Why choose sustainable tourism in Tuscany
Tuscany, with its rich biodiversity, small well-preserved villages, deep-rooted traditions and varied landscape, is one of the Italian regions best suited to those who want to practice sustainable tourism. Choosing a sustainable trip to Tuscany means respecting the environment, supporting local economies, preserving cultural heritage and living more authentic and meaningful experiences.
In recent years, thanks also to targeted regional policies and a growing awareness on the part of travellers, Tuscany has increasingly invested in sustainability projects: from the enhancement of slow tourism to the promotion of organic agritourism, from alternative mobility to environmental certifications for accommodation facilities.
The principles of sustainable tourism
Sustainable tourism is based on three fundamental pillars:
- Protection of the environment: reduction of the environmental impact of travel, respect for biodiversity, conscious use of natural resources.
- Enhancement of local communities: support for craftsmanship, typical gastronomy and local businesses.
- Preservation of cultural heritage: attention to historical sites and traditions, promotion of local culture.
Ideas and activities for a sustainable holiday in Tuscany
1. Sleeping in eco-sustainable farmhouses
Tuscany is famous for its farmhouses immersed in nature. Many of these adopt green practices such as photovoltaics, composting, water saving and zero-mile food. Some structures are certified with the “Legambiente Turismo” brand.
Recommended areas: Val d’Orcia, Casentino, Mugello and Maremma.
2. Travelling with soft mobility
Exploring Tuscany on foot, by bike or by public transport is an excellent way to reduce environmental impact and discover hidden corners of the territory.
- Trails and paths: Via Francigena, Sentiero della Bonifica, Cammino di San Francesco.
- Cycling tourism: the ciclovia dell’Arno, the Eroica in Chianti, the strade bianche of Siena.
- Historic and regional trains: such as the Val d’Orcia Railway or the Treno Natura.
3. Participate in authentic local experiences
Supporting local communities means choosing experiences that involve artisans, farmers, environmental guides and educators of the territory.
Here are some ideas:
- Ceramic or weaving workshops in the villages
- Visits to organic farms with tastings
- Oil harvest or grape harvest
- Cooking classes with local ingredients
4. Visit authentic and less touristy villages
Moving away from the usual tourist circuits to discover authentic and less crowded villages is a sustainable act. These centers often preserve intact the traditions, historical architecture and local rhythms of life.
Some examples: Monticchiello, Casale Marittimo, Anghiari, Sorano, Fosdinovo.
5. Eat local and seasonal
Tuscan gastronomy is one of the most authentic expressions of the territory. Favouring restaurants that use local and seasonal products helps reduce emissions related to transport and supports small producers.
Specialties to try: ribollita, pici, Tuscan pecorino, extra virgin olive oil, DOCG wines.
Sustainable itineraries in Tuscany
Itinerary 1: Slow Val d’Orcia
- Accommodation in an organic farm
- Walks between Pienza, Bagno Vignoni and San Quirico
- Tasting in biodynamic cellars
- Relaxation at the natural spas of Bagni San Filippo
Itinerary 2: Garfagnana and the Apennines
- Excursions in the parks (Orecchiella, Apuan Alps)
- Visit to small cheese producers
- Trekking to Ponte del Diavolo
- Stay in a family-run B&B
Itinerary 3: Maremma and the Etruscan Coast
- Bike between the Etruscan villages and the coast
- Swimming in the natural coves of the Sterpaia Park
- Visit to a WWF oasis
- Dinner in a tavern based on local fish
Certifications and initiatives in Tuscany
Structures with environmental certifications
Many agritourisms, hotels and B&Bs in Tuscany adhere to environmental certification systems such as:
- EU Ecolabel
- Legambiente Turismo
- Bioagriturismi AIAB
Regional initiatives
The Tuscany Region promotes projects such as:
- “Vetrina Toscana” for the valorization of local restaurateurs and producers
- “Toscana Ovunque Bella” for the relaunch of smaller villages
- Collaborations with regional parks to promote nature tourism
Practical tips for sustainable travel in Tuscany
- Reduce the use of private cars: prefer trains, buses, bikes or car sharing
- Avoid overcrowded destinations in high season: choose less touristy periods
- Respect natural places: do not leave waste, do not disturb animals
- Buy local crafts and food: better if directly from the producer
- Choose facilities that declare real and transparent sustainable practices
Conclusion
Sustainable tourism in Tuscany is an opportunity to experience the territory in an authentic, ethical and conscious way. It is not just about reducing the environmental impact, but about establishing a deep relationship with people and places, rediscovering the value of slowness and simplicity. Sustainable travel means leaving a positive mark, not only in the places visited, but also in your memory.
