Travelling to Tuscany
There is potential for stress in even the best situations, but we each have the means to reduce it. In the case of travelling to Tuscany, we’ve prepared this section of the guide to make the process run as worry-free as possible.
We also have a wealth of advice for navigating the towns and roads within the region. Although public transport in the cities is good, the easiest way to explore the countryside and villages is by car.
The pages below will be your comprehensive information resource on how to keep the stress of travelling to a bare minimum. Whether you’re looking for car hire, taxi services, pet safety or insurance packages, we’ve collated everything you need to know in one convenient place.
Travelling to Tuscany
Car Hire In Tuscany
To make the most of Tuscany you will need a car. It will allow you to explore the beautiful little hilltop towns, accessible only via tiny roads with breathtaking views. You can either have a car with a driver or hire a car to drive yourself. With the help of Rhinocarhire.com we have put together some tips on car hire.
Fuel policy – We recommend opting for a ‘full to full’ fuel policy. Most rental services offer this. Avoid full to empty or pre-paid fuel policies, or you’ll be paying expensive rates for your tank of fuel and will be unlikely to get a refund for any unused fuel. Just make sure you return the car with a full tank (normally there is a petrol station not far from the airport) or you’ll have to pay for missing fuel, plus an administration charge.
Child seats – If you need to rent a car seat, it can be an expensive option costing upwards of 10 EUR per day, per seat. Many airlines allow you to bring your own at no cost but do check with the airline. If you decide to bring your own, it may be worth investing in a car seat carry bag to help protect your car seat in transit. Not only can you save on the cost of renting a car seat, but you can be confident that your child will travel in the comfort and safety of the seat they use at home.
Return the car clean – You’re not expected to return the car freshly valeted, however if it gets excessively dirty (inside or out), you should get it cleaned to avoid a cleaning fee which will likely be far more than the cost of a car wash. In short, the car should be returned clean.
Excess Insurance – Check the excess insurance (deposit) and make sure you know how much you’re paying. It can vary from car to car and from supplier to supplier. Expect to pay a refundable deposit between 800-1200 EUR. There are four options available with regards to paying excess.
- Reduce excess to zero when you use the rental agents own policy (around 20 EUR per day which can be added at pick up).
- Protect your excess with a standalone policy
- Use a chosen broker (around 5-10 EUR per day)
- Protect your excess with an annual excess policy for a fraction of the cost. Check out www.carhireexcess.co.ukfor more information.
Credit card – Most rental agents require a credit card for security at pick up. However some agents will accept a debit card if you take their optional insurance. Check the terms and conditions regarding payment method before you book the car.
Supplier location – check if the chosen supplier is on or off the airport site. Off-site suppliers (which are not located within the airport complex) tend to be cheaper, but require a transfer / shuttle bus to the depot. On-site suppliers are often much more convenient, though also a little more expensive.
GPS – Directions to your villa are provided to all To Tuscany clients. However, you may still wish to use sat-nav. Consider using Google maps (or similar) especially if you have a good data roaming package. Be aware that navigation devices always calculate the shortest route, but in Tuscany, this may lead you through small unpaved country roads which may require a 4x4. In this case, it’s best to use the directions provided by To Tuscany.
Supplier ratings – Check the supplier ratings for your chosen rental car supplier to see how our previous customers rate them. Ratings are based on features such as value for money, queue times, car quality and rental desk staff among others. Lowest price does not always reflect the best value.
Driver's license - you will need a valid driver's license. Make sure you bring this with you as you will need to present it for pick up. If you have a non-EU country license, you will need to obtain an international driver's license before arriving in Italy.
Flights to Tuscany
Most guests find that flying into Pisa or Florence is the most convenient way of reaching your villa in Tuscany but other airports to consider with good links to the area are Rome, Perugia and Bologna.
When travelling by plane, we strongly suggest you hire a car for the duration of your stay in Tuscany, it is usually more cost-effective to book your car hire from home.
Airport Parking
We all know how busy the airport can get, especially during peak travel seasons. So, pre-book your parking before you get there and avoid the rush. Booking online normally results in better rates.
Airport Hotel Booking
If you want to make it to your early morning flight or you live far from the airport, consider a night spent at an airport hotel. It will help you make your flight on-time, refreshed and ready to go.
