Riding vacation in Tuscany
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A riding holiday in Tuscany takes you through vineyards and olive groves, through chestnut and oak forests, and across the Maremma to the beach. Everything is offered, from riding lessons for beginners and guided rides to multi-day treks. Here you can find out which regions are suitable, what options are available, and what to consider when choosing a riding stable.
Horse riding holidays in Tuscany at a glance
- Best regions: Maremma (home of the Butteri), Chianti, hills around Siena, Etruscan Coast, Apennines in the north.
- Offers: Riding lessons, children's riding, guided rides, multi-day trail rides, beach rides.
- Accommodation: Riding stables and agriturismos with their own horses.
- Best time: Spring and autumn – in midsummer only ride early in the morning or in the evening.
Where can you go horseback riding in Tuscany?
Maremma: Land of Butteri
The Maremma in southern Tuscany is the region's traditional horse riding area. Here, the Butteri, the Tuscan cattle herders, used to tend their livestock on horseback. Their horses are Maremmanos – robust, sure-footed breeds well-suited to challenging terrain and weather. Riding stables offer excursions through pine forests, maquis shrubland, and pastures, sometimes even reaching the sandy beaches. One popular destination is the Maremma Natural Park between Principina a Mare and Talamone, with its Monti dell'Uccellina hills. Learn more about the region: Maremma sandy beaches and the province of Grosseto.
Chianti and the hills around Siena
Between Florence and Siena, horseback riding excursions lead past vineyards , castles, and olive groves. Oak, chestnut, and pine forests provide shade in the summer. Many wineries and agriturismos in Chianti offer horseback riding tours, often combined with a wine tasting.
Etruscan Coast
Along the Etruscan Coast between Livorno and Piombino, rocky cliffs alternate with long beaches. South of Vada, paths lead through the pine forests behind the beach.
Apennines in the north
In the north, you can explore the mountainous landscapes of the Apennines and the Garfagnana on secluded trails. Here, horseback riding tours are more challenging and better suited to experienced riders. Our article on the diversity of the Tuscan landscape provides an overview of the regions.
Offers for every level
- Beginners and children: Many farms offer riding lessons and courses suitable for children. Tips for families: to Tuscany with children.
- Guided horseback rides: Tours lasting one to several hours with local guides, often including a picnic or wine tasting. A selection of bookable horseback rides can be found at [website/contact information]. GetYourGuide: Horse riding in Tuscany.
- Trail riding: Multi-day tours from farm to farm, with luggage transport and overnight stays along the way.
- With your own horse: Some riding stables accept guest horses; you should clarify this well in advance.
Tips for choosing a riding stable
- Ask about group size, riding style (Western or English) and minimum riding skill requirements.
- Check whether a helmet and insurance are provided.
- Those who want to combine accommodation and horseback riding should choose a farm with horses – more information can be found at Holiday on the Farm (Agriturismo).
- It's hot in the height of summer and there are lots of insects – spring and autumn are ideal. See best travel time for Tuscany.
Frequently asked questions about horseback riding holidays in Tuscany
Where are the best places to go horseback riding in Tuscany?
Particularly popular are the Maremma in the south with its equestrian tradition, the Chianti region and the hills around Siena, as well as the pine forests of the Etruscan Coast.
Is it possible for a beginner to ride horses in Tuscany?
Yes. Many riding stables and agriturismos offer riding lessons, courses, and quiet guided rides for beginners and children.
What are the Butteri?
The Butteri are the traditional mounted cattle herders of the Maremma. They work with horses of the robust Maremmano breed.
Is it possible to ride horses on the beach in Tuscany?
In the Maremma region and along the Etruscan Coast, some riding stables offer horseback riding excursions through pine forests to the beach. Whether riding on the beach is permitted depends on the municipality and the time of year – please inquire with the provider.
When is the best time for a riding holiday in Tuscany?
Spring and autumn. In July and August it is often too hot during the day; then riding takes place early in the morning or in the evening.
