“Tuscany in November: Festivals, Food & Fewer Crowds”
Timeless Wanderers Updated August 21, 2025
What to Expect When Visiting Tuscany in November
“If October is the gateway to Tuscany’s harvest season, November is when the region slows into a gentler, quieter pace.”
With mist rolling over the vineyards, autumn leaves scattering across medieval piazzas, and fireplaces crackling in rustic trattorias, this is Tuscany at its most atmospheric.
While some visitors shy away because of cooler weather, those who come in November discover a more intimate, authentic Tuscany, one that feels far removed from the crowds of summer.
Whether you’re drawn by Florence’s museums without lines, the olive harvest in the countryside, or food festivals celebrating white truffles and new wine.
November rewards travelers who enjoy culture, food, and local traditions. Let’s dive into what makes this month such a special time to visit Tuscany.
Table of Contents
Weather in Tuscany in November
November in Tuscany is the heart of autumn. Temperatures drop, days shorten, and rain becomes more likely — but with it comes a moody beauty that many travelers adore.
Temperature: Expect daytime averages of 10–15°C (50–59°F), with cooler nights dipping to around 5°C (41°F). Coastal areas tend to be milder, while hill towns and the Apennine foothills feel crisp.
Rain: November is one of the wetter months, so pack a waterproof jacket and shoes. That said, rainy spells are often broken by clear, sunny days, when the Tuscan landscape glows in earthy golds, oranges, and deep reds.
Daylight: Sunset creeps earlier, with daylight lasting from about 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM by mid-month. Perfect for cozy evenings in a wine bar.
In Florence, mornings can start misty, with fog rising from the Arno River before the sun burns it away.
In hill towns like San Gimignano, Volterra, and Montepulciano, the rolling fog creates photographic scenes across valleys and cypress-lined ridges.
Tip: Layering is essential. Think sweaters, scarves, and a warm coat — plus comfortable waterproof shoes for cobbled streets.
Why Visit Tuscany in November?
Visiting Tuscany in November isn’t about long afternoons by the pool or endless vineyard picnics. Instead, it’s about slowing down, enjoying cultural treasures, and tasting the region at its richest. Here’s why it’s worth it:
No Crowds: The summer and early autumn rush is gone. In Florence, you can admire Botticelli’s Birth of Venus or Michelangelo’s David without shuffling through crowds. Hill towns feel like they belong to you.
Lower Prices: Hotels, guesthouses, and even some countryside villas drop their rates in November, making it a great month for budget-savvy travelers.
Food Festivals: November is peak time for truffles, chestnuts, and new olive oil. Local festivals across Tuscany celebrate these seasonal delicacies.
Authentic Atmosphere: With fewer tourists, interactions with locals feel warmer and more genuine. You’ll find yourself in cafés, chatting with Florentines or farmers fresh from the olive groves.
Cultural Depth: This is the best month to fully embrace Tuscany’s museums, opera houses, and historic churches without the summer heat.
If Tuscany in October is about the harvest and vineyards, November is about the joy of slow living.
Festivals and Events in Tuscany in November
One of the best reasons to come in November is Tuscany’s vibrant calendar of food and cultural events. Here are some highlights:
1. White Truffle Fairs (Most of November)
November is truffle season, and Tuscany’s prized white truffles are celebrated in style.
The most famous fair takes place in San Miniato, a hill town between Florence and Pisa, where streets fill with stalls offering truffle-infused dishes, local wines, and artisan products. It’s heaven for food lovers.
Other truffle fairs happen in Volterra, San Giovanni d’Asso, and smaller Tuscan towns, making it easy to incorporate one into your trip.
2. Olive Oil Festivals
November marks the new olive oil (olio nuovo) pressing.
Villages across Tuscany celebrate with festivals known as feste dell’olio nuovo.
Freshly pressed oil is sharp, peppery, and unforgettable drizzled over warm bread. Reggello, near Florence, hosts one of the region’s best-known olive oil festivals.
3. Wine Festivals
Even though the grape harvest wrapped up in September and October, new wine (vino novello) is released in November.
Look for local celebrations in Chianti towns, Siena, and smaller villages, where you can taste young wines alongside roasted chestnuts.
