Tuscany, Italy, Local Information
Located in central Italy along the Mediterranean coast, Tuscany is a hilly region known for its vineyards, olive groves and rolling landscape. The beautiful countryside is not all that Tuscany has to offer, as the stunning scenery surrounds beautiful towns and cities with renaissance art and architecture.
Tuscany really does have something for everyone. For the active, the breathtaking countryside offers stunning walks and cycle routes while others adore lazy beach holidays on the Tuscan coast. Some enjoy the wonderful cuisine and wine produced in the local area, and many go in search of fine art and architecture in the cities.
From cookery courses and wine and olive oil tasting to painting and language lessons, Select Resorts can help you to make the most of what Tuscany has to offer.
When not exploring rural Tuscany, why not visit some of the charming cities and towns which can be reached by car or some by public transport.
Lucca
Lucca is a beautiful town still surrounded by its old city walls. It is a secret gem, as it remains a traditional Tuscan town, unspoilt and less busy than other Tuscan cities. Filled with typical cobbled side streets, piazzas and old churches Lucca is a delightful town with a true Italian atmosphere. Not only does it offer lovely shops and boutiques, but also an array of restaurants offering traditional cuisine.
Lucca has a lively atmosphere and festivals take place regularly. During the summer Lucca celebrates Puccini’s connections to the town by performing open-air concerts in the piazzas. A stroll around the old city walls is a must, followed by an ice-cream at one of the many typical gelaterias.
Pisa
Pisa is an historic town, near the mouth of the Arno River. It was once a city of cultural and political importance but is now visited for its architectural masterpieces, the most famous of which is the leaning tower. The main tourist attractions are grouped together in the Campo dei Mircoli, including the tower and grand cathedral. It is also nice to wander the peaceful streets, shop in the markets and admire the attractive bridges and churches. Pisa has good public transport links to Florence.
Siena
Siena is one of the most beautiful cities in Tuscany, surrounded by olive groves and the vineyards of Chianti. Set on three hills, the Piazza del Campo is in the heart of the city. As well as watching the daily life of the bustling streets of the city, Siena also offers cultural events, concerts, cinema, theatre and sporting activities. An annual horse race takes place and the city also has one of the oldest universities in the world. Cultural landmarks include the Duomo cathedral and St Maria della Scala.
Florence
Florence is the jewel in Tuscany’s crown. As the capital of Tuscany this city has beautiful buildings, a colourful history and a unique atmosphere. It bustles with craft, culture, art and science. The city has had many famous inhabitants including Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo. Their works along with many others can be found in many of the city museums. Florence also has good transport links to other cities.