A region with so much to offer
Olive groves and vineyards, art-filled museums, historic towns and rolling hills – there are countless reasons why Tuscany holidays are a popular choice for travellers. Florence, the region’s capital, is for many the jewel in Tuscany’s crown. Home to several globally important art collections, the city is often held to be the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance. Among its eye-opening architecture and impressive squares, Florence boasts unmissable landmarks such as its spectacular Duomo and the medieval Ponte Vecchio.
As exquisite as Florence is, holidays to Tuscany offer plenty to explore beyond the city, from picturesque hillside villages to the Apennine Mountains and a characterful coastline. The ancient cities of Siena, Pisa and Lucca are all within reach of Florence, as is the medieval hillside town of San Gimignano. Nestled in the central Tuscan hills, its frescoed churches are well worth exploring, and the views from the town’s medieval towers and fortresses are not to be missed. Not only that, the world-renowned Chianti region – and its fertile vineyards, olive groves and verdant hills – can be found between Florence and Siena, while fans of the outdoors can explore the Apennine mountain range and thermal spa towns. So if you’re looking to soak up the best in Italian history, culture, wine and cuisine, Tuscany is most definitely the place for you.
Catch the bus You could hire a car or join an organised tour, but you can also easily explore Tuscany’s famous Chiantigiana wine route, between Florence and Siena, by bus. 
Embrace aperitivo hour Enjoy a pre-dinner drink at a bar or café – also known as ‘aperitivo’ – and chances are you’ll receive an array of complimentary snacks, or access to a buffet filled with local produce.
Head to the coast The pretty medieval town of Castiglione della Pescaia is a much-loved seaside resort. Surrounded by green countryside, and hugged by the Tyrrhenian Sea, it’s easy to see why. The Uffizi Gallery
Housing Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus and other celebrated works of art from the Italian Renaissance, this emblem of Florence is one of Italy’s most-visited museums.
Palio di Siena
Marvel at Siena’s medieval horse race, which sees bareback jockeys hurtle through the city’s historic cobblestone streets. The event takes place in July and August.
Leaning Tower of Pisa
No trip to Tuscany is complete without a visit to the world-famous lopsided bell tower in Pisa. Climb the few hundred steps to the top for views of the city and beyond.