Things to do in Florence, Italy: the 10 best experiences

The’quad bike excursion in the Val di Lima, in the mountains above Florence in Tuscany é an’activity’that makes you experience the nature of the’Tuscan-Emilian Apennines in a fun way, together with the performance Quad Yamaha Kodiak 700.

1-hour excursion - Livizzano:

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•    Departure: Livizzano Base Camp
•    Trail Duration: 11km - average 1 hour
•    Altitude: 600m

You will start the hike from the mule tracks, dirt roads, fords and small streams of ‘Livizzano’, continuing then along wooded trails that will allow you to return to the starting site.

3-hour hike (half day) - Monte Prato Fiorito:

•    Departure: Livizzano Base Camp
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•    Trail Duration: 33km - average 3 hours
•    Altitude: 600m to 1200m (elevation gain: 600m)

You will again start the hike from the mule tracks, dirt roads, fords and small streams of ‘Livizzano’.

The hike will then continue along wooded trails that will allow you to reach the spectacular views that await you on the slopes of Mount ‘Prato Fiorito’ at 1200m altitude.

5-hour hike (day) - Botri Gorge:

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•    Departure: Livizzano Base Camp
•    .
•    Trail Duration: 40km - average 5 hours
•    Altitude: 600m - 1200m - 900m (total elevation gain: 1200m)

Also in this option you will start the hike from the mule tracks, dirt roads, fords and small streams of ‘Livizzano’.

The hike will then continue along wooded trails that will allow you to reach the spectacular views that await you on the slopes of Mt. ‘Prato Fiorito’ at 1200m altitude.

The tour will then continue to the Orrido di Botri nature reserve where you will stop for lunch. Lunch consists of a set menu and must be paid for on site (15€ per person):

•    Tuscan appetizer
•    Bis of pasta
•    Water
•    Caffè 

For each selected tour, a briefing and initial test are provided before departure to explain how to use the ATV, so that you can ride it with ease and in complete safety.

Discover with a horseback ride the fantastic hills in the countryside around Lucca.

1h route:

during the horseback ride you will pass through an olive grove, go through a forest and arrive at a vantage point with spectacular views of the hills.

1h30 route:

during The second route you will instead cross the forest arriving at a point from where you can admire the plain of Lucca.

The horseback ride is suitable for everyone, no experience is needed.

Horseback experience for beginners, designed to introduce you to horseback riding in a safe and engaging way, with a final appetizer and photo shoot.

The activity begins with a short briefing and a lesson in the field to learn or brush up on basic commands and build an initial relationship with the horse, followed by a trial ride to gain more confidence. Afterwards, you will set off directly for a walk of about an hour through forests, fords and historic trails, passing under the Upezzinghi tower, to the abandoned convent of Nicosia and the Certosa di Calci, along a loop trail.

At the end of the hike, an aperitif awaits you in the stables with typical products, bread and wine, with options also available for special dietary needs. The experience is about 2 hours long, easy level and suitable for ages 8 and up, with ground accompaniment for younger riders. Also included is a photo shoot to remember the day.

If you choose to participate in the Garfagnana rafting experience on the Lima, you will have the opportunity to decide between 2 different experiences, classic rafting and packrafting.

Classic rafting This experience consists of a 4 km long descent on the Lima stream. During the adventure there will be a rafting guide who will allow you to learn more about the river environment and the magical world of rafting. The activity includes a stop at the footbridge waterfall for photo ops, 5m plunge at the old hydrometer and aquatics test in rapid. Technical equipment is provided and helmets have attachments for your action-cams. You can have the experience from November to May.

Packrafting

The activity consists of an easy perscorso of about 3.8 km duration with the "Packraft," a portable, lightweight and surprisingly sturdy one-person inflatable boat designed to navigate in any type of aquatic environment.

Experience the thrill of riding a Packraft through rapids and nature in the beautiful Mediavalle of the picturesque Serchio River just a few steps from the renowned Devil's Bridge. Clear water, thrills, breathtaking views and rapids await you.

All technical and safety equipment for activities is provided on site.

Open from March to July and September to November.

