Historic residences in Tuscany: 24 May 2026

24 May 2026 marks the ADSI National Day, when hundreds of historic residences open to the public. In Tuscany this is an excellent chance to visit villas and gardens and combine the trip with nearby historic villages and scenic landscapes.

Why choose Tuscany

Tuscany offers a unique mix of art, landscape and easy travel between sites. Many residences are near small villages, allowing full-day excursions without long drives. Gardens are often at their best in May, making it a perfect time for these visits.

Not-to-miss residences in Tuscany

• Palazzo Pfanner (Lucca) – Elegant historic garden open free of charge; interior visits by scheduled reservation.
• Tenuta Maria Teresa (Lucca area) – Garden, historic cellar and oil mill open with guided tours and occasional tastings.
• Villa Tambellini De Fondra (Lucca) – 17th-century villa with park and formal garden, suited to calm, less crowded visits.
• Villa di Forci (Pieve Santo Stefano) – Residence focused on sustainability and historical production, with visits to oil mill and other production areas.
• Villa Camigliano (Lucca) – Park, chapel and cellar; some areas may be free while others could require payment according to the program.

How to plan your visit

• Check each residence’s page on the ADSI platform for times, access rules and reservation requirements.
• Book early if time slots are mandatory.
• Focus on a single area to avoid long transfers between sites.
• Bring comfortable shoes: gravel paths and steps are common in historic gardens.

Best season and pairings

May is ideal for historic gardens: milder weather and vibrant greenery. Pair the visit with a stroll through a nearby village, a countryside lunch or a local food and wine stop, especially around Lucca and the surrounding hills.

Practical tips

• Confirm whether the visit includes unguided areas or is entirely guided.
• Be prepared to pay for optional tastings or extra access zones.
• Avoid overpacking your itinerary: better to explore a few places well than many superficially.

Short FAQ

• What are ADSI historic residences? Private homes, castles, villas and gardens opened for the ADSI National Day.
• Is admission really free? Yes, general access is free, though optional activities may have fees.
• Do I need to reserve? Often yes: check the ADSI listing for each site.
• How much time should I allow? Plan at least half a day to enjoy a residence and a nearby village.

The ADSI National Day on 24 May 2026 is a unique chance to experience Tuscany’s historic residences at a relaxed pace, discover lesser-known villages and enjoy a day that blends culture, landscape and local flavors.