although it was officially given the name Luminaria in the 19th century.
Explore more: 15 Castles in Tuscany – An Enchanting World of Timeless Beauty
3. Visit Capalbio and the Tarot Garden
The town of Capalbio is a wonderful destination located in Tuscany’s Maremma region. It sits right next to the Mediterranean coast and has plenty of attractions.
Inside Capalbio, visitors can check out the church of San Nicola, the stone city walls, and the Rocca Aldobrandesca castle. These gems are gateways into the town’s medieval roots, as well as Renaissance, Gothic, and Romanesque art.
The Giardino dei Tarocchi, or the Tarot Garden, is another must-visit in Capalbio. This artistic park consists of fascinating sculptures made by the French-American artist Niki de Saint Phalle. Eccentric colors, glass, and holographic ceramic tiles make up funky art pieces that can’t be missed.
4. Giostra del Saracino in Arezzo
The Giostra del Saracino, or Saracen Joust, is an exciting event that takes spectators back to ancient times. This ancient game of chivalry is hundreds of years old and takes place in Arezzo, an enchanting town in eastern Tuscany.
Participants are organized according to the 4 quarters of Arezzo and wear traditional medieval attire with colors to represent their team. The tournament is held in Piazza Grande, where the town sets up a majestic jousting arena.
Jousters enter the arena on galloping horses to the music of trumpets and horns before the real competition begins. Spectators watch as the competitors, with their lances, charge a wooden target representing the Saracen enemy.
Join the electric crowd and cheer for the jousters on the second to last Saturday of June.
5. Calcio Storico in Florence
The previously mentioned Calcio Storico is a phenomenon that occurs throughout the month of June, with the semifinals shortly before the final on June 24th.
Despite its name, the historic sport isn’t exactly like what we call soccer today. It’s known for its rough nature and fierce competitiveness and combines elements of wrestling, rugby, and football.
Like many other traditional Florentine contests, this adrenaline-fueled game organizes competitors into teams depending on the district they were born in. Each team is associated with a district and a color. The Bianchi (white) team is associated with Santo Spirito, the Azzurri (blue) with Santa Croce, the Verdi (green) with San Giovanni, and the Rossi (red) with Santa Maria Novella).
If you’re in or around Florence during one of these exciting matches, don’t skip on joining the stands.
6. Explore the Tuscan Countryside
Of the 20 regions in Italy, Tuscany is perhaps most easily recognized for its picturesque countryside.
With rolling hills blanketed in verdant green grass, olive groves, and vineyards, the region is a patchwork of vibrant colors and lush flora in June. No trip to Tuscany is complete without a tour of wineries or vineyards. Try a classic Chianti wine in Castellina in Chianti, or a unique Super Tuscan wine in Bolgheri.
The countryside also has natural hot springs, like Saturnia Hot Springs, San Casciano dei Bagni, and Bagni San Filippo, which offer opportunities for relaxation in nature.
Small villages, medieval towns, and fascinating castles dot the landscape as well, offering historic and cultural attractions throughout the region. Whether you’re taking in the views from a hilltop, enjoying a hot spring, or sipping wine, Tuscany’s countryside is sure to capture your heart.
Explore more: Rapolano Terme – Secret Hot Springs In Tuscany
7. Flower Market in Gaiole in Chianti
Gaiole in Chianti, a town with beautiful churches, vineyards, and castles, offers a glimpse into medieval life. Some of its best attractions include the Castle of Meleto, the Chiesa di San Sigismondo, and the Cantalici Winery.
One of Gaiole in Chianti’s most notable events is the Mercati dei Fiori (Flower Market), which takes place every year in early June. Piazza Ricasoli, the historic center’s main square, transforms into a rainbow of colors as flowers fill up the cobbled streets.
Florists and horticulturalists gather from all over Tuscany to show off their varieties of flowers and plants. The varieties at the market include begonias, roses, hydrangeas, citrus fruits, herbs, and more, creating an aromatic perfume that penetrates the air.
8. Cherry Festival in Carmignano
From June 2nd to June 5th, la Festa della Ciliegia is celebrated in the town of Bacchereto, located in the Comune of Carmignano.
Food stands and music events fill the exciting weekend. Visitors can eat a mouthwatering meal including cured meats, pasta, salads, meat, and other dishes.
The real stars of the show are treats showcasing cherries, like cherry tart, cherry cheesecake, and other pastries with this sweet fruit. And of course, you can’t leave the Cherry Festival without trying fresh cherries.
