Florence is a treasure trove of art, history, and culture! Here are some must-see attractions:
1. The Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore)
Marvel at the stunning dome designed by Brunelleschi and the intricate façade. Climb to the top for breathtaking views.
2. Uffizi Gallery
Home to an incredible collection of Renaissance art, featuring works by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci.
3. Accademia Gallery
Don't miss Michelangelo's iconic *David*, as well as other important works of art.
4. Ponte Vecchio
This historic bridge is lined with jewelry shops and offers picturesque views of the Arno River.
5. Palazzo Vecchio
Explore this medieval palace and its impressive art and architecture.
6. Basilica di Santa Croce
Visit the burial place of famous Italians like Michelangelo and Galileo.
7. Boboli Gardens
Stroll through these beautiful gardens behind the Pitti Palace, offering lovely views and sculptures.
8. Pitti Palace
A former royal residence filled with art and history.
9. Mercato Centrale
Experience local cuisine and vibrant market culture.
10. Piazzale Michelangelo
For panoramic views of Florence, especially at sunset.
Each of these spots showcases Florence’s rich heritage, so make sure to take your time and soak it all in!
Eating out
Florence has a fantastic culinary scene, catering to all budgets. Here are some great options across different price ranges: P.S try and find an authentic florentine steak
Highlight!!!
Trattoria Zà Zà
https://www.trattoriazaza.it/
Piazza del Mercato Centrale, 26r, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy
Recommendation: Florentine steak
Budget-Friendly
1. Trattoria da Giorgio
A casual spot offering hearty Tuscan dishes at reasonable prices.
2. Osteria Santo Spirito
Located in the lively Santo Spirito square, this osteria serves delicious pasta and pizza.
3. Panini Toscani
Perfect for a quick bite, this place specializes in traditional Tuscan sandwiches made with high-quality ingredients.
Mid-Range
1. Trattoria Mario
A family-run eatery known for its authentic Tuscan meals and a vibrant atmosphere. Reservations are a must!
2. La Giostra
A charming restaurant with a romantic ambiance, offering a mix of traditional and creative dishes.
3. Caffe Gilli
An elegant café for a leisurely lunch or coffee, with tasty pastries and light meals.
Splurge
1. Osteria Vini e Vecchi Sapori
A small, cozy restaurant with exquisite Tuscan dishes and an impressive wine selection.
2. Enoteca Pinchiorri
A Michelin-starred restaurant known for its exceptional food and wine pairings. Perfect for a special occasion.
3. Il Palagio
Located in the Four Seasons Hotel, this fine dining restaurant offers a luxurious dining experience with seasonal ingredients.
Each of these places captures the essence of Florentine cuisine, so you’re sure to enjoy whatever you choose!
Pisa is a charming city with much to offer beyond its famous Leaning Tower. Here are some top things to do:
1. Leaning Tower of Pisa
Climb the tower for spectacular views and take iconic photos.
2. Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles)
Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, which includes the Cathedral, Baptistery, and Monumental Cemetery.
3. Pisa Cathedral (Duomo di Pisa)
Marvel at the stunning Romanesque architecture and beautiful interior.
4. Baptistery of St. John
Climb to the top for a great view and listen to the acoustics inside this magnificent structure.
5. Monumental Cemetery (Camposanto Monumentale)
Visit this peaceful cemetery adorned with frescoes and ancient tombs.
6. Pisa's Historic Center
Stroll through the charming streets, visit local shops, and enjoy a coffee in one of the many piazzas.
Siena is a beautiful medieval city with a rich history and stunning architecture. Here are some top things to do while you're there:
1. Piazza del Campo
This iconic square is famous for its unique shell shape and the Palio horse race. Relax at a café and soak in the atmosphere.
2. Siena Cathedral (Duomo di Siena)
Explore the stunning Gothic architecture, intricate mosaics, and the beautiful Piccolomini Library inside.
3. Torre del Mangia
Ascend this tower for breathtaking views of Siena and the surrounding countryside.
4. Palazzo Pubblico
Visit this historic town hall, which houses impressive frescoes and the Civic Museum.
5. Basilica di San Domenico
This beautiful basilica is home to the relics of St. Catherine of Siena and features stunning artwork.
6. Contrade Museums
Discover the history of Siena's neighborhoods (contrade) and their role in the Palio at various small museums.
7. Santa Maria della Scala
This former hospital complex now serves as a museum showcasing Siena's history and art.
8. Walk through the Historic Center
Stroll the charming streets, admire the medieval architecture, and explore local shops and cafes.
9. Enoteca Nazionale
Sample some of Tuscany's best wines at this national wine shop.
Siena’s medieval charm and rich culture make it a wonderful destination to explore!
Eating Out
Siena offers a diverse dining scene suitable for all budgets. Here are some great options:
Budget-Friendly
1. Pizzeria Ristorante Pizzalandia
A casual spot known for delicious pizzas and pasta at reasonable prices.
