The region of Tuscany is a centrally located area in Italy that is known for its Renaissance art, medieval towns and famous wines. Luckily, it is also a great destination all year round, with April being a standout time to visit. Temperatures are milder, with fewer tourists and the countryside is beginning to bloom after a long winter.
Join us in this article as we explore Tuscany in April and discover what temperatures to expect, the best places to visit, how to pack for the season and why April is a fantastic time to explore Tuscany.
What’s the weather like in Tuscany in April?
April in Tuscany marks the heart of springtime in the region. April brings about pleasant temperatures and beautiful green landscapes. As the cold and damp winter months are gone, spring days are longer, sunnier and overall, more pleasant for exploring the outdoors. Having said this, the weather can still be unpredictable at times, with occasional rain showers and fluctuating temperatures between day and night.
Tuscany has about 6-7 hours of sunshine per day in April, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Rainfall averages between 60-80 mm, with around 9-12 rainy days spread throughout the month. While it’s not likely to rain every day, it’s a good idea to prepare for brief showers.
If you are planning to visit coastal areas, such as Viareggio, the sea helps to keep temperatures slightly milder, although more humid. In contrast, hilltop towns like San Gimignano and Montepulciano will usually have cooler evenings due to their elevation.
Average temperatures in Tuscany in April
The temperatures in April are very comfortable for exploring both cities and the countryside. Keep in mind that mornings and evenings can be cool, while afternoons can get pretty warm, especially under the sun.
The average temperatures in April are as follows, although certain years may have differing temperatures.
Florence: 18°C high, 8°C low
Lucca: 17°C high, 7°C low
Viareggio (coastal): 16°C high, 9°C low
Even though daytime temperatures are pleasant, evenings can feel chilly, so packing accordingly is essential.
Best places to visit in Tuscany in April
Because of the mild weather and fewer crowds, April is an excellent time to explore Tuscany’s cities, coastal areas, and countryside. Some of our favourite towns to explore in Tuscany:
1. Lucca
Lucca is a charming medieval city known for its well-preserved Renaissance walls. Fun activities in Lucca include taking a leisurely bike ride along the city walls, exploring the Old Town and Piazza dell’Anfiteatro and finally, visiting the Botanical Garden.
2. Pisa
While Pisa is famous for its Leaning Tower, the city has much more to offer. April is great for exploring the Piazza dei Miracoli, Pisa Cathedral and Baptistery as there are much fewer crowds. Don’t forget to snap a picture of you supporting the falling tower as there are fewer crowds and better photo opportunities.
3. Florence
The capital of Tuscany, Florence, is a must-visit for history, art, and culture lovers. We suggest visiting the Uffizi Gallery and Galleria dell’Accademia to admire works by Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Leonardo da Vinci. Also, don’t miss Piazzale Michelangelo, where you can expereince amazing panoramic views of Florence. We suggest visiting at sunset!
This year, as Easter falls in April, we highly recommend experiencing the Scoppio del Carro (Explosion of the Cart). This is a unique tradition in Florence that takes place on Easter Sunday.
4. Viareggio (Coastal Escape)
April is a great time to visit Viareggio before the summer crowds. Peacefully stroll along the promenade with mild spring temperatures and don’t forget to visit Villa Puccini. The former home of opera composer Giacomo Puccini provides tours and interesting workshops throughout the year.
5. Vineyards of Tuscany
Tuscany vineyards are world-famous, and April is an unforgettable month for winemaking in the region. As spring arrives, the vineyards are blooming with grapevines sprouting fresh leaves. This period is very important for winemakers as they prepare for the growing season.
Explore Chianti’s vineyards, or Montalcino, home to the prestigious Brunello di Montalcino wine. Sign up for a tour of the historic wineries where you can learn about the meticulous process of aging wine in oak barrels.
How to pack for Tuscany’s April weather
Making sure to pack smartly can make or break an enjoyable holiday…or at least save you from a surprise shopping trip! Since the weather in spring can be unpredictable, we recommend packing many light layers to adjust throughout the day. Mornings and evenings can be cool while afternoons under the sun can be very warm. Bring a t-shirt, light sweaters, jackets and scarves to help build your day to night time looks. A raincoat and compact umbrella are other key packing items that will come in handy, especially if you are visiting a Tuscan vineyard. Finally, don’t forget comfortable walking shoes, especially for exploring the cobblestone streets of the historic centres.
Accessories like sunglasses, hats and sunscreen are useful since the spring sun can be strong.
Our suggested packing list:
- Clothing: Light jacket or trench coat, sweaters, cardigans, long-sleeve shirts and T-shirts, comfortable jeans or trousers.
- Footwear: Sneakers or comfortable walking shoes (for cobblestone streets).
- Weather Essentials: Small umbrella or raincoat.
- Accessories: Sunglasses, sunscreen and hat (for sunny afternoons), a small backpack (for day trips and extra layers).
Enjoy Tuscany's pleasant April climate and book your holiday today
April is one of the best months to explore Tuscany. The region is in full bloom with grapes growing in Chianti and lively city streets. The weather is mild, making it perfect for sightseeing, wine tasting, and exploring historic landmarks without the summer crowds, and prices. April offers an unforgettable experience in Tuscany and with the right clothing and a flexible itinerary, you can make the most of this beautiful season.
For your April getaway to Tuscany, rely on Lucca Apartments and Villas for comfortable accommodations in the region. With a variety of options, from large family villas with swimming pools to quaint city apartments in Lucca’s Old Town, you will find the perfect place to call home while holidaying in Tuscany.
