Better known as the darling of Italy, this region is one of the greatest in Europe for history, art and food. With traditions and buildings dating back to the Etruscans, the area is a charming mix of medieval-style villages and 21st century cities set into rolling green hills, mountains or quiet seaside bays. With so much going for it, you’re bound to find the perfect luxury holiday in Tuscany, no matter what your ideal getaway looks like.

The most famous of the area’s attractions are found in the culture capitals of Florence and Pisa. The ideal start to any tour of Tuscany these two cities are so packed with incredible art, historical monuments and beautiful sights, you’ll need at least a few days in each to really get to grips with it all. Florence is home to Michelangelo’s “David” sculpture as well as the Duomo cathedral while Pisa offers the iconic “Leaning Tower”, Clock Palace and Square of Miracles. Culture vultures will love getting their claws in here.

What goes hand in hand with superb art? Incredible food, of course, and Tuscany is definitely not short on this either! Food fanatics will find that there’s not a single village, town or city in the entire region that doesn’t offer truly exceptional cuisine, with different delicacies and recipes at each stop that will send your taste buds wild. With so many gourmet paradises we can’t put forward any one area for foodie delights but we can recommend the undisputed champion of wine as Chianti, the most renowned area for quality and traditional production.

It’s not all vineyards and green valleys though, water babies are going to love the Tuscan coastline which has everything from fishing villages on the rocks and pebble beaches to sandy stretches and charcoal-black shores. So whether you want to dive into the fascinating reefs or just get your holiday tan top-up, there’s an ocean-front spot for you.

WINGED BOOTS WISDOM

Walking at a snail’s pace but can’t get a real feel for the area in a car? Get on board with the local custom of cycling from place to place! The purchase of a bike as well as a variety of hiring options are available for almost nothing everywhere.