Things To Do in Tuscany with Teenagers

I recently spent a long weekend in Tuscany with Bookings For You. Along with some other bloggers we stayed in a beautiful Villa where we experienced the wonderful Tuscan hospitality. Whilst I was there I reflected on how ideal it is for a break with teenagers.

Raising teenagers is amazing fun, it has been my favourite stage of parenting which many probably find rather strange. I am not a morning person and therefore didn’t appreciate the early mornings that came with babies and toddlers.  My own teens are not perfect, far from it although they would want you to think otherwise, still, it is a stage of parenting I am thriving in.

I recently saw a rather thought-provoking post or Facebook meme that pointed out that as parents we only have 18 summers with our children. It was quite a sobering thought and it had me considering how we have spent those summers so far. Travelling with teenagers is great because they have stamina and don’t need constant babysitting!

Mini breaks or weekend trips are more doable with teenagers too as they can travel light and adapt quickly.

Why Tuscany is an Ideal Place for Teenagers

Firstly Tuscany is only a short flight away from the UK and you can find reasonably priced flights that make it ideal for families wanting a short break away. The airport is only a very short bus journey away from Pisa and all it has to offer. The leaning tower is, of course, a landmark many want to have that selfie with. It is instantly recognisable and I was surprised at how compact the area was. We also found a lovely place to eat a light lunch in.

We didn’t stay in Pisa itself and headed a couple of hours away to Monte San Savino which is perfectly located for Siena and Florence. Staying in a villa is ideal for teenagers as they can all have their personal space.

It is really easy to hire a car when travelling in Tuscany, this gives you the freedom to explore as you wish. You are not relying on public transport and navigating buying tickets! Instead, hire a car and visit the areas you choose. This is a much quicker option and is ideal when travelling with your family.

Staying in Monte San Savino

On our first-night Chef Massimo from Ristorante Belvedere prepared, cooked and served handmade pizzas to us. They were hands down the most delicious pizzas and they just kept coming. We finished with a chocolate pizza and I immediately knew my teenagers would have loved them too! This was a lovely relaxed evening after travelling and I wish we had managed to visit his restaurant to which is a short drive away.

The following day we drove the short trip into Siena where we were able to take in the stunning architecture as we took a leisurely stroll through the city. There is a large square which is the perfect setting for grabbing a coffee and people watching! The square was busy and there is plenty of shopping in the side streets if you are a family of shoppers. The ice cream or gelato is worth a taste test too! Rather expensive but so worth it!

Once we returned we were able to make use of the Villa facilities including the pool, the spa and I looked at the gym! Laura and Gianluca from Cooking in Florence then joined us to teach us how to make gnocchi and other dishes. This was such a fun evening as we prepared our meal together whilst enjoying some wine. It was a real highlight of the trip and again I thought this would be a lovely activity to do as a family. Coming together over food is a perfect way to have some fun but also learn a new skill. Tuscany is well known for its delicious food and this really gives you a taste of that authentic Tuscan cuisine.

Monday saw us go wine tasting before heading to the charming Ristorante La Scuderia to enjoy a simple yet fantastic lunch. We then spent the afternoon relaxing in and around the pool and spa.

5 More Active Things To Do in Tuscany with Teenagers

Tuscany has a lot to offer teenagers and although we didn’t get to do the following I thought they were worth highlighting as available in the area if you are staying for more than a few days.

• Taking my teens to a water park is the best way to lose them for a day. I can read and chill while they spend their time throwing them down slides and simply having the best day. Visit Cavallinomatto if that is your teen’s idea of fun too.
• Adrenalin thrills can always be found and if your teen has a sense of adventure then tree walking at Saltalbero should get their hearts racing. There is also mini golf and much more to do in this beautiful park area.
• Tuscany has some amazing underground cave systems hidden within its mountains, studded with stalactites and stalagmites, waterfalls and lakes these are perfect to explore when you want a break from the sun. They are such a natural wonder and should not be missed when visiting Tuscany.
• Hit the beach, and there are plenty to choose from. Whether you want a quiet sanctuary or a beach where you can hire equipment to snorkel or canoe it is all available.
• In Lucca you can rent bikes and ride around the wall that surrounds the city. This is also a good place before heading to see the leaning tower of Pisa – which is obviously a must. All teenagers need that selfie on the phone!

Let me know what else you would do with some time in Tuscany. If you have plans to stay in Tuscany Villas then do check out my post on How to save money on your flights.

I would like to thank Bookings For You for arranging the press trip and I will certainly be planning to go back – this time with the family.

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