Tuscany Guide

Regions of Tuscany

Chianti

The coastal breezes coming in over the sun-drenched hillsides of Chianti provided the perfect conditions for grape growing and the wine mecca of Italy flourished. This charming region of Tuscany is a destination location for wine buffs and food aficionados world wide due to is friendly, beautiful atmosphere, pleasant climates and historical acccommodations. Ever wonder why the Black Rooster is the symbol of Chianti? Learn the legend!

Chianti Classico

The Chianti Classico region of Chianti was the original area deemed Chianti before it expanded into a larger region encompassing neighboring villages. Greve in Chianti, Gaiole in Chianti, Castellina in Chianti and Radda in Chianti are all part of the Chianti Classico region and originally didn't have the "in Chianti" ending to their names until the redrawing of the map in 1932 which prized the Classico region as the original.

Maremma

Maremma is bordered by 160 km of crystal clear blue sea and sandy, pine tree lined beaches, offering unscathed natural beauty. Steep cliffs overlooking the Tyrrhenian sea offer views of the scattered islands off the coast. The seaside resorts in Maremma offer sailing, windsurfing, kite surfing and diving off of Argentario and Giglio Island. Cala Martina and Cala Violina are two of its famous beaches not to be missed!

Cities of Tuscany

Florence

Florence was the cradle of the Renaissance and the backdrop of great humanist, scientific, political and literary developments. The historic center has more artistic treasures per square mile than any other city in the world. Go on a cultural marathon or slow down to appreciate the surroundings and stroll down charming streets lined with cafes, trattoria and boutiques. The Duomo is the landmark of Florence boasting Brunelleschi dome, Giotto bell tower and a intricate facade of white, green and pink marble houses centuries of history within its gothic walls.

Siena

Welcome to Siena! In the heart of Tuscany, this medieval jewel is rich in art and sights to delight all. The narrow streets lead visitors through a maze of buildings in the city’s characteristic tones of brown and yellow. Siena flourished in the 13th Century, powered by trade and banking. Its rivalry with neighboring Florence resulted in masterpieces of art and architecture. Enjoy the Siena and San Giminiano Guided Tours through this enchanting Tuscan city for a most enjoyable experience.

Pisa

Once a powerful naval base of the Roman empire, the city of Pisa is now one of the most famous sites of Italy. Architectural wonders in the Campo dei Miracoli, amongst them the Leaning Tower of Pisa, set a new standard and style all on their own. Pisa lived its artistic splendor in the 12th century, but suffered defeats by Lucca, Florence and Genoa in the following centuries. Art, however, is still outstanding. Growth and maritime prestige is restored in the 15th century under the rule of the Medici of Florence.

Lucca

The charming city of Lucca, in Tuscany, has preserved a fine heritage of churches, squares and palaces within its ramparts, which extends all the way around the Città Vecchia. Colonized by the Romans in the 2nd century BC and later occupied in turn by the Goths and the Byzantines, Lucca lived a period of great prosperity in the 14th century. Some of the city’s finest buildings and churches date from this period.

Arezzo

Arezzo is a town set in the south-east of Tuscany where four valleys merge together: the Val Tiberina , Casentino, Valdarno and Valdichiana. Known as the City of Gold in Italy, Arezzo's pre-eminence in the gold industry pales by comparison to the real charm within. Its scenic, artistic, cultural, historical and agricultural riches are what makes Arezzo and its surrounding towns a must see while in Italy.

Greve in Chianti

Greve in Chianti is a market town known for its offerings of wines from all over the Chianti Classico region and allows its patrons special wine tastings from the numerous enotecas and wine shops lining the porticoes around its triangular Piazza Matteotti. The charming shops, restaurants and markets encourage shoppers and tourists to visit from around Tuscany and all over Italy. Don't miss its famous Antiques Fair, Wine Festival and Flower Festival held annually.

San Gimignano

The town of San Gimignano is located high on a hill, towering above the Elsa Valley. Rich with art, culture, music and dance; this Tuscan city offers truly amazing works of architecture inspired by Sienese and Florentine works. Known for it fragrant natural saffron and its noble honey-hued Vernaccia wine, dining in San Gimignano is a treat to the senses.

San Casciano

Located on the southern border of Florence and the northern border of Chianti Classico, San Casciano is a beautiful city abundent with nature and uncontaminated beauty. Discovered by the Etruscans, San Casciano was greatly feuded over with the Romans for its ideal location and natural water springs that flowed out of its densely wooded territory. When peace finally returned, the fortresses were destroyed and the surrounding castles were turned into spacious villas and homes for the wealthy Florentines who wanted leisurely country homes.

Montalcino

Montalcino sits in the middle of one of Italy's most important grape-growing areas. The famed Brunello vines for which the region is famous produce the grapes which are used for the production of a number of DOC vintages and a couple of DOCG, Super Tuscan wines. This quiet town known mostly for its robust wines also houses many charming stores, cafes, gardens and historical sites to explore. A slow way of life gives you a look into the cities past as its residents have not changed their relaxed ways of life.

Montepulciano

Montepulciano is a hilltop town in the southeast region of Siena in Tuscany near Umbria. This town itself boasts Piazza Grande as its main center including cafes, shops and a cathedral to peruse around and enjoy after a glass of its famous Vino Nobile di Montepulciano wine at one of its darling enotecas. Also known for the thermal baths at San Albino and its untouched natural environment surrounding the town, Montepulciano attracts visitors seeking total relaxation and enjoyment.