Lunch with wine tasting at Cantina Brogioni is a perfect experience to spend a relaxing moment surrounded by the Chianti hills.

After a short walk during which you will be given a description of the winery and the process of extracting extra virgin olive oil, you will visit the winery, where you will learn more about the winemaking process.

Following this, you will be served a three-course lunch paired with 4 local wines:

•    1 first course of pasta al pesto (pine nuts, fresh basil, EVO oil and parmesan cheese), paired with an IGT white wine and a vintage Chianti classico
•    1 second course consisting of bruschetta with local EVO oil, selection of typical Tuscan salumi, 36 month Parmigiano Reggiano and Tuscan pecorino cheese, paired with a Chianti classico riserva and a Supertuscan
•    2 samples of Tuscan pecorino, one with local EVO oil with San Miniato white truffle and the other with cooked must
•    1 dessert consisting of a Greek yogurt mousse sprinkled with a dark cocoa cream with 12% EVO oil

In case of food allergies and intolerances it is possible to contact the facility after booking.

Tuscan winery lunch in San Gimignano, with guided tasting of 5 wines and local dishes.

During the experience you will meet in the winery for a brief introduction to the history of the family and the winery. Following this, you will participate in a tasting of five wines, paired with a lunch of Tuscan specialties including typical salumi, mixed bruschetta, selection of pecorino cheese, a traditional first course and, for dessert, chocolate and Sottobosco.

The experience will take place in San Gimignano and is designed for those who wish to discover local flavors in an authentic setting. The tasting will be guided and the menù is fixed.

Explore the Sienese countryside on horseback and experience the authentic beauty of Tuscany through this relaxing ride.

You will ride through hillsides embellished with vineyards, olive groves and cypress trees following scenic trails and immersing yourself in the vibrant colors and scents of unspoiled nature.

Accompanied by an experienced guide, you will learn about the local flora and fauna, discovering fascinating details about the plants and animals that inhabit this extraordinary land. Your guide will also share some stories about the region's history and traditions, transporting you back in time among medieval villages and historic rural estates.

These horseback rides are suitable for everyone from beginners to experienced riders. The well-trained and docile horses ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Comfortable and sporty clothing with closed shoes and long pants is required to participate in this experience.

To make your adventure even more special, you can choose to stop for lunch or indulge in a wine tour with tasting at a local winery, savoring the exquisite flavors of the best Tuscan wines and traditional delicacies (not included in the price).

Unforgettable stay in the heart of Tuscany with overnight stay in a standard room for two, with picnic or wine tasting included.

You will stay at a farmhouse surrounded by nature in San Gimigano, the package includes:

•    One night in a standard room for two people
•    Breakfast

Choice of:

•    Tasting of locally produced wines
•    Picnic

A perfect experience for those who wish to immerse themselves in the food and wine culture of one of Tuscany's most fascinating medieval towns.

Horseback riding in San Gimignano is a pleasant experience among the beautiful views of San Gimignano, in the hills just outside the town.

The walk starts in the morning or afternoon. During the trek you will have the opportunity to love getting to know the horse thanks to the guides who will accompany you during the tour.

The horseback ride lasts 1h. You will take a pleasant horseback ride among the beautiful views of San Gimignano, where you will have the opportunity to love getting to know the horse thanks to the guides who will accompany you during the tour.

You will be provided with all horse riding equipment, including helmet (mandatory). Recommended clothing includes long pants and closed shoes.

Horseback rides in the Crete Senesi, Buonconvento, can be an hour or an hour and a half, and have the riding stables as their starting point.

The horseback rides follow routes through the countryside that will allow you to pass by some ancient villas and cypress avenues.

What are you waiting for? Book this experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories!

Horseback riding by the sea in Maremma departing from Marina di Grosseto, perfect for an alternative day out as a couple or with friends.

The experience begins at the stables where you will be assigned horses and provided with the equipment to ride a horse.

Once you leave, the hike lasts about 2 hours through the Tombolo Pine Forest, San Leopoldo Canal, backdune area, dunes and beach. 

The Giglio Island Tour by boat from Giglio Porto offers a choice of 4 different tours. 

