Under $100: Tuscany

Art vendor of Florence, Tuscany, Italy © Wallaceweeks | Dreamstime

We’re not going to lie, exploring Tuscany on a budget is hard to accomplish. It’s most famous city, Florence, is infamous for being one of the priciest in Italy, if not all of Europe. It may be difficult, but it’s not impossible.

Travel to Tuscany in August so you’re no longer in the midst of prime tourist season to get a good deal on housing. Plus Florence hostels have beds available for under $30 a night. This is fantastic if you’re considering a weekend stay.

There is no shortage of free events and things to do in the area. In fact, the local tourist office has a list called Firenze a Costo Zero that lets you know what’s happening for cheap or free. The city is pedestrian-friendly, so ignore public transportation or using car.

At the Mercato Sant’Ambrogio, you can find cheap meals at Da Rocco for less than $10.

To tour Tuscany’s most famous wine road, the Chiantigiana, simply hop on a bus. You can also use it to explore piazza in Greve, altogether paying no more than $20 round-trip.

During the evening, take in a free orchestra performance at the Santa Maria de’Ricci.

The central portion of Tuscany is not budget-friendly at the moment, so you may have to save it for another day.