Our flights partner: Skyscanner
Insurance
At To Tuscany, we understand that you are looking for complete peace of mind when booking your holiday with us. We also understand that your holidays are important to you and, if unforeseen circumstances arise, you want to know that your holidays, and your money, are safe.
For this reason, we regard travel insurance as an essential part of your holiday, so much so that, as stated in our Terms and Conditions, we ask for all members of your travel party to have adequate cover for the duration of your holiday.
Travel Insurance not only helps with any misfortunes you may experience that could impact your holiday but also helps to protect you as a tenant during your stay at one of our rental properties.
Covering for Cancellation and Medical Emergencies
We recommend thoroughly reviewing what is and is not covered by any potential insurance provider to ensure that you have sufficient cover for your trip. As a minimum, you should ensure the cover provides a cancellation protection scheme in the event that you need to cancel your holiday. In addition, you may wish to purchase a plan which covers, including but not limited to: health and medical emergencies, trip interruption and personal belongings.
Covering for Accidental Damage
Whilst you are on holiday, the last thing you want to worry about is paying additional costs for when things don’t quite go to plan. However, accidents do happen and, for this reason, we recommend ensuring your travel insurance policy covers you and anyone in your party for accidental damage during your holiday.
Covering Your Pets
Pets are welcome at many of our villas and apartments (you can find a pet-friendly villa by using the filters in our villa search). When taking your pet with you on holiday, we recommend choosing an insurance policy which covers your pet all the time you are away. As well as medical cover, it is important to consider a policy that will cover any accidental damage or injury caused by your pet during your trip.
Dietary advice in Italy
Travelling abroad or even dining out in your home town is never easy if you have food allergies or if you have opted for a vegetarian diet. Here To Tuscany provides some tips that you may find helpful during your holiday in Tuscany and while travelling in Italy.
Read moreYour health and safety
Your health and your safety are our paramount concerns. Together with the To Tuscany villa owners, we have put together some tips to help you stay safe and healthy during your stay.
Swimming Pool Safety and Hygiene Tips
The swimming pools at our Tuscany villas do not have lifeguards, so it’s important to familiarise yourself with the design and the layout of the pool area prior to use. Take into account any depth changes or unusual features. Accidents at the swimming pool can happen when children are exploring soon after arrival. Make sure you know where your children are at all times.
● Observe the swimming pool rules displayed on any notices around the pool area.
● Swimming pools at your villa will not be suitable for diving unless otherwise stated.
● Observe pool opening hours and do not use the pool after dark.
● Do not swim immediately after eating a meal.
● Do not swim after drinking alcohol.
● Do not use the pool if you are suffering from an upset stomach or are feeling unwell.
● Take a shower before entering the pool.
● Ensure children use the toilet before using the pool.
● Young children and babies should wear appropriate swimwear (i.e. pool nappies).
● Before using the pool, ensure you know how to get help in the event of an emergency.
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Smoke and Carbon monoxide detectors are not common in Tuscany. We suggest purchasing one to bring with you when you travel, just in case your villa doesn’t have one. To view an example of a portable carbon monoxide detector click here
Review the Safety Features
After you have met your villa’s owner, you are invited to review the safety features at your villa so you know where to find the emergency equipment and safety information relevant to you. If you are unsure how to locate the first aid kit or the fire extinguisher are, ask the villa owner. They will want to make sure you are clear on all safety precautions.
Italian Universal Health Care
Italy benefits from a universal health care Nation Health Service (NHS) system known as the Italian NHS. It's healthcare system is regarded, by World Health Organization's (WHO) ranking, as the 2nd best in the world behind France and according to the WHO Italians have the world's 6th highest life expectancy!
Health Advice European Citizens
Italy is a member of the European Union (EU) as such all EU citizens are entitled to receive medical care from Italian NHS. The Italian NHS staff might ask you for your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) which is issued by EU countries, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Switzerland and the UK. An EHIC is not a replacement for travel insurance. Make sure you have both before you travel.
Health Advice for Non EU Citizens
If you are not resident in the EU, you are recommended to get private travel insurance. Check the latest Health Advice on Tuscany at your own government's website which should provide regularly updated information on how to stay healthy while traveling abroad, including advice on preventative measures and recommended vaccinations.
