San Giovanni Valdarno

Day Trips

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

day 1
Arrival and Exploration
morning
:

Arrive in San Giovanni Valdarno and check into your charming local hotel. Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the historic center, taking in the picturesque architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Stop by a local café to sample a delicious Italian breakfast of pastries and coffee.

afternoon
:

Visit the Museo della Basilica di San Giovanni Battista, where you can admire fascinating exhibits detailing the town's rich history. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a traditional trattoria, savoring local specialties like ribollita or pici. Spend your afternoon wandering through the charming streets, popping into local artisan shops.

evening
:

As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at a rooftop bar for stunning views of the Tuscan landscape. Indulge in a delightful dinner featuring local wine and cuisine at a nearby restaurant. Finish the evening with a peaceful walk through the illuminated streets, soaking in the enchanting ambiance.

day 2
Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Start the day by exploring the nearby town of Montevarchi, just a short drive away. Here, visit the local market where vendors sell fresh produce and handmade goods, offering a taste of everyday Italian life. Enjoy a typical Tuscan breakfast at a café in the town square.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, head to the Civic Museum of Montevarchi to delve deeper into the region's artistic heritage. After your cultural indulgence, grab lunch at a local eatery, sampling some artisan salami or cheeses. Take a leisurely walk through the beautiful countryside, enjoying the rolling hills and vineyards.

evening
:

Return to San Giovanni Valdarno for a cooking class experience where you will learn to prepare traditional Tuscan dishes. Share your meal with fellow participants, enjoying the fruits of your labor while exchanging stories over dinner. Wind down your evening with a relaxing glass of Chianti in a local wine bar.

day 3
Tuscany's Natural Beauty
morning
:

Spend the morning hiking in the nearby Arno Valley, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. Enjoy the fresh air and scenic views as you traverse well-marked trails through vineyards and olive groves. Pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy amidst nature's beauty.

afternoon
:

After your hike, have lunch in a countryside osteria, relishing homemade pasta and local wines. Explore the picturesque village of Loro Ciuffenna, known for its stunning waterfalls and charming medieval architecture. Stroll through the town, capturing beautiful photographs of its scenic views.

evening
:

After returning to San Giovanni Valdarno, enjoy a relaxed evening at a local gelateria, savoring authentic Italian gelato. Consider catching a performance at the Teatro Comunale, where you can experience local culture through music or drama. End your day with a gentle walk, soaking in the peaceful ambiance of this Tuscan gem.

day 4
Arts and Architecture
morning
:

Visit the nearby town of Arezzo, renowned for its artistic treasures, in the morning. Start at the Piazzetta San Francesco and take a moment to admire the stunning frescoes of Piero della Francesca. Enjoy breakfast at a café overlooking the beautiful square.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon exploring the local antique shops and the Arezzo Cathedral, marveling at its imposing Gothic facade. Delight in a leisurely lunch at a trattoria known for its rustic dishes. Don’t miss the chance to wander through the local artisan markets and pick up unique souvenirs.

evening
:

Return to San Giovanni Valdarno for dinner at a local pizzeria where you can savor authentic thin-crust pizza. As the evening progresses, stroll through the historic district, soaking in the essence of Tuscan life as locals gather and socialize. Cap off the night by enjoying live music at a small venue.

day 5
Local Wine and Vineyards
morning
:

Dedicate your morning to wine tasting at nearby wineries in the Chianti region. Join a guided tour to learn about wine production and the unique terroirs of the area. Enjoy a light breakfast accompanied by samples of locally made cheeses.

afternoon
:

After your morning indulgence, have lunch amid the vineyards, often paired with more fantastic wine selections. Spend your afternoon cycling through the idyllic countryside, stopping by various vineyards to soak in the stunning views. Capture the moments with your camera, as every corner is a picturesque postcard.

evening
:

Return to San Giovanni Valdarno to relax at a wine bar, delving into the world of Tuscan wines with an expert host. Savor a hearty dinner of grilled meats and vegetables paired with the perfect wine. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere in the town as locals gather, sharing laughter and stories.

day 6
Historic Sites and Nature
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the beautiful Reggello, exploring its beautiful churches and historical sites. Stop by the Abbey of Vallombrosa, a peaceful spot perfect for reflection. Relish a traditional breakfast in a neighborhood café before setting out on your day’s adventures.

afternoon
:

After lunch, venture into the nearby Casentino Forests, a natural park that offers breathtaking hiking trails and lush scenery. Spend your afternoon immersing yourself in nature, where towering trees and serene landscapes beckon exploration. Don’t forget to bring along a camera to capture the beauty of the park.

evening
:

Return to San Giovanni Valdarno for dinner at a rustic restaurant that specializes in seasonal dishes. Engage in conversation with locals as you dine, sharing experiences and stories. After dinner, take a peaceful evening walk, enjoying the charm of this beautiful town under the stars.

day 7
Local Artisans and Shopping
morning
:

Spend your morning visiting local artisans in San Giovanni Valdarno, where you can observe traditional crafts such as pottery or leatherwork. Engage with artists and learn about their techniques, witnessing the passion and talent firsthand. Enjoy a light breakfast while mingling with artisans and gaining insights into their work.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, explore small boutiques and markets that offer unique handmade goods and local products. Treat yourself to a culinary delight by grabbing a light lunch at a café featuring local specialties. Take your time browsing, and perhaps buy a unique piece to remind you of your travels.

evening
:

For dinner, visit a family-run restaurant, where you can enjoy authentic flavors and home-cooked meals. Engage with the owner, who might share recipes or stories about their culinary heritage. Conclude your evening at a nearby bakery, indulging in desserts that highlight the sweet side of Tuscan cuisine.

day 8
Relaxation Day in the Spa
morning
:

After several days of exploration, treat yourself to a well-deserved spa day in a nearby luxury resort. Start your morning with a relaxing massage followed by a refreshing facial, rejuvenating both body and mind. Enjoy a light breakfast at the spa's café to set a restorative tone for the day.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon unwinding in thermal baths or thermal pools and enjoying the beautiful views of the Tuscan hills. Delight in a nutritious lunch featuring local organic ingredients prepared with care. Continue to pamper yourself with various wellness treatments or simply relax with a book.

evening
:

As the sun sets, indulge in a sumptuous dinner at the resort’s gourmet restaurant, savoring dishes crafted with the finest local produce. Reflect on your journey with a glass of fine wine while enjoying the serene ambiance. Retreat to the lounge area to soak in the tranquil atmosphere before ending your day.

day 9
Art and Culinary Delights
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit back to Arezzo to explore more of its rich artistic heritage. Visit the Casa di Giorgio Vasari, the birthplace of the famous painter and architect, admiring the stunning artwork on display. Grab breakfast at a nearby café, enjoying the local culture around you.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon partaking in a food tour that showcases the culinary delights of Tuscany. Visit various specialty shops and markets, sampling local cheeses, olives, and cured meats. For lunch, savor a delicious meal at an authentic osteria featuring traditional dishes.

evening
:

Conclude your trip with a memorable dining experience in a Michelin-starred restaurant in the region, celebrating the culmination of your Tuscan adventure. Sample exquisite dishes paired with flowing wine, appreciating the art of fine dining. Share your reflections with your dining companions, creating lasting memories of this remarkable journey.

Discover San Giovanni Valdarno

Read more in our San Giovanni Valdarno 2025 Travel Guide.

San Giovanni Valdarno Travel Guide