Things To Do
in Empoli

Empoli is a charming town located in the heart of Tuscany, Italy, known for its rich history and vibrant culture. Nestled between Florence and Pisa, it offers a delightful blend of art, architecture, and local traditions. The town features beautiful historical buildings, picturesque landscapes, and an inviting atmosphere that attracts both locals and visitors.

Empoli is also famous for its wine production, making it a great destination for food and wine enthusiasts.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Empoli
morning
:

Start your day at Piazza della Vittoria, enjoying a coffee at a local café while admiring the surrounding architecture. Visit the Empoli Cathedral to appreciate its stunning frescoes and historical significance.

afternoon
:

Explore the Museo della Collegiata di Sant'Andrea, which houses remarkable art pieces from the Renaissance period. Afterward, stroll through the town’s charming streets and visit local shops for unique souvenirs.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional trattoria, enjoying local Tuscan dishes, followed by a leisurely walk along the Arno River to take in the beautiful sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Day Trips and Vineyards
morning
:

Take a short trip to a nearby vineyard to learn about the wine-making process and enjoy a tasting session. Many vineyards offer guided tours that provide insight into local wine varieties.

afternoon
:

Return to Empoli and have lunch at a local pizzeria. After lunch, visit the nearby town of Vinci, the birthplace of Leonardo da Vinci, and explore the Leonardo Museum.

evening
:

End your day with a visit to a local enoteca to sample more wines and enjoy a light dinner of antipasti while mingling with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
Coffee$1.50
🍕Pizza$8.00
🍷Glass of Local Wine$5.00
🥖Baguette$1.00
🍽️Dinner at a Restaurant$20.00

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Delicious local cuisine and wine.
  • Beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Limited public transportation options.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
  • Some areas may have language barriers for non-Italian speakers.
  • "Buongiorno" - Good morning
  • "Grazie" - Thank you
  • "Dove si trova...?" - Where is...?
  • "Per favore" - Please
  • "Mi scusi" - Excuse me

Places to Visit in Empoli

Visit one of these nice places.

Piazza della Vittoria

A beautiful square surrounded by historic buildings, perfect for capturing the essence of Empoli.

Empoli Cathedral

The stunning architecture and intricate details of this cathedral provide a great backdrop for photography.

Arno River Walk

The scenic views along the river during sunset offer picturesque moments for photographers.

Culinary Guide

Food in Empoli

Empoli offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing traditional Tuscan flavors and local ingredients.

Empoli Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pici Cacio e Pepe

A traditional Tuscan pasta dish made with hand-rolled spaghetti and seasoned with cheese and pepper.

Must-Try!

Bistecca alla Fiorentina

A thick, grilled T-bone steak, typically served rare and seasoned with salt and olive oil.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Empoli Market

A bustling market held every Thursday, where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and street food vendors.

Street Panini Stalls

Various stalls around town offering delicious panini filled with local meats, cheeses, and fresh vegetables.

Climate Guide

Weather

Empoli experiences a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures typically range from 3°C to 12°C (37°F to 54°F). Rainfall is common in spring and autumn, with a drier summer season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

It is polite to greet people with a 'Buongiorno' (Good morning) or 'Buonasera' (Good evening) when entering shops or restaurants.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to begin the meal before starting to eat, and keep hands on the table but not elbows.

Dress Code

Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; it is respectful to cover shoulders and knees.

Safety Guide

Safety

Empoli is generally a safe town for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it is advisable to remain vigilant against pickpockets in crowded areas and to always keep personal belongings secure.

Tipping in Empoli

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping in Restaurants

It is customary to leave a small tip (5-10%) if service is not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit cards, but it's wise to carry cash for small purchases and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make spring a beautiful time to visit, ideal for outdoor activities.

Summer

Expect hot weather, perfect for enjoying outdoor dining and local festivals, but be prepared for potential crowds.

Autumn

The fall foliage and grape harvest season create stunning landscapes and a vibrant atmosphere in the vineyards.

Winter

Cool temperatures and occasional rainfall; however, the festive atmosphere during Christmas offers a unique charm.

Nightlife Guide

Empoli at Night

Empoli has a vibrant nightlife scene with various bars, wine bars, and clubs catering to different tastes. Many locals gather in the piazzas for evening socializing, and there are often live music events. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, making it easy to mingle and enjoy the local culture.

Hiking in Empoli

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentiero del Fiume Arno

A scenic trail along the Arno River, suitable for hiking and walking, offering beautiful views of the river and surrounding landscapes.

Monti del Chianti

Located a short drive from Empoli, these hills offer various hiking trails with stunning panoramas of the Chianti wine region.

Airports

How to reach Empoli by plane.

Florence Airport (FLR)

Located approximately 30 kilometers from Empoli, Florence Airport serves as the main international gateway, offering flights to various destinations in Europe and beyond.

Getting Around

Walkability

Empoli is highly walkable, with a compact town center that makes it easy to explore on foot. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within a short walking distance, and the streets are pedestrian-friendly, with ample sidewalks and signage.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

Empoli is home to a mix of families, retirees, and young professionals, creating a diverse community that values local traditions.

Students

With several educational institutions in the area, Empoli attracts students from various backgrounds, contributing to the town's youthful vibe.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is immensely popular in Empoli, with the local team, A.S. Empoli F.C., competing in the Italian league.

Cycling

Cycling is a favored activity in the region, with many locals enjoying biking through the picturesque Tuscan countryside.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Empoli is generally light, especially compared to larger cities. Public transportation options include trains and buses that connect to nearby towns and cities, making it easy to navigate the region.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Empoli.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Gluten-Free Options

Many restaurants offer gluten-free pasta and dishes, but it’s advisable to inform the staff about your dietary needs.

Vegetarian/Vegan Options

Empoli's traditional cuisine includes many vegetable-based dishes; however, options may vary by restaurant.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Empoli is generally good, with several clinics and a hospital providing services. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and pharmacies are readily available for minor health needs.

Discover Italy

Read more in our Italy 2025 Travel Guide.

Italy Travel Guide