Emergency numbers
112 is the general emergency number in Italy for ambulance police & fire.
Direct Connection Numbers:
112 - Carabinieri (Federal police)
113 - Local police (plus ambulance and fire)
115 - Fire department
116 - Roadside assistance A.C.I.
117 - Finance police
118 - Medical emergencies
1515 - Forest fires
Your Heating and Air Conditioning
No need for confusion. We’ve compiled everything you need to know about your heating and air conditioning into one concise guide. There are three ways in which usage is charged:
1. Included
This means that all heating and air conditioning charges are included in the weekly rental price. There are no extra fees to pay for these services. Sometimes fuel, electricity and/or air conditioning are included in the price if the usage of said facilities is under a certain allowance. After exceeding said allowance, usage will be charged according to consumption.
2. Fixed Fee
Otherwise known as Forfait, this means that there is a fee which does not vary depending on usage.
3. By consumption
This means that the fees will be calculated according to how much the service is used. This is determined by meter readings and charged at a rate specified by the villa’s owners or caretakers. Please note that the prices are not always known to To Tuscany staff.
How to stay cool:
• Close external doors, windows and shutters on the South side or where the sun comes in. This will prevent warm air and direct sunlight from entering the house.
• Open doors and windows in the night and early morning to let the cool air in.
• Switch the ceiling fans to anti-clockwise to draw the hot air upwards.
• Make sure your sheets are changed during your stay. This will help keep them fresh and cool. [Please note that a change in bed linen may incur an extra charge.]
Useful Italian Phrases
Italians are very proud of their country and welcome tourists willingly to try their wonderful food and wine, to experience their culture and to speak a bit of their language… They just love it. The fathers of modern Italian were Dante, Manzoni and television. Each did his part in creating a national language putting together an infinity of regional and local dialects.
Thank you..............................Grazie
Do you speak English?...........Parla inglese?
You are welcome....................Prego
I don’t understand..................Non capisco
Excuse me?...........................Mi scusi
I am English...........................Io sono inglese
Excuse me (may i pass).........Permesso
Yes / No / Please...................Si / No / per favore
Yesterday..............................Ieri
Today....................................Oggi
How are you?........................Come sta?
Fine, thank you......................Bene grazie
Tomorrow..............................Domani
Good morning.......................Buon giorno
Morning.................................Mattina
Good evening........................Buona sera
Noon.....................................Mezzogiorno
Good night............................Buona notte
Afternoon..............................Pomeriggio
Good bye..............................Arrivederci
Evening.................................Sera
Hello.....................................Ciao
When?..................................Quando?
What time is it?.....................Che ora è?
How much does it cost?.........Quanto costa?
Where is it?...........................Dove è?
Could you assist me?..............Potrebbe aiutarmi?
I don’t know...........................Non lo so
All right..................................Va bene
It doesn’t matter.....................Non importa
I am lost ................................Mi sono perso
Nothing...................................Niente
I am tired ..............................Sono stanco
I am hungry............................Ho fame
I am sleepy.............................Ho sonno
I am thirsty.............................Ho sete
I am ill....................................Mi sento male
I am sorry...............................Mi dispiace
Breakfast................................Colazione
Leave me alone.......................Lasciami in pace
Lunch.....................................Pranzo
Dinner....................................Cena
Big.........................................Grande
Small......................................Piccolo
Why.......................................Perché
where.....................................Dove
I would like............................Vorrei
I want....................................Voglio
please....................................Per favore
right.......................................Destra
left.........................................Sinistra
hotel......................................Albergo
bank......................................Banca
market...................................Mercato
shop......................................Negozio
beach....................................Spiaggia
hospital.................................Ospedale
chemist.................................Farmacia
station..................................Stazione
train.....................................Treno
platform...............................Binario
ticket...................................Biglietto
one way (ticket)………..........Andata
return ticket..........................Andata e ritorno
bus.......................................Autobus
bus stop................................Fermata
one way (street)....................Senso unico
hot........................................Caldo
cold......................................Freddo
too much..............................Troppo
well......................................Bene
good luck.............................Buona fortuna
parla lentamente....................Speak slowly
What is your name?..............Come si chiama?
