Heading to Florence but not sure where to stay?

You should consider staying in the countryside right outside the city. Here are a few excellent recommendations!

Florence, a beautiful city situated in the heart of Tuscany, is renowned for its rich artistic heritage, stunning Renaissance architecture, and mouth-watering cuisine. Each year, millions of tourists flock to this city to soak in its beauty and experience its culture.

However, staying in the bustling city center can be quite crowded, noisy, and expensive.

For those seeking a more tranquil and laid-back holiday experience or an opportunity to explore the Tuscan countryside, there are plenty of options for accommodation outside of Florence that offer breathtaking views, art, and history.

1. Villa Il Poggiale

Photo credit: Villa Il Poggiale

Amidst the rolling hills of Tuscany, the Renaissance-era Villa il Poggiale is a charming bed and breakfast that offers guests an unparalleled experience of luxury and comfort.

Conveniently located just a short drive away from the main tourist destinations of Florence and Siena, the villa is surrounded by breathtaking views of the gentle Tuscan hills, offering guests a serene and tranquil atmosphere to relax and unwind.

The staff at Villa il Poggiale are warm and welcoming, ensuring that every guest feels at home from the moment they step through the door. The elegant and spacious rooms are furnished in traditional Tuscan style.

At the heart of the property lies an organic restaurant, serving up delicious dishes made from locally sourced produce and ingredients. The on-site restaurant offers a wide selection of traditional Tuscan recipes, perfect for guests who want to sample the best of the local cuisine.

For guests looking to relax and unwind, the villa boasts a panoramic pool, surrounded by stunning gardens and an exclusive Spa center. The Spa center offers natural treatments based on typical Tuscan products such as extra virgin olive oil, Chianti wine, and honey, perfect for rejuvenating the mind and body.

Additionally, the villa offers wine and food tasting, as well as cooking lessons, giving guests the opportunity to learn more about the local culture and take home a part of Tuscany with them.

Located just a short distance from San Casciano Val di Pesa, a small town in the heart of the Chianti Classico wine region, Villa il Poggiale is the perfect base from which to explore the surrounding area.

With its stunning location, luxurious amenities, and warm hospitality, Villa il Poggiale is the ultimate destination for a dream vacation in the Tuscany countryside.

2. Romitorio di Serelle

Photo credit: Romitorio di Serelle

In the picturesque hills of Chianti, just a stone’s throw from Barberino Val d’Elsa, lies a rustic yet charming vacation rental property that offers guests an authentic taste of Tuscany. Welcome to Romitorio di Serelle!

The property features self-catering apartments of varying sizes, all with their own independent entrance, furnished in traditional Tuscan style with real wood beam ceilings and terracotta floors. The apartments are spread throughout the scenic property, assuring guests of privacy while also providing the opportunity to make new acquaintances while on vacation.

The spacious and charming garden offers breathtaking views of the Tuscany landscape and is the perfect place to relax and unwind. The large swimming pool is ideal for moments of relaxation and a refreshing cool down during the warm weather months.

The property also boasts an exclusive restaurant that serves a mix of local and innovative recipes. Once a week, guests may also enjoy wine and balsamic vinegar tasting on the large panoramic terrace of the farmhouse.

Romitorio di Serelle is centrally located and offers easy access to major tourist destinations like Florence and Siena and many small and intriguing towns. The owners are also on hand to provide itinerary suggestions and insider tips.

Romitorio di Serelle offers more than just a place to sleep; it’s a vacation home where guests can relax and indulge in the beauty of Tuscany. With shady corners, grassy yards, a playground, bikes, hikes, and trails, children and adults will find plenty to keep them entertained.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a group retreat, Romitorio di Serelle is the perfect destination for those seeking a true Tuscan experience.

Photo credit: Borgo di Villa Cellaia

Located in the Tuscan countryside, northeast of Florence, lies the recently renovated Borgo di Villa Cellaia Resort. The hamlet comprises an 18th-century villa with surrounding houses, a barn, and a chapel, which have been transformed into eight apartments.

Each apartment has its own outdoor dining terrace or patio area, making it perfect for al fresco dining while enjoying the picturesque surroundings. The saltwater pool and spa area, complete with a jacuzzi, sauna, Turkish bath, and chromotherapy, is perfect for guests to relax.

The elevated position of the hamlet provides panoramic views overlooking the Comano Valley, making it the perfect location for visiting Mugello, Casentino Park, and Florence.

Dicomano, located below the hamlet, offers all necessary services, including a train station that provides direct access to Florence’s historical center.

Whether guests are celebrating a special event, planning a destination wedding, attending a yoga retreat, or simply looking for a romantic getaway, Borgo di Villa Cellaia Resort offers a charming and peaceful setting.

Photo credit: Olmofiorito

Escape to the newly restored Olmofiorito Agriturismo, a family-run farm that promises breathtaking views, tranquility, and easy access to Tuscany and Chianti’s best destinations.

Nestled 220 meters above sea level, Olmofiorito Agriturismo promises stunning views of the Arno Valley and is surrounded by olive groves and Tuscan landscapes. The farmhouse is entirely immersed in nature and has a large garden area with sun loungers and benches surrounding the pool.

Guests can relax poolside with the beautiful Tuscan landscape, including olive trees and vineyards that accentuate the agriturismo’s ambiance.

Olmofiorito Agriturismo produces both a delicious organic extra-virgin olive oil and an excellent DOCG (Controlled & Guaranteed Denomination of Origin) Chianti wine.

Guests can taste the flavors of Tuscany while exploring the area’s top destinations. The strategic position of the hilltop agriturismo makes planning a well-rounded itinerary around Tuscany easy and fun!

In less than 30 minutes, guests can head into Florence or, in about an hour, visit Pisa, San Gimignano, and Chianti with a scenic route. Vineyards, olive groves, and cypress trees, characteristic of the Tuscan landscape, flank the road that leads to the vacation apartments.

The accommodations provide a tranquil setting to relax and unwind or a fun-filled refresher with family and friends. Guests can explore picturesque destinations like Val d’Orcia, Montepulciano, and Arezzo or even visit the fabulous Tuscan beaches or the charming Cinque Terre for an exhilarating day trip.

Experience the best of Tuscany and Chianti wine country when you escape to these tastefully appointed resort-style holiday apartments.

Whether traveling with family, friends, or as a couple, Olmofiorito Agriturismo promises a memorable stay with its stunning views, elegant decor, and warm hospitality.

5. Fattoria Pogni

Staying outside Florence is a great way to explore Tuscany and experience some of the region’s most beautiful towns and landscapes. The surrounding areas of Florence boast an array of charming villas, cozy bed and breakfasts, and luxurious resorts that cater to all kinds of travelers.

The beautiful town of Siena, known for its stunning Gothic architecture and rich history, is another great option for those looking to stay close to Florence yet away from the crowds.

With its beautiful countryside, rich cultural heritage, and numerous options for accommodation, it’s no wonder that Florence and its surrounding areas remain a popular destination for travelers worldwide.