White truffles peak in November around San Miniato. Truffle hunting with trained dogs is one of Tuscany’s most memorable experiences — followed by a lunch where the truffle is shaved over everything.
Why It Belongs on the List
White truffles peak in November around San Miniato and the Crete Senesi — among the finest in Italy outside Alba. Black truffles run from late spring through summer. Truffle hunts (usually two hours with a trained dog) can be booked through most agriturismi and Siena-area tour operators. The experience of breakfast-time truffle hunting followed by a simple truffle pasta at a farmhouse table is a genuine Tuscany highlight.
What Stands Out
- White truffle season: October–December (peak November)
- San Miniato Truffle Festival: November, largest white truffle market in Tuscany
- Truffle hunts: €30–60, local tartufaio and trained dogs, ends with truffle lunch
- Black truffle: year-round, more affordable, intensely earthy
- Best dish: tagliolini al tartufo bianco — fresh pasta, butter, white truffle shaved at table