PUBLIC NOTICES
Open................................Aperto
No smoking......................Vietato fumare
Closed..............................Chiuso
Lift....................................Ascensore
Entrance...........................Entrata / Ingresso
Vacant..............................Libero
Exit...................................Uscita
Occupied..........................Occupato
Entrance (trains /buses)...Salita
Stairs................................Scale
Exit (trains / buses)...........Uscita
Forbidden.........................Vietato
Push.................................Spingere
Do not touch....................Non toccare
Pull..................................Tirare
Toilet...............................W.C / Bagno
Ladies..............................Donne / Signore
Gents...............................Uomini / Signori
Not drinkable water.........Acqua non portabile
PRONOUNCIATION
CH is pronounced K
CI is pronounced CH
C + Vowel is pronounced CHI / CHE
CA is pronounced as in English
NUMBERS
Uno - one
Due - two
Tre - three
Quattro - four
Cinque - five
Sei - six
Sette - seven
Otto - eight
Nove - nine
Dieci - ten
venti - twenty
trenta - thirty
quaranta - forty
cinquanta - fifty
sessanta - sixty
settanta - seventy
ottanta - eighty
novanta - ninety
cento - hundred
milione - million
Taking your Dog on holiday
Is a holiday without your beloved four-legged friend out of the question? With To Tuscany, holidaying with your dog becomes a breeze. We offer an extensive selection of dog-friendly holiday homes and apartments throughout Tuscany. https://www.to-tuscany.com/dog-friendly-villas/
Tuscany is the ideal holiday destination for dog owners and their faithful companions. With the long beaches and vast landscapes there is plenty of space to have amazing walks and explore the beautiful region.
There are a few things to consider to making a holiday with your dog become an unforgettable experience. Our To Tuscany team can tell you what these are and we are here for you with info and tips!
General Rules for Dogs in Italy
Before you start – Entry Requirements
For travel to Italy, EU regulations for pets apply. In any case your dog must be vaccinated against rabies and will need an EU pet passport with a veterinary certificate with regard to the vaccination and a microchip. In addition, taking out a dog liability insurance is advisable and necessary. We would also like to point out that in Italy a lead and muzzle are compulsory.
The Journey
Depending on how you plan to reach your holiday destination, there are a few things to consider when you travel with a four-legged friend.
By Car
Travelling by car with a dog is possibly the most pleasant way to reach your holiday destination, as in most cases the animal will be familiar with the car and individual breaks can be taken.
Take care and make sure your dog doesn’t over-heat (never leave your dog in the car alone). It is best to only feed small snacks during the journey, to prevent vomiting. Make sure to take sufficient water with you too!
By Train
Dogs up to a certain size are often allowed to travel free of charge in a carrier box, but you might need to buy a ticket for larger dogs. All dogs that are not in a carrier box need to be on a lead and wear a muzzle. Similar rules apply for Italian public transport. Check with your train provider before travelling.
TrenItalia: https://www.trenitalia.com/en/services/travelling_with_yourpets.html
By Plane
Most dogs need to spend the flight in a suitable transport box (kennel) in the luggage area. Check the conditions of your airline before booking.
Out and about – successful outings with your dog
To avoid nasty surprises, you should familiarise yourself with the local regulations concerning accompanying animals. Leads are compulsory in all of Italy, including, for example, parks. You should always have a muzzle with you, but the dog will only have to wear it upon request. In some places, such as churches and museums, dogs are not permitted at all.
Beaches
Dogs are allowed on specific dog beaches. Over recent years the number of dog beaches in Tuscany has increased steadily. These are mainly the Spiagge Libre, i.e. public beaches, which are not leased out and there, the dogs can enter the water to cool down. These beaches are identified by signs.
Museums and attractions
In most museums and attractions dogs are not permitted. But this prohibition may vary. Please check the local regulations.
Restaurants
Taking your dog with you to a restaurant after a day trip? No problem! Since 2013 dogs can be taken into specifically identified restaurants in Tuscany. In many bars, restaurants and cafés it now says “Dogs welcome”! Keep your eyes peeled for a sign with a dog and the phrase "io posso entrare". If dogs are not allowed, it will commonly say "io non posso entrare".
