Easter in Tuscany is always a good idea!
From the candle-lit streets of Camaiore to the sweet Easter treats of Lucca and Pisa and the countryside charm of Pistoia — discover ancient traditions, local flavors, and unforgettable landscapes during your Easter getaway.
Solemn rituals and timeless charm
In the heart of Lucca’s countryside, every three years, the village of Camaiore hosts the Triennale del Cristo Morto, a moving nighttime procession involving the entire community. 17th-century wooden statues, thousands of handmade oil lamps, and a powerful silence transform the old town into a glowing path of devotion and reflection.
In Vico Pisano, Good Friday is marked by a traditional live Via Crucis that winds through the medieval streets. Across the provinces of Pisa and Pistoia, ancient confraternities still bring the Passion to life with dramatic reenactments, songs, torches, and period costumes.
A journey through Easter flavors
But Easter in Tuscany is also a feast for the palate, thanks to a variety of local pastries and desserts, each unique to its area.
In Lucca and the Garfagnana, the star is the Pasimata: a sweet or savory bread loaf flavored with anise seeds, symbolizing sharing and spiritual unity.
In Versilia, the undisputed stars are the homemade tarts: filled with custard, ricotta, semolina, or rice and chocolate. The most beloved? The rice and chocolate tart, also called Torta coi Becchi (tart with beaks) for its signature crimped edge made of pastry.
In the Pisa area, a similar version is known as the Torta coi Bischeri, enriched with raisins, candied fruit, and spices. In Massa, the tradition is a hearty rice cake, while in Pistoia, Easter gifts often include scole, sweet anise-flavored buns.
Don’t miss the Quaresimali, cookies shaped like alphabet letters – still found in local bakeries – perfect for a sweet souvenir.
Easter Monday: legends and countryside picnics
In Tuscany, Easter Monday is all about outdoor trips, shared meals, and old legends.
In Lucca, the day is known as the Pellegrino’s Day, inspired by a local legend of the Risen Christ wandering door to door, seeking hospitality and testing people’s generosity.
To this day, many locals mark the occasion with a traditional walk to Santallago, in the Pisan Hills: a festive hike with friends, boiled eggs rolled in the grass for fun, rustic picnics featuring roasted lamb, and spontaneous races to the hilltop.
A growing favorite for Easter holidays
It’s no surprise that Tuscany ranks among the top destinations for Easter travelers. While iconic cities like Florence, Pisa, and Lucca draw visitors from across Europe, it’s the charming villages and local customs that truly enrich the experience.
Blending faith, nature, and flavor, Easter in Tuscany is the perfect occasion to slow down, savor, and be surprised.
Looking for the ideal place to stay during your Easter break in Tuscany?
Take a look at the wide selection of charming homes on tuscanhouses.com and find the perfect one for you!