4. All Saints’ Day (November 1)
A public holiday in Italy, this day sees families visiting cemeteries with flowers.
Many shops and museums close, but it’s a fascinating cultural moment to witness.
In Florence, services at the city’s historic churches are particularly moving.
5. Florence Biennale (every two years, usually November)
Florence hosts this major international contemporary art exhibition in November, drawing artists and visitors from around the world.
6. Opera and Concerts
November marks the start of the cultural season.
The Maggio Musicale Fiorentino opera house in Florence often has a rich calendar of performances, from opera to symphonic concerts.
Florence in November
Florence, Tuscany’s crown jewel, feels magical in November. While rain and chilly weather may send crowds indoors, that’s no bad thing — this is the perfect time to explore the city’s art, history, and food scene without rushing.
Things to Do
Uffizi Gallery: See masterpieces by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo without the summer throngs. Booking in advance is still wise but far less stressful.
Accademia Gallery: Home to Michelangelo’s David, which you can admire in peace.
Duomo & Brunelleschi’s Dome: November’s cooler weather makes the climb up the dome or bell tower far more pleasant.
Palazzo Vecchio: The city hall doubles as a museum, with rich Renaissance frescoes.
Wander Oltrarno: This artisan district on the south side of the Arno is lively but less crowded. Visit traditional workshops, then warm up in a cozy wine bar.
Florentine Food: November is a wonderful time to try ribollita (a hearty Tuscan bread soup), bistecca alla Fiorentina, and truffle-dusted pasta dishes with a glass of Chianti Classico is perfect.
Atmosphere in Florence
In November, Florence often wakes to fog that gradually lifts, leaving the city bathed in golden afternoon light. Streets feel calmer, and cafés become refuges from drizzle.
“With fewer visitors, Florence feels like it belongs to its residents again.”
Where to Stay in Florence in November
With fewer tourists, November brings excellent hotel deals in Florence. Here are three categories of places to consider:
Luxury: Hotel Brunelleschi (near the Duomo, historic charm with modern elegance), Portrait Firenze (boutique, overlooking the Arno).
Mid-Range: Hotel L’Orologio (stylish, near Santa Maria Novella), Hotel Spadai (central, excellent value for location).
Boutique & Cozy: AdAstra (unique rooms in the Oltrarno district, with a garden), Velona’s Jungle Luxury Suites (quirky design, small and welcoming).
Tip: November weather makes a well-located hotel even more valuable, since you’ll appreciate being able to walk back quickly from museums or cafés when rain falls.
Exploring Tuscany Beyond Florence in November
While Florence deserves plenty of time, November is also ideal for short trips around Tuscany. Here are a few highlights that shine this month:
San Miniato: Go for the White Truffle Festival — it’s one of Tuscany’s biggest autumn food events.
Chianti: Rolling vineyards look stunning with autumn colors. Many wineries stay open for tastings.
Siena: Quieter and more contemplative in November, Siena’s Gothic architecture and Piazza del Campo feel atmospheric in misty weather.
Val d’Orcia: The rolling hills around Pienza, Montalcino, and Montepulciano are enchanting under November skies. Cozy wine cellars make up for shorter days.
Lucca & Pisa: Both towns are calm in November. Lucca’s tree-lined walls are particularly pretty with autumn leaves.
Practical Tips for Visiting Tuscany in November
Pack for Rain: A waterproof coat, umbrella, and comfortable shoes are essential. Streets in Florence can get slippery when wet.
Dress in Layers: Mornings and evenings are cold, afternoons may still be mild. Scarves are practical and stylish — Italians wear them well.
Plan Indoor Activities: Museums, cooking classes, and wine tastings are perfect for rainy days.
Check Opening Hours: Some smaller countryside attractions may close or reduce hours in November. Always confirm before setting out.
Car Rental: Driving through Tuscany’s countryside in November is rewarding, but keep in mind that early sunsets mean you’ll want to plan drives for daylight hours.
Best Tuscany tours
Visiting Tuscany on your own is very easy. But if you don’t want to deal with all the logistics, you can always take an organized tour. Tuscany is very popular for day trips from Florence, so there are many tours available that combine the best of both worlds..
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Tuscany in November
Is November a good time to visit Tuscany?
