A Fresh Perspective on Travel Every Day
A hardened place of rocky outcrops, marshes, and undulating hills that abut a dramatic coastline of cliffs and long windswept beaches, the Province of Grosseto is far from most people’s vision of the quaint Tuscan countryside. However, for cycling enthusiasts, it is a landscape of plenty.
Probably one of Italy’s most famous cities to visit, Pisa is a must-see destination during your trip to Italy. While many are familiar with the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the city offers an array of captivating experiences and activities that make it perfect for a day trip or longer stay.
After a year at his new post as executive chef atCulina at the Four Seasons Beverly Hills, chef Luca Moriconi finally had a chance to travel back to Italy.
No matter which route you choose, you can expect delicious food, wine, and superb views.
Staying at a property steeped in history significantly enhances the travel experience. Moreover, when that property is situated on a scenic island off the coast of one of Italy’s most breathtaking regions, it guarantees a memorable and picturesque stay.
On the way back home from Pisa, we decided to stop at the nearby hilltop town of San Miniato, a beautiful place recommended by our friend Gabriele (he’s from Sicily in Italy) when we toured Italy last year.
The site is artist Niki de Saint Phalle’s career-defining masterpiece.
Oasyhotel in the mountains of Tuscany has 28 miles of trails, 16 wooden lodges, and unforgettable fresh pasta.
The famed marble of Carrara has been quarried since ancient Roman times, becoming a coveted material for sculptors, including the renowned Michelangelo. TheFantiscritti Marble Quarriesoffers a unique 50-minute 4×4 jeep tour that allows visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the quarries while savoring breathtaking views from a high vantage point.
Pistoia is located in Tuscany, nestled between Lucca and Florence. As the capital of the Pistoia province, it is approximately 30km northwest of Florence.
Montepulciano is a captivating walled hill town located in Tuscany, perched on a sloping and narrow limestone ridge in the renowned Vino Nobile wine-growing area. As the largest hill town in southern Tuscany, it boasts an impressive central square, stunning Renaissance buildings, remarkable churches, and breathtaking views.
Tuscany’s hidden gem on the sea, Monte Argentario, is located in Southern Tuscany’s Maremma region. Once an island, it is now connected to the mainland by large sandbars and lagoons. This area is distinctly different from the more traditional parts of Tuscany, having historical connections to both Spain and Naples. Consequently, Monte Argentario often feels more aligned with southern Italy.
Volterra is a walled town in Tuscany boasting medieval and Renaissance architecture, a Roman theater, and Etruscan sites. It stands as one of Tuscany’s most evocative hill towns, typically attracting fewer tourists compared to nearby attractions.
In this short guide, you’ll find the best places to stay in Tuscany, from top-rated hotels in Tuscany’s popular hill towns and cities to agriturismo lodging in the beautiful Tuscan countryside.
Where to go near Florence, Italy
Genoa, Italy’s principal seaport, is easily accessible via public transportation. The city features a small airport, ferries that come in and out of its harbor, and a main rail hub that connects it effortlessly to France, Milan, Turin, Pisa, and Rome. Therefore, Genoa serves as an excellent base to explore other beautiful destinations along the Italian Riviera.
The walled city of Lucca serves as a fantastic base for day trips in northern Tuscany, whether by train or car. Below are some highly recommended destinations that can be easily accessed within an hour from Lucca.
San Gimignano, known as the City of Beautiful Towers, is a classic medieval walled hill town in Tuscany. Its 14 surviving medieval towers create a beautiful skyline visible from the surrounding countryside. The historic center is a UNESCO world heritage site for its architecture. During the middle ages, the town was an important center for trade and for pilgrims traveling to or from Rome on the Via Francigena.
Pitigliano, located in the Maremma region of southern Tuscany, is dramatically perched on a tufa ridge. Known as “Little Jerusalem” for its ancient Jewish quarter established in the 16th century, the area boasts underground caves and tunnels, along with Etruscan tombs scattered throughout the cliffs.
Tuscany tops bucket lists worldwide for many reasons, not just its legendary wine. The region’s rolling landscapes, charming hilltop towns, and the magnificent capital city of Florence are sure to captivate every traveler. Thus, Tuscany presents itself as the perfect Italian vacation destination.