A little bit of everything on holidays to Tuscany
Situated in the north-west of Italy, Tuscany – or Toscana to locals – is famous for its cultural jewels: there are no less than six UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Whether you’re experiencing high culture in the capital of Florence, visiting Gothic cathedrals in Siena, wine-tasting in Chianti or gravitating towards the coast, a holiday to Tuscany offers the very best of the Italian dolce vita.
Artistic legacy and dazzling scenery
Perhaps the most desirable city in Tuscany is the capital of Florence. Whether you’re passing through, using it as a base or staying for the whole trip, a visit to Florence is imperative on holidays to Tuscany. As the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance and home to some of the most influential figures in art – Michaelangelo and Leonardo di Vinci – you can expect aesthetic elegance in all its glory. Architectural treasures are found on every corner – see the Santa Maria Novella Church, visit the Uffitzi Museum or climb the hill to San Miniate al Monte for breathtaking views. Soak up the stylish atmosphere by meandering the streets which take you out to the Arno River. Cross the Ponte Vecchia and head to Oltrarno to grab an espresso and watch the mopeds go by.
Siena, Florence’s main rival, is also a must on holidays to Tuscany. As rich in art and history as its Florentine counterpart, Siena is a Gothic city and home to enchanting churches, majestic palazzos, museums and piazzas. Pisa is similarly popular amongst visitors holidaying in Tuscany mainly due to its Leaning Tower, a must for the photo album.
If you don’t want to spend all your time sightseeing on your holiday in Tuscany then put aside some time for Chianti, the wine region. The undulating green hills are scenic, and the peaceful region is populated with vineyards, olive groves, small villages and countryside villas. Go cycling in the sunshine and head to the vineyards for some wine-tasting.
Alternatively, there’s always the Tuscan Riviera for a bit of sun-kissed relaxation. A string of resorts along the coast offer a perfect beach getaway. Visit Forte dei Marmi, a stylish resort complete with exclusive beach clubs, expensive cars and fashion boutiques, or for something more down-to-earth, try Viareggio or Lido di Camaiore.
The cuisine is another important factor on holidays in Tuscany. Central to its composition is simplicity, which, paired with a glass of Chianti, is unbeatable. Porchetta – roast suckling pig – and steak Florentine are mouth-wateringly popular dishes. Post-dinner entertainment is varied, there’s everything from intimate bars and live music to raucous nightclubs.
Holidays to Tuscany with lastminute.com
There’s not much that Tuscany doesn’t have to offer. Boticelli’s Birth of Venus, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, UNESCO sites, a sandy coastline and a rich wine region – if you’re after a dose of the high life then a holiday to Tuscany with lastminute.com could be just for you.