Extraordinary Things to Do in Florence this Summer

Rocco Forte Hotels

Natural outdoor settings for events are the new holy grail, enabling people to safely enjoy experiences in a post-pandemic world. In Florence, Hotel Savoy has joined the global zeitgeist in its desire to create safe, outdoor experiences for its guests in and around the city.

Private rooftop dinner

While there is no shortage of remarkable outdoor dining spots in Florence, Hotel Savoy has gone the extra mile to provide guests with an unforgettable and unusual experience. Just a few steps away from the hotel, our guests can indulge in a delicious private dinner on the rooftop of a historic palace owned by one of Florence’s most noble families, while drinking in the beautiful Florentine skyline.

Organic pizza and gelato making classes

Florence is bursting with exquisite art and architecture, but those craving nature can head to the rolling hills of Chianti, where vineyards blend into olive groves and guests can take part in organic pizza and gelato making classes on a farm in Villa Olmo in Impruneta – just twenty-five minutes from the city centre. Chianti, one of the most fascinating regions of Tuscany, is celebrated for its peasant culture and fine cuisine and is also where the famous red Chianti DOCG is produced.

Wine tasting experience

No trip to Florence is complete without a taste of fine Tuscan wines: our guests can indulge in a wine tasting experience with sommelier Paolo Piccardi, either outside on the hotel terrace amidst the vibrant Emilio Pucci decor, or in the comfort of their Olga Polizzi-designed suite. Piccardi will share his favourite wines and give guests his valuable perspective on the region’s fantastic vineyards and the future of wine drinking.

Estate Fiesolana

There are many reasons to visit Florence during the summer, but one of them is the opportunity to enjoy a performance at the Roman theatre in nearby Fiesole with its panoramic views over the surrounding countryside. Each year a historic outdoor festival, the ‘Estate Fiesolana’, includes classical concerts, comedy shows and theatre performances. There are also plenty of historical sites and churches to explore in this ancient Etruscan and Roman town.

Le vie di Dante’ experience

As Italy marks 700 years since the death of its most celebrated poet, Dante Alighieri, this summer guests can also embark on a ‘Le vie di Dante’ experience. Trace Italy’s most celebrated poet’s life through Florence’s narrow medieval streets after indulging in a full breakfast served at the outdoor terrace of the Hotel Savoy’s Irene Restaurant.

Cusona Castle tour

Forty-five minutes from Hotel Savoy, near to San Gimignano, Cusona Castle, owned by the Guicciardini Strozzi Family, is a must. Princesses Irina and Natalia Strozzi accompany guests on tours of the 1,000-year-old property and host a range of experiences. Guests can try painting lessons in the garden or wine tasting and a tour of the historic cellars.

Art and culture

Art lovers, meanwhile, will enjoy a trip to the American Art 1961-2001 exhibition at the Palazzo Strozzi until 29th August which will open up a fresh perspective on the history of contemporary art in the United States. Or make sure to visit the Florence Opera to enjoy a concert directed by Zubin Mehta, the Maggio Musicale Fiorentino honorary director.

Truffle hunting experience

For a truly memorable birthday activity or special occasion, book a truffle hunting experience led by our local guide, followed by an exquisite lunch served in a private country house in the undulating terrain of Bagno a Ripoli, a 25-minute drive from the Hotel Savoy. Here, you can reconnect with the natural world and enjoy the ritual of one of Florence’s most treasured traditions.

Extraordinary experiences await you at Hotel Savoy in Florence. To curate a wonderful itinerary for your next visit, email our reservations team at reservations.savoy@roccofortehotels.com or call +39 055 27 35 1.


You may also like

Italy By Rail: Our Family-Friendly Itinerary

While air travel becomes ever more functional, the pleasures of the train are undeniable. you can lose yourself in a book, chat with your favourite people or watch from the window as scrolling landscapes unfold. A rediscovered love for rail journeys and a move towards more sustainable travel has fuelled a European-wide rail revolution over the last few years – but Italy has been running its brilliant services for decades. 

Celebrating the Art of Hospitality with Forbes Five Star Ratings

What makes a ‘five-star’ experience? Between seamless hospitality and indulgent surroundings, Forbes Travel Guide knows a thing or two about luxury service. As the only independent rating system for international luxury hotels, restaurants, and spas, we are delighted that six of our hotels are amongst the winners of its 2024 Five-Star Awards. Read on to uncover some of the highlights…