Things To Do
in Impruneta

Impruneta is a scenic Tuscan hill town just south of Florence, renowned for its centuries-old terracotta kilns and characteristic stone lanes. The historic center rises above olive groves and vineyards, offering panoramic views and a calm, village-paced atmosphere. It serves as a convenient base for exploring Florence and the Chianti region, while preserving a distinct artisanal character in its pottery workshops.

Visitors are drawn to warm local hospitality, rustic trattorias, and tranquil evenings bathed in golden Tuscan light.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Chiesa di Santa Maria, where you can admire the stunning frescoes and architecture. As the morning sun shines, stroll through the quaint streets of the historic center, taking in the charming terracotta houses and artisan shops. Don't forget to grab a traditional Italian coffee at a local café to fuel your exploration.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a local trattoria, head to the Museo del Vino to learn about the region's wine-making history and savor some local Chianti. Spend the afternoon wandering through the picturesque gardens of Villa La Palagina, where you can enjoy the serene ambiance surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. Capture the stunning views of the Tuscan landscape as you relax on a bench or take a leisurely walk.

evening
:

As dusk falls, treat yourself to a delightful dinner at a family-run restaurant that specializes in traditional Tuscan cuisine. Enjoy local dishes like ribollita and pici while sipping on a glass of Chianti Classico. Conclude your day with a peaceful stroll through the historic center, where the warm lights of the buildings create a magical atmosphere.

day 2
Tuscan Vineyard Tour
morning
:

Embark on a guided tour of a local vineyard, where you will learn about the grape-growing process specific to this region. Participate in a morning wine tasting, sampling various Chianti wines paired with freshly baked bread and local cheeses. The gentle morning breeze and lush vineyard views make for an unforgettable experience.

afternoon
:

After your vineyard tour, enjoy a leisurely picnic lunch among the vines, featuring local delicacies and products. Spend the afternoon exploring the estate and its surroundings, perhaps joining a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Tuscan dishes. Engage with the winemakers and understand the passion behind their craft as you immerse yourself in the vineyard life.

evening
:

Return to Impruneta for a casual dinner at a pizzeria known for its wood-fired pizzas. Relish your meal while enjoying the vibrant local ambiance filled with laughter and conversation. As the night progresses, find a cozy gelateria to indulge in some authentic Italian gelato to sweeten your day.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
☕️Coffee in a cafe$2-4
🧀Groceries (basic staples)$5-15
🍷Glass of wine in a trattoria$5-12
🏨Mid-range hotel per night$100-180

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming Tuscan town with medieval architecture
  • Proximity to Florence and Chianti wine country
  • Limited nightlife and day-trips can be crowded in peak season
  • Some services are seasonal or slower in smaller towns
  • "Buongiorno" - Good morning
  • "Per favore" - Please
  • "Grazie" - Thank you
  • "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Dove si trova il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Impruneta

Visit one of these nice places.

Old Town Gate and Towers

A medieval gateway and towers framing the town with views toward the Chianti hills.

Terracotta Kilns and Workshops

Brick kilns and pottery studios perched on the hillside make for characterful subject matter.

Belvedere over Chianti

A lookout point on the outskirts offering panoramic views of olive groves, vineyards, and distant Florence.

Piazza di Santa Maria all'Impronta

Quiet square with stone façades and daily life as a backdrop for candid photography.

Sunset over vineyards

Golden hour shots of rolling hills, cypress lines, and terracotta roofs.

Culinary Guide

Food in Impruneta

Tuscan cuisine highlights simple, seasonal ingredients—olive oil, beans, vegetables, and grilled meats—seasoned with herbs and enjoyed with robust local wines from Chianti.

Impruneta Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ribollita

A hearty bread and vegetable soup, a staple of Tuscan rustic cooking.

Must-Try!

Pappa al pomodoro

Tomato and bread soup finished with garlic, basil, and olive oil.

Crostini di fegatini

Toast points topped with a rich chicken liver pâté.

Bistecca alla Fiorentina

A thick, juicy T-bone steak grilled over wood fire and seasoned simply.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Weekly Market (Piazza del Comune)

Fresh produce, cheeses, bread, and local products on market day.

Street snacks around the town

Casual bites such as panini and rustic pastries near the main square.

Climate Guide

Weather

The region experiences a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant for outdoor activities, while summer can be hot during the day and cooler at night.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Greet with a courteous Buongiorno or Ciao; ask permission before taking photos of people.

Church dress code

Modest dress is appreciated when visiting churches and sacred sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Impruneta is generally safe; practice standard travel safety: keep valuables secure, beware of pickpockets in crowded areas and Florence day trips, and use reliable transportation.

Tipping in Impruneta

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In Italy, service is often included in the bill; if not, a small tip (5-10%) is appreciated in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Cash and cards are widely accepted; carry cash for markets and smaller shops.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers create ideal conditions for walking the hills and photographing the town.

Summer

Warm to hot days; plan outdoor activity for morning or late afternoon and enjoy evening dining al fresco.

Autumn

Harvest season with grape and olive picking; vibrant colors in the countryside and festive food events.

Winter

Cool but typically dry; quieter streets and crackling fireplaces in trattorie.

Nightlife Guide

Impruneta at Night

Impruneta’s nightlife is relaxed, centered on wine bars and family-owned osterie; evenings emphasize food, conversation, and gentle strolls rather than late-night clubs.

Hiking in Impruneta

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Chianti hillside loop

Scenic loop through olive groves and vineyards with views toward Florence.

Via Francigena segment near Florence

Historic pilgrimage route with varied terrain and countryside scenery.

Olive grove and vineyard trails around Impruneta

Gentle paths suitable for all levels, especially in late spring and autumn.

Airports

How to reach Impruneta by plane.

Florence Airport (Amerigo Vespucci)

About 20-25 minutes by car from Impruneta; good connections to major European destinations.

Pisa International Airport (Galileo Galilei)

Approximately 1.5 hours by car or train; convenient for international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Very walkable within the historic core; parking can be limited, and hill streets may require stairs and gentle climbs.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local residents

Mostly Italian families and older residents; a small number of expatriates and seasonal workers.

Seasonal visitors

Tourists in spring and autumn who visit Florence or use Impruneta as a tranquil base.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Calcio)

Local matches and community leagues are common in nearby towns and schools.

Cycling

The Chianti hills attract cyclists with scenic routes and challenging climbs.

Running and hiking

Trail runs and family hikes in the surrounding countryside.

Transportation

Traffic

Narrow, winding roads in the hills can be slow; use public transit or park-and-ride options when visiting Florence; plan extra time in peak hours.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Impruneta.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian travelers can enjoy vegetable-based dishes such as ribollita and pappa al pomodoro, along with fresh salads and bread.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare services are available locally; for more specialized care, Florence’s hospitals (Careggi, Santa Maria Annunziata) are within reach; bring your health insurance card.

Discover Italy

Read more in our Italy 2025 Travel Guide.

Italy Travel Guide