"Lucca Classica"  is a festival of classical music and opera, featuring numerous performances by internationally renowned artists in various locations throughout the city of Lucca, such as the Church of Santi Giovanni and Reparata, the Teatro del Giglio, and the Basilica of San Frediano. The program also includes lectures, meetings, exhibitions, shows for children, and many other cultural initiatives. The event attracts many classical music enthusiasts also from abroad.

Complete Program:

☞ https://www.luccaclassica.it

Lucca – Giovanni Boldini: The Seduction of Painting – from December 2, 2025 to June 2, 2026

La Cavallerizza, Piazzale Verdi, Lucca

An exhibition of over 100 works tracing the evolution of Giovanni Boldini's painting through the lens of feminine beauty—the focus of his continuous aesthetic exploration and deep psychological investigation. Boldini crafted an idealized model of grace and elegance.

An undisputed master of elegance and portraiture between the 19th and 20th centuries, Boldini placed the female image at the heart of his artistic world. With vibrant brushstrokes and a refined play of light and movement, he captured not only the outer grace of his models—their fashion, their social allure, the very spirit of their era—but also their inner psychological depth, giving life to a timeless ideal of femininity and charm.

He portrayed the vital spirit, the grace of gestures, and the intensity of their gazes, transforming his subjects into icons of sensuality and modernity.

Curated by Tiziano Panconi, the exhibition will be open from December 2, 2025, to June 2, 2026, at La Cavallerizza, Piazzale Verdi, Lucca.

In the heart of Florence, the historic spaces of Palazzo Medici Riccardi host an exhibition that brings back the elegance and creative energy of the 1920s.

“Firenze Déco. Atmosfere degli anni Venti” (Florence Déco. Atmospheres of the 1920s) is an exhibition that highlights the central role of the city in the spread of Art Déco in Italy and across Europe. Promoted by the Metropolitan City of Florence and organized by Fondazione MUS.E, curated by Lucia Mannini, the exhibition tells the story of an extraordinary decade in which Florence established itself as a refined center for applied arts, fashion, design, and theatre.

The exhibition takes visitors on an immersive journey through ceramics, glass, furniture, jewelry, textiles, garments, and posters, recreating the cultural atmosphere of the 1920s and the dialogue between tradition and international avant-garde.

Among the featured figures are Gio Ponti, Galileo Chini and Thayaht, alongside refined creations loved by high society and objects that reflect the cosmopolitan taste of the era.

🕒 Practical Information

📅 Until: August 25, 2026

📍 Location: Palazzo Medici Riccardi, Florence

⏰ Opening hours: daily 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM (closed on Wednesdays)

The Sacred Belt of the Prato Cathedral is a thin strip of green fabric with gold brocades and a green tassel and band at the ends. As told in an ancient oriental apocryphal text after the Blessed Virgin's death St. Thomas was carried by angels to the mount of Olives; there he contemplated the Virgin while she was taken up into the Heaven, and received the gift of the belt in proof of the event. According to Prato medieval tradition the sacred belt was then entrusted to a priest and preserved by his descendants. After the first crusade, a Prato pilgrim of modest origins called Michele, fell in love with Maria, the daughter of an oriental priest and married her in secret, against her father's wish and received as dowry the "Sacred Belt" in a small basket made of rushes. After returning to Prato around 1141, Michele spoke to no one about the holy relic and only on his death bed (1172), he donated it to the provost of the nearby church of St. Stephen. The sacred Belt furthermore was considered the most valuable treasure of the entire city, so much so that its public display was established by the bylaws of Commune which still today has in custody a set of the keys required to take it out of the altar. Up to the end of 13th century the holy relic was kept close to the high altar but in 1346 it moved to the left of the main entrance of the ancient church and later Cathedral where in 1386-90  was built, on a project by Lorenzo di Filippo, the chapel that stores the holy relic. The chapel is decorated with frescoes of Stories of the Virgin and of the belt (1392-95), a series of amazing figurative unity painted by Agnolo Gaddi with a faultless technique and luminous colors. On the corner of the façade is the amazing pulpit by Donatello and Michelozzo which was finished in 1438 and created for the display of the Sacred Belt in order to show it to the congregation gathered in the Cathedral square. 