Tour Classic 

The Classic tour starts from the port of Giglio Island. Along the way, you will make 3 or 4 bathroom stops. During the tour, you will be offered a delicious aperitif on board.

Tour Luxury 

The Luxury tour starts from the port of Giglio Island. This mini-cruise takes place aboard one of the luxury boats that offer maximum comfort. During the tour, you will make 3 or 4 bathroom stops and enjoy the crystal clear sea.

The most exclusive part of this tour will be the arrival at the Caldane Beach, which è can only be reached by sea. Here you will find umbrellas and sunbeds reserved just for you, included in the price, and you can refresh yourself with delicious drinks. This tour also includes lunch.

At the end of the tour, you can return to Giglio Porto with our Shuttle Boat, choosing the time you prefer.

Half Day - Private

The half-day private tour starts from Giglio Island port at the agreed time. During the tour you can make 3 or 4 bathroom stops. Along the way, you will enjoy a delicious aperitif on board.

Finally, you will arrive at the Caldane Beach, the most exclusive beach on the island, reachable only by sea. Here, umbrellas, reserved sunbeds and refreshments await you. This tour does not include lunch on board.

At the end of the tour you can return to Giglio Porto with our Shuttle Boat, choosing your own return time.

Full Day - Private

The full-day private tour starts from Giglio Island port at the agreed time. During the tour you will have the opportunity to choose your stops, explore the island's most fascinating coves and swim. During the day, you will be delighted with an aperitif on board and have the opportunity to enjoy lunch, included in the price. Finally, you will return to Giglio Porto, with a maximum return time of 6:30 p.m.

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All boats are equipped with sundecks and awnings. Snorkeling equipment will be available on the boat, so you can explore the wonderful underwater world.

Board a comfortable motorboat and visit Giglio Island, Giannutri, and the most secluded coves and islets of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Departing from Castiglione della Pescaia, the tour will last approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes and will be structured as follows:

Giglio and Giannutri

•    Boarding begins at 8:00 a.m.; at 8:30 a.m. we set sail! (Check-in by 8:10 a.m.)
•    Cruise along the Maremma coast and the Uccellina Nature Reserve to Talamone, then along the northern coast of the Argentario.
•    Shortly before 11:00 a.m., disembarkation at Giglio. You can explore on your own or with Toscana Trekking guides; book tours with them during the cruise
•    At approximately 2:00 p.m., we set sail for Giannutri.
•    Around 2:45 p.m., we arrive at Giannutri, where you can take part in other guided tours or enjoy swimming.
•    At 4:00 PM, we’ll set sail from Giannutri to return to Castiglione (7:30 PM), after a brief technical stop at Giglio.

The tour itinerary may vary depending on weather conditions and the skipper’s decisions.

Cash payment is required for the municipal landing fee for theIsland of Giglio of 3.00€ per person and the access ticket to the island of Giannutri of 2.50€ per person before departure.

The sunset boat ride at Giglio Island is a romantic experience lasting about two hours.

The boat ride is scheduled to depart from Giglio Porto around 6:30/19:00 pm. You will sail until you reach the Campese Gulf or the surrounding coves, where you will stop to enjoy a sunset aperitif.

The aperitif consists of delicious fish crudités and crostini, accompanied by a prosecco, spritz or beer.

Return to the port of Giglio Island is scheduled at approximately 9:00 pm.

Horseback riding by the sea in Maremma departing from Marina di Grosseto, perfect for an alternative day out as a couple or with friends.

The experience begins at the stables where you will be assigned horses and provided with the equipment to ride a horse.

Once you leave, the hike lasts about 2 hours through the Tombolo Pine Forest, San Leopoldo Canal, backdune area, dunes and beach. 

