The rustic charm and natural beauty of the countryside has long made the Italian region of Tuscany a firm favourite with tourists from across the globe. Tuscany is located in central Italy and has a border on the Mediterranean Sea. Its principal city is Florence and whilst this attracts short break visitors in their thousands, it is the stunning natural landscape that appeals to most travellers, and that feeling of getting away from it all but with plenty still to do and see.
Hiring a car, walking or cycling are the three top ways to get the best out of your trip to Tuscany and discover for yourself the delights of this region so long synonymous with the production of fine Italian wines. Whilst the beauty of Tuscany is that you can just go with the flow and take each day as it comes, there are certain towns that are well worth fitting into your itinerary. Renting a villa in Tuscany is the best way to have to the freedom to explore the area and get as much out of your trip as you can.
Florence is not only the capital of Tuscany, but also one of the most vibrant and beautiful cities in the world. Long associated with the arts and home of the renaissance movement, there is much to see and do in Florence and after the art galleries and museums take the time out to enjoy a cappuccino overlooking the River Arno and soak up the atmosphere that is uniquely Florentine.
Siena is a designated world heritage site that is also the second city in Tuscany. This city is sophisticated, cultured and home to some the finest restaurants in the region. The stunning architecture mirrors its medieval history and it’s like taking a step back in time. The central piazza, il Campo, is famed around the world for the Palio horse race, and timing your trip to coincide with this spectacle will be an unforgettable experience. The Gothic architecture and elaborate exterior make the Siena Cathedral another must see.
The town of Lucca many not be as well known as the aforementioned cities, but those who have discovered this gem tend to return over and over again, especially once they have found their ideal Tuscany villa with a pool to come back to. The town is surrounded by walls that date from the renaissance period and still stand firm today, affording tourists who walk or cycle around the top and unprecedented view of the surrounding countryside. Lucca is also home to some of the top designer boutiques in the whole of Tuscany and is a veritable shopper’s paradise.