Many parents ask me: Are there any free attractions and activities in Tuscany for families? What can you do in Florence, Pisa, Lucca and Siena for free? My answer is: a lot! Traveling is both an exciting and fulfilling life experience. Nevertheless, the many associated costs of traveling can be discouraging. From transportation and lodging to food and entertainment, growing expenses may take some of the enjoyment out of your vacation—and visiting Tuscany is no different. However, there are some amazing places and activities in Tuscany that you can make part of your trip for absolutely free!
Our popular travel guide for families, "Florence & Tuscany with Kids 2020" 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, option #1: Terme di Saturnia:
The Saturnia thermal baths, located in Manciano, in the heart of the Maremma region, are the most famous thermal springs in Tuscany. Believed to have been formed during a quarrel between the mythological figures Jupiter and Saturn, the Saturnia thermal baths offer visitors healing waters at a year-round temperature of 37.5 degrees Celsius. Fed by a volcanic crater, these pure waters are indeed healing with their naturally high concentration of minerals that increase blood circulation, lower blood pressure, relax muscles, exfoliate skin, and improve respiration. Long ago, Roman soldiers and civilians alike bathed here in order to soothe their wounds, aches, and pains. In modern times, Terme di Saturnia has welcomed several celebrities including Andrea Bocelli, Tim Burton, Willem Dafoe, and the Queen of the Netherlands.
Nestled into the lush, green, and rocky Tuscan countryside, the baths’ waterfalls and pools are ideal for relaxing and taking in the sights.. Find out about the other recommended attractions and activities in the areaon the detailed chapter dedicated to the maremma on our best-selling travel guide, Florence & Tuscany with kids 2020.
Free things to do in Tuscany, option #2: Piazzale Michelangelo:
Did you know that one of the best sightseeing spots in Italy is absolutely free? Take just a few steps into Michelangelo square and you will feel like you entered a postcard. Boasting the most breathtaking and panoramic views of Florence, Piazzale Michelangelo calls many tourists to discover this “hill above the city.” Here you can easily spot some popular Florence architecture such as the Cathedral (Duomo), Palazzo Vecchio, and Santa Croce Church where Galileo Galilei is buried. Built in 1869 by Giuseppe Poggi as a dedication to the world-renown Renaissance sculptor, Michelangelo, Piazzale Michelangelo contains bronze copies of the artist’s original white marble sculptures making it somewhat like an outdoor museum.
Free things to do in Tuscany, option #3: Piazza dei Miracoli and the Leaning tower of Pisa:
The Piazza dei Miracoli, or Square of Miracles, is located in Pisa and features a collection of some of the finest architecture in the world. Tourists travel here to explore and admire the Pisa Cathedral, Pisa Baptistry, Monumental Cemetery, New Hospital of the Holy Spirit, Sinopias Museum, and the Cathedral Museum. And you may have heard of the cathedral’s bell tower, more commonly known as the Leaning Tower of Pisa!
Although climbing the tower requires paid admission, many visitors take pictures for free near the tower pretending to hold it up. Despite its instability at the end of the 20th century, the tower is now fully stabilized with about a 4 degree tilt. There is also a large, well-manicured, green lawn that surrounds the square and invites visitors to lie down for a rest break.
Free things to do in Tuscany, option #5: 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, option #6: 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, option #7: 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, option #8: 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.