Also this year at the International Handicrafts Trade Fair, the best of the arts and crafts from the various Italian regions as well from all over the world will be on show. 

Carefully selected traditional and innovating works will be on show, between originality and design, following an itinerary privileging productive traditions as well as the main territory attractions – local crafts, tourism, food & wine, landscape identities, and so on.

Florence - The International Handicrafts Trade Fair

When: April 25 - May 3, 2026

Where: Fortezza da Basso, Florence

More information:

☞ https://mostrartigianato.it/

Antonio Ligabue – The Roar of the Soul at the Arsenali Repubblicani in Pisa

From December 26, 2025 to May 10, 2026, the city of Pisa will host the exhibition "Antonio Ligabue – The Roar of the Soul" in the fascinating setting of the Arsenali Repubblicani.

This extraordinary exhibition offers a deep journey into the tormented and brilliant soul of Ligabue, one of the most intense artists of the Italian 20th century. Through paintings, drawings, and documents, the exhibition tells the story of his difficult life and his incredible ability to transform pain and marginalization into pure art. A precious opportunity to rediscover his voice—strong, universal, and still deeply moving today.Antonio Ligabue – The Roar of the Soul at the Arsenali Repubblicani in Pisa

From December 26, 2025 to May 10, 2026, the city of Pisa will host the exhibition "Antonio Ligabue – The Roar of the Soul" in the fascinating setting of the Arsenali Repubblicani.

This extraordinary exhibition offers a deep journey into the tormented and brilliant soul of Ligabue, one of the most intense artists of the Italian 20th century. Through paintings, drawings, and documents, the exhibition tells the story of his difficult life and his incredible ability to transform pain and marginalization into pure art. A precious opportunity to rediscover his voice—strong, universal, and still deeply moving today.

Next to the panorama that can be admired from Piazzale Michelangelo, a stone's throw from David, the symbol of Florence appears. In fact, more than 1500 varieties of the flower are grown in the Iris garden, which since 1251 has been a symbol of the city. The varieties of Iris, coming from all over the world, are cared for by the Italian Iris Society, owner of the garden and organizer every year of the competition that for over half a century has awarded the most beautiful and particular specimens and the most new and original varieties.

The garden can be visited from April 25 to May 20, the month in which the lily or iris bloom. This year it will open its gates every day from 10am to 6 pm, last admission at 5.30pm.

From March 7 to July 26, 2026, Palazzo Buontalenti in Pistoia hosts a major exhibition dedicated to Ettore Sottsass, a key figure in 20th-century Italian design.

The exhibition brings together over 1,400 works, including drawings, objects, photographs, and documents, tracing thirty years of research from the post-war period to the 1970s.

The exhibition follows a chronological path: from early artistic experiments, to ceramics created with Bitossi, through to innovative design for Poltronova and the collaboration with Olivetti. Significant space is also dedicated to the turning point of the 1960s, when Sottsass’s work became more symbolic and radical, anticipating the Memphis movement.

📅 Visitor Information

Dates: March 7 – July 26, 2026

Opening hours: Wednesday–Sunday, 10:00 – 19:00

Special openings: Easter Sunday, Easter Monday, April 7 and 25, May 1, June 1 and 2

📍 Venue: Palazzo Buontalenti, via de’ Rossi 7, Pistoia

Opera concerts in which at least 2 singers alternate among the most beautiful voices of the national opera scene accompanied on the piano. The most famous opera arias from the repertoire of Italian and international opera are scheduled, as well as the most famous classic Neapolitan songs.

90 minutes of live music with a break during which guests can enjoy a typical sweet of the city.

The concerts will take place every Wednesday from April to October  in the Music Hall of the Grand Hotel Croce di Malta in Montecatini Terme in Via IV Novembre, 18 at 9.15 pm.

Tickets can be booked by calling +39 3518066988 or by sending an email to info@operaconcerto.it even on the day of the concert.

Further information is available on the website

www.thebestofopera.com.

The Festival is devoted to classical music and opera fans, its main purpose is to highlight the town’s musical  tradition, especially the great operas. 

