Fall in Florence, Italy: what to see, do, and wear

There's a reason Florentines call autumn their favorite season. Summer's crowds thin, golden light bathes terracotta rooftops, and the city settles into a rhythm that feels more intimate, more authentic. 

The air carries hints of roasting chestnuts and new wine, while Tuscan hills glow in shades of amber and crimson. Fall transforms Florence from tourist destination into living city—and dressing for it becomes part of the experience itself.

Why autumn is the most magical season in Florence

September through November offers Florence at its finest. Mild temperatures make walking a pleasure, fewer tourists arrive after mid-October, and that extraordinary Tuscan light—the kind painters have chased for centuries—bathes everything in gold. Morning mist rises from the Arno, afternoon sun warms piazza stones, and evenings turn crisp enough to justify reaching for your favorite leather jacket.

The city pulses with authentic energy as harvest season unfolds across Tuscany. Wine festivals celebrate vendemmia (grape harvest), chestnut sagre fill hilltop towns with roasting aromas, and local markets overflow with porcini mushrooms, late-season figs, and the season's first pressing of olive oil. Do not forget the “Olio Nuovo”, the new season olives harvest and olive oil pressing. This is Florence without pretense—locals reclaim their city, artisans reopen workshops after summer closures, and you get to experience the genuine rhythm of Florentine life.

What to wear for a stylish stroll through Tuscany

Fall dressing in Florence follows one essential principle: layering with intention. Temperatures shift throughout the day, you'll move between sun-drenched piazzas and cool museum halls, and evening always brings a distinct chill. The key is building outfits around quality pieces that work together seamlessly:

• Start with the foundation: quality denim or tailored trousers in neutral tones become your daily uniform and we are not in New York, so if you feel you can wear white after Labor Day!! Pair them with a fine-gauge cashmere or merino sweater in cream, camel, or soft gray. These pieces form the versatile base that everything else builds upon.
• The leather jacket as your centerpiece: This is where fall Florence style truly shines. A beautifully crafted leather jacket—not heavy, but substantial enough for cooler evenings—becomes your signature piece. Consider a cropped nappa leather jacket in pearl grey that adds sophistication without bulk, perfect over sweaters and fluid dresses alike.
• For those seeking something more dramatic, a laser-cut leather jacket offers both artistry and function. These pieces capture that magical intersection of traditional Florentine craftsmanship and contemporary design—exactly what fall in Florence represents. The intricate cutwork adds beautiful visual interest while remaining surprisingly wearable with simple basics.

A structured leather shopping tote or intrecciato hobo bag serves multiple purposes—carrying layers you shed in afternoon warmth, holding museum tickets and water bottles, and looking effortlessly chic in every photo. The woven intrecciato technique feels distinctly Tuscan, honoring centuries-old local leather-working traditions while providing thoroughly modern functionality.

What to do in Florence in the fall? Seasonal events and experiences you can't miss

October brings the Florence Biennale (October 18-26, 2025) to Fortezza da Basso, showcasing contemporary art from around the globe. This year's theme explores the interplay between light and darkness—fitting for autumn's dramatic skies. The 50 Days of Cinema festival transforms the city into a celebration of international film, with screenings across indie venues from October through mid-November.

Wine lovers shouldn't miss Expo Chianti Classico in nearby Greve (September 11-14, 2025), where 64 Chianti wineries fill Piazza Matteotti with tastings. Purchase a souvenir glass and spend the day sampling different vintages paired with local foods—Greve is just an hour by bus from Florence and feels worlds away from tourist crowds.

Don't miss the seasonal food treasures: schiacciata all'uva (sweet focaccia packed with Concord grapes and rosemary) appears for just a few weeks during harvest. Find the best version near Piazza San Marco. Fresh porcini mushrooms peak in early fall—order porcini pasta at any traditional trattoria for an unforgettable taste of Tuscan autumn.

The Florence Marathon returns November 30, 2025, drawing international runners through the city's most stunning routes. Even if you're not running, the energy becomes infectious. Afterward, warm up at the Nordic Christmas Market in Piazza Santa Croce (opening around November 20) with spiced vin brûlé and hearty German wurst.

For a full itinerary of attractions, check our list of must-see things in Florence and do not fogert to sign up for our monthy newsletter.

Fall Style Inspiration from Jennifer Tattanelli

Jennifer Tattanelli's collection embodies everything that makes fall Florence dressing exceptional—pieces that honor Italian leather-working heritage while meeting the practical demands of modern life. Each item tells a story of craftsmanship passed through generations of Tuscan artisans, created in the same city where you're experiencing autumn's magic.

An intrecciato optical zippered shopping bag works seamlessly from morning museum visits through evening aperitivo. The woven technique references traditional Florentine basket-making, translated into supple nappa leather that only improves with age and use. The optical pattern adds visual interest without overwhelming, while the zippered closure keeps belongings secure during crowded festival days and busy markets.

A laser-cut leather jacket in white becomes your signature piece—artistic enough for gallery openings, refined enough for upscale restaurants, yet surprisingly wearable with jeans and sweaters for daytime exploration. The intricate cutwork catches light beautifully during those golden Florentine afternoons that make you understand why artists have flocked here for centuries.

An intrecciato leather clutch in ivory or deep blue becomes your evening companion. Remove your crossbody strap, tuck it under your arm, and transform instantly from curious traveler to sophisticated local. Pair it with those same trousers and sweater you wore all day, add bold jewelry and a swipe of deeper lipstick, and suddenly you're ready for dinner at Borgo San Jacopo.

Jennifer Tattanelli's Italian-American perspective brings something genuinely unique to Florence style—she understands both the artisanal excellence Tuscans demand and the versatility Americans require. Bring Tuscan elegance into your wardrobe with Jennifer Tattanelli’s limited-edition pieces. Explore the Florence atelier.

Fall Florence style isn't about looking like you're trying to be from somewhere else—it's about dressing so well that cobblestones, museums, and wine bars all feel like exactly where you belong.