Parents frequently reach out to me after reading my guidebook, Florence & Tuscany with Kids, seeking a customized itinerary. Often, they have another question: Are there any free attractions and activities in Tuscany that are suitable for families? This is completely understandable—traveling as a family can be costly, and any advice on saving money is appreciated. Fortunately, there are numerous free activities to enjoy in Tuscany, including in Florence, Pisa, Lucca, and Siena, all without spending a dime. This post was written with families in mind, but actually, anyone can benfit from these suggestions, whether you're traveling with children or not!
My popular travel guide for families, "Florence & Tuscany with Kids 2024" is already filled with budget-friendly attractions and ideas, but in addition to those recommendations, there are many great things to see and do in Tuscany that will cost you 0$.
Here are a few ideas:
Free Things to do in Tuscany with Kids: Visit the Terme di Saturnia
The Saturnia thermal baths, nestled bear Manciano at the heart of the Maremma region, are Tuscany’s most renowned thermal springs. Legend has it that these springs were created during a dispute between the gods Jupiter and Saturn. The baths offer visitors rejuvenating waters maintained at a consistent temperature of 37.5 degrees Celsius year-round. Sourced from a volcanic crater, the waters boast a high mineral content that promotes blood circulation, lowers blood pressure, relaxes muscles, exfoliates the skin, and enhances respiratory function (Just be ready for the potent smell of sulfur...). Historically, Roman soldiers and citizens flocked to these baths to alleviate their wounds, aches, and pains. Today, Terme di Saturnia continues to attract both locals and tourists. Numerous celebrities have visited, too, including Andrea Bocelli, Tim Burton, Willem Dafoe, and the Queen of the Netherlands.
Free Things to do in Tuscany with Kids: Piazzale Michelangelo:
Did you know that one of Tuscany's top sightseeing spots is completely free? Just a few steps into Michelangelo Square will make you feel like you've stepped into a postcard. Offering breathtaking panoramic views of Florence, Piazzale Michelangelo attracts countless tourists eager to experience this "hill above the city." From here, you can easily spot iconic Florentine landmarks such as the Cathedral (Duomo), Palazzo Vecchio, and Santa Croce Church, the final resting place of Galileo Galilei. Established in 1869 by Giuseppe Poggi as a tribute to the renowned Renaissance sculptor Michelangelo, Piazzale Michelangelo features bronze replicas of the artist's original white marble sculptures, creating an enchanting outdoor museum experience.
Free things to do in Tuscany with kids: Piazza dei Miracoli and the Leaning tower of Pisa:
The Piazza dei Miracoli, or Square of Miracles, situated in Pisa, boasts some of Italy's most remarkable architectural monuments. While a ticket is required to climb the iconic Leaning Tower, entry to the piazza is free, allowing visitors to explore the stunning monuments from the outside and capture memorable photos. Additionally, you can enter the Cathedral without any charge (but a booking is required; see my post about visiting the leaning Tower is Pisa).
Free things to do in Tuscany: Road-trip or hike through the Val d'Orcia (Orcia Valley)
This beautiful (stunning, actually) and historic valley has served as a source of inspiration for artists, photographers, poets, and film makers alike. With a landscape containing the Orcia River, cypress trees, medieval castles, quaint farmhouses, rural homes, rolling hills and vineyards upon vineyards, any hiking trail you and your family select should leave a lasting impression. And you may catch a good view of the volcanic cone of Monte Amiata! (Tip: Contact the local tourist office for more information on available hiking trails.)
Free Things to do in Tuscany: Walk along the The Walls of Lucca
Situated at the base of the Apuan Alps, and not too far from the Tuscan coast, lies the must-see town of Lucca. Although it is a small town, Lucca is well-known for its intact fortified walls from the Renaissance Era. Built between 200 A.C. and 1644, four rings of walls protected Lucca from flooding as well as foreign invaders.
That is until Napoleon’s arrival and takeover in 1805. Napoleon penetrated these thick walls which formed about a 4 kilometer barrier around the city only to convert them into an ornate walkway! Well, that walkway remains today and attracts many tourists for walking or bicycling (see the top tips in our guidebook on how and where to rent a bike and cycle along teh wallks).
Free things to do in Tuscany: Explore Piazza del Campo in Siena
Piazza del Campo in Siena is one of the most famous public squares in Italy and the rest of Europe. Uniquely shaped in the form of a Latin cross, the Piazza offers beautiful Gothic architecture that you can easily view from the exterior for free. Adults, teenagers, and children will have a great time here just relaxing and people watching. Remember to buy some ice cream to help you cool down from the hot Tuscan heat. And depending on the date of your visit, you may even catch some of the action from the Palio di Siena horse race that takes place around the Piazza perimeter.
Free things to do in Tuscany: Participate in a Medieval Feast
Tuscany is filled with fun, medieval festivities and colorful events especially during the summer months. From larger world famous events to smaller local events, there is definitely something for everyone. But whichever festivity you choose to attend, you can count on having a good time. For more information on Tuscany’s main cities and top events or for detailed step-by-step itineraries and travel ideas, be sure to consult the Florence & Tuscany with Kids travel guide.
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