This  season’s program, from April to October, presents 19 events, set in the most attractive thermal building of  Montecatini Terme, the Terme Tettuccio, which welcomes everybody as in a warm hug and where you can still hear the musical echo of the great composers  who have made Italian classic music famous all over the world.

Saturday Night Spa

Saturday, May 2, 16, and 30,

from 7:30 PM to midnight

For an evening of pure relaxation, pamper yourself with a soothing bath under the stars in the thermal pool with rejuvenating whirlpools and

reinvigorate yourself with a steam bath in Europe's largest thermal cave at 34°C.

Includes:

Steam bath in natural thermal cave at 34°C (20 minutes)

Bathing under the stars in the 750 sqm thermal pool at 34°C with underwater whirlpools

Bathing in the Bioaquam thermal path at 34°C with rejuvenating whirlpools

Access to the Thermarium area

Access to the "Bioaquam Pavilion" the new covered and heated relaxation area of 310 m2

Lounge music

€35.00 by reservation

Bioaquam Café poolside open with à la carte menu

(payment upon consumption)

For more information, call 

+39 0572/9077992 or email terme@grottagiustispa.com

https://terme.grottagiustispa.com

The famous Antiques Fair of Arezzo is one of the most important and largest antique fairs in Italy, held every first Sunday of the month and the preceding Saturday.

Pictures and paintings, small jewels, ancient and modern furniture, carpets, clocks, silverware, toys, books and vintage prints, collection stamps, musical instruments, gramophones and radios: it is easy to be charmed and indulge in discovering one of the biggest and oldest Italian Antiques Fairs. 

In 1968 a famous antiquarian and collector of Arezzo, Ivan Bruschi, gave birth to this fair which still today fills with its curious bric-a-brac the old town centre, its streets, yards, Vasari Loggia and wonderful Piazza Grande, every first weekend of the month.

For two days the town changes into a multicolor scenery of treasures waiting to be discovered by tourists and collectors: over five hundreds exhibitors from all over Italy meet here with their furniture and objects of all periods and styles, while antiquarians and restorers have multiplied their business, opening their shops during the fair and showing their best items. Experts of antiques and

modern antique collecting find here plenty of particular specializations, such as, for instance, scientific tools, Art-Nouveau stained glass windows, Art Deco furnishing.

The feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross is celebrated with particular solemnity in Lucca, motivated by the presence of the precious medieval wooden crucifix known as the Holy Face. On this day, as for the feast of the Triumph of the Holy Cross on September 14, the crucifix is displayed and decorated with the precious ancient garments and jewels, gifts and alms from the faithful.

At Querceta, the first Sunday in May, small, stocky and stubbom donkeys take the field, proud to compete in the “Palio dei Micci”. The event, created as for joke in 1956 as a tourist attaction, changed over the years into a much felt event in the village of Querceta, close to Forte dei Marmi. Every year since then, eight districts challenge each other, led by their stubbom “micci” (donkeys in vemacular), that fiercely almost make you doubt about who the real jockey is. Set in medieval times, with hundreds of people who interpret historical or fictional characters, the Palio takes place the first Sunday in May. The event starts in the morning, with a parade of eight districts ( Cervia, Leon d’Oro, Lizard, Madonnina, Bridge, Well, Oak and Frog) through the streets of Querceta. The route starts from Piazza Matteotti, it stops at the church of Santa Maria Lauretana for the Holy Mass, then returns to the streets for the blessing of the four-hooves legged duelists, to end with the reading of the official invitations to challenge of the suburbs.

The Palio is held in the afternoon in the stadium “Buon riposo”: the first district to enter is the winner of the previous edition, followed by the left seven ones according to the draw. Here the challenge starts on several fronts. The costumed participants are involved in theatrical and spectacular performances, competing for the prize “historical parade” and for the “themed parade”, while groups of musicians will play for the prize “Brothers Meccheri”. Once the individual  performances of the districts are done, you will enjoy a foretaste of the Palio: a full show for style and attractions, with over 300 participants including musicians and flag bearers, an apotheosis of medieval folklore. At the end of this, at around 7 p.m., the prancing donkeys ean finally give vent to their capacity, beginning the race that includes six laps in a circular circuit. The district that will cut the finish line first will have the honor to keep for one year the prize, a banner depicting the Holy Family, and they can also to put their arms on it. While the stubborn donkeys just have to enjoy glory and fame, being able to look down on their noblest cousins, for one day. 

