Toscana
(Tuscany)

 

Firenze

The art museum of the world. Take some time to tour the Tuscan hills around it. Savour local cuisine and wines.

Florence City Guide

 

Arezzo

The town of Arezzo, in eastern Tuscany, has a very ancient origin. It was one of the most important Etruscan towns and then a fortified Roman town guarding the Apennine passes.
The highest part preserves a marked medieval aspect, the one towards the plain has a lively and modern aspect.
Not to be missed: At the top, the Cathedral and the Medicean Fortress from where the main gates and streets branch off, fan-like, towards the lowest part of the town

Farm-stay Holidays

 

Argentario

It is an island linked to the mainland only by two thin strips of marshland. Holiday destination specialized in high-level tourism, it is one of the most famous sea resorts on the Tuscan coast. The two main centers are Porto Santo Stefano and Porto Ercole. Good sailing and water sports. The inland offers interesting birdwatching thanks to the natural park of L'Uccellina.

Elba

One of the most beautiful Italian islands, an extraordinary patchwork of natural landscapes. You find long promontories, deep gulfs, sheer cliffs and sweet coves.
Not to be missed: Porto Azzurro which is the most fashionable resort; Marciana Marina, the oldest fishing village; Lacona, the best place for a quiet holiday on a sandy beach; the very beautiful cove of Fetovaia.

Kayaking: A Day in Elba

Lucca

Town full of atmosphere and historical memories. The town center, encircled by red brick walls, is characterized by typical colorful narrow streets, ancient goldsmith's shops and beautiful 14th century houses.
Not to be missed: The Romanesque Cathedral, the church of S. Michele in Foro, one of the most typical examples of Lucca architecture and the church of San Frediano.

Lucca City Guide
Lucca Alive! Itinerary
The Gardens of Lucca: Tuscany's Switzerland


Maremma

An area in southern Tuscany near the Lazio border which has preserved an extraordinary natural habitat. It includes wild beaches, pine woods, sunny plains and green hills. It is the ideal place to ride in the woods, to walk along its beaches or to stop on a farm-stay holiday. The Maremma has been called the Far West of Italy, because of the traditional Butteri (cowhands) who still herd cattle on locally breeded horses.
Not to be missed: the most important centers Populonia, Vetulonia, Castiglione della Pescaia, Marina di Grosseto and the harbor of Talamone.

Pisa

Once a Marine Republic, Pisa stretches along the shores of the River Arno, and occupies a place of honor amongst the most exclusive of art cities. Its glorious past offers authentic wonders to the tourist, and there is lot more to see than just the leaning Tower of Pisa, its most popular 'product'.


Pisa City Guide
A DV guide to Tuscany's thermal baths

Pistoia

Its landscape is almost magical, always new and varied, enriched by very small villages clustered together. The best seasons to visit Pistoia are summer because of the shade provided by the large beech forests; spring and fall because of the show of colors in the countryside.
Not to be missed: The very beautiful Piazza del Duomo surrounded by medieval buildings and the Baptistery. The church of San Giovanni Fuor Civitas is the landmark of this city.


Siena

Between its shell-shaped piazza, and its famous Palio, it is unique unto itself. A medieval town full of history. Tour the Chianti hills region nearby.

Siena City Guide
Spirito di Siena Itinerary

Volterra

Tuscan town famous for its handicrafts made in alabaster: still nowadays its streets are lined with workshops working this kind of stone. The city has an austere look and a taste for essential things. Its most distinctive architectural feature is represented by its bent roof  tiles.
Not to be missed: Piazza dei Priori, among the most important in Italy overlooked by the palace having the same name. Via Matteotti, medieval street of the town center, lined with 13th century towers.

 

More on Tuscany:
The Garfagnana
The Quarries of Maiano
The Chianti Region
Toscana Wine Directory
First Time in Tuscany
Montalcino by bike
Golf Club Punta Ala
Spas and Health resorts


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