Montale

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Montale's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Arrival in Montale
morning
:

Arrive in Montale and check into your charming local accommodation. Take a moment to freshen up before heading out to explore the quaint streets of this historical town. Stop by a local café for a traditional Italian breakfast of espresso and cornetto.

afternoon
:

Wander through Montale, admiring its medieval architecture and quaint shops. Visit the local museum to learn about the history and culture of the region. Enjoy a light lunch at a nearby trattoria, sampling regional cuisine.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely stroll around the town square. Find a cozy restaurant for dinner, where you can indulge in authentic Italian dishes paired with local wines. End your evening with a gelato from one of the local parlors.

day 2
Exploring Monsummano Terme
morning
:

Take a short drive to the nearby town of Monsummano Terme. Start your day with a rejuvenating spa treatment in one of the town's renowned thermal resorts. After relaxing, take a scenic walk in the lush surrounding parklands.

afternoon
:

Visit the beautiful Villa Medicea di Montevettolini, where you can explore the stunning gardens and learn about its historical significance. Enjoy lunch at a local bistro with a view of the villa. Spend some time shopping for local crafts and artisanal products before heading back.

evening
:

Return to Montale for an evening of cultural immersion. Attend a local music or dance performance, often held in the town square. Afterward, reflect on your day over a delicious dinner at a family-owned restaurant.

day 3
Wine Tasting in Chianti
morning
:

Embark on a day trip to the famous Chianti wine region. Start your morning with a guided vineyard tour where you'll learn about the winemaking process. Enjoy tastings of various wines paired with local cheeses.

afternoon
:

Savor a leisurely lunch at a picturesque winery overlooking the rolling hills. Spend the afternoon exploring the charming villages of Radda and Castellina in Chianti. Don't miss the opportunity to take stunning photographs of the scenic landscapes.

evening
:

Return to Montale and unwind after a day of indulgence. Find a cozy wine bar, and share your favorite Chianti wines with friends old and new. Dine in a local restaurant, celebrating the day with renowned Tuscan specialties.

day 4
Day at Lucca
morning
:

Travel to Lucca, a delightful walled city known for its rich history. Begin with a bike ride along the charming city walls, enjoying incredible views of the town. Stop at a local bakery for a slice of torta di risotto, a local specialty.

afternoon
:

Explore Lucca's picturesque streets, visiting the stunning St. Martin Cathedral and the Piazza dell'Anfiteatro. Enjoy lunch at a café overlooking one of the inviting squares. Spend some time shopping for unique souvenirs or local crafts.

evening
:

As dusk falls, enjoy a leisurely dinner in Lucca, choosing a restaurant that highlights the fresh flavors of the region. Take one last stroll through the illuminated streets before returning to Montale. Share stories from your day with locals or fellow travelers over a nightcap.

day 5
Art and Culture in Florence
morning
:

Take a day trip to Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance. Start your visit at the Uffizi Gallery, home to masterpieces by Michelangelo and Botticelli. Learn about the artists and their works with a guided tour.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a delightful lunch at a traditional Florentine trattoria, trying specialties such as pappa al pomodoro. Visit the iconic Duomo and its breathtaking dome, taking the opportunity to climb to the top for panoramic views of the city. Explore the markets for unique treasures.

evening
:

Dine in the heart of Florence at a restaurant known for its Florentine steak. Experience the lively atmosphere of the city by visiting a gelateria for a sweet treat afterward. Return to Montale and reflect on the day's artistic adventures.

day 6
Hiking in the Apennines
morning
:

Get ready for a day of adventure in the nearby Apennine Mountains. After a hearty breakfast, put on your hiking boots and explore the breathtaking trails full of flora and fauna. Embrace the tranquility of nature as you venture into this natural paradise.

afternoon
:

Pause for a scenic picnic lunch amidst the stunning mountain views, savoring local delicacies. Continue your hike to explore hidden waterfalls and panoramic vistas, capturing the beauty through photographs. Engage with locals along the trails who can share stories of the land.

evening
:

Relax in your accommodation or take a leisurely walk through the quiet streets as the town settles down for the evening.

day 7
Culinary Experience
morning
:

Spend the morning taking a Tuscan cooking class, learning to prepare traditional dishes from an experienced chef. Gather fresh ingredients from a local market before returning to the kitchen. Delight in creating signature dishes like handmade pasta and artisanal sauces.

afternoon
:

Enjoy the fruits of your labor as you sit down to share a delicious lunch with fellow cooking enthusiasts. Discuss the techniques learned and share cooking tips while enjoying the culinary creations you've made together. Spend the afternoon wandering nearby vineyards, soaking in the beauty of the countryside.

evening
:

End your culinary experience by trying out a few local wines at a nearby enoteca.

day 8
Relaxing Day in Montale
morning
:

After a busy week, take a relaxing day to unwind in Montale. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in your accommodation, savoring fresh bread and local cheeses. Spend the morning at the local park, reading or simply soaking up the sun.

afternoon
:

Visit a local artisan to see crafts being made and perhaps purchase a unique souvenir. Indulge in lunch at a small café, chatting with the friendly locals. Take the afternoon to explore hidden corners of Montale, discovering quiet gardens or stunning views.

evening
:

Join a local gathering or festival if available, experiencing the culture of Montale firsthand. Share a meal with locals at a home-style eatery known for its welcoming atmosphere. Relax with a nightcap, reflecting on your journey and the friendships made along the way.

day 9
Departure
morning
:

As your adventure comes to an end, take some time to enjoy one last breakfast in Montale. Reflect on the experiences you've had over the past ten days and savor the flavors of the region one more time. Pack your bags, ensuring all your souvenirs and memories are stored safely.

afternoon
:

Take a leisurely stroll through the town to bid farewell to your favorite spots. Stop by the local market for any last-minute treats or gifts to bring home. With your bags packed, it’s time to check out and prepare for your journey back.

evening
:

Head to your departure point, filled with unforgettable memories of Montale. Share travel stories with fellow travelers, reminiscing about the beautiful moments spent in Italy. Leave Montale with a heart full of love for the Italian culture and the hope of returning someday.

Discover Montale

Read more in our Montale 2025 Travel Guide.

Montale Travel Guide