Under the Autumn Tuscan Sun
A month of house sitting in Italy
A room with a view in Tuscany
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Back in April 2024, I took my first solo trip to Northern Tuscany—and fell completely in love with what might just be the most iconic region in Italy. From the magnificent architecture and rich history of Florence and Siena to the quieter, picturesque towns like Lucca, Peccioli, and Barga, Tuscany offers everything you dream of in a visit to this beautiful country.
Aperol time with a view to die for in the Tuscan countryside
After returning to the UK, I was determined to experience Tuscany again before the year ended. But as a solo traveler on a budget, I wasn’t sure how I could afford two trips in one year. That’s when I stumbled across a TikTok video featuring a girl who spent 12 months travelling the world as a house sitter. Intrigued, I explored the platform she mentioned, Trusted Housesitters, and immediately signed up!
How House Sitting Made Tuscany Affordable
House sitting is a game-changer for budget travelers. By caring for pets while homeowners are away, you can eliminate accommodation costs—a significant expense, especially when travelling solo. After completing the sign-up process and setting alerts for house sits across Italy, it wasn’t long before an opportunity in Tuscany appeared.
A homeowner with two adorable cats needed someone to look after them while she travelled to the U.S. After a few messages and a video call, I was thrilled to be accepted. I booked a budget-friendly EasyJet flight from Bristol to Pisa and arranged car hire through Budget Car Rental. My trusty powder-blue Fiat Cinquecento was not only economical but perfect for navigating Tuscany’s scenic roads.
Out on the open road in my little Fiat Cinquecento
From One Week to One Month in Tuscany
Originally, I planned a week-long stay. However, the homeowner extended her travels, and I eagerly agreed to stay for a month. This flexibility gave me the chance to slow down and truly immerse myself in the Tuscan lifestyle.
The house was nestled near Ghizzano, a quaint hilltop village famous for its colorful houses and modern art installations. Driving through the rolling green hills, lined with olive groves and vineyards, was like stepping into a Renaissance painting. The location, just 40 minutes east of my first Tuscan stay in Vicopisano, allowed me to reconnect with friends I’d made on my earlier trip.
Driving through the back roads around Ghizzano
Discovering Slow Tuscany
Staying a month meant I could embrace “slow travel.” With no strict itinerary, I woke each day inspired by the weather and mood. Some days were spent exploring nearby gems like Peccioli, Terricciola, and Lajatico—hilltop towns where time seems to stand still. On other days, I ventured farther afield or enjoyed peaceful walks in the countryside surrounding Ghizzano.
Enjoying the glorious Autumn weather whilst out and about exploring in Tuscany. This is when I’m at my happiest.
Local highlights included coffee and pastries at Jole Café in La Rosa and sourcing gourmet cat food (yes, really!) at Zooing in Peccioli. Tuscany’s off-season charm allowed me to experience the region like a local, from quiet village markets to uncrowded countryside roads.
An Unexpected Coastal Getaway
Swimming in the Ligurian Sea on November 1st at Marina di Pisa, was a highlight of the trip.
One standout memory was spending All Saints’ Day (November 1st) at Marina di Pisa with my dear friend Marie from Authentic Tuscany. We enjoyed a seafood lunch overlooking the Ligurian Sea, followed by a refreshing swim in surprisingly warm 20°C water. Watching the sun set over the promenade with an aperitivo in hand was pure bliss.
The most glorious sunset at Marina di Pisa near Livorno
Hidden Gems of Tuscany
While Florence dazzles with its grandeur, Tuscany’s lesser-known spots stole my heart. Highlights from my trip include:
San Galgano Abbey: This stunning 14th-century Cistercian monastery about 35 kms south of Siena, famous for its roofless architecture, feels like a scene from a fairytale. I even stumbled into a wedding that was taking place at the time. How romantic is that! A nearby walk up the hill led me to the Montesiepi Hermitage and the legendary Sword in the Stone.
Palaia and Lajatico: These small hilltop towns offer a glimpse into Tuscany’s timeless charm, with cobbled streets, ancient churches, and sweeping views.
Volterra was somewhere I really wanted to visit, and I am so glad I mad the trip. The drive from Ghizzano high up to this stunning medieval town that is famous for its production of Alabaster was absolutely breathtaking. I had to keep stopping to take photos of the stunning Tuscan countryside. I spent an entire day in Volterra and it has now become one of my favourite towns in Tuscany.
The stunning setting of San Galgano Abbey is the perfect place to get married. (apparently!)
Why Autumn Is the Best Time to Visit Tuscany
October’s warm days and crisp evenings made it the perfect time for exploring Tuscany. The changing leaves painted the landscape in vibrant hues of orange and gold, adding to the region’s magical atmosphere. Plus, travelling outside the peak tourist season meant quieter roads and fewer crowds.
Is House Sitting Right for You?
House sitting is an incredible way to immerse yourself in local culture while keeping travel costs low. If this sounds appealing, check out Trusted Housesitters and use my referral code for a 25% discount on a yearly membership.
Tuscany’s beauty, charm, and warmth have solidified my dream of moving to Italy one day. For now, I’ll continue exploring and sharing the hidden gems of this enchanting region.
Beara x