Yes — if you enjoy fewer crowds, lower prices, and an authentic local feel.
The weather can be cool and rainy, but Tuscany in November has amazing food festivals, atmospheric landscapes, and quieter cities like Florence and Siena.
What is the weather like in Tuscany in November?
Expect daytime temperatures of 10–15°C (50–59°F) and cooler nights. Rain is more frequent than in summer, so pack a waterproof jacket and shoes.
Despite this, you’ll often find clear, sunny days between showers.
Does it rain a lot in Tuscany in November?
November is one of Tuscany’s wetter months, but rain usually comes in bursts rather than all-day storms.
Many activities — museums, cooking classes, wine tastings — are indoors, making it easy to enjoy your trip.
What should I pack for Tuscany in November?
Layers are key: sweaters, scarves, and a warm coat. Bring waterproof shoes or boots, a rain jacket, and an umbrella.
Don’t forget something smart-casual for evenings — Italians dress stylishly, even in cooler months.
Are tourist attractions open in November?
Yes, major attractions like Florence’s Uffizi and Accademia, Siena’s Duomo, and Pisa’s Leaning Tower remain open.
Some smaller countryside sites may reduce hours, so check ahead if you plan to visit wineries or rural museums.
Is Florence crowded in November?
Not at all — Florence in November is wonderfully calm compared to spring and summer. You’ll enjoy museums and landmarks with little to no waiting.
Can you visit vineyards and wineries in November?
Absolutely. While the grape harvest ends in September/October, many wineries remain open year-round.
November is also when new wine (vino novello) is released, and olive oil festivals make it a foodie’s dream month.
Are there festivals in Tuscany in November?
Yes — truffle fairs, olive oil festivals, and new wine celebrations are highlights.
The White Truffle Fair in San Miniato is the biggest event, drawing food lovers from across Italy.
Final Thoughts: Tuscany in November
Tuscany in November isn’t about endless sunshine or vineyard picnics. It’s about atmosphere, culture, and authenticity.
It’s about stepping into Florence’s galleries without waiting, tasting fresh truffles in a medieval piazza, and drizzling new olive oil over warm bread.
It’s about misty landscapes, cozy trattorias, and a slower rhythm that lets you experience the region as locals do.
If you’re willing to trade summer’s warmth for autumn’s charm, November is one of the most best months to explore Tuscany. For travelers who want to combine culture, food, and authenticity — all at a lower cost and with fewer crowds — it may just be the perfect time.
PLAN YOUR TUSCANY ADVENTURE
These are our favorite companies we use when planning a trip, they consistently have the best prices, great customer service, and overall, are better than their competitors.
BOOK YOUR FLIGHT – Going is a great search engine if you are flexible about your travel destination and dates. Sign up for their newsletter and get the latest deals on destinations around the world. GOING is our new go to.
CAR RENTAL – We recommend using Discover Cars or Rental Cars when booking a car rental, they work with hundreds of companies worldwide to help you find the best car for your needs.
TRAINS – TRAINLINE – is our favorite, this site is very reliable and easy to use.
BUS – OMIO – this website allows you to book train or bus tickets to travel from city to city the best and cheapest way. FLIXBUS is another terrific website with routes between 20 European countries.
ACCOMMODATIONS
BOOKING.com – is our go to for hotel searches around the world, we find they always have the cheapest rates and offer different payment options. In addition, VRBO is another terrific website for all types of accommodations.
HOSTELWORLD – is great if you’re traveling on a budget, and if you need a cheap place to stay.
SIGHTSEEING TOURS
GET YOUR GUIDE – is our favorite; they have stacks of tours and excursions available in cities all over the world. VIATOR is another great website for all types of tours.
TAKE WALKS – This walking tour company provides inside access to attractions and places you can’t get elsewhere.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
SAFETY WING – is our go to travel medical insurance company, especially for longer trips. You can either purchase a monthly plan or a plan for specific trip dates (i.e. 1-2 week trips). They cover people from all over the world, while outside their home country.
ARC’TERYX – is a go to reliable brand for outdoor adventure and travel, their wide range includes light weight durable, easy to clean travel gear.
Check out our RESOURCE PAGE for more additional planning.