9. BEAP – Craft Beer Festival in Agliana
Just a 40-minute drive northwest of Florence is the comune of Agliana. Tuscany is known for its wines, but if you’re looking for something different, head to the comune’s Parco di Carabattole in early June.
The park hosts a multi-day craft beer festival that’s supplemented by entertaining music shows. Multiple craft breweries, most of which are from Tuscany, are brought to the event.
Besides the booze and the tunes, people can check out the games as well as the food, coffee, and ice cream spaces.
10. Palio del Cero in Volterra
This annual event is held in the enchanting town of Volterra, most famous for its role in the Twilight sequel. The Palio del Cero is a captivating celebration that represents the town’s medieval history and a strong sense of community.
The competition is similar to modern-day tug-of-war, but it has a twist: a wooden structure stands at the center of the chaos, holding a wax candle called the cero. In order to win, a team must pull their opponents and also move the wooden tower to its own field.
Don’t miss out on this awesome opportunity to witness a special spectacle that brings Volterra together!
Best Hotels and Spas in Tuscany in June
Agri Resort & SPA Le Colline del Paradiso
Agri Resort & SPA Le Colline del Paradiso – This agritourism, located in the hills near Florence, combines traditional Tuscan life with luxurious spa treatments. Classic stone walls and crystal chandeliers are met with contemporary decor and facilities. The spa and wellness center includes a sauna, a relaxation room, and the opportunity to have a relaxing Swedish massage.
Hotel Terme Marine Leopoldo II
Hotel Terme Marine Leopoldo II – Hotel Terme Marine Leopoldo II sits in the center of Marina di Grosseto, just 150 meters from the Mediterranean beach. The modern hotel includes a sun terrace, 2 outdoor pools, and a wellness center inside. The center features a Turkish bath, a Finnish sauna, a Rasul mud bath, hydrotherapy pools, and more.
Monastero di Cortona Hotel & Spa
The Monastero di Cortona Hotel & Spa – This hotel and spa is located in Cortona, near the Parco Regionale del Lago Trasimeno and the Umbria-Tuscany border. Monastero di Cortona features a rooftop garden, a grand indoor pool, and jacuzzi located in an ancient cistern, and an outdoor pool.
What to Pack and Wear in Tuscany in June
When packing for your June trip to Tuscany, make sure to keep the weather and average temperature in mind. June is generally a very pleasant time to visit the region, but keep in mind that the weather can vary, so it’s best to be well-prepared.
Here are some things to remember to pack in your suitcase:
- Lightweight clothing – Bring light and breathable clothes like button-ups, t-shirts, shorts, skirts, and dresses.
- Layering options – Although things are warming up in June, it’s a good idea to bring layers like sweaters or sweatshirts for cooler evenings.
- Swimwear – If you’re planning to go for a dip in a swimming pool or in the Mediterranean along the coast, don’t forget your bathing suit!
- Comfortable shoes – Make sure you bring comfy and breathable walking shoes so that you can explore the towns and countryside.
- Sun protection – Since June in Tuscany sees a lot of sunshine, you’ll want sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat to protect yourself.
- Backpack – A small backpack is essential for carrying around essentials like water, your sun protection, and more.
- Camera – If you have a camera, don’t forget to capture the views that surround you in the cities, towns, and hillsides.
- Charging cable adapter – Remember that Italian outlets differ from other outlets around the world, so your charger might not work here without an adapter.
- Mosquito repellent – Mosquitoes are just starting to come out this time of year, so you’ll want some mosquito repellent to keep them away.
- Light rain jacket or umbrella – Although June is generally a dry month in this region, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tuscany in June
Is Tuscany Crowded in June?
During this month, the Tuscan region attracts a moderate number of visitors. The result is a lively (but not overcrowded) atmosphere, and it’s overall an enjoyable time to visit.
Some of the most-visited destinations include Florence, Pisa, Siena, and Chianti, some of which are the more expensive towns or cities in Tuscany. Read further to learn about some of the best places to stay that won’t break the budget.
Is June a Good Time to visit Tuscany?
Yes, June is a wonderful time to visit Tuscany! Between the pleasant weather, outdoor festivals and events, and longer daylight hours, visitors can experience the best of the region.
Does it Rain in Tuscany in June?
Tuscany generally has low rainfall in June.
Are there Mosquitoes in Tuscany in June?
Yes, the mosquitoes start to come out around June given the warm temperatures. While they aren’t as prevalent as they are during July and August, it’s a good idea to carry insect repellent.
