Florence travel guide — where to stay, what to do, and where to eat in Florence, Tuscany, Italy.
Top adventure experiences
The most exciting activities Florence has to offer.
-
1
Cycling the Chiantigiana (SR222)
The Chiantigiana (SR222) is Tuscany's most iconic cycling road, winding south from Greve in Chianti through vineyards, olive groves, and medieval hilltop villages all the way to Siena. The rolling hills of the Chianti Classico zone offer a patchwork of strade bianche (white gravel lanes), cypress avenues, and estate drives flanked by Sangiovese vines. September-October is magical during the vendemmia (grape harvest), when the vine leaves turn gold and estates open their cellars. Bike rental shops in Greve in Chianti and guided cycling tours departing Florence make this one of Tuscany's most accessible active experiences.
Best season: April-June and September-October
-
2
Hot Air Balloon over Tuscany
Drifting over the cypresses, vineyards, and hilltop villages of Tuscany at dawn is one of the most unforgettable experiences the region offers. Flights take off at sunrise when winds are calmest and the golden light saturates the Val d'Orcia UNESCO landscape. The one-hour flight covers rolling hills, castle silhouettes, and patchwork olive groves at treetop height, followed by a champagne breakfast landing in a meadow. Operators collect passengers from Florence hotels before dawn and return them mid-morning. The Val d'Orcia — with its cypress-lined ridges, Bagno Vignoni, and the Rocca d'Orcia castle — is the most spectacular flight zone.
Best season: April-June and September-October
-
3
Horse Riding in the Chianti Hills
Riding on horseback through the Chianti hills is a centuries-old way to experience a landscape that the Medici themselves explored in the same manner. Trails wind through vineyards, oak forests, and along ridgelines with views of distant hilltop castles. Several Chianti agriturismo estates and dedicated riding centres offer 2-hour beginner trail rides through vineyards, half-day rides to a winery for tasting, and full-day routes along the ancient Chiantigiana path network. The autumn season brings golden vine leaves and harvest activity in the fields. Fattoria di Maiano near Fiesole, just 8 km from Florence, offers rides above the city with views over the Arno valley.
Best season: April-June and September-November
-
4
Rock Climbing at Monte Calvario (Greve in Chianti)
Monte Calvario above Greve in Chianti offers the most accessible sport climbing in the Florence area, with limestone cliffs providing routes from 4a to 7b+ for all levels. The crag faces southwest and is warm and sheltered in spring and autumn — the ideal climbing seasons. Local guides from Florence's CAI section run introductory climbing courses for beginners, covering basic technique, belay systems, and safety on routes between 5a and 6a. For experienced climbers, the single-pitch routes with permanent bolt protection are well-maintained and vary in length from 12m to 30m.
Best season: March-May and September-November
-
5
Rafting and Kayaking on the Arno
The upper Arno between Pontassieve and Florence offers Italy's most accessible river activity within reach of a major city. In spring, the river runs fast and clear, with Class II-III rapids in the gorge sections beneath the Apennine foothills. Local clubs and guides offer half-day guided kayak and raft sessions from Pontassieve (25 km east of Florence by train), suitable for beginners. The canyon sections pass medieval bridges and wooded riverbanks with occasional views of Florentine hilltop villas. By July-August, low water levels make the river unsuitable for paddling; this is firmly a spring activity.
Best season: March-June (winter rains fill the river; summer levels drop)
Activities by type
Find adventures that match your interests.
Land adventures
Trekking, mountaineering, rock climbing, mountain biking, and overland expeditions through diverse terrain.
Water adventures
Rafting, kayaking, diving, snorkeling, and water sports where conditions permit.
Air adventures
Paragliding, skydiving, hot air ballooning, and aerial tours for unique perspectives.
Expedition treks
Multi-day treks and expeditions through remote areas with camping and guide support.
Difficulty levels
No experience needed. Suitable for most fitness levels.
Basic fitness required. Some prior experience helpful.
Good fitness and some experience required.
Significant experience and high fitness essential.
Recommended operators
Vetted companies for safe adventures.
Tuscany Bike Tours
Balloon Team Italy
CAI (Club Alpino Italiano) - Sezione di Firenze
Canoa Club Firenze
Adventure safety
Stay safe while pushing your limits.
Never go on adventures alone in remote areas. Always use reputable guides for challenging activities.
Get comprehensive travel insurance that specifically covers adventure activities and emergency evacuation.
Check weather conditions and be prepared to cancel or postpone. Mountain weather changes rapidly.
Know your limits. Choose activities appropriate for your fitness and experience level.
Acclimatize properly before high-altitude activities. Altitude sickness is serious.
Preparation & gear
Get ready for your adventure.
Essential gear
- Quality hiking boots (broken in)
- Layered clothing system
- Rain gear and sun protection
- First aid kit
- Headlamp and batteries
- Water purification
Physical preparation
- Start training 6-8 weeks before
- Build cardio endurance
- Include strength training
- Practice with loaded backpack
- Get medical clearance if needed