Close your eyes and picture yourself being swept off to a land of rolling hills, great food, stunning landscapes, romance and rich cultural traditions. Open them and discover yourself in Tuscany. This Italian region may be the epitome of great sightseeing opportunities, to reduce stress and relaxation. This is when the Etruscan civilization flourished and it's now a frequent place to go for art lovers and foodies. Located in the heart of Italy, it stretches to the west coast.
While Florence is really a must-visit for anyone going to Tuscany, there are plenty of other towns that you can't leave out: Lucca and it is medieval walls, San Gimignano and its towers, the Chianti region, Siena and it is charming medieval atmosphere- you mention! Having said that, renting a car has become the best way to explore Tuscany. If you do, make sure that you get additional insurance for your car as you're driving in Italy. Italians are known for being not so careful drivers and you don't wish to pay for unwanted harm to your vehicle.
Let's consider the most romantic and beautiful places to go to in Tuscany!
Fall deeply in love with Florence
Famous to be the cradle from the Italian Renaissance, Florence is the capital of Tuscany and one of the very most beautiful cities on the planet. It had been home to the Medici, probably the most powerful families in the world, where Dante Alighieri, Leonardo Da Vinci and Michelangelo lived.
Much of the open-air museum, Florence is a must-visit destination in Tuscany also it deserves at least per week to be able to explore it more in-depth. Because of so many palaces, museums and monuments staying for one couple of days won't be enough! Take our time for you to explore its cobbled stone streets, narrow alleys, admire its red roofs in the the surface of the Piazza Michelangelo and buy a gift to take back home at any one of its many quaint shops.
Amongst the very best things you can do in Florence we can mention:
- The Uffizi Gallery: It is the most well-known art museum in the city. Here you are able to admire Caravaggio's “Medusa”, Botticelli's “Birth of Venus” and several works by Michelangelo and Da Vinci amongst many others. Its world-famous collection spans from Ancient Greek sculpture to XVIII-century Venetian paintings. Take the time to admire Botticelli's works in Botticelli's Room.
- Il Duomo: Florence Cathedral is a must-see. Climb to the peak from the Duomo to enjoy stunning panoramic views of Florence. The Baptistery and also the Bell Tower are strikingly beautiful! Capped by a red-tiled cupola, it is a strikingly awesome building using its pink, white and green marble facade. Step inside and admire frescoes and over 40 stained glasses.
- Palazzo Vecchio: Its tower is one of the preferred places for views of the Ponte Vecchio and the Duomo. Although it can be challenging to ascend its steps to get at its different levels, the tower from the Palazzo offers tourists one of the best stops to take great pictures of the city's famous locations.
- Galleria dell'Accademia: If you've always wanted to admire the colossal statue of Michelangelo's David, you just can't miss going to the Accademia.
- Ponte Vecchio: Probably the most popular spots in Florence, a walk across this bridge is really a must-do when you are in town. Browse its several shops, especially jewelry as you're walking over the bridge.
- Santa Croce: It is the second most well-known cathedral in Florence following the Duomo. The square before it's a good way to savor an Italian ristretto watching people walk by. The Neptune Fountain, also located there, is also a famous sight here!
- Piazzale Michelangelo: To admire among the best panoramic views of Florence, arrived at Piazzale Michelangelo. Cross among the bridges over the Arno river and start the climb. Rising its many stairs is definitely worth it!
Siena: A Trip To Medieval Tuscany
Siena is a walled Tuscan city where its stone roads and tiny streets invite you to take a trip back in its history towards the Dark ages. Totally disconnected from the buzz and need for skyscrapers, crazy traffic and todays lifestyles, spending a couple of days within this charming quiet city is yet another must-do in Tuscany. Once Florence's rival, Siena is recognized as certainly one of Italy's most beautiful medieval towns.
Founded through the Etruscans more than 2000 years ago, this small town is packed with various architectural marvels.
Everything in Siena involves Piazza del Campo and all the streets lead there. This main fan-shaped square is proudly covered with the Town Hall and it is Torre del Mangia. Climbing up the top offers visitors sweeping views from the town! Sienna's beautiful cathedral, Cathedral Santa Maria Augusta, made from monochrome marble with a sensational facade, is one of the finest types of eclectic architecture combining exquisitely Romanesque, Gothic and Classical features. Once inside, take your time to explore this aesthetic wonder. Look down in the marble mosaic inlay floors, look upon the carved pulpit designed by Nicola Pisano and then tilt your head as much as admire the intricate dome. Then, see the Piccolomini Library, which houses a fresco cycle by Pinturicchio that depicts scenes in the lifetime of Pope Pius II. Not to miss too would be the Cappella Chigi and also the Cappella San Giovanni Battista within the left transept containing a statue by Donatello and frescoes by Pinturicchio. For additional treasures, head to the presbytery, the crypt, the sacristy and also the vaulted baptistery.
Siena sits over three hills and it is heart is Piazza del Campo which is in which the Roman forum used to be.
Take your time and effort look around the town's narrow alleyways and hilly streets. And when you're hungry, take a seat in a local trattoria and revel in a few of the delicious local dishes for example spaghetti type pasta served with pecorino cheese and Cinta Senese sausage, panforte, ricciarelli or Cavallucci.
