Villas in Tuscany, Italy

Tuscany remains essentially rural in character, with its climate and terrain perfect for outdoor adventures. Rolling hills, serene lakes and plunging valleys are ideal for horse riding, cycling and walking trips.

Learn to cook regional food with local chefs, sample a wave of famous wines, or simply take a wander into the countryside to enjoy the vibrant seasonal colours. Sunflowers are in abundance in June; observe the grape harvests in late September, or be there for the October arrival of porcini mushrooms and truffles. Whether you learn a mouthwatering new recipe or simply find your favourite new wine, these are the perfect souvenirs from your Tuscany holiday.

Tuscany is known for its high quality leather goods, crystal, terracotta and lace, but the region is also home to factory outlets offering the height in designer fashion.

The sophisticated shopping delights of antiques, local crafts, souvenirs, jewellery and art can be found in all the main towns. While dazzling colours, noises and aromas will draw you to the authentic outdoor markets selling everything from food to furniture. Sample the freshness and quality of local produce to capture a taste of rustic Tuscan life.

Striking buildings, galleries and treasure-crammed cathedrals set Tuscany apart as one of the top cultural destinations in the world. Visit some of the most beautiful cities in Italy to uncover this rich trove of art and architecture – each celebrating its own unique place in history.

The region boasts many traditional festivities throughout the year, marking historical events and medieval tournaments that took place centuries ago. Festivals of music, arts, dance and film also offer visitors the chance to join in the Tuscan atmosphere.

A feast for the senses, Tuscany is home to the very finest home-grown food. With a world-renowned reputation in wine and olive oil production, you can expect to sample the most delicious natural fare - all cooked and lovingly prepared from scratch.

Sun-drenched trattorias are the perfect place to soak up the Tuscan way of life, where eating out is a real event, while pizzerias, restaurants and village eateries serve only traditional cuisine to ensure the true flavour of Italy lands on every plate.

• Visit Florence for the day – start at the wonderful Duomo that dominates the city’s skyline; take in Michelangelo’s famous Statue of David over lunch at the Piazza della Signoria and tour Italy’s greatest art gallery, the Uffizi.

• Take a twilight walk along Florence’s ancient Ponte Vecchio bridge, lined with jewellery shops and famous for inspiring marriage proposals.

• Explore the peaceful, narrow streets of charming Lucca with its Renaissance walls, Romanesque churches, Roman amphitheatre and delicatessens.

• Take a boat trip from Piombino to Napoleon’s exile, the Isle of Elba, and enjoy the white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. A cable car ride to the top of Monte Capanne offers magnificent views.

• Visit a world famous attraction, the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

  Visit one of many natural thermal baths across the region for a spa therapy treatment to enhance your wellbeing.