If you are English or American, you will probably need no introduction to what is the most popular and well-known region of Italy. The famous Chianti area offers archetypal Italian countryside of rolling hills, vineyards and picture postcard stone farmhouses and villas. Medieval fortified hilltop towns with cypress trees pointing to the clear blue skies are to be found throughout the region.

What makes Tuscany unique?

The rise of the Renaissance, the great cities of Florence, Lucca, Siena and Pisa and the birthplace of the artistic geniuses Leonardo di Vinci, Michelangelo, Donatello and Botticelli. Tuscany has for centuries been a haven for travellers in search of beauty and culture. Very few places in the world can boast an artistic legacy, with the content so in context, as the culture of Tuscany.

In Florence, try to look beyond the endless scaffolding to appreciate the wonderful buildings. Inside, just about any church you care to visit, will find inspiring frescos. In the Uffizi gallery the artworks of Botticelli, Raphael, Titan and any other Renaissance artist you wish to mention are magnificent. Sienna is probably the best preserved and most charming of the great Medieval cities of Europe with superb works of art in its churches. Pisa for the Leaning Tower and cathedrals and the seductive charms of the churches and roofscape view in Lucca make them a must on any itinery.

After hot and sticky days in the cities, the mountains offer a welcome contrast where the ever-present breeze prompted the planting of those distinctive long rows of Cyprus trees to act as wind breaks. The hills, cultivated fields, farms, parish churches, castles, medieval hamlets of the Tuscan countryside are breathtaking and memorable.

Unfortunately the coastline, although still beautiful, is somewhat overdeveloped and the chance of finding a sandy place from where to bathe is remote. More likely, any worthwhile spot will be covered by sun umbrellas perfectly in line like a colourful formation of stationary soldiers. If are looking for a couple of days by the sea, try the islands of Elba or Giglio although if you are expecting accommodation book well in advance.

Don’t Miss...

1. Florence and finish the day with a coffee on the terrace of the Uffizi museum’s café to enjoy the view.
2. Pisa, Luca and the small hill towns of San Gimignano, Montepulciano and Montalcino.
3. Campo dei Miracoli and the Torre Pendente, which is now, open to the public.
4. A memorable trip into the Tuscan mountains, try Castello di Brolio and a guided tour of the castle, vineyard and winery.