Summer events in Florence – a taste of Tuscany.

27 Jul 2019

Gruppo UNA

This beautiful home of the Renaissance provides a stunning backdrop for both local and international events and festivals throughout the summer. From art and music festivals to museum exhibitions, Florence really shows off in summer. In this piece, we look at the best summer events in Florence and what you should see if you are visiting in this season.

Florence, Ponte Vecchio

Best events in Florence - Summer 2019.

The Uffizi Gallery, best known for its grand architecture and being the home of some of the world's finest examples of Renaissance art and sculpture, also plays host to an open-air film festival. When you have finished admiring the masterpieces inside, the Apriti Cinema hosts summer screenings outside in the magnificent Ufizzi courtyard. Every night from late June until August, there are screenings of 48 international films in their native language, with specific emphasis on the relationship between art and film. This is a unique event to experience the Uffizi in a different light – after dark and in all its majesty.

If music, theatre and opera are more your things, then make sure to check out The New Generation Festival in Florence in August. Set in the Corsini Gardens, one of the finest gardens in Florence, this cultural event celebrates the breaking down of generational boundaries through the love of music and theatre. Expect performances from talented international musicians from many backgrounds. This special event runs for three days from the 28th to the 31st of August and should not be missed.

Everyone knows that food plays a huge part in Italian culture, and it will come as no surprise that in summer when the temperatures are perfect for alfresco dining, Italian food festivals (Sagra) hit the streets of many Italian cities.

Serving regional delicacies and showcasing the finest produce in Tuscany, Florence plays host to many food festivals, but the pick of the bunch has to be the Sagra del Fungo Porcino – a celebration of the porcini mushroom. Just outside of Florence in the Tuscan foothills lies the picturesque town of Mugello. It is here that you can try one of Tuscany's most famous dishes, from creamy plates of mushroom pasta to barbecues with fried mushroom. This is a must-visit event for any foodie in Florence!

One of the top summer festivals in Florence is undoubtedly the Italian Brass Week, which takes place from July 21–28th at many iconic locations around the city. If you are looking for laid-back Florence party events and love all genres of brass music, from classical to jazz, then this festival will have you embracing the Italian nights in spectacular settings such as the Piazza Duomo and the Bargello.

This years festival, 'The Sublime Beauty of Genius' takes inspiration from the works of Leonardo da Vinci and is marking the 500th anniversary of his death. The festival closes in spectacular style on the last Saturday in July on the banks of the Arno river and sees an emotive performance featuring three boats and one-hundred soloists.

Florence, Galleria Uffizi

What's on in Florence? Top museum attractions.

In between all of the summer festivals, it would be a shame not to visit many of the museums and galleries of Florence as they contain some of the finest pieces of art and sculpture in the world.

The Galleria dell'Accademia is one of the most visited museums in the world, and rightfully so. It contains the original statue, David by Michelangelo. This marble masterpiece alone is a reason to visit, but you will also find other pieces of art by the Renaissance genius as well as murals and frescos.

Alongside food, Italy is known around the world for its love of fashion. Step into the Gucci Garden and be taken on a journey through the giant fashion house's evolution. This museum is a shrine to Italian fashion and has an exhibition room filled with pieces from the ages as well as a world-class restaurant. A true celebration of the finer things in life.

Florence – where to stay.

When you visit Florence, it is important that you are close enough to the action but also get to experience the tranquil surrounding regions of the city. When it comes to accommodation in Florence, Gruppo Una have you covered with the UNAHOTELS Vittoria Firenze – a hotel designed by daring architect Fabio Novembre that bursts with Tuscan style and elegance. This design hotel is easily reached by public transport as well as car and offers a slice of Italian luxury to your summer break. The perfect choice if you want to explore the many festivals in Florence.

UNAHOTELS Vittoria Firenze

You can also choose Leone Blu Suites | UNA Esperienze, an exclusive collection of nine unique suites, born from the harmonious mixture of antique elements, like the wooden decorated roofs and the furniture from Brolio Castle, and contemporary details. Sophistication and elegance are the key elements of the Ricasoli Palace, a historic house of the 15th century, a timeless place where Italian art merges with the finest works of the greatest craftsmen from Florence.

Leone Blu Suites | UNA Esperienze

If you are looking for a more rustic country escape, then why not opt for the country estate of Fattoria Santo Stefano. Set in verdant Tuscan hillsides, this luxury villa complex is complete with swimming pools, picturesque villas and plenty of privacy and tranquillity. It is also a very convenient location if you want to experience events and festivals in other towns and cities in the region, being close to Florence, Pisa and Sienna. 

If you still haven't made up your mind where to travel this summer, make sure to read some of our other articles and become inspired to book your summer Italian getaway.

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