Tuscany is one of the largest and most geographically diverse regions in Italy, which also means that the climate varies greatly across the region.
While the coastal areas enjoy a humid Mediterranean climate with mild winters and very warm summers, the hilly inland areas are more akin to a temperate climate zone. However, even here the summers are warm and the winters are shorter and milder than, for example, in the mountain ranges of the Alps.
A specific climate prevails along the entire northern border of Tuscany, which is surrounded by mountains reaching heights of up to 1 900 metres. The climate here is very similar to that of the temperate zone, with large differences in temperature between summer and winter.
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Temperatures and weather during the year
What is the weather like in Tuscany during the different months?
Weather in January
January is generally the coldest month. Average temperatures hover around 7°C across the region, but in the northern part of the Apuan Alps and Apennines, temperatures commonly drop below freezing and snow falls.
During January it rains on average 8 days a month in the north (Florence and Pisa) and less in the south, when it rains about 5 days a month (Grosseto).
Count on the fact that frosts can also occur in the morning and at night in the lowlands.
Weather in February
February brings temperatures between 7 and 12°C and frequent showers, especially in the mountains and the northern part of Tuscany around Massa.
Snow is common in the mountains and frost can also be encountered in the foothills, especially around the cities of Florence and Lucca. However, it usually freezes only in the morning and at night.
Weather in March
In March, spring slowly arrives in Tuscany. Temperatures rise to between 10 and 15 °C and showers occur on average 7 days a month.
The mountainous areas are often still under snow and mornings are very cold even in the lowlands.
By the end of March, flowers are in full bloom and the city parks are beautifully green.
Weather in April
During April, temperatures normally range between 15 °C and 20 °C.
There is little rain in the southern part of Tuscany and on the island of Elba, but in the northern area between Pisa, Florence and in the mountains it rains a little more in April than during the winter. However, these are usually only intense but short showers, which rarely last more than a few hours.
Weather in May
May is a great month for exploring the Tuscan countryside, but also for walking around the towns. Temperatures reach near-summer highs of between 22°C and 25°C, but extreme heat is rare, so being outdoors is very pleasant.
May is an average month for rainfall. Showers occur about 8 days a month.
Weather in June
June is the first month of summer with temperatures between 23 °C and 27 °C, but at the seaside and in the southern parts of the region they can reach over 30 °C.
Showers and thunderstorms are more common in the northern part of Tuscany in the mountains, otherwise you don't have to worry too much about rain.
Weather in July
July is a very warm month, with temperatures typically reaching 30 °C in the lowlands and by the sea and around 24 °C in the mountains.
You can always escape from the heat into the hilly countryside and historic towns with shady narrow streets. Rain is almost exclusively confined to the occasional evening or night thunderstorm.
Weather in August
August is the hottest month in Tuscany, with temperatures between 28°C and 33°C. Extremes of over 35 °C are no exception.
There is very little rain and usually only in the form of evening thunderstorms, which occur on average 4 times a month.
Many Italians take their holidays in August and therefore the beaches in particular are very crowded and accommodation prices are the highest of the year.
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Weather in September
During September, summer is still in full swing. Temperatures normally reach 30°C, with an average of between 23°C and 27°C towards the end of the month.
The water in the sea is beautifully warmed from the summer, which is why September is still considered high season.
Showers or thunderstorms occur on average 6 days a month, but usually last no more than a few dozen minutes.
September is the main wine harvest season and is therefore the best time to visit the vineyards.
Weather in October
The October weather invites you to take walks in the towns, but also in the countryside. Temperatures hover around 20 °C.
The wine harvest peaks in October and the vineyards are probably at their most beautiful at this time. Especially the early evenings in the vineyards, when the sun's rays turn the gradually yellowing leaves golden, are simply magical.
Compared to the summer, there is considerably more rain during October, but it is still mostly just showers that will have little effect on your stay.
Weather in November
November is generally the rainiest month in Tuscany. The rainfall is usually not heavy, but it can last all day.
Temperatures are pleasant though, ranging between 12°C and 18°C.
November is therefore an ideal month to visit the towns and historic villages.
Weather in December
Due to the short days, December is the darkest month of the year, with occasional prolonged rain (easily 3 days in a row). However, on average there are only about 9 rainy days during December.
Expect temperatures to be around 7 to 14 °C. In the mountains it can snow and freeze.
December is a great month to visit cities beautifully decorated for Christmas.
Table of temperatures during the year
Tuscany - Average temperatures for the whole area
When to go to Tuscany
Tuscany is a year-round destination, it just depends on your destination.
If you're travelling for a sunny Mediterranean summer, swimming in the sea or hiking in the mountains, head to Tuscany between June and mid-September when temperatures are at their highest and sunny weather is guaranteed.
If sightseeing and city-hopping is your main goal, you can travel at any time of the year, just allow for temperatures over 30°C in summer.
If your main intention is to go to Tuscany during the wine harvest, then head here in late September/early October.
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When does it rain the most in Tuscany?
The rainiest months are November, December, January and February.
On average, it rains 8-9 days a month, so you can't really speak of a rainy season that should significantly affect your holiday.
When is the high season and the hottest in Tuscany?
The highest temperatures are in June, July, August and September, when it's high season for trips to the sea and the island of Elba.
On the other hand, this period is not very suitable for visiting the cities due to the high temperatures of over 30 °C.