As regards museums, the Museale di Santa Maria della Scala and also the Museo Archeologico are actually worthy. And do not miss the Abbazia di Monte Oliveto Maggiore for its wine cellar, the immense Basilica of San Domenico and also the Palazzo Salimbeni.
Pisa: Beyond the Leaning Tower
Whenever people hear about Pisa they automatically take into account the famous Leaning Tower. However, despite this may be the town's most popular and famous landmark, there's much more to determine There are lots of impressive sites including classic Gothic and Roman architecture and Renaissance piazzas around everywhere.
And while you are there, don't miss the chance to explore the quaint shops and charming cafes that line its banks.
Located at the Piazza dei Miracoli, the Leaning Tower may be the major reason why most tourists come to Pisa. But you shouldn't limit yourself to it. You can also visit the Duomo, the Baptistery and the Camposanto. It may be cheesy and touristy try not to just admire the Tower in the ground. Climb up the tower and enjoy amazing views from available online for. At about 183 feet tall, the tower leans at approximately 4 degrees.
According to locals, the Campo Dei Miracoli is among the world's most breathtaking urban spaces. The Campo Santo is believed to become full of shiploads of earth from Golgotha, brought back. Completing this outstanding complex and home with a of the most exquisite treasures may be the Museo dell Opera del Duomo. Along with priceless silver items, tombs, stunning embroideries, paintings and sculptures the museum provides the best close-up look at the Leaning Tower.
Other interesting attractions in Pisa are the Piazza dei Cavalieri, Borgo Largo, Borgo Stretto and Piazza delle Vettovaglie. Don't miss San Matteo Museum, Palazzo Blue and the Chiesa della Spina.
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Enjoy the Walled Town of Lucca
Much quieter than Sienna, Lucca is covered with its almost completely intact city walls. Although the city has grown and evolved with time, the walls were maintained and tourists are now able to walk or cycle above them. In fact, walking across the top of the city walls is one of the must-do things in Lucca! They happen to be turned into a pedestrian promenade and also the area is well taken care of.
Piazza Anfiteatro is another highlight. Built on the website from the old Roman amphitheater, it's now the place to find many restaurants and shops that have been built into the spaces in which the arches used to be. The Cattedrale di San Marino, notable for its XIII century black wooden figure of Christ along with a painting of the Last Supper by Tintoretto are available in the center of the city. Palazzo Pfanner, now a museum, is also very interesting to visit and when you like music and Opera you can't leave Lucca without going to the Puccini Museum, located in the house in which the famous opera composer was born. The best views over the city can be obtained from the top Torre Guinigi, a XIV century bell tower that's crowned with ancient oak trees. Other interesting churches to see are the Basilica of San Frediano and the beautiful Church of San Michele in Foro.
Take your time to enjoy the town's charming atmosphere, picturesque narrow lanes, tiny piazzas and peaceful vibe.
Lucca is among the most charming towns in Tuscany and it is simple to reach by car both from Pisa and Florence.
See San Gimignano and it is Towers
San Gimignano is definitely an absolute must-see in Tuscany: just its skyline with medieval towers is second to none. In the 72 towers built before the XIV century, only 14 are left today. This medieval town has a unique devote Tuscany's background and that it is referred to as Manhattan of the Dark ages.
Characterized by stone towers and narrow streets, it is encompassed by an expansive countryside filled with vineyards, sunflowers and olive grooves.
Preserved like a UNESCO World Heritage Site, spending at times in San Gimignano is really a trip back in its history. The town is circled by XIII century stone walls, which are dedicated to the gorgeous triangular Piazza Della Cisterna. Other interesting highlights range from the XII century Duomo di San Gimignano and the city's Town Hall, which houses its Civic Museum. The city is also noted for its Vernaccia wine, which is usually combined with vegetables and seafood.
Active visitors can climb up the Torre Podestá or Torre Grossa, the tallest in town. In the Torture Museum visitors can appreciate torture instruments from the XVI, XVII and XVIII centuries. Addititionally there is the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria Assunta, around the Piazza del Duomo with its several frescoes. The Palazzo del Popolo, where Dante once spoke, is home to yet more amazing artwork. Don't miss the Via Francigena, an ancient Christian pilgrimage route that runs through town.
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Volterra, the City of Alabaster
Volterra is one of the main hilltop towns to go to in Tuscany. Conveniently located close to Florence, its rich history goes back to Etruscan times when it had been one of 12 powerful centers. Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Cecina and Era valleys, it is the perfect spot to get an insight into Tuscany's rich heritage.
The center of the town is dotted in some places with narrow alleyways and squares. The Palazzo dei Priori is the oldest town hall in Tuscany and takes your time and effort to admire the XII century Duomo _ Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta.
History lovers will enjoy going to the Guarnacci Etruscan Museum, the Museum of Sacred Art and searching in the several Roman monuments including the Roman Forum, Roman baths as well as an amphitheater. Volterra is famous for its alabaster carving, which makes it ideal for looking for souvenirs to take home.
Volterra is particularly renowned because of its peculiar urban layout. People can still visit part of the stunning protective walls, such as the well-preserved Porta dell'Arco and Porta Diana, along with the Acropolis that houses several buildings and also the foundations of two ancient temples.
Another must-see is the Pinacoteca of Volterra within the Palazzo Minucci-Solaini, where you can appreciate magnificent frescoes.
