Tuscany is a region
known for its picturesque countryside, history (this is the birthplace of the
Renaissance) and culture. When it comes to towns and cities, there are a number
of must-visits when here, so we’ve put together a small guide to help you out!
Florence
The capital of Tuscany is particularly noted for its wealth
of stunning architecture and monuments. Everyone
knows about Ponte Vecchio – the famous and photogenic ancient bridge dotted
with pastel-coloured buildings. Florence Cathedral is of course a must-visit,
with its mosaic pavements and
historically significant works of art. We would suggest climbing up to
the dome (for a small fee) – the views are remarkable and won’t soon be forgotten!
From this vantage point you not only see other famous attractions, but also another
side to Florence. Indeed this is not only a city of stunning architecture, but
there is plenty of greenery too. Be sure to visit the beautiful surroundings of
Michelangelo Square and the Bardini Gardens. A truly memorable day can be spent
in Florence.
San Gimignano
Not the easiest town in Tuscany to reach, but certainly one
of the prettiest! As you arrive inside the walls of this medieval hill town,
you can’t help but feel you’ve gone back 600 years in time. First, the stunning
views of the Tuscan countryside are pretty much unchanged, a
seemingly never-ending series of rolling hills. And then of course you have the
typically medieval narrow and cobbled streets, and the equally beautifully
preserved buildings that line them. The town’s piazza is a great spot to relax
and watch the world go by, with a gelato in hand. Or you can visit one of the restaurants
surrounding this historic centre and sample some delicious Tuscan cuisine. Also
well worth a visit are the palace, collegiate church and the medieval fortress.
Lucca
Lucca, in northern Tuscany, is perhaps famed above all for
its well-preserved Renaissance-era walls. And what better way to enjoy this
than to rent some bikes and cycle along it? (don’t worry – this is much more
relaxing and less precarious than it sounds!) This is a great way to experience
the town, with lovely views of Lucca all the way, and of its surrounding countryside.
On a sunny day (rather likely), there’s nothing better. There are also some
excellent restaurants in Lucca with fresh, local cuisine. The carbonara at Tre
Merli is to die for! Museums, churches and botanical gardens also dot the town,
making Lucca a great choice for a day out with something for everyone.
Siena
Home of the 17 contrade that compete in the world-renowned Palio
– a medieval horse race held biannually – Siena is a glorious city and a
must-visit. Even if you’re not here for the Palio, there is a great multitude
of things to see and do, from the shell-shaped Piazza del Campo (a UNESCO World
Heritage Site) to the city cathedral – a perfect example of Italian
Romanesque-Gothic architecture. Excellent restaurants can be found throughout, offering typical Tuscan and Sienese cuisine.
Top tip: the pici al ragù di
cinghiale (a fat Sienese spaghetti with wild boar ragu) at Trattoria Fonte
Giusta is a favourite of the locals.
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