Board a comfortable motorboat and visit Giglio Island, Giannutri, and the most secluded coves and islets of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Departing from Castiglione della Pescaia, the tour will last approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes and will be structured as follows:

Giglio and Giannutri

•    Boarding begins at 8:00 a.m.; at 8:30 a.m. we set sail! (Check-in by 8:10 a.m.)
•    Cruise along the Maremma coast and the Uccellina Nature Reserve to Talamone, then along the northern coast of the Argentario.
•    Shortly before 11:00 a.m., disembarkation at Giglio. You can explore on your own or with Toscana Trekking guides; book tours with them during the cruise
•    At approximately 2:00 p.m., we set sail for Giannutri.
•    Around 2:45 p.m., we arrive at Giannutri, where you can take part in other guided tours or enjoy swimming.
•    At 4:00 PM, we’ll set sail from Giannutri to return to Castiglione (7:30 PM), after a brief technical stop at Giglio.

The tour itinerary may vary depending on weather conditions and the skipper’s decisions.

Cash payment is required for the municipal landing fee for theIsland of Giglio of 3.00€ per person and the access ticket to the island of Giannutri of 2.50€ per person before departure.

The quad bike excursion in the Tuscan Maremma and aperitif will allow you to visit picturesque landscapes, admire breathtaking views, learn about local scents and guster Maremma snacks.

For this quad bike tour you have the possibility to choose the route of 1 hour or 2 1/2 hours.

The 2-hour one also includes a barbecue in the woods with grilled sausages, cheese and local wine.

Alternatively è you can choose a visit to the "La Pierotta" winery, where participants can taste some of the fine wines produced by the winery, accompanied by an aperitif of local products.

Remember to bring with you:

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•    Trekking shoes
•    Bandana or scarf in summer (can be purchased locally)
•    Gloves in winter
•    K-way in winter and mid-season (can be purchased locally)

The ATV rental è is suitable for people of all skill levels and guarantees a fun and adventurous experience. It takes place in the Bandite di Scarlino area, where participants will have the opportunity to admire beautiful landscapes and discover unusual places.

During the hike, there will be some technical parts, fords and fun climbs, but nothing too challenging. In addition, participants will have the opportunity to enjoy the local scents.

This experience è an excellent opportunity to discover the culture and traditions of Maremma and to taste some of the best wines and products of the area.

For all Fridays in the fall and winter months, è a minimum of two quads is required for reservations.

The half-day boat trip to Cala Violina departing from Scarlino is a perfect tour to explore the famous Maremma cove.

You can choose from 3 different tours.

Morning

The morning tour starts at the port of Scarlino at 9:30 am. The first stop will be Cala Violina. Here it will be possible to have a breakfast consisting of typical Tuscan products. It will then continue to Cala Martina and Cala Civetta. This tour is suitable for people of all ages, especially children, thanks to the always calm waters that offer maximum serenity and safety.

Afternoon

The afternoon tour starts at the port of Scarlino at 4 pm. The first stop will be Cala Violina, where you will anchor for a swim stop. Next, you will visit the other coves along the park's stretch of coastline, including Cala Martina and Cala Civetta. You will be offered an aperitif composed exclusively of Tuscan products: a quality white wine, excellent cold cuts, focaccia and fresh fruit. Especially in the afternoon, the itinerary may change depending on sea weather conditions.

Sunset

The sunset tour starts at the port of Scarlino at 6 pm. The first stop will be Cala Violina, where you will anchor around 18:00 for a swim stop. You will then proceed to the other coves, including Cala Martina and Cala Civetta. Finally, you will be offered an aperitif consisting of typical Tuscan products to enjoy during the sunset.

The sunset tour lasts three hours, while the morning tour and the afternoon tour last four hours.

Explore the magnificent Maremma Natural Park on horseback, accompanied by an experienced environmental equestrian guide. Ride through unspoiled wilderness landscapes, immersing yourself in the historic lands of the Maremma cowboys.

The 2-hour ride is suitable for both beginner and experienced riders, offering an authentic experience in contact with nature and the equestrian tradition of the Maremma.

Horseback riding in the countryside of the Maremma Grossetana will allow you to discover the nature of the Tuscan hills.

The activity begins at the riding stables in Castiglione della Pescantia where the instructor will teach you the basics of riding and then you will go out for the horseback ride.

Two-hour rides are available in which you will discover the picturesque views of the Maremma.