☞ https://www.prolocoquerceta.it/

First Sunday of the month: museums free entrance

It is a very important event involving all the State Museums with specials and free tickets access. Therefore, if you plan to visit Florence, Pisa, Lucca or any other Tuscan town our countless masterpieces without spending one Euro!

For instance in Florence you can visit: the Uffizi Gallery, Academy Museum, Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens, Bargello Museum, Medici Chapels, and many other attractions. All of them free of charge!

List of  State Museums in Tuscany HERE. 

In Pistoia, the second Saturday and Sunday of the month an antique fair is held which attracts  many dealers from all over Tuscany. Here you can find very valuable antiques: furniture, majolica, porcelain, jewelery, clocks, coins, old lacework, crystal goblets and profane and religious period paintings.

On the stalls you can find clothing, utensils and ethnic products, as well as magazines, comics, used garments and other items from the past. 

The market takes place in the so called Cattedrale - not to confuse with the real Cathedral - (Via Pertini) - eccept July and August.

There are about 100 exhibitors who animate the historic city center with various kinds of antiques every second Saturday and Sunday of the month except July and August.

You will find ceramics, glassware and cutlery for a romantic table setting and a very good range of embroidered linen (perhaps an untouched trousseau from a failed marriage). Also sepia paintings, watercolours, vintage  postcards (full of insight into how we lived in the past and complete with shaky handwriting), out-of-print books for the attentive book collector, silver and gold coins from every corner of the globe and much, much more.

Where: Pisa, Piazza dei Cavalieri, Piazza Garibaldi

GUIDED TOUR

Friday, May 15 (7  PM - 20 PM)

An evocative sunset (and beyond) excursion is scheduled, ideal for families with children, offering the chance to discover unique and unusual aspects of the wetland.

The first part is dedicated to birdwatching: with personal binoculars brought along for the walk and the guide’s expertise, you will be able to observe and learn to recognize herons, ducks, marsh harriers, and many other species that inhabit the marsh environment.

The excursion continues after sunset, when the fading light is replaced by a symphony of sounds from the many creatures of the wetland: from the songs of small reed-dwelling birds like the Great Reed Warbler and Reed Warbler, which become more intense at dusk, to the crepuscular call of the Little Bittern—resembling a hoarse bark—and the harsh croaks of the Black-crowned Night Herons, which nest in large colonies known as "heronries."

Once it is dark, the walk retraces its steps through the Chiusi Woods, where you can hear and learn to identify the calls of various nocturnal birds of prey such as the Little Owl, Tawny Owl, and the Long-eared Owl—despite the name, a rather rare species.

Mandatory booking via email at info@naturaintoscana.it

Please include a contact name, the number of participants, and a phone number.

Difficulty: none – flat trail, approx. 3 km round trip

Gear: hiking boots and long pants, binoculars and a small flashlight (a sandwich is also recommended)

The excursion will take place even in uncertain weather or light rain. In case of cancellation, all participants will be notified by phone.

Participation costs: 10 Euro per person.

All excursions are led by a qualified Environmental Hiking Guide.

The Colle di Monsummano: Nature, Orchids and Birdwatching

Located along the Montalbano ridge, the Colle di Monsummano is a prominent natural site due to its geological, faunal, floral and vegetational features. Its geomorphological structure, with the south-facing slopes covered in Mediterranean scrubland and large rocky environments (former quarries) at very low altitudes, offers a unique habitat for plants and animals, quite uncommon in this area.

The lush Mediterranean scrub is dominated by evergreen shrubs such as Myrtle, Laurustinus, Buckthorn, and Mock Privet. In spring, their greenery is punctuated by the white blossoms of cistus, field anemones, and several species of wild orchids — one of the Colle’s key botanical highlights. In fact, the number of orchid species observed here throughout the year is unmatched in any other part of the Montalbano.