2. Trattoria La Torre
Offers hearty Tuscan dishes in a friendly atmosphere without breaking the bank.
3. Osteria da Pienza
A cozy place to enjoy traditional Tuscan fare at affordable prices.
Mid-Range
1. Osteria Il Grattacielo
Known for its homemade pasta and local wines, this spot provides a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
2. Trattoria Papei
A local favorite serving classic dishes like pici cacio e pepe in a charming setting.
3. Ristorante La Piazzetta
Offers a lovely terrace and a diverse menu, blending traditional and contemporary Tuscan cuisine.
Splurge
1. Osteria Le Logge
A refined dining experience with a focus on seasonal ingredients and an extensive wine list.
2. Ristorante San Domenico
Renowned for its elegant atmosphere and exquisite dishes, perfect for a special occasion.
3. Ristorante Il Biondo
Located near the Duomo, this restaurant offers a high-end dining experience with a creative menu.
These places reflect Siena's rich culinary heritage and will ensure you have a memorable dining experience!
San Gimignano, known for its stunning medieval towers and charming atmosphere, offers plenty to do. Here are some of the best activities and attractions:
1. Climb the Torre Grossa
Ascend the tallest tower in the town for panoramic views of the countryside and the famous skyline of San Gimignano.
2. Visit the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria Assunta
Explore this beautiful church, known for its stunning frescoes, particularly the Last Judgment by Taddeo di Bartolo.
3. Stroll through the Piazza della Cisterna
Relax in this picturesque square surrounded by medieval buildings and grab a gelato from a local shop.
4. Explore the Museo della Tortura
Discover the history of torture devices in this unique museum that provides insight into medieval justice.
5. Sample Local Wines
Visit a local enoteca to try Vernaccia di San Gimignano, a renowned white wine from the region.
6. Wander the Historic Streets
Enjoy wandering the narrow, cobbled streets filled with artisan shops, boutiques, and local crafts.
7. Visit the San Gimignano 1300 Museum
This museum features a detailed scale model of the town as it appeared in 1300, providing historical context.
8. Take a Cooking Class
Join a local cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Tuscan dishes using local ingredients.
9. Enjoy a Scenic Walk
Take a leisurely walk in the surrounding countryside to enjoy beautiful views of vineyards and olive groves.
San Gimignano’s rich history, stunning architecture, and scenic beauty make it a delightful destination to explore!
Eating out
San Gimignano has a lovely dining scene that caters to all budgets. Here are some great options:
Budget-Friendly
1. Pizzeria Della Storia
A casual spot known for its delicious pizzas and friendly service, perfect for a quick meal.
2. Osteria delle Catene
Offers hearty Tuscan dishes in a cozy setting without straining your wallet.
3. Gelateria Dondoli
Don’t miss this famous gelateria for some of the best gelato in town!
Mid-Range
1. Trattoria Chiribiri
Known for its homemade pasta and traditional Tuscan cuisine, this trattoria has a welcoming atmosphere.
2. Osteria La Salita
Offers a mix of local and seasonal dishes, featuring a delightful outdoor terrace.
3. Ristorante Il Pizzicagnolo
A charming restaurant serving classic Tuscan dishes with a modern twist.
Splurge
1. Ristorante La Mandragola
An elegant dining experience with a creative menu and an excellent wine selection, perfect for a special occasion.
2. Osteria del Carcere
Known for its exquisite dishes made from local ingredients, this restaurant provides a refined atmosphere.
3. Ristorante Bel Soggiorno
Offers stunning views alongside a menu of upscale Tuscan cuisine, ideal for a romantic dinner.
These spots will give you a taste of the delicious culinary offerings in San Gimignano, making your visit even more enjoyable!
Lucca is a charming Tuscan town known for its well-preserved medieval walls and beautiful architecture. Here are some of the best things to do while visiting Lucca:
1. Walk or Cycle the City Walls
Enjoy a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the 4 kilometers of tree-lined walls that offer great views of the city and surrounding countryside.
2. Explore the Historic Center
Wander through narrow streets filled with shops, cafés, and beautiful buildings, including the stunning Piazza dell'Anfiteatro.
3. Visit Lucca Cathedral (Duomo di San Martino)
Explore this beautiful Romanesque cathedral, featuring a striking façade and the famous Volto Santo (Holy Face) statue.
4. Climb Torre Guinigi
Ascend this iconic tower adorned with oak trees on top for panoramic views of Lucca and its surroundings.
5. Stroll Through Piazza dell'Anfiteatro
Relax in this unique oval-shaped piazza, built on the ruins of a Roman amphitheater, surrounded by charming cafés and shops.
6. Visit the Palazzo Pfanner
Explore this beautiful baroque palace and its stunning gardens, which provide a peaceful escape.
