Empoli is a city in Tuscany, Italy, set in the lower Arno valley between Florence and Pisa. It is best known as an industrial centre with a long tradition of glass production, and it is often described as a gateway to the Chianti region, which lies just to its south and east.
What the visit offers
- A working Tuscan city: Empoli is less a showpiece than a place where people live and work, so it suits visitors interested in everyday Italian life rather than a polished historic centre.
- Glass and craft: Its identity rests on glassmaking, a theme that gives the city a distinctive character among Tuscan towns.
- A base for exploring: Its position on the rail and road routes makes it a practical starting point for trips into the surrounding countryside and the Chianti wine area.
Planning a stop
Empoli works well as part of a wider Tuscan itinerary. Combining a few hours in the city with a day among the vineyards and hill towns of Chianti gives a balanced picture of the region, from industry to landscape. Visitors who prefer quieter, less touristed places may find it a welcome change from the busiest destinations in the area.
