Exploring the most authentic Tuscany, far from the tourist circuits
September is the perfect time to discover a different, more authentic Tuscany, far from the usual tourist routes. The hills take on a golden hue, the crowds thin out, and nature reveals itself gracefully, offering a slower, more contemplative rhythm.
It is the ideal month to be enchanted by the Val d’Orcia, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where villages like Pienza shine in the delicate tones of Renaissance stone and silence reigns among the vineyards.
The Madonna di Vitaleta Chapel stands out amidst the curves of the landscape like a living painting, while the thermal waters of Bagno Vignoni and Bagni San Filippo invite relaxation in fairy-tale settings.
Not far from here, the Abbey of Sant’Antimo – where Gregorian chants still resonate – offers one of the most intense spiritual experiences in the region.
And for those who enjoy panoramic views, the Rocca di Radicofani offers an endless view of the Val d’Orcia, Monte Amiata, and the Val di Chiana, in an atmosphere of noble and majestic tranquility.
Art, Mysteries, and Medieval Charm: The Other Tuscany Between Lucca, Volterra, and San Galgano
But Tuscany in September is not just about hills and vineyards; it is also about mystery, history, and timeless architecture.
A few kilometers from Siena lies the Abbey of San Galgano, one of the most evocative places in the region. Roofless, bathed in light and silence, it embodies a rare kind of romanticism.
Not far away, the Hermitage of Montesiepi holds the “Sword in the Stone,” which was driven into the rock centuries ago by a knight who became a saint: a fascinating symbol for those seeking spirituality and legends.
Heading north, you will find Volterra, the cradle of Etruscan civilization and a treasure trove of medieval wonders. Its historic center, the Guarnacci Museum, and Roman ruins coexist in an intimate, timeless atmosphere, far from the hustle and bustle of tourism.
Lastly, Lucca: surrounded by its monumental walls, it reveals its beauty at the end of summer when walks along the ramparts offer unique views of the city. Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, the hundred churches, and the hidden corners of the historic center—every corner invites a slow discovery. From September 5th to 7th, Murabilia transforms the walls into an open-air garden, showcasing elite botany and floral collecting.
This is the Tuscany that doesn’t reveal itself to everyone, but reveals itself to those who know how to look. And it’s at this time of year that its beauty truly becomes exclusive.