What Does Tuscany Have in Store for You?
Tuscany is an incredible Italian region that has so much to offer its visitors – and this is why you should consider paying this beautiful location a visit. Fine wines, stunning views, and rich history await you.
The only downside to this is that you might not be able to explore all of the area’s beauty during a short period of time – so if you’re planning on spending a vacation here, you might want to take the time to consider what you want to do before you have to go back home.
Magnificent natural landscapes
While there are a variety of things to love about Tuscany, one element that everyone appreciates about this region is the fantastic scenery. The countryside here is so iconic and offers visitors so many incredible views, so it’s not hard to see why the plains and rolling hills have become such an important part of this location.
There are a number of areas that you’ll want to explore, such as Val d’Orcia, and whether you look at the beauty from a distance, or up close during a scenic drive through the valley; you’re sure to be impressed. However, you may want to consider that there’s far more to the area’s allure than just the countryside.
While these landscapes are an iconic part of Tuscany, you can’t overlook stunning locations like the Apuan Alps or the Casentino National Park. As you can see, there really is no shortage of breathtaking natural locations and sights.
Commanding architecture
If you come to this region for a visit, you’ll find that there’s much more to Tuscany’s loveliness than nature. Home to a wide variety of amazing structures, each town has something special to offer in architecture alone.
One of the world’s greatest landmarks, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, is located here – and while this site is famous for being tilted, you’re sure to find that the actual building itself is a sight to behold. There’s far more to see too, you could easily spend hours exploring the wonderful towns of Siena and Pienza, and marveling at the fantastic structures that make these locations so unique.
There are a variety of monumental landmarks here for you to check out, like the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, the Towers of San Gimignano, and Ponte Vecchio. These are just a few examples of sites that you won’t want to miss out on during your stay.
If you decide to visit Florence, you may want to check out some of the many stately churches that are located here, such as:
- Florence Cathedral
- San Lorenzo Church
- The Church of San Miniato al Monte
- Santa Croce Church
- The Church of Santo Spirito
Tuscany’s rich history
Almost all of the structures here are special because of that fact that they’re not modern at all, but rather allow you to take a glimpse into the past. With the whole region having a very historic and cultural atmosphere, you’ll see that immersing yourself in the interesting history is far from a challenge.
If you want to learn more about Tuscany’s earliest inhabitants, the Etruscans, you’ll be glad to hear that there are a number of archeological sites and museums that teach you more about what life was like during those times. The Necropolis of Pianacce and Archeological Museum in Sarteano are just two examples of areas you’ll likely want to check out.
Why not visit San Gimignano or Siena, if the Middle Ages interest you? As you walk through the streets you’ll be surrounded by ancient structures from medieval times, and you’re sure to feel like you’ve walked into a different century.
Countless amazing pieces of art and incredible architecture came from the Renaissance era, so you could always to pay a visit to Florence if you’re keen to find out more.
Fantastic artists and galleries
As mentioned above, the Renaissance was a great time for art – and you’ll find countless masterpieces from this time and other eras throughout Tuscany.
There are a number of art galleries and museums that you’re sure to want to check out, like the Uffizi Gallery and the Bargello. Both of these have some truly incredible works of art, with Uffizi having more Renaissance pieces and the Bargello having fantastic sculptures. Florentine churches are also well worth a visit, as these often have beautiful frescoes waiting for you inside.
You’re likely to find that Florence has some of the most imposing architecture; and with all the art and structures in this town, you’re sure to want to let out your inner artist.
Even if you don’t, you may enjoy looking at masterpieces from some of the greatest artists of all time, like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo – both of which are just two iconic individuals who once lived in this fantastic region.
Delicious Tuscan wines
If you think of yourself as a wine connoisseur or just enjoy a nice drink occasionally, you won’t want to miss out on this opportunity to try some of the world’s tastiest wines. Wine making is considered an art form here, and since each one is made with care, you’re sure to be impressed by the beverages that are produced.
Ever since the Etruscan times, wine making has been a part of the Tuscan way of life. Over the years, the wine makers here have only become more skilled and bold with their creations, often making truly incredible and unique varieties for their consumers to enjoy.
Chianti is one of the many areas that are famous for producing fine wines, but you’re sure to find amazing Tuscan vineyards and wineries where ever you go.
Traditional Tuscan foods
Vacations in Tuscany aren’t complete without the traditional cuisine that makes eating here so fun – and fortunately for you, you can often find incredible eateries no matter where you find yourself.
From world-class restaurants, to food markets; there are plenty of great places for you to try some Tuscan specialties in Florence. Siena and Chianti both offer delicious foods too, although you may want to ensure that you try some affettati (known as lunch meats in English) during your time here. The seafood is also incredible – although it’s generally more common to find it in eateries towards the Tuscan coast.
There really is something tasty to try in every part of the region, so you’ll always have the opportunity to have a fantastic meal!
The perfect shopping destination
Not everyone chooses to come to Tuscany for shopping, but with a variety of amazing stores located here, it’s not hard to see why so many tourists come home with new stuff. Florence is a great example of a town with a whole host of shops – here, you’ll find everything from small boutiques to shops with big brand names.
If you want to do a little shopping during your stay, you won’t want to miss out on visiting at least one of the outstanding outlets in the Florence area. The Mall for example is one of the most popular outdoor outlets – and with a range of products from some of the biggest brands like Prada, Tom Ford, and Gucci, it’s not hard to see why so many individuals choose to shop here.
If you’re looking for big brands and more affordable designer options, the Barberino Desinger Outlet has got you covered. With over 100 stores, there’s likely to be something you want on offer.
There more to shopping in Tuscany than this, though. There are also a number of traditional markets too, like the antique market in Arezzo, which is held every first Saturday of each month.
You may even want to spend a little time looking for a souvenir in one of the many stunning jewelry shops on the Ponte Vecchio. These are just a few of the options that are available to you – and as you can see, this region really is perfect for a shopping spree.
Discover a more traditional lifestyle with Tours of Tuscany
For the best tours in/of Tuscany, many people opt to come with our team for a trip around this stunning region.
We have so much in store for you, and a number of different tours designed with specific vacations in mind. So, whether you’re hoping for quality Chianti wine tours, or private Tuscany tours from Florence; we’re sure that we’ve got something that suits your needs.
We have so many things for you to enjoy; including a variety of great activities to really help you immerse yourself in the Tuscan way of life, and luxury villas for you to rest in when we’re not taking you out to explore.
We’re famous for providing some of the best Tuscan day trips around, so no matter what you’re hoping to get form your time here, we’re certain that we’ll be able to help you.
