Summer in Italy isn’t just about sun and scenery—it’s also the season of festivals. From medieval parades and opera under the stars to local food fairs and jazz legends, Tuscany and Umbria come alive with authentic cultural experiences in July and August. Here’s your guide to top summer festivals you can enjoy this summer. 🎼 Umbria Jazz Festival — Perugia When:  July 12–21, 2025 Why Go:  One of Europe’s most important jazz festivals, set in the hilltop city of Perugia. Big-n

Each summer, the medieval city of Siena transforms into the stage for Italy's most famous horse race: the Palio di Siena. Held twice a year, the event is more than just a sporting spectacle—it's a centuries-old tradition packed with drama, colour, and deep local pride. The first Palio of the season took place on July 2 , and the city is now preparing for the second and even more anticipated race on August 16, 2025 . 📽️ A Bit of History The Palio dates back to the 1600s, thou

The Valdichiana is an area rich in tradition and one of the most anticipated events of the cultural calendar is an annual horseback race between the three districts of Castiglion Fiorentino, the Palio dei Rioni, which takes place on the 3rd Sunday in June. With historical processions preceding it, the race takes place at Piazzale Garibaldi at 6.45pm, where the whole town gathers in their respective colours, waving flags, singing and cheering for the two riders entered for eac