Who can resist the appeal of simpler times? Tuscany has so much to offer anyone with an appreciation for art and architecture, landscapes and nature, fine wine and culinary masterpieces, and of course local craftsmanship. One of the most popular destinations for romance, relaxation, and culture all in one. This is a destination that doesn’t often miss “The Bucket List”, and you can see why those who have visited this region frequently return again and again.

Whether you’re dreaming of Renaissance Florence or medieval Siena, a hilltop village like San Gimignano or Volterra, the vineyard-covered hills of Chianti or the coast along the Maremma, there is lots to love in this region of Italy.

Top 10 Things To We Suggest You Do 

1. Eat authentic Italian Gelato on the Ponte Vecchio in Florence
2. Rent a little Italian Fiat and wander the winding roads of the Tuscan Countryside
3. Schedule a wine tasting and tour of one of dozens of century old wineries throughout the region.
4. Ponder the famous architecture whilst sitting outside a cafe and immerse yourself in Italian Culture.
5. Learn at least five Italian words or phrases that you can practice speaking to the locals.
6. Wherever you are, schedule the perfect spot to be at sunset and take it all in.
7. Purchase something authentically Italian…whether it be handmade jewelry, a tapestry, or local olive oil.
8. Spend a morning critiquing the world famous works of art that in one of the many museums Florence has to offer.
9. Stay in a villa, castle, or palazzo in Chianti and wander the countryside or lounge by a pool.
10. Snap photos not only of yourself, but of anything unique to this region. You will be happy you did!!

Less Popular Tuscan Cities to Consider Visiting

Siena- A classic medieval hill town in Tuscany famous for its large fan-shaped piazza the Piazza del Campo, dominated by its bell tower, the Torre del Mangia. Siena’s annual summer horse race, Il Palio, consist of bareback riders racing horses along the city’s cobblestone streets, in keeping with medieval tradition.

Pienza and Val D’Orcia- Designed to be the ideal city, is a pretty Renaissance town in the Val D’Orcia of Tuscany. Pienza is famous for its pecorino cheese, Piccolomini Palace, and balcony overlooking the beautiful Val D’Orcia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Montecatini Terme- Known for its thermal waters, is one of Italy’s top spa towns. It has several historic spas as well as some with modern equipment for beauty and wellness treatments. Terme Tettuccio is a lavish classic spa with music performances daily during the season, worth a visit just to see the Liberty style architecture. The town itself is pleasant and relaxed and makes a good base for visiting central Tuscany. A historic funicular railway takes visitors up the hill to the old town of Montecatini Alto.

Lucca-  Famous for its Renaissance-era wall which encircles the city, and its cobblestone streets. Walking and bicycling paths and gardens sit atop the wall, which allows visitors to walk completely around Lucca’s historic center.In addition to being home to several historic cathedrals, Lucca has several well-preserved towers that provide fabulous views of the city and beyond.

Passport & Duffel Bag Travel Co. can help you plan all the particulars of a visit to this popular region of Italy. We are familiar with the best times of the year to visit based on your travel preferences and can also provide you with bus and car transportation options, pre-planned tours and excursions to popular cities and sites, and a hand picked list of accomodations with rave reviews that will make you consider relocating permanently!