7. Discover the Basilica of San Frediano
Known for its stunning mosaic façade, this basilica houses beautiful frescoes and artworks inside.
8. Explore the Museo Nazionale di Palazzo Mansi
This museum showcases art and furnishings from the Renaissance period in a beautiful historic palace.
9. Enjoy Local Cuisine
Savor traditional Lucchese dishes, including tortelli lucchese (stuffed pasta) and buccellato (a sweet bread).
10. Attend a Concert or Festival
If you visit in the summer, check out events like the Lucca Summer Festival, featuring concerts and performances.
Lucca's rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant atmosphere make it a wonderful destination to explore!
Eating Out
Lucca offers a delightful variety of dining options to suit all budgets. Here are some top recommendations:
Budget-Friendly
1. Pizzeria da Felice
A local favorite for delicious, affordable pizzas in a casual setting.
2. Trattoria Da Leo
Known for its hearty Tuscan dishes, this trattoria offers great value and a friendly atmosphere.
3. Bar Enoteca La Botteghina
Perfect for a quick bite, this bar serves tasty sandwiches and local wines.
Mid-Range
1. Ristorante All' Olivo
Offers a cozy atmosphere with a menu featuring traditional Tuscan cuisine and local wines.
2. Osteria Vigna dei Santi
Known for its homemade pasta and seasonal dishes, this restaurant provides a lovely dining experience.
3. Trattoria L'Isola
A charming spot with a varied menu, focusing on fresh, local ingredients.
Splurge
1. Ristorante Giglio
An elegant restaurant with a refined menu, offering a blend of traditional and contemporary dishes.
2. Ristorante La Bottega del Buon Caffè
Known for its creative menu and excellent service, this is a great place for a special meal.
3. Osteria di Vallebuia
Offers a fine dining experience with beautifully presented dishes made from high-quality ingredients.
These restaurants capture the essence of Lucca’s culinary scene, ensuring a memorable dining experience.
This month long Tuscan music festival born in 1998 is one of the most important event in the Italian Summer.
Every year national and international artists perform on this stage in the amazing frame of Lucca. During the Festival, the city of Lucca changes in order to host great legends of music and performers: each edition presents many different music genre, legend of the past and modern bands take turns on the same stage.
Great musicinas and stars such as Lenny Kravitz, Phil Collins, Rolling Stones, Elton John ed Ennio Morricone performed in the evocative landscape of historica lcentre of Lucca or on its Walls, giving people the chance to attend an extraordinary music event and to visit one of the facsinating city of Europe.
Stay tuned for the 2025 line up
2024 line up
June 2: Eric Clapton
June 8 and 9: Ed Sheeran
June 30: Swedish House Mafia
July 3: Tedua
July 5: Geolier
July 6: The Smashing Pumpinks
July 7: Rod Stewart
July 11: Calcutta
July 12: Lenny Kravitz
July 15: Diana Krall
July 16: John Fogerty
July 18: Salmo e Noyz
July 19: Mika
July 20: Sam Smith
July 21 and 23: Duran Duran
July 24: Toto
July 26: Gazzelle
July 28: Muti celebrates Puccini
Val d'Orcia is a stunning region in Tuscany, known for its picturesque landscapes, charming towns, and rich cultural heritage. Here are some of the best things to do while exploring Val d'Orcia:
1. Visit Pienza
Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its Renaissance architecture and delicious pecorino cheese. Don’t miss the stunning views from the Palazzo Piccolomini.
2. Explore Montalcino
Home of the famous Brunello wine, visit local wineries for tastings. The town itself offers beautiful views and historic sites, including the Fortress of Montalcino.
3. Discover San Quirico d'Orcia
Wander through this charming medieval town, known for its lovely gardens, ancient churches, and the beautiful Horti Leonini.
4. Enjoy the Scenic Drives
Take leisurely drives through the rolling hills and vineyards. The landscapes are particularly stunning during sunset.
5. Visit Bagno Vignoni
This unique village features a thermal pool in the town square. Relax in the nearby thermal baths for a soothing experience.
6. Explore the Abbey of Sant'Antimo
A beautiful Romanesque abbey located near Montalcino, often featuring Gregorian chants during services. The surrounding countryside is also lovely.
7. Wine Tours and Tastings
Join a wine tour to sample some of the best wines in Tuscany, including Brunello di Montalcino and Rosso di Montalcino.
8. Photography at the Iconic Cypress Trees
The iconic cypress-lined roads near Buonconvento and other areas are perfect for photography, especially in the golden hour.
9. Hike the Crete Senesi
Enjoy hiking trails through the unique clay hills of Crete Senesi, characterized by their striking landscape.
Val d'Orcia is a paradise for nature lovers, foodies, and those seeking cultural experiences, making it a must-visit destination in Tuscany!