Of Frances Mayes Under the Tuscan Sun movie fame, Tuscany is wildly popular for its lush Chianti vineyards, vast olive groves, traditional Tuscan cuisine, and the quintessential ochre and terra-cotta painted villages like Cortona, Lucca, Pisa, and Siena dotting Tuscany’s rolling green hills, framed by tall Tuscan cypress trees.
Hill-top Cortona starred in the movie and remains a beautiful star today for those looking to experience a typical rustic and romantic Tuscan village wrapped in narrow cobblestone streets, overlooking field after field of olive groves and vineyards just outside Cortona’s walls.
In Western Tuscany lies picture-postcard Lucca, a favorite Tuscan village where locals invite visitors to experience their town. A Renaissance walled city with claim to rich medieval and renaissance history, Lucca is today beloved as a thriving, bustling Tuscan town well aligned with the modern era. Particularly charming are the wide tree-lined paths circling old town where the locals stroll, cycle, and skate-board.
Pisa is also part of Western Tuscany and much more than only the famous leaning tower (which truly is amazing). A major maritime power during the Crusades, reminders of the town’s vast history can be found throughout the city including no less than a dozen historic churches such as the Santo Sepolcro which was built for the Knights Templar. Beyond the many iconic landmarks, you will find pedestrianized wide streets brimming with lively cafés and interesting shops.
Siena is recognized by its unique medieval red-bricked buildings like the 14th century gothic town hall (Palazzo Pubblico) on the circular Piazza del Campo where annual horse races (Paleo games) occur. Another claim to fame is the Tuscan city’s lavishly ornate 13th century medieval Duomo of Siena (cathedral) where masterpieces by Donatello, Michelangelo and Bernini reside. Other than Siena’s distinct Tuscan beauty and architectural treasures, it’s a delight to wander the bi-level town’s curvy cobblestone streets leading to tasty eateries, gelaterias, and alluring shops.
Whatever your travel passion, chances are excellent that Italy can help out and deliver the best experiences in Italy, especially when you travel like a local. If a food and wine enthusiast, the mantra for amazing culinary experiences is – Chianti, pasta (of any kind), pizza, gelato – and you […]
Read More
