Tuscany in March: Weather, Events, Early Spring Charm & Where to Stay in Florence

Timeless Wanderers: Posted November 25, 2025

Visiting Tuscany in March is one of those travel moments that surprises you.

After the stillness of winter, the region starts to awake—vineyards show their first hints of green, almond blossoms appear along country roads, and towns feel lively again as locals prepare for spring events.

It’s still a peaceful time to travel, but the days are longer, the sunshine is warmer, and everything feels a little more hopeful.

If you love the idea of exploring Tuscany without summer crowds, enjoying shoulder-season prices, and experiencing some of Italy’s most charming spring traditions, March is one of the best months of the year to visit.

Below, you’ll find a full guide to Tuscany in March: weather, what to expect, best things to do, festivals, why this month is underrated, and our favourite places to stay in Florence.

What Tuscany Is Like in March

March is the month when Tuscany begins to change colour.

Winter greys soften into fresh greens, countryside trails open up, and outdoor cafés start putting chairs back outside.

Cities like Florence, Siena, Lucca, and Pisa are still blissfully calm—especially mid-week—yet there’s just enough energy to make wandering around feel exciting.

Tour buses haven’t fully returned, restaurants are easy to book, and you can enjoy major attractions without lines.

It’s also the first month when Tuscan landscapes feel photogenic again, from blooming orchards to morning light over the Val d’Orcia.

What We Love Most About Tuscany in March

The shift from winter quiet to early spring liveliness
Pleasant weather for sightseeing with fewer crowds
Blossoms in the countryside, perfect for landscape photos
Excellent prices on hotels, tours, and car rentals
A chance to enjoy wineries before the summer rush
Seasonal dishes like artichokes, asparagus, and early spring pasta sauces

If you want Tuscany peaceful but not sleepy, March is your month.

Weather in Tuscany in March

March is still cool, but noticeably milder than January and February.

Typical March Weather

Average daytime temperatures: 13–17°C (55–63°F)
Evenings: 5–8°C (41–46°F)
Rain: Light, occasional spring showers
Sunlight: Around 11–12 hours of daylight
Snow: Rare except in high mountains

What This Means for Travellers

You’ll still want a coat and layers, but you won’t need heavy winter clothing.

Days can be surprisingly warm in the sun, especially in the countryside or when walking city streets.

March is one of the best months for hiking, photography, road trips, and long days exploring without overheating.

Why Visit Tuscany in March?

March is one of the most underrated months of the entire year in Tuscany. Here’s why:

1. It’s Shoulder Season (Which Means Better Prices)

Hotel prices are lower, restaurants have availability, and popular attractions feel relaxed.

2. Perfect Weather for Sightseeing

Cool and sunny is ideal for walking Florence, climbing towers, or enjoying medieval towns like Volterra and San Gimignano.

3. Spring Blossoms Begin

You’ll see:

almond blossoms
early fruit trees
fresh vineyards
greener rolling hills

It’s not yet full spring, but the landscapes look refreshed.

4. Food & Wine Are Exceptional

Early spring dishes appear on menus, and wineries offer cosy tastings without booking months ahead.

5. Tuscany Still Feels Local

March is the moment before tourism picks up again. Towns feel like themselves—calm, warm, and welcoming.

Best Things to Do in Tuscany in March

1. Explore Florence Without the Crowds

Uffizi, Accademia, Ponte Vecchio, and the Duomo are all easier to visit in March.
You can wander slowly and actually enjoy the art instead of rushing through rooms.

2. Day Trip to Siena or San Gimignano

With cool temperatures and quiet streets, these villages feel magical in March.

3. Drive Through the Val d’Orcia

Imagine fresh green hills, morning mist, and roads almost to yourself.
This is one of the most scenic months of the year.

4. Visit Wineries in Chianti

March is calm, making it perfect for private tastings, cellar tours, and long lunches overlooking the fields.

5. Walk the Walls of Lucca

Not too hot, not too cold—March is perfect for cycling or strolling the entire loop around the city.

6. Take a Cooking Class

Spring ingredients are beginning to appear, and chefs are excited to use them.

7. Explore Pisa With Fewer Tourists

Climb the Leaning Tower in mild weather and enjoy the piazza before spring crowds arrive.

8. Enjoy Early Spring Markets

Local markets begin to fill with fresh flowers, seasonal produce, and crafts.

Events & Festivals in Tuscany in March

March has a mix of traditional celebrations and early spring events. Some depend on Easter dates, but you can expect:

1. Festa della Donna – International Women’s Day (March 8)

Women receive yellow mimosa flowers, and many cafés offer specials or discounts.

2. Carnevale Overlaps Some Years

If Easter is early, some Carnival celebrations (especially in Viareggio) continue into early March.

3. Florence Marathon of Rome (Some Years)

If you’re a runner or simply enjoy lively city events, March often brings races and sporting gatherings.

4. Spring Food Festivals

Depending on the year, you may find:

artichoke festivals
early truffle events
local produce fairs

5. Opera & Classical Music Seasons

Florence and Siena have active performance calendars in March—perfect for a cosy evening out.

Best Places to Visit in Tuscany in March

1. Florence

Calm, beautiful, and perfect for slow, crowd-free sightseeing.

