We love to cook and are coming to Tuscany for a month in summer 2025. Rather than staying in Florence which we know will be very crowded, which other city would be less crowded and interesting? We’d like to avoid renting a car so a city rather than the countryside would be our choice.
We came upon your blog looking at food but thought you’d be able to help with this selection of city to stay in.
I’d say Siena, if you have never been there, or Pistoia, which is closer to Florence and well connected by train to visit nearby towns. From Siena you can access via bus San Gimignano, Monteriggioni, and also Val d’Orcia.
I'm in the countryside of Colle val d'Elsa - about 30 minutes from Siena, but unfortunately, you need a car (or a driver) to access our cooking studio as sadly there is no public transportation.
My Italian is not very good but I’m taking lessons . Been to Italy many times ( was married to an Italian). Adore Tuscany. I wish I knew about your classes before . I took another one . La prossima Volta!
Hello Giuliano
We love to cook and are coming to Tuscany for a month in summer 2025. Rather than staying in Florence which we know will be very crowded, which other city would be less crowded and interesting? We’d like to avoid renting a car so a city rather than the countryside would be our choice.
We came upon your blog looking at food but thought you’d be able to help with this selection of city to stay in.
Thanks so much
I’d say Siena, if you have never been there, or Pistoia, which is closer to Florence and well connected by train to visit nearby towns. From Siena you can access via bus San Gimignano, Monteriggioni, and also Val d’Orcia.
Thank you Giulia! And where are you located?
I'm in the countryside of Colle val d'Elsa - about 30 minutes from Siena, but unfortunately, you need a car (or a driver) to access our cooking studio as sadly there is no public transportation.
Sorry the auto correct got your name wrong. I know it’s Giulia
Dear Giulia,
I hope you had a wonderful Christmas!
I accidently deleted my account with you. I'm wondering if you know how to reinstate it?
Many thanks for your help and Happy New Year!
Terry Azkoul
Hello Terry, I see you are still subscribed, how strange!
Great, Giulia! Thanks for checking. Happy New Year!
My Italian is not very good but I’m taking lessons . Been to Italy many times ( was married to an Italian). Adore Tuscany. I wish I knew about your classes before . I took another one . La prossima Volta!
Ciao Karen, welcome to Letters from Tuscany! Spero di incontrarti la prossima volta!
Ciao Giulia! Sono appena tornato da Firenze e ho visitato anche la Toscana.
Great to e-meet you Giulia, thoroughly enjoyed Tuscany, especially the wine! The food always taste best with a local glass (or bottle) of wine.
Hi Luke, so nice to e-meet you!
Thank you, Deb! and Welcome!