Trips without your dog
Your dog is part of the family, but sometimes they just can’t come along? No Problem! Valentina of the To Tuscany Experiences service can help you find a suitable dog sitter or day care in your surroundings. That way, you can spend a carefree day out, knowing your furry friend will spend relaxing hours in professional care.
Ask us about Valentina’s service or contact her directly:
https://www.to-tuscany.com/travel-guide/things-to-do/to-tuscany-experiences/
Vet
You might need a vet due to unfamiliar food, heat and travel sickness or in case of unexpected injuries – even if your pet is healthy. With the following link you will find a vet’s surgery nearby anywhere in Tuscany or Italy generally. If in doubt, ask your local vet for advice before travelling with your pet. www.vetfinder.mobi/
What should I consider when at a villa with my pet?
Many of our villas are happy to welcome your four-legged friend. However, there are still some rules and guidelines, to guarantee friendly interactions and prevent misunderstandings from the start. All of the rules and guidance below may have house rules on site added.
At the Villa
We want you to feel fully at home at your villa, while also looking after the owners wishes and the comfort of other guests. The following guidelines should help you to prepare.
Bring a dog bed/ blankets/ pillows/ bowls/toys etc. from home
By bringing equipment with a familiar smell, you can help your dog to feel comfortable in an unknown environment. A comfortable dog bed and bowls for food and water are among the absolutely necessary items. And maybe pack some favourite treats to compensate for the long journey.
Ask the manager/care taker on site
It can always happen that you forget something when packing for a holiday. Whether it’s the favourite fluffy blanket or the oh-so-important food bowl – speak to the management on site. Many of our caretakers are dog fans themselves and more than happy to help you find a replacement. Please do not use blankets/pillows or dishes at the villa without asking, after all, these have to be used by other guests in the future.
No dogs on the furniture
Who doesn’t know those puppy dog eyes? Unfortunately, you will have to resist them for the duration of your holiday. In all To Tuscany rental villas, pets are not allowed on the furniture, especially not armchairs, sofas and beds. They are very difficult to clean and pet hair removal my lead to additional costs. But looking at the bright side – you will have all the space for yourself for once!
In the garden/grounds
What better thing to do than relax in the garden together? But still, there are a few things to consider.
In all villas with shared grounds, dogs need to be on a leash in all shared spaces. Additionally, the following rules apply to all villas.
Keep the garden clean
Common habits in public spaces are also valid for your villa’s garden. Make sure you bring enough poop bags to dispose of your dog’s droppings appropriately.
No dogs in the pool
Everyone loves a quick cool-down, but dogs are not allowed in any of our villa’s pools. The pumps and filters that keep the water clean are very sensitive to fur, and a repair can incur high costs.
If you like, ask the site manager for a tub or a garden hose, so your furry friend can enjoy a cool-down of its own.
Clean your feet
Tuscany is a wonderful area for extended walks or hikes. Just like you would take off muddy shoes before coming in, we ask you to clean or dry your dog when transitioning from outside to inside, to prevent dirt being carried into the villa.
Keep an eye on your pet
To Tuscany offers many stunning villas with a fully or partially fenced garden – ideal for your pet to enjoy care-free playtime. Please still keep an eye on them, and never leave a pet alone in the garden. A new environment offers so many exciting smells to explore, and adventurous dogs can easily find a gap that humans would never notice.
You can discover our pet-friendly fenced villas here:
https://www.to-tuscany.com/tuscany-villa-search/dog-friendly-villas/fenced-property/
Public transport Tuscany
Using the trains to travel around Italy is an excellent way of taking a day trip to visit the many historical towns and cities. The rail network in Italy is quite extensive and travelling between cities and towns by rail is an ideal way to travel. Once on board you can sit back and relax and take in the ever-changing view from the window. Forget the hassle of driving…take the train and enjoy the journey.
Visit the website www.trenitalia.com to purchase tickets and consult the timetables.
The best trains to take, even if a little more costly are Le Frecce, highspeed trains between the major cities. The type of train is indicated by the following symbols:
Eurocity (ETR) and EuroNight (EN) – international connection with Switzerland, Austria, France, Germany.
