I dedicate this post to all my dear friends who call me in a panic every time it rains asking: “And now what do we do?”

If you’re in Southern Tuscany or Umbria and clouds suddenly roll in, don’t panic—this region is full of warm, welcoming, and utterly inspiring things to do when the weather isn’t picture-perfect. In fact, rainy days are the perfect excuse to slow down and explore Italy beyond the postcard scenes. Here’s a list of 10 ideas I always recommend, full of local charm, creativity, and comfort.

1. Soak in Thermal Bliss.

There’s truly nothing better than soaking in warm natural springs while the rain falls around you.

• At Fonteverde Thermal Spa in San Casciano dei Bagni, you’ll be wrapped in wellness and breathtaking views.

• Or indulge in the multi-sensory journey of the Chianciano Terme Sensorial Spa, inspired by the elements and perfect for a rainy reset.

Ideal for: couples, wellness lovers, and those in need of a deep exhale.

2. Dive Into History at Local Museums

Rainy days are made for exploring the cultural layers of this land.

• In Chiusi, the National Etruscan Museum tells stories of one of Italy’s most mysterious civilizations.

• Perugia and Siena boast beautiful civic museums and cathedrals worth getting lost in.

• And for something truly unique, head to Cetona and visit the Prehistory Civic Museum of Monte Cetona—a favorite among kids and history lovers alike.

Ideal for: curious minds, families, and lovers of all things ancient.

3. Take a Slow Cooking Class

What better way to spend a rainy day than in a warm kitchen with rolling pins, fresh ingredients, and a glass of red wine? Join one of our organic cooking classes where we make handmade pasta, olive oil-based dishes, and sweet treats using seasonal ingredients. It’s cozy, fun, and always ends in a delicious lunch together.

Book your experience here

Ideal for: foodies, families, and anyone who loves getting their hands into flour.

4. Sip Wine Surrounded by Beauty

Let the sound of rain be the soundtrack to your next wine tasting. One of our favorite spots? The Carapace Winery in Bevagna, a stunning architectural sculpture by Arnaldo Pomodoro where wine and art meet.

• You’ll also find charming, rustic cellars all over the region—from Montepulciano to the Umbrian hills—where you can taste local reds while staying warm and dry.

Ideal for: wine lovers, photographers, and curious travelers.

5. Wander Through Hilltop Villages (With an Umbrella)

Yes, you can still visit Pienza, Montepulciano, or Orvieto in the rain—in fact, they might be even more romantic!

• The rain adds a shine to the stone streets, shops feel even cozier, and the smell of coffee and baked goods draws you right into the cafés.

• Don’t forget to treat yourself to a long, slow lunch in a local trattoria—you’ll never want to leave.

Ideal for: romantics, photographers, and slow walkers.

6. Get Creative with a Pottery Class at Jamar’s Ceramics

If you’ve always dreamed of creating your own ceramic bowl or plate, don’t miss a class at Kamar Ceramics near Città della Pieve.

• It’s a hands-on experience surrounded by clay, colors, and the stories of local tradition. Plus, you get to take home something you made!

Ideal for: creatives, kids, and lovers of handmade objects.

7. Browse Artisan Boutiques and Bookshops

Spend your rainy hours discovering artisan goods:

• Handcrafted ceramics, second hand shops, textiles, olive wood utensils, or even locally made soaps.

• Or dive into a cozy bookstore with books about Tuscan villas, Italian cooking, and travel inspiration.

Ideal for: thoughtful gift-givers and lovers of details.

8. Embrace the Art of Doing Nothing

One of the most Italian things you can do is… nothing at all.

• Pour a glass of wine, open a book, sit by the fireplace or in front of a window. Listen to the rain.

• Maybe open that novel you’ve been saving, or write postcards to friends. This is your time.

Ideal for: tired travelers, slow souls, and anyone who forgot how to pause.

Conclusion:

Rain in Tuscany or Umbria isn’t a setback—it’s an invitation. To go deeper. To feel more. To cook, create, soak, sip, and slow down.

So next time you find yourself saying “Now what do we do?”, pull up this list—and enjoy every drop of your Italian rainy day.