Horse Riding in Tuscany, Italy – Best Spots & Local Tips

Horse riding in Tuscany is deeply tied to the landscape and traditions of its rural communities. One of the most iconic regions is the Val d’Orcia, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its gentle hills, cypress-lined roads, and breathtaking open fields. Equestrian centers around Pienza, San Quirico d’Orcia, and Bagno Vignoni offer guided trail rides through wheat fields, olive groves, and vineyards, with options for sunset rides and multi-day treks.\n\nIn Chianti, riders can explore ancient farm roads that wind through vineyards and oak forests, passing by castles, hamlets, and wine estates. Stables near Greve in Chianti, Radda, and Castellina organize half-day or full-day rides often paired with tastings or traditional Tuscan meals. The terrain here is ideal for relaxed riding with scenic views and gentle terrain.\n\nNorthern Tuscany offers wilder rides in areas like the Garfagnana and Casentino Forests, where wooded trails and mountain paths suit more experienced riders seeking solitude and natural immersion. The Apennine trails near Arezzo and Monte Falterona provide highland rides with cooler temperatures and alpine vegetation in summer months.\n\nOn the coast, the Maremma region is famous for its horse riding culture, especially around Alberese and the Maremma Natural Park. This area is home to the Butteri, Tuscany’s traditional cowboys, and features sandy coastal trails, pine forests, and wild landscapes. Riding excursions here can include wildlife spotting and routes to hidden beaches.\n\nTuscany also hosts several segments of the Via Francigena, an ancient pilgrimage route ideal for multi-day horseback journeys. Many equestrian centers offer “slow tourism” packages combining riding with local food, farm stays, and cultural stops. Horses used are typically local breeds like the Maremmano, known for their endurance and calm temperament.\n\nMost stables offer horses suitable for beginners, along with helmets and basic instruction. Multi-lingual guides are common in tourist-friendly areas, and equestrian vacations can be customized to include wellness, wine, or photography experiences. With its strong horse culture, scenic terrain, and warm hospitality, Tuscany is a dream destination for exploring on horseback.

Top Ways to Find Certified Guides in Tuscany for horse riding:\n\n– Crion.org to book local riding experiences across Val d’Orcia, Chianti, and Maremma\n– Equestrian farms and ranches offering guided trail rides in Pienza, Radda in Chianti, and Alberese\n– Horse riding tour companies specializing in multi-day treks and farm stays with English-speaking instructors\n– Agriturismi with in-house stables offering beginner lessons, half-day excursions, and cultural rides\n– Regional riding associations and horse clubs in Arezzo, Siena, and Grosseto connecting visitors with licensed guides

Best Places to Rent & Buy Horse Riding Equipment in Tuscany:– Equestrian centers offering helmet and boot rentals with guided rides– Horse riding supply shops in Siena, Arezzo, and Florence selling saddles, riding wear, and grooming supplies– Agriturismi with tack rooms and shared gear available for guests– Event outfitters providing costumes and accessories for themed or historical rides– Online stores delivering equestrian gear to accommodations or local stables