Must-see cities
Love history? You’ve struck gold here in Tuscany. No matter where you base yourself, you’re within easy reach of four treasure-stuffed cities – Florence, Pisa, Lucca and Siena. Swathed in romantic Renaissance architecture, Florence is undoubtedly the star. Lucca’s charms start with its magical cobbled streets and buzzy piazzas, while red-roofed Siena’s Gothic centre will leave you spellbound. And Pisa’s got so much more than just its tilted tower.
Eat your heart out
In terms of wining and dining, Tuscany sets Italy’s bar pretty high. Juicy T-bone steaks, bowls of hearty ribollita soup and truffle-infused pasta are just some of the best bits you can expect from Tuscan trattorias. And the wine? Well, the area’s something of a mecca, making it the ultimate place to tour and taste. Brunello, Chianti, Morellino – they’re all made in the vineyards here.
Captivating coast
Rolling green hills and medieval villages may be the scenes splashed on most Tuscan postcards, but this part of Italy’s got a twinkling coast to its name too. Venture to Viareggio, the region’s chief seaside spot, where striped parasols embellish sandy shores and grand hotels pepper a palm-lined promenade. Forte Dei Marmi’s another swanky stunner, where exclusive beach clubs and chic cocktail bars take centre stage.