How to cut costs while on Vacation
Some of the Best Deals in Tuscany
Traveling around Tuscany, from north to south and east to west, means lots of moving around. When you calculate meals, a rental car, entrance fees to museums, it becomes quite clear that a holiday in Italy can come with a steep price tag for someone traveling on a budget. And even when you are looking to cut costs, some things just can’t be avoided … such as eating, although you can certainly still eat well in Tuscany without spending a fortune.
One of the easiest ways to cut back and fit into your vacation budget is to find inexpensive accommodations.
The vast variety in B&B, room rentals and agritourisms throughout the region makes this an easy task that won’t have you skimping on convenience, ambiance and Tuscany’s famous hospitality.
Couples, families and singles can find economical solutions to touring which will leave extra funds for wine tours, museum visits, shopping and gelato. In the city or out in the countryside, close to public transport or close to nature, these select locations are sure to include something for everyone’s preference be it homey, historic, casual or formal.
Below we have compiled a list of our top ten choices for inexpensive yet characteristic lodgings throughout the region of Tuscany.
1. Borgo Isora (Self Catering Apartments)
Relaxing poolside with tables, loungers and a green panorama at Borgo Isora.
Where: via Piastre e Prunetta, 17 51020 Le Piastre (Pistoia)
Our number one budget friendly accommodation, Borgo Isora, is located northwest of Florence in the picturesque mountains just outside of Pistoia. These four holiday apartments are ideal for all seasons since they are positioned between historic cities like Florence and Pisa and the white skiing mountains of Abetone.
2. Oltrarno Apartment (Self Catering Apartment)
Fully equipped kitchen and eat in dining area in Oltrarno Apartment in Florence.
Where: Via dell' Orto 11 50124 Florence (Florence)
Want to be in the middle of it all? This vacation apartment, Oltrano Apartment, located in an area rich with local color promises you a warm welcome, modern amenities, a fully equipped kitchen and easy access to parking in the city center.
3. Fattoria I Ricci (Self Catering Apartments)
Typical Tuscan decor makes the apartments at Fattoria I Ricci special and comfortable.
Where: Via Rostolena 14 50039 Vicchio (Mugello - Florence)
We loved the in house restaurant and the possibility to add a robust buffet breakfast to your stay at Fattoria I Ricci. But what you will love even more than the prices is the picturesque views of the Tuscany landscape and the quiet relaxing atmosphere that the owner and her family have created at the fattoria. BOOK DIRECT: Fattoria I Ricci
4. Apartment Cinciallegra (Self Catering Apartment)
Living room with fireplace at Apartment Cinciallegra
Where: Via di Corella 37 50062 Dicomano (Florence)
Not only is this two bedroom great for a budget conscious traveller, but it will be just the place where you can relax and enjoy the sweet countryside outside of Florence. Close to wine country, trails for hiking and typical small towns with their restaurants, sagras and coffee bars, at Apartment Cinciallegra you will find everything you need for the perfect holiday.
5. Le Due Volpi (B&B or Villa)
A robust and delicous breakfast of local products at B&B Le Due Volpi.
Where: Località Molezzano 88 50039 Vicchio (Mugello - Florence)
The owners at Le Due Volpi have truly created a haven for those just looking to kick back and soak up the wonderful flavours of Tuscany. The casual setting with a private pool, panoramic terraces and the delicious breakfasts at Hiedi's place are the perfect complement to the country styled bedrooms. You can rent either by the room or arrange to have the entire house for a group. BOOK DIRECT: Le Due Volpi
6. Casa Palmira (B&B & Self catering apartment)
Warm and welcoming common room for breakfast, teatime and cooking classes at Casa Palmira.
Where: via Faentina 4, Località Feriolo 50032 Borgo San Lorenzo (Mugello - Florence)
Nothing is more fun than finding the perfect place at the best price! Your hosts at Casa Palmira are there to welcome you with a smile, and upon request you can arrange for extra meals and better yet a cooking lesson combined with a visit to the Florence market. Great for those who want to leave the car at home, you will find public transport just outside the front door of Casa Palmira. BOOK DIRECT: Casa Palmira
7. Agricola Poderino (Self Catering Apartment)
Typical Tuscany farmhouse surrounded by a relax and quite landscape at Agricola Poderino.
Where: Via Vicinale di Poggio Secco, 6a - Grassina 50015 Bagno a Ripoli (Florence)
The position is key in this budget friendly apartment, Agricola Poderino, located just outside of Florence you have easy access to public transport that will take you into town in less than 30 minutes. Or you can just hang at the apartment and recharge your batteries in the lovely park area surround the holiday apartment or take an opportunity to explore the flavours of Chianti which are almost literally in your backyard.
8. Poggio al Sole (B&B)
Sunny garden with a prefumed garden and lots of silence at Poggio al Sole B&B.
Where: Via Torre di Buiano, 4 Fiesole 50014 Fiesole (Florence)
The owner’s at B&B Poggio al Sole will tell you right up front, they are a working farm - they harvest saffron. And you will have a chance to savour its delicious flavour in the magical breakfasts that they offer. At Poggio al Sole they are installing a panoramic pool, which is nestled in the prettiest little garden. Be sure to bring your hiking shoes because there are lots of trails to explore. BOOK DIRECT: Poggio al Sole
9. La Topaia (B&B)
A simple yet exotic decor with bright warm colors at La Topaia Apartments.
Where: via S. Giovanni Maggiore 57, Località Panicaglia 50032 Borgo San Lorenzo (Mugello - Florence)
Besides the many garden areas and sunflower fields that surround the B&B La Topaia, you will be sure to have fun visiting the small hamlets of Tuscany nearby, lazing by the pool or indulging in cooking lessons with the owner. Set in an authentic villa of Tuscany, while vacationing at La Topaia you can truly appreciate the beauty of the architecture with a bit of an exotic flair to the decor. BOOK DIRECT: La Topaia
10. Camporsevoli (Self Catering Apartments)
Spacious garden area with pool and lush green areas at Camporsevoli.
Where: Via di Camporsevoli, Le Piazze 53040 Cetona (Siena)
You might be staying in Tuscany, but from one of these lovely vacation rentals you can plan on visiting Umbria and Lazio as well. Elegantly furnished, Camporsevoli is where you will want to spend your holidays, surrounded by the hills of Siena, vineyards, olive trees and lots of places to visit on day trips. Ask the owner about the possibility of adding a personalized cooking lesson to your stay - you won’t regret the results!!