2. Siena

Bright mornings, peaceful lanes, and wonderful spring light over Piazza del Campo.

3. Val d’Orcia

The start of Tuscany’s green season. Ideal for photographers.

4. Lucca

Shady trees on the walls, gentle sun, and café tables returning outside.

5. Chianti Wine Region

Wineries are open and relaxed—great for tastings and countryside drives.

6. Pisa

Easy to explore in half a day, with mild weather ideal for climbing the tower.

7. Montepulciano & Pienza

Early spring views, cozy wine bars, and warming comfort foods.

What to Pack for Tuscany in March

Bring layers, because temperatures change throughout the day:

Light to medium coat
Sweaters
Long-sleeve tops
Comfortable walking shoes
Umbrella or travel raincoat
Scarf for evening chills
Sunglasses (March can be bright)

Dinners can be chilly when walking home, so a warm layer is useful.

Top Things to Do in Florence in March

Climb Brunelleschi’s Dome with minimal waiting
Wander Boboli Gardens as the first flowers appear
Visit Uffizi and Accademia without crowds
Enjoy aperitivo outdoors in Santo Spirito or Santa Croce
Explore Oltrarno’s artisan workshops
Take a guided wine and food walk in the evening

March is also one of the easiest months to photograph Florence—clear air, gentle light, and fewer people in the frame.

Here are some of the best tours in Florence.

This small group tour is the perfect way to get the most out of your visit to the Uffizi Gallery.

Climb the dome, visit the Baptistery, and tour the Opera del Duomo Museum with an experienced guide on this small group tour.

Take a guided tour of the Uffizi and Accademia.

Go shopping in the central market in Florence and then learn how to cook a Tuscan meal. This tour gets nothing but rave reviews.

Take a food tour of Florence or a 2-hour guided sightseeing bike tour.

Where to Stay in Florence in March

Luxury

1. Portrait Firenze – Lungarno Collection
Sophisticated, elegant, and right on the river with postcard views.

2. Brunelleschi Hotel
Iconic, beautifully restored, with exceptional service in the heart of the city.

Mid-Range

3. Hotel Spadai
Modern rooms, generous breakfast, and steps from the Duomo.

4. Hotel L’Orologio
Stylish, central, and perfect for exploring Florence on foot.

Boutique

5. SoprArno Suites
Artistic, warm, beautifully decorated rooms in the Oltrarno.

6. AdAstra Suites
A garden-side retreat with eclectic design and a peaceful atmosphere.

Budget

7. Hotel Dali
Simple, friendly, and incredibly well-located near Santa Croce.

8. Hotel Lorena
Basic but clean, affordable, and just around the corner from San Lorenzo Market.

P.S. You can read my full guide on Where to Stay in Florence for more hotel recommendations and insights!

Other accommodati on in Tuscany.

Best Day Trips from Florence in March

Pisa (½ day)
Lucca (full day)
Siena (full day)
San Gimignano & Volterra (full-day duo)
Chianti wineries
Val d’Orcia road trip (ideal with a Car Rental:)

March temperatures make exploring comfortable and uncrowded.

12 Amazing Day Trips From Florence.

A Perfect day trip From Florence To Pisa And Lucca

Suggested Itineraries

3-Day Winter City Break
Day 1: Florence – Uffizi, Ponte Vecchio, evening Christmas market stroll.
Day 2: Day trip to Siena for the market and Gothic architecture.
Day 3: Lucca’s city walls by bicycle and hot chocolate in Piazza dell’Anfiteatro.

5-Day Countryside Escape
Days 1–2: Florence highlights.
Day 3: Chianti for winery tastings and olive oil sampling.
Day 4: Val d’Orcia—Pienza and Montepulciano under a winter mist.
Day 5: Hot springs soak in Bagno Vignoni.

How to Spend 7 Magical Days in Tuscany by Car

Car rental – If you plan to visit countryside towns and vineyards, a rental car is invaluable in March.

8 FAQs About Visiting Tuscany in March

1. Is March a good time to visit Tuscany?

Yes—mild weather, low crowds, and early spring landscapes make it one of the best months.

2. Does it rain a lot in March?

You’ll get light showers, but many days are sunny or partially sunny.

3. Are wineries open?

Yes, and March is great because tastings are calm and often more personalised.

4. Are shops and restaurants open fully?

Absolutely. Most reopen after winter breaks by early March.

5. Is it warm enough for outdoor dining?

On sunny afternoons—yes! Evenings still need a coat.

6. Is March good for a road trip?

Very. Roads are quiet, scenery is green, and parking is easier than in peak season.

7. Are major attractions crowded?

Not at all. March is one of the quietest months for Florence, Siena, Pisa, and Lucca.

8. What’s the countryside like in March?

Green, budding, and beautiful—an early preview of Tuscany’s spring charm.

Final Thoughts

Tuscany in March is the perfect blend of peaceful winter atmosphere and the first hints of spring.

Days are longer, the countryside begins to bloom, and cities feel relaxed but lively.

Whether you’re wandering Florence’s quiet streets, tasting wine in Chianti, or driving through the Val d’Orcia, March offers a beautiful, underrated moment to experience Tuscany at your own pace.

If you’re looking for great value, fewer crowds, and early spring magic, March is one of the best months to visit.

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.