Frecciarossa, Frecciabianca and Frecciargento (Le Frecce) - fast train between Italy's major cities. These cost extra and seats must be reserved. High speed trains, very comfortable but more expensive.
Regionale (R) and Regionale Veloce (RV) - travel within and between regions. Slow trains which stop at every station within a region e.g. from Florence to Siena, it stops at all stations in between, even the tiniest towns.
If you are travelling with a Regional Train ticket (without reservation), please make sure you stamp your ticket at one of the machines on the platform before boarding.
Omio
Omio is a great website easily allowing you to search for various transport options all on one page. You can also book Trenitalia tickets directly on their website and app as well, making search and booking a breeze.
www.omio.com
For motorail
A good site for motorail service in Europe is
www.railchoice.co.uk
For the Italian State Railway, including international trains to and from Italy.
www.trenitalia.it
You may find the following terms useful when at the train station.
treni in arrivo - arrivals
treni in partenza - departures
binario - platform
in orario - on time
in ritardo - delayed
Driving in Tuscany
Strade Bianche or white roads are unpaved gravel roads that reach across the countryside of Tuscany and Umbria, weaving their way through oak forests, olive groves, vines, meadows and fields of grain. The white colour that gives these roads their unique character comes from the compacted local limestone gravel that forms them.
Today the Strade Bianche are preserved as a national treasure. In 1997 the L'Eroica, a trend setting, non competitive cycling event that now attracts around 8,000 riders per year for the ultimate vintage bike challenge, was originally created to help preserve the Strade Bianche. Following the success of L'Eroica in 2017 a new Strade Bianche bike race was installed onto the professional cycling world tour calendar to kick off the in European season offering the juxtaposition of the modern, high-tech cycling circus with the ancient Tuscan trails.
In the summer months most Strade Bianche traffic is peaceful and recreational whether by foot, on two wheels or fours wheels. Other road users include wildlife and farmers traversing from one crop to another and tourists looking out for the turn off indication to their villa.
For the purpose of our guests we have divided the Strade Bianche into 4 categories:
1. Unpaved, even: Standard road clearance vehicle recommended
2. Unpaved, uneven: High clearance vehicle recommended
3. Unpaved, uneven, uphill segments: High clearance vehicle and experienced driver recommended
4. Unpaved, uneven, steep uphill segments: High clearance vehicle, experienced driver and minimum weight to power ratio of 20kg/KW recommended)
Click on the link to check your vehicle’s weight to power ratio ratio: http://www.carfolio.com/
Local Customs Tuscany
While travelling in Italy you’ll be able to tell that habits, landscape, cooking and even language change considerably from north to south. Italy is a very young nation compared to other European countries and it’s been divided in several lordships and under foreigner kingdom, not to mention the Papal States, until 1861.
However there are some common habits and customs found throughout Italy and you might find that they are quite different from the ones in your home country. Here are some of the most common to help you understand the locals.
Keep Your Villa Secure
We advise that you keep your villa as secure as you would your own home. Vigilance doesn’t have to get in the way of a great time, so we’ve compiled some easy ideas for keeping your villa safe.
Precautions
● Ensure all windows, shutters and doors are locked. This applies at night, when you’re out during the day, and even when you’re at the pool.
● If your villa has an alarm, make use of it. You can usually set alarms for when you are not at the villa, and during sleeping hours.
● We recommend that you do not bring expensive items of jewellery with you when you travel. However, any valuable items you do bring should be kept out of sight in order to discourage opportunists. Otherwise, they should be kept in the villa’s safe.
● If you are not satisfied with the current security arrangements at your villa, please contact us as soon as possible.
Contents insurance
Please check that you have sufficient contents insurance cover for any valuables and cash you may have with you. It is advisable that you have access to duplicate copies of your personal documents, including your passport and driving license. This will be extremely useful if the original documents are lost or stolen.
Contact us
In the unlikely event of a robbery at your villa, please contact us immediately and we will do our best to help you with the necessary procedures. This security guide is to enable you to safeguard yourself and your property in the event of unlikely misfortune. In other words, its purpose is not to worry you, but to help you enjoy your holiday without fear.
Be safe, don’t be scared - and most importantly, enjoy yourself in Tuscany!
