Figline Valdarno

Figline Valdarno is a traditional Italian town with a rich history behind it.  Nestled in the  beautiful countryside in the valley of the Arno river in Tuscany,  the town attracts many foreign visitors every year with some famous names among them, such as Sting, Madonna and Dustin Hoffman, to name but a few.  They are drawn by the beauty and charm of Figline and the surrounding area, away from the tourist masses but right in the heart of Tuscany and all that it has to offer.

Arriving in Figline, one notices immediately the imposing antique stone wall that encloses the town centre.  It was built in the 8th Century when Figline, being an important strategic vantage point in the Arno valley, was fortified by the capital Florence.  In the town centre, there is a large square, built at the beginning of the 8th century as a market square that soon became a lively trading place.  Still today it is used as it was centuries ago, and every Tuesday there is a busy weekly market.  This typical Italian market sells a wide variety of goods, and draws locals and visitors from all around, attracted by the many colourful stalls, fresh local produce, and competitive prices.

From Figline Valdarno, one is in easy reach of Florence, Siena and Arezzo, three of the most important cultural cities in Tuscany.  In fact this part of Tuscany offers something for almost everyone:  those seeking culture, art and history will be enchanted by the monuments, buildings and museums; those loving nature and the outdoors can take advantage of the breathtaking scenery and walks; and those wishing to appreciate the gastronomic delights, such as the Tuscan cuisine, world famous fine wines and olive oil; can sample them directly from the local farms and country restaurants.

The locals’ love of their traditions and history is demonstrated by the numerous festivals and parades that are held throughout the year in Figline and in the outlying towns and villages.  Particularly of note is the festival of ‘the Perdono’ which is held every year in September.  It has a medieval theme and attracts many visitors, locals and tourists alike.  There are also antique fairs and flower festivals, parades of floats to celebrate carnival and Easter, and summer and music festivals too.
Held periodically are food markets and markets selling local handmade crafts, providing a great opportunity to bring home a taste of Tuscany.

Comfortable hotels, a top quality camping ground, many cafès, restaurants and pubs, give the visitor the opportunity to  relax and enjoy everthing there is to offer.  Figline also has a cinema and a theatre which holds shows and  classical music concerts that tour nationally.