Tuscany is a region in central Italy. Its capital, Florence, is home to some of the world’s most recognizable Renaissance art and architecture, including Michelangelo’s “David” statue, Botticelli’s works in the Uffizi Gallery and the Duomo basilica. Its diverse natural landscape encompasses the rugged Apennine Mountains, the island of Elba’s beaches on the Tyrrhenian Sea and Chianti’s olive groves and vineyards…
Gourmet cuisine, world-class art, and scenic vistas — la dolce vita is calling, and it’s calling from Tuscany. Known for fine wines and medieval architecture, the region is the perfect place for rest and relaxation. Travel back in time to a world of traditional art, culture, and cuisine as you enjoy a backdrop of romantic, rolling vineyards and sunsets sure to stun.
1. Siena
Stretching across a Tuscan hilltop, Siena is Italy’s most picturesque medieval city. Leave the chaos of cars behind — these streets were made for strolling. Get lost in tumbling brick lanes and wind up at the cathedral: an over-the-top marvel of Gothic architecture lavished with mosaics and busts of 172 popes. A place frozen in time, Siena is the perfect refuge for travelers looking to escape the modern world for a day. Explore the city by foot on a walking tour or sample fine local wines. Between its looks and its famous grapes, Siena is an experience to savor.
2. Porto Ercole
Resting beyond ancient city gates, Porto Ercole is a place where pedestrians can stretch their legs and slather on some sunscreen. Head here to trade in the clamor of city life for the soothing serenade of seaside waves. Perfect for sunset strolls, this charming stone village fuses luxury with the old way of life. You’ll find artisans crafting traditional goods in converted fisherman’s huts while extravagant yachts line the harbor and boat rentals give visitors the opportunity to explore the scenic coastline. Spend the day exploring one of the many “forte” or soaking up the sun at Feniglia Beach, while paying tribute to the passing of Baroque painter Caravaggio who died here in 1610 — a piece of history woven into the idyllic beach life.
3. Volterra
Famous for its peculiar urban layout, Volterra is a Tuscan town with deep roots, dating all the way to the 5th-century BC. Take a step back in time as soon as you stroll through the city gates, Porta dell’Arco and Porta Diana, and experience the ancient acropolis which houses the foundations of two ancient temples. And if its Roman ruins you’re after, look no further: Volterra is home to an amphitheater from the first century AD and features many workshops which maintain the tradition of alabaster handicrafts. Watch as this ancient town comes alive during a medieval reenactment in the summer months — the perfect occasion to enjoy Italian food and wine while the present transforms into the past.
4. Florence
The home of the Renaissance, Florence is the birthplace of the modern world and houses some of Europe’s finest pieces of art including masterful oil paintings, stunning marble statues, and meticulous mosaics. In a single afternoon, you could experience the pensive stare of Michelangelo’s David, get a feel for the first day of spring with Botticelli’s Primavera, and refresh yourself next to the fountain of Neptune. Of course, there’s a world to experience off the beaten path, so let your eyes wander to the food, fashion, and street markets that are renowned the world over — and don’t forget the gelato!
5. Talamone
Looking for an authentic Italian vacation? Talamone trades the hustle and bustle of city streets, crowded museums, and overbooked restaurants for an experience rich with scenic views and genuine Tuscan tradition. Once a fortified fishing village, the town retains its historic charm with winding, narrow streets, 1
6. Colle di Val d’Elsa
A town nestled between scenic hilltops and the rolling river Elsa, Colle di Val d’Elsa takes a few steps back in history with a rich tradition of art and culture at its core.
7. Monteriggioni
The most notable walled medieval location in Tuscany, Monteriggioni is a fortified village that began as a castle in the Chianti region, sitting atop a rounded hill for the past 800 years. Since the 1200s, onlookers have marveled at the mighty towers that surround the location from miles away, the same lofty towers.
8. San Gimignano
A picturesque medieval town, San Gimignano is considered a UNESCO world heritage site famous for the Hundred Towers built in the middle ages by Italy’s most influential families. Rife with splendid squares, palaces, churches, and the magnificent towers,