Tuscany, an enchanting combination of idyllic scenery, breathtaking art and old-world charm, is one of Italy’s most popular destinations. The Chianti district is known worldwide for its excellent wine. The delightful walled city of Lucca, Pisa’s charming Leaning Tower, Siena’s captivating maze of medieval streets and enthralling Palio, and dazzling Florence, home to some of the world’s most stunning art, are among the highlights of this wonderful region.

History

The history of Tuscany dates back to the second millennium BC. City-states similar to those in Greece developed, followed by the rise of the Etruscan culture, from which the name Toscana, or Tuscany, is derived. The Etruscans founded many cities in the area beginning around 800 BC. During the Middle Ages, the cities fought one another for several centuries. In the 1400s, the powerful Medici family of Florence united the individual cities. The Italian Renaissance began in Tuscany, with Florence and Siena at the heart of the amazing creative explosion. Evidence of the Renaissance is everywhere in Tuscany, from the architecture of the glorious cathedrals to the abundance of superb sculpture and artwork.

Art & Museums

Tuscany is home to some of the world’s most famous art museums. In Florence, the Galleria degli Uffizi contains a spectacular collection of masterpieces ranging from gilded 12th century Madonnas and works by Renaissance masters Raphael and Botticelli, to the Baroque style of Caravaggio’s dramatic chiaroscuro. The Galleria del’Accademia is another of Florence’s gems. Here resides Michaelangelo’s magnificent David, as well as art by a host of other great masters. In addition to these, there are excellent museums in virtually every town in Tuscany.

Nightlife

Florence, Tuscany’s largest city, has a thriving nightlife. There are many bars, nightclubs and discos offering a variety of music and entertainment located throughout the city. Pisa is another hot spot for nightlife. There is an abundance of clubs and discos, especially in the neighborhood of the Piazza Garibaldi. In the summer, the Versilia Coast between Viareggio and Marina di Carrara features clubs, discos and music festivals.

How to get there

There are international airports located in Florence and Pisa. Tuscany is also easily accessible by train from points in Italy or elsewhere in Europe. The Bologna-Rome route passes through Florence, and the Rome-La Spezia route runs up the coast passing through Pisa and other coastal towns. Bus service connects the major cities to the smaller towns.