While these orchids may not match the size of their tropical cousins, their beauty is undeniable. Their charm lies not only in their striking appearance — sometimes quite bizarre — but also in their unique ecological adaptations, making them among the most evolved plants in the botanical world.

For nature lovers, Colle di Monsummano is also a great spot for birdwatching. The Mediterranean scrub and rocky landscapes are home to species such as the Blue Rock Thrush (beloved by poet Leopardi), the Peregrine Falcon, the Raven, and many others.

Participation is free but limited — booking is required via email at info@naturaintoscana.it by providing a contact name, number of participants and a phone number.

Difficulty: easy trail with a modest gradient (approx. 2 km, 80 m elevation gain)

Recommended gear: hiking boots and binoculars

Participation fee: free

On May 16 and 17, Pescia will dive into a charming medieval atmosphere, filled with merchants, performances, jugglers, music, and dancing.

The town’s four districts will also open their taverns, ready to delight even the most refined palates.

Second among the antique-dealers' market places of Tuscany for the number of its exhibitors and length of life, the Antique market of Lucca can boast of a solid tradition of quality and reliability thanks to professional antiquarians of high prestige who have always been an important presence in town. 

At the third weekend of each month (on Saturday and Sunday), from 8 am to 7 pm, Lucca opens its gates for a joyful event involving a large portion of the historical centre: from Piazza S. Martino, Piazza Antelminelli and Via Del Battistero - the historical antique dealers' street- ‚ to Piazza San Giusto, and Piazza S. Giovanni up to Piazza Bernardini. It is a gorgeous display of colorful stalls offering not only past vestiges of remarkable artistic value, but also traces of souvenirs impressed on a post-card, on a book, on a knick-knack or on an ornament. 

Furniture, clothes, fabrics, paintings, rare components of old instruments, lamps and chandeliers, old working tools, records..... a wide pattern of old or antique objects‚ patiently gathered and collected after explorations which

are getting more and more difficult. All these things speak to both the tourist and the lover, of a world, which has gone, but not willing to be forgotten yet.

Two unforgettable days around the most charming

streets of the town. It is Art facing Art, History meeting History. A really unique occasion to know Lucca better and taste the pleasure of peeping through the stalls in search of something beautiful to take home and - why not?- probably also making a good bargain! 

Reliving Lucca 2026: a journey through over two thousand years of history

One of the most fascinating events for history lovers is about to return to Lucca: Reliving Lucca.

From May 19 to 24, 2026, the city will transform into a large open-air stage where over two thousand years of history come to life through reenactments, shows, exhibitions, and talks.

Walking through the streets of the historic center, visitors can witness scenes from different eras, meet performers in historical costumes, discover ancient traditions, and experience a unique atmosphere where the past becomes present.

The festival offers a rich and varied program designed to engage a wide audience—from history enthusiasts to those simply looking for a different experience during their stay in Tuscany. There will also be activities dedicated to families and children, making it both educational and entertaining.

“Rievocando Lucca” is more than just an event—it is a true journey through time, combining culture, art, and entertainment in the charming setting of this historic walled city.

🕒 Practical Information

📅 Dates: May 19–24, 2026

📍 Location: Lucca

🎫 Admission: Free

Pistoia in Fiore – A Weekend of Nature, Color and Tradition

May 22 and  23, 2026

Pistoia is blooming and ready to welcome the very first edition of Pistoia in Fiore, an event designed for lovers of greenery, natural beauty, and authentic craftsmanship.

For two days, this charming Tuscan city will transform into a stunning open-air garden, where visitors will be enchanted by captivating scents, vibrant colors, and unique creations from all over Italy.

But this is not only a typical flower market—Pistoia in Fiore is a sensory journey through sustainability, tradition, and creativity. As you stroll through the city center, you'll discover rare plants, spectacular floral displays, natural products, and artisanal works that tell the story of the local land and its rich heritage.

It’s the perfect opportunity for those seeking inspiration, relaxation, and beauty, all wrapped in a slow-living atmosphere that celebrates both nature and culture.