Power Adapters
Ensure your devices stay charged during your Tuscan getaway with the right power adapters!
We want to make sure your experience is seamless. As you plan your trip, consider devices which need regular electric charging from phones and tablets to cameras and laptops.
What voltage does Italy operate on?
Italy operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz.
What is a dual rated appliance?
A dual rated appliance will display its input on the body of the appliance or on the supply. For example, ‘INPUT:110-240V'. In this case you would not need a converter or transformer but only a power adapter, because Italy operates on a 230 V supply voltage and is within the 110-240V range.
What plug adapter do I need for Italy?
Most gadgets guests take to Italy are dual voltage, which means they only need a power adapter. The most common plug types in Italy are C and F, with the possibility of encountering type L.
Plug C has two round pins
Plug F has two round pins with two earth clips on the side
Plug L has three round pins
For gadgets that aren't dual voltage, a power converter (or transformer) becomes essential to adapt to the 220 to 240 volts output.
Pay special attention to high-power appliances like hair dryers or styling tools, checking the manufacturer's recommendations to avoid any inconvenience during your stay.
Do I need a 2 or 3 prong adapter for Italy?
Type L adapters have three round prongs in a row, and this is because some Italian outlets have three holes. However, if you are visiting Italy, it is suggested that you bring a Type C adapter as this should fit in most outlets with two or three holes.
Can I use my European plug in Italy?
Yes, but it is advised to carry a Type C 2-prong adapter that will work in 2 or 3-prong outlets in Italy just in case.
US to Italy power adapter
Travellers from the US are recommended to bring a Type C 2-prong adapter which fits in most Italian electrical outlets.
You should now be ready for your trip to Tuscany!
Our villa specialists are available if you have any queries or want more information to make your stay at one of the villas from our collection truly memorable.
Drinking water
As a standard rule, tap water in Italy - and at our villas - is suitable for drinking unless otherwise mentioned. This reduces the need for single-use plastic water bottles. The good news is that many airports now have water refill points so you can reuse your own water bottle!
Once in Tuscany, whether you’re in your villa or out exploring the region, you can easily refill your water bottles. As mentioned, tap water is drinkable and some villas even have built in purifiers installed in the kitchens, making it even easier to be eco-friendly!
There are also sustainable options when you are in public. Many communes have water refill points which have been used by locals for years! Tuscan towns will typically have a central drinking fountain, usually near the main piazza. These should have a sign with ‘potabile’ translating to ‘drinkable’. An alternative to these fountains is what the Italians call a ‘casetta dell’acqua’ which is another water point. Here you have access to still water (usually free of charge),
plus cold and/or sparkling water (which are usually charged).
There are also natural wells in the region that are used by the locals, but it is always more convenient to use a water fountain.
Sustainable Tourism
Valuing a sustainable approach to travel has always been second nature to To Tuscany, and in our eyes, it is a collaborative effort. It is vital that we work together with guests and providers towards a sustainable future in which we can travel responsibly.
We are passionate, proactive, and we work closely with local authorities. We pride ourselves on our local knowledge and expertise to help you, our valued guests, better understand Tuscany, its natural beauty, and the ways in which we can minimise our impact on nature.
It is a partnership between us, our guests, and our providers, all working together towards a common goal. For this reason, we are always open to new suggestions and ideas. Please do not hesitate to get in touch.
Recycling
Each country has their own method of recycling and in Italy it works a little differently to others.
Recycling is an effective method of reducing landfill and the level of toxic materials being deposited in the ground and our seas. If materials can be recycled, reused and transformed into new products – it all helps in the long run.
To best prepare you for your trip, here are a few key points to remember:
In Tuscany, they do not usually have door to door recycling bin collection. Each residential area has a central location with communal recycling bins.
• Yellow bin – cardboard and paper
• Brown bin – organic waste / food waste
• Green (cylindrical) – ‘multimateriale’ - glass, plastic and cans
• Grey / Green bin – household waste
The latest innovation in Tuscany which has been recently announced is the concept of using a card to access the recycling bins. The bins will be electronically operated and access will only be granted to those in possession of a card (each household is provided with one). The owner of your villa will ensure you are equipped with a card.
This is a very exciting project and an inventive approach to recycling that we are looking forward to following as it develops!
