Tuscany

The splendid region of Tuscany is without a doubt one of the most enchanting and idyllic destinations to be found in the whole of the Italian peninsula. Thousands of visitors flock to Tuscany each year in order to enjoy and admire the region’s magnificent architecture, towering cypresses, breathtaking panoramas and delightful authentic cuisine. With this in mind, here is a quick guide to some of Tuscany’s most beautiful towns and cities just waiting to be explored.

1. Lucca

The quaint city of Lucca attracts more and more visitors each year as a result of the locality’s exquisite ancient architecture dating back to both Renaissance and medieval times. Lucca’s phenomenal Church of San Michele in Foro, Piazza Anfiteatro and the Duomo di San Martino are not to be missed. This is also the location in which the renowned Italian composer Giacomo Puccini was born making Lucca a must-see for anyone passionate about opera.

2. Siena

The awe-inspiring medieval city of Siena is one of Tuscany’s most popular destinations due to the spectacular architecture, mesmerising artwork, colourful past and of course, the twice-annual Palio horse race. A trip to Siena would not be complete without a visit to the city’s Palazzo Vecchio and Palazzo Pubblico, where intricate and ornate architecture and artwork can be enjoyed. If you are currently planning your trip to this charming city, you will be able to find a number of great accommodation options in Siena through this page.

3. Volterra

Often overlooked by tourists visiting Tuscany, Volterra is a hidden gem more recently made famous by the popular Twilight films. This town is in fact one of the best places to see ancient Etruscan ruins in the whole of Italy. Volterra is also home to winding medieval passageways, fabulous hill-top vistas and the ruins of the town’s former amphitheatre and bathhouse. Visitors can also enjoy the town’s splendid museum dedicated to life as an Etruscan.

4. San Gimignano

San Gimignano is one of the most visually striking towns in the Tuscan region due to its fourteen spectacular medieval towers, all contained within the locality’s original walls. Visitors have the chance to stroll through San Gimignano’s vehicle-free streets, sampling the town’s local culinary delicacies before climbing to the top of the Torre Grossa and admiring the picturesque views of the settlement below.

Tuscany boasts a remarkable number of delightful localities nestled amongst the region’s many sun-drenched rolling hills. As there is so much to see and do in this stunning region, I recommend that you do a little research online before departure in order to be able to plan your visit and really make the most of your stay in one of the world’s most breathtaking travel destinations.