Located in central Italy, Tuscany is famed for its spectacular landscapes, serene beaches and the Renaissance, making it the ideal destination for cultural enlightening. Your Personal Travel Manager can tailor a Tuscan holiday to satisfy all of your senses.
Florence is the capital of Tuscany and consequently the epicentre of the region’s culture and cuisine. The Galleria degli Uffizi contains the world’s largest collection of Renaissance art, with more than 1000 masterpieces. The overwhelming collection of artwork means that you would need to visit the museum numerous times, concentrating on different periods each visit to truly enjoy the experience. The Galleria dell’Accademia houses one of the greatest Renaissance masterpieces, Michelangelo’s David. The world famous statue is much more detailed in the flesh, from the muscle definition of his legs to the veins in his arms.
For authentic Tuscan cuisine, head to the Trattoria Fratellini, where a two-course meal with a glass of Chianti, the regions best known wine, costs $20. This fabulous restaurant is only a ten-minute walk from Duomo, the city’s iconic landmark.
Between Florence and Sienna lies the rolling hills of Chianti, characterised by expansive vineyards, olive groves and medieval towns. The winding roads and many steep hills provide an abundance of picturesque vistas, while the sprawling towns and villages’ offer exciting retreats to sample authentic life and the fabled wine. The city of Sienna has several museums and galleries, but the cathedral is the city’s main drawcard. The grand medieval building dates back to the 13th century and is home to lavish pieces of colourful renaissance artwork.
A good way to see the surrounding countryside is by boarding the Treno Natura, a railway line from the 19th century staffed by volunteers. The route loops through Asciano, Monte Antico and back to Sienna, allowing you to quaff Chianti until your heart’s content and still take in an array of breathtaking views.
If you haven’t been satisfied by the scenic panoramas of Chianti, the Italian Alps border Tuscany to the north. The Apuan Alps have a range of hiking trails that vary in length and difficulty. The highest peak is at 2000m however all the trails have idyllic views.
Start planning your trip today with your local, personal travel manager. Visit http://www.travelmanagers.com.au/ptm-search/