Cypresses and sunflowers, terracotta roofs, delicious wines and food that sing of sunshine and tradition: it’s no wonder that Tuscany is everyone’s idea of idyllic Italy. The towns of Tuscany entice the visitor with stone watchtowers, magnificent cathedrals and medieval lanes – Siena, Arezzo, San Gimignano, Lucca and the jewel in the Tuscan crown: Florence. The countryside beckons too, for languid days spent drinking Chianti under a grape arbour or learning how to cook classic Tuscan dishes like Crostini di Fegatini. Sit and watch the olive leaves flicker in the breeze or cycle through remote villages, untouched by mass tourism. Umbria lies next door and has long lived in the shadow of its illustrious neighbour. This is probably fine with the locals and many travellers too, who all treasure its tranquil valleys, pristine villages and sense that time has stood still. Italy’s largest fortress looms over its capital Perugia; pilgrims visit the tomb of St Francis in Assisi and Orvieto’s cathedral will take your breath away.
Tuscany & Umbria Highlights San Gimignano - one of Tuscany’s most popular towns. Famous for its towers, its nickname is the Manhattan of Tuscany. There were originally 72 towers surrounding the town now only 14 remain, walk the old city wall and enjoy the great views down the valley before exploring the little side streets. Lucca - a wonderful walled medieval city, a true hidden treasure. In July it hosts a summer concert series over 10 days in the picturesque Piazza Napoleone (recent artists include Pink, Simply Red, Eric Clapton) the concerts are intimate and the setting sublime. Siena -built on seven hills with the Campo (main square) in the centre, expect to be walking up, down and around. It has a lot of charm and when you are exploring the mostly pedestrian streets of the various neighbourhoods, you can’t help but soak up all that atmosphere. You will gaze in wonder at how they could possibly get horses and people into the Campo for Palio in July and August. Perugia -the capital of Umbria is a cool university town. As well as cool, it is also an amazingly well preserved walled medieval city. Home to the delicious Baci (kisses) chocolates - you’ll recognise them by their blue and silver foil wrapping - it would be a crime not to try some while you’re here. Assisi -one of Umbria’s most famous and most fabulous hilltop towns, and of course the home of St Francis. Pienza -as you wander through the narrow cobblestone streets you will be captivated. Drink in the colourful window boxes and shuttered windows while your nose will be wondering what that strange smell is...it’ll be cheese as Pienza is famous for its wide variety and high quality cheeses.
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