Since 1981 the Palio has been run at Fucecchio, a town in the province of Florence that is famous as the birthplace of the historian and writer Indro Montanelli: twelve contrade compete first in a historic parade and then in a horse race to award themselves with the “cencio”, the longed-for painted drape in recognition of the winner of the most important event of this Tuscan town. The Palio was created as the reconstruction of a contention held in Fucecchio around 1200. According to the documents found in the local historical archive, the last Palio was disputed on 14 June 1863, when the joust was abandoned for the last time until the twelve Contrade decided to resume the custom of this ancient challenge almost a century on. Since its rebirth, there has been a constantly growing enthusiasm and interest in this event, so much so that it has taken on a primary role in the daily life of every Fucecchiese and among the historical events of Tuscany. This year, the event will take place on 24 May. At 9:00 in the morning the historic parade will take place along the streets in the centre, with over 1,200 figures in medieval dress, flag-bearers and musicians, but the much awaited moment will occur at 15:00 at the “Buca d’Andrea” with the horse race, where nationally known horses and jockeys take place every year, many of whom come from the Palio at Siena. Don’t miss out on one of the twelve Vigil Banquets that take place on the evening of 23 May throughout the centre of Fucecchio at the offices of each Contrada, with typical dishes of the best Tuscan food and the magical atmosphere of songs and toasts of goodwill to the rider. 

☞ https://www.paliodifucecchio.it/

"Dialoghi sull'uomo" is a cultural festival held every year in Pistoia. It is an event that includes numerous meetings, debates, and conferences on topics related to human being, from art to science, from philosophy to politics. The festival will take place in the squares of Pistoia’s old city center, and its program features talks by Italian and foreign anthropologists, sociologists, philosophers and scientists who, in an accessible language, will offer new insights, new tools to better understand the reality of contemporary man and the societies in which we live. 

The 2026 edition of the Dialogues is titled "Bodies in Transformation: Maps, Challenges, and Boundaries of the Human." 

Program 2026 HERE

The largest widespread museum in Italy reopens its doors for free. The National Day of the Italian Historic Houses Association is back, this year in its 16th edition: over 500 exclusive places such as castles, fortresses, villas, parks and gardens can be visited for free, in an immersion in the history that still makes our country today identifiable in the world and which could form the cornerstone of its long-term sustainable development

More information:

☞ https://www.associazionedimorestoricheitaliane.it/?lan=en

Arti e Mestieri is an arts and crafts market in the historic center of Lucca, with a big number of exhibitors that meet every last weekend of the month in Piazza San Giusto, Piazza Cittadella and Piazza XX Settembre with many traditional and original products from Tuscany.

At Arti e Mestieri there are ceramists, painters, sculptors, leather, glass and papier-mâché artisans, weavers, jewelers, cabinet makers, seamstresses and embroiderers, knitting and crochet experts. The artisans-artists offer their exclusive products in a colorful market: bijoux in silver, ceramic and crochet, natural products for body care, fountain pens worked on the lathe, bags, belts and leather bracelets, painted stones, scented lavender, splendid paintings and sculptures.

Small, round, red, delicious and rich in precious vitamins: it’s said that you eat one and you want another. It’s so true since it is truly impossible to resist this exquisite fruit that takes us hand in hand through a season that is all too brief.

In Lari, a lovely village that even charmed the Grand-Duke of Tuscany in the 19th century with its breathtaking views, the truly local cherry has been celebrated for over half a century since 1957, to be precise, with what is now one of the leading events in Italy devoted to this fruit. The event takes place in May 30 and 31, and  June 1 and 2,and  June 6 and 7 2026 where the Pisan town, the Tuscan centre of cherry cultivation, showcases many colourful stalls that bring the village streets to life with the best produce that compete to win the “golden cherry”.

A popular people’s festival that is enriched with itinerant shows, music, exhibitions, and gastronomic stands.

But the true and undisputed queen will still be certainly her: the cherry and the 19 different traditional varieties of this fruit that are produced in Lari and surroundings and other also "modern variations" of recent introduction: all worth tasting! Good, tasty, with more or less intense flavor, but ready to satisfy all tastes! 

More information:

Lari Tourist Office: +39 0587646258