Tuscany, like a fine wine, has been some time in the making...
From the Etruscans to the Romans to the Renaissance, Tuscany is possibly the greatest repository of art in the world, from extraordinary paintings and sculpture to frescoes and architectural masterpieces.
Visitors to Tuscany come for many reasons. Many come in search of fine art, others to explore the extraordinary countryside. Gourmets and wine buffs descend on Tuscany to enjoy the simple yet wonderful cuisine and wine. Walkers enjoy the mountain paths, cyclists the rolling hills, summer vacationers the sea coast and islands. Students come to learn the beautiful Italian language and culture.
There is a lot to see and do in Tuscany, the difficulty is really where to start. Certainly most should start with Florence, then continue on to Siena and Pisa. The roll call of città di arte, cities of art, is daunting: Arezzo, Cortona, San Gimignano and Lucca are all striking. The more you come to know the region, the more extraordinary Tuscany appears. Enjoy your visit!
Events in Tuscany
Carnevale di Viareggio
For about a month before the Easter rituals, many towns stage carnivals and enjoy their last opportunity to indulge before Lent. The popular carnival celebrations held at Viareggio are among the best known in all of Italy, with masked pageants, fireworks, a flower show and parades along the Tuscan Riviera.
Palio di Siena
Dating back to Medieval Ages, the spectacular horse race round Siena's Piazza del Campo is held twice each year on July 2 and August 16 in honor of the Virgin Mary.
Main Museums in Tuscany
Galleria degli Uffizi
The Uffizi Gallery is one of the world's top art museums - it houses some of the most important works of the Renaissance, including Leonardo da Vinci's Annunciation and Botticelli's Birth of Venus. Plan to spend a full day there to thoroughly see it.
Tuscany: the Mugello Valley
Holidays in Mugello
The official tourism board for the Mugello valley north of Florence offers detailed information on visiting the area, including itineraries and a comprehensive list of accommodation in Mugello, from hotels and farmhouses to villas and apartments. It is possible to check availability and make reservations directly from the site.