At the end of the hikes, you can also enjoy an aperitif while enjoying the surrounding picturesque landscapes.

To participate in the excursions è required sportswear with long pants and closed shoes.

2 walks per day, from 09:00 to 11:00 or 17:00 to 19:00 between June 15 and September 15. Outside these dates, subject to availability.

Horseback experience for beginners, designed to introduce you to horseback riding in a safe and engaging way, with a final appetizer and photo shoot.

The activity begins with a short briefing and a lesson in the field to learn or brush up on basic commands and build an initial relationship with the horse, followed by a trial ride to gain more confidence. Afterwards, you will set off directly for a walk of about an hour through forests, fords and historic trails, passing under the Upezzinghi tower, to the abandoned convent of Nicosia and the Certosa di Calci, along a loop trail.

At the end of the hike, an aperitif awaits you in the stables with typical products, bread and wine, with options also available for special dietary needs. The experience is about 2 hours long, easy level and suitable for ages 8 and up, with ground accompaniment for younger riders. Also included is a photo shoot to remember the day.

Discover the charm of the Tuscan countryside with a relaxing horse-drawn carriage ride, accompanied by a tasting of typical Tuscan products.


Departing from Santa Maria a Monte, this 1-hour tour will allow youà to cross evocative landscapes surrounded by greenery while experiencing an authentic and timeless moment.

During the route è scheduled a pleasant stop to taste directly on board the carriage some typical products of the area, perfect for savoring local flavors in a unique and convivial atmosphere.

Participate in a horseback ride through the hills of Pisa, accompanied by an experienced equestrian guide. You will have the opportunity to enjoy a lunch or dinner or picnic depending on the tour selected.

After an initial briefing and assignment of your horse and equipment, you will ride through Tuscan woods and countryside with views of Monte Serra, Lower Valdarno, and a characteristic natural lake.

The walk takes place at the pace and è also suitable for those who è first experience in the saddle.

To make the experience even more special, you can choose from several options that include lunch or dinner in a restaurant with appetizer, main course, dessert, water and coffee, or a picnic in nature with sandwich or flatbread stuffed with local products and alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages.

After the break you will resume your horseback riding excursion before returning to the starting point.

Comfortable clothing with long pants and closed shoes is recommended.

Enjoy a horseback ride in the heart of Tuscany among the hills of the province of Pisa with a final aperitif. Available 1h or 2h ride. 

You will be accompanied by an experienced equestrian guide among trails in the countryside and woods, admiring panoramic views of the Lower Valdarno, Monte Serra and a charming pond along the way.

Before departure, you will be assigned your horse and equipment and have a brief initial briefing to learn or brush up on the basics of horseback riding, making the activity perfect even for first-timers. The walk takes place mainly at the pass, in total safety and in a relaxed atmosphere.

At the return, a rich aperitif with alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverage accompanied by delicacies and typical products will be waiting for you, ideal to end this experience in the best way.

The recommended clothing includes closed shoes and long pants.

Guided tour of the ancient 11th century abbey with wine tasting and light lunch, an experience that combines history, culture, food and wine tradition.

After arrival, you will begin with a guided tour of the thousand-year-old abbey, discovering the history, architecture and secrets of this sacred place.

You will then continue with a tour of the estate's historic cellars, where you will learn the techniques of traditional winemaking.

The experience concludes with a tasting of 5 selected wines, accompanied by a light lunch, for a sensory journey that blends history, culture and authentic flavors.

Embark on a day trip to Elba Island, visiting its north coast to Sant'Andrea, with drinks on board and stops to take a dip in the turquoise waters and practice snorkeling.

Departing from Portoferraio, the boat trip sails along the island's coast to the Scoglietto Nature Reserve and as far as Sant'Andrea, with the opportunity to have lunch on board and enjoy a spritz during the day.

The boat trip is shared includes lunch, drinks and surface snorkeling equipment.

Depending on weather conditions and skipper's decisions, stops may vary.

Maximum capacity: 12 people. The excursion takes place if there are at least 7 people on board. If the minimum number is not reached, the excursion will be cancelled with a total refund. 

