Tuscany is one of Italy’s best loved regions and it’s easy to see why. Wonderful hilltop villages, rolling green hills filled with ancient vineyards and an impressive amount of local produce, history, and art to see, make this region an unforgettable getaway. In this guide we will explore the top destinations to visit in Tuscany for your next holiday. From cities rich in art and culture like Florence and Siena to historic villages such as San Gimignano and Montepulciano. Each destination offers spectacular landscapes, history, and traditional cuisine to discover, ideal for those who love culture and nature.

A trip to Tuscany: what’s in store

As well as dream-like landscapes filled with centuries old vineyards, the northern Italian region of Tuscany, has so much more to offer. The birthplace of the Renaissance, Tuscany, is also a cosmopolitan area with bustling towns and cities. If you are a food and wine lover then Tuscany makes the perfect holiday destination, their love of good quality food and wine is evident in every bite and sip. For the culture vulture, no Tuscan itinerary is complete without a tour of some of the world’s best museums and monuments, from Michealangelo’s David to the Strozzina Contemporary culture centre. There is something for every taste in Tuscany. Let’s take a look at the best the region as to offer:

Florence: the cradle of the Renaissance

The Capital city of Tuscany and the birthplace of Renaissance, Florence is an art lover’s paradise and should be at the top of any visitor’s list when visiting the region. Some of the world’s most treasured artistic creations are housed in the many galleries, churches and palaces dotted around this majestic city. Be sure to include a tour of the Cathedral, the Uffizi, and the Accademia, while you are there. Visit the library of San Lorenzo to see the magnificence of Michelangelo’s work and many other worthwhile museums and churches.

Siena: a delightful gem

Siena is a hidden gem located in Tuscany and no trip to Tuscany is complete without a visit to this enchanting city. The city’s focal point is the Piazza del Campo and the beating heart of the city. Visit the Palazzo Publico full of opulent rooms and galleries, and climb the 400 steps of the Torre del Mangia Siena Cathedral, an impressive gothic masterpiece, the perfect spot for art lovers. Indulge in local delicacies like pici pasta and Ricciarelli biscuits.

San Gimignano:  the ‘Medieval Manhattan’

Take a day trip from Siena to the spell bounding hilltop town of San Gimignano. This iconic Gothic town filled with imposing medieval stone towers (hence the nickname) and winding narrow cobbled streets. At the heart of the town are the Piazza della Cisterna and the Piazza del Duomo, the latter is dominated by the Collegiata, whose walls are covered in intricate frescoes.

Montepulciano: Southern Tuscany’s highest hill town

Overlooking the fertile Valdichiana, lies the Medieval town of Montepulciano. The medieval town is worth visiting while in Tuscany, with beautiful medieval architecture, incredible views, history, and great red wines. The town is known for its hearty red wines, so if you like wine then join a tasting at Cantina Ercolani.

Lucca: history, culture, and nightlife galore

A charming walled city of Lucca, located in the Northwest of the region, makes for the perfect low key Tuscan getaway. The medieval centre is mainly car-free so it’s an excellent place to explore by foot. Meander the maze of winding streets in the Centro Storico, full of shops and restaurants. Head over to the vibrant San Lorenzo neighbourhood, known for great bars and nightlife. If it’s medieval architecture and artisan workshop you’re looking for, then head on down to the Guinigi neighbourhood.

Local products at Fiumicino Airport: a taste of la dolce vita

Tuscany is well known for its wonderful local produce such as wine, olive oils and much more. Once you are back at Fiumicino airport you have the opportunity to purchase a wide range of products from Tuscany as well as other regions in Italy online at Shop&Fly and then pick them at the dedicated check outs.  There you will find an array of different olive oils, wines, and spirits, as well as sauces and so much more. A trip to Tuscany is not complete without indulging in some delicious local products, so take some time before your flight to peruse what’s on offer and recreate some of that Tuscan magic back home.

Tuscany, the land of rolling hills, vineyards, and medieval hilltop towns. Not only this, but fantastic bustling cities like Florence, where you can lose yourself in Renaissance art or meander the streets of Montepulciano or take a step back in time Lucca. Wherever you decide to go in Tuscany, the evocative landscapes, the culture, and cuisine as well as the fascinating history is bound to captivate you.

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