Embark on an exciting day of fishing tourism on Elba Island with lunch aboard a comfortable and spacious fishing boat.

You will board a fishing boat equipped with all the comforts and ample space spread over two decks. The expansive upper deck lends itself perfectly to sunbathing, or diving from the special gate, which is also excellent for a possible dolphin sighting.

On board you will be welcomed by the captain, a third-generation fisherman, who will take you on a discovery of this very ancient craft, and show you around the beautiful coves of the south Elban coast.

Leaving the harbor you will go to the fishing spot, where gillnets or creels for octopus will already be waiting for you on the seabed.

You will then head to a beautiful cove to enjoy a lunch prepared with the catch of the day and anticipated by an aperitif.

There will be no shortage of stops for swimming and snorkeling to discover our beautiful seabed and the fish that inhabit it.

When booking, you can choose between the group tour and the private excursion.

The group experience is guaranteed with a minimum of 5 participants.

In case of food allergies and intolerances, it is possible to contact the facility after booking.

Boat excursion along the west coast of Elba Island to discover some of the most spectacular beaches and bays on the island.

During the tour we visit: the Blue Grotto, the Pomonte shipwreck visible from the sea and the beautiful beaches of Cavoli, Seccheto and Fetovaia. The navigation continues to Campo Lo Feno, the legendary Sedia di Napoleone and the beaches of Patresi and della Guardia, immersed in unspoiled nature.

The itinerary continues to Capo Sant’Andrea and Cotoncello Bay, where stops for swimming and snorkeling are planned among colorful fish, starfish and rich seabed.

During the return trip to Marina di Campo, one often keeps an eye on the open sea to try to spot the dolphins that inhabit these waters.

Afternoon boat excursion departing from Marina di Campo to the Wreck and Blue Grotto, among the most picturesque spots on Elba Island.

The trip, which proceeds in the southwest direction of the island, allows you to discover Galenzana Beach, a small beach connected to Marina di Campo, Grotta Del Vescovo, Colle Palombaia an isolated pebble beach and the Costa del Sole. Within it are the beaches of Cavoli, Seccheto, with its enchanting natural pools, and Fetovaia.

Another favorite stop is the Blue Grotto, named for the play of colors that stand out near the Grotto, which also houses a small sandy beach that can be easily reached by swimming.

Navigation will then continue to the village of Pomonte, which has become famous for the presence of the Wreck. Today the wreck lies on the seabed right next to the rock and is home to an incredible natural marine habitat.

Upon returning from the excursion you will go in search of dolphins, which, with a bit of luck, can be spotted at any point of the trip, as the island is part of the Pelagos Sanctuary: a marine protected area for cetaceans and a true paradise for marine mammals.

Maximum capacity: 80 people.

Depart from the port of Marina di Campo for a 5-hour boat excursion along the southeast coast of Elba Island, discovering caves, hidden beaches and unique views.

During the tour you will visit the main natural and historical attractions of the coast: Cala del Fico with its waters ideal for snorkeling, the beaches of Peducelli, Pareti and Stecchi, the romantic Spiaggia dell’Innamorata and the islets of the Gemini Islands. You will admire the majestic Sea Ox Cave, the Seagull Coast and the striking Goat Cave.

The route also includes cultural and historical stops: the Juniper Mine, the largest magnetite deposit in Europe, and the Punta Calamita Mine with its impressive machinery still visible.

A complete experience for those who want to experience Elba among nature, legends and history, perfect for couples, families and groups of friends.

The wine tasting and winery tour on Elba Island is a great opportunity to relax among the vineyards while enjoying a good wine. Two modes are provided for this experience:

Wine tasting and winery visit
Initial walk through the vineyards where the history of winemaking on Elba will be told. This is followed by a visit to the Author's Cellar where a guided tasting will be conducted with a sea view. During the tasting each wine will be paired with typical Tuscan products at Km 0.

Sunset aperitif on the terrace
Sunset aperitif on the terrace of the Ripalte Estate. Tasting of three wines accompanied by tapas from the local cuisine, tasting of typical local products and tasting of extra virgin olive oil. Sea view experience that will have you spellbound.