Gently decorated in softly rolling slopes of olive colored landscapes, dotted graciously with luscious vineyards and familiarly structured Italian farms, this synonymously Tuscan scenery is the most desirable in the country. Endless Italian countryside dominates the majority of the region of Tuscany, though; you will not be short of hotspot cities that frequently appear on most people’s bucket lists. Discover cities that are bursting with culture and bear a plentiful collection of classic renaissance artworks, irresistible coffee bars serving authentic Italian beverages, and sumptuously delectable restaurants. Step back in time and experience a whirlwind adventure to the unbeatably beautiful Tuscan landscapes and flourishing cities that rival big name capitals across the world, for title of the most architecturally brilliant cities.

With its worldwide reputation for being the epitome of authentic art and food, leap into a new world exploring one of a kind tastes, smells and sounds, and an endless list of things to do and learn.

Flourish in ‘Florence’!

Birthplace of the renaissance and home to a bouquet of artist masterpieces from across the world, the capital city of the Tuscany region, Florence, prides itself as one of the most authentic and artistically blessed cities in the entire world. Dander upon medieval streets and endless narrow alleys ways to discover new aspects of the city around every corner you turn; wander and ponder the same streets famous artists did many years ago.

Acting as the birthplace of modern artists such as Gucci and Cavalli, to the base of classic masterpieces such as Michelangelo’s gigantic statue of David, depicting the disproportional image of male perfection, to immense works of Da Vinci. Satisfy your artistic cravings with a visit to the world renowned Uffizi gallery, that lies adjacent to Piazza Della Signoria, with its boxed-in nature and elegant, yet effortless style. The Uffizi Gallery attracts millions of tourists each year, due to its reputation of being one of the most prestigious galleries in the world, and its renowned leadership of the art world. Dander around endless corridors that are decorated proudly in high quality artworks, depicting true Italian artworks and heritage.

Be warned when visiting the city of Florence, as there is such hung as ‘Florence Syndrome’, scientifically regarded as ‘Stendhal Syndrome’, basically feeling truly overwhelmed by the beauty of Florence and its artwork that you spiral into a state of temporary madness. The origin of this term dates back the Henri-Marie Boyle, who after viewing Giotto’s famous ceiling frescoes during the Florentine renaissance, fell into a state of overwhelming awe and insignificance under the sublime presence of such incredible artwork. Though Florence is a stunning city, fear not the ‘Florence Syndrome’, it will unlikely happen; just keep it in mind when you inhale the beauty of the city!

Panorama of Florence

Discover Florence Cathedral, Santa Maria del Fiore, which epitomizes the Italian gothic era of architecture and decadence. Designed by Arnolfo Di Cambio, it grand cathedral was completed in 1367 approximately, with its immense height, terracotta exterior and powerful red roof that towers over the city below. The interior of the Santa Maria is exquisite, preserving gigantic stained glass windows depicting religious scenes in all of their glory, and a collection of Italian artworks proudly dominating the walls. However, the most notable aspect of Florence Cathedral is its uniquely designed dome; created by Brunnelleschi, this dome is the largest masonry ever built. A masterpiece of engineering and design, the Duomo (the dome) that covers Florence cathedral is an immense architectural achievement to this day.

Check out the Ponte Vecchio, the oldest bridge in Florence that transports you across the River Amo in style. Lined with luxury shops and jewelers, the Ponte Vecchio exemplifies classic luxury and Italian class. If you’re visiting Florence on a lower budget, perhaps it’s better merely to window shop along the Ponte Vecchio, as many of the items go for unreal amounts of cash. The Ponte Vecchio flourishes and is alive with history, with its unique design and purpose of construction, to how it has developed from its medieval past, all the way to its presence in the Second World War, and how it remained untouched.

Florence is a city of dreams and artistic beauty persisting through time; visit this Tuscan capital to feel a sense of creative replenishment.

Take a ‘Pisa’ my heart!

This iconic Central Tuscan city is synonymous with cheesy, familiar photos of a poorly built mistake, Pisa is not just beautiful because its uniquely positioned tower, but all the other gems it has to offer as well. Back in the day, Pisa was a thriving rival to Genoa and Venice and beheld a huge amount of power; nowadays, Pisa is a top tourist destination with its gorgeous selection of monuments and streets.

The city’s most notable structure is also its most tragic mistake; the leaning tower of Pisa. At a staggering original height of 60m high and completed in 1399, the famous lean is the result of poor quality of foundations during construction, concluding it to sink into the ground on one side. Skip ahead to modern day, and people are flocking to the tower to have them photographed supporting the leaning tower, or perhaps even holding it in their palm.

The tower of Pisa and the Battistero Di San Giovanni

Located in the leaning tower of Pisa in the Piazza Dei Miracoli, meaning square of miracles, lies the glorious Battistero Di San Giovanni. Dedicated to St. John the Baptist, the baptistery began construction in 1153 by a Romanesque architectural style, and was completed to Gothic standards in the 14th century, giving it a real unique and ambiguous look to it that still charms visitors to this day. It claims the well-earned title of largest baptistery in article, and completely compliments the leaning tower like a brother and sister. Inside San Giovanni, there is an eerie silence and dimly lit atmosphere, but is a place that bears great treasures, such as Pisano Pulpits and large font in the centre, that are exquisitely constructed.

Pisa and pizzas have a lot in common; they go together! Pisa means pizza. You’ll never be within a few ft of a gorgeously irresistible pizzeria, that offers that raw italian taste of sumptuous tomatoes, cheese and unlimited toppings. Check out Pizzeria Il Montino located on Vicolo del Monte, which is a city renowned treasure amongst students and adults alike. Hidden away from the city and tucked behind a few narrow alleyways, you will be captivated by its buzzing atmosphere and authenticity, and utterly spectacular cuisine.

Seen in ‘Siena’!

Hop back in time to the medieval city of Siena in Tuscany, for a whirlwind adventure of a place filled with historic secrets. Be eternally mesmerized by the enchanting rustic scenery that Siena projects, with everything painted in a gothic architectural paradise. Witness heavy medieval presence that has thrived throughout history, and the way it has influenced artists, and how artists have influenced Siena. The streets of this Italian city are coated with life, and have an atmosphere you’ll fail to seek out anywhere else; with a plentiful selection of Italian cuisine, you’ll never be stuck for choice. Transport back to a medieval fantasy land!

If you’re not in Siena for a long time, number one on your list has undeniably got to be the Opera Della Metropolitane di Siena, where you can discover a vast artistic panorama and a rich array of enchanting monuments from various eras of European history. The opera is explored by a whopping 1 million visitors a year, who are desolate to discover the raw beauty on offer, and the importance of faith and art and their quintessential link. Toweringly tall and decorated with terracotta intricate detailing, this overwhelming exterior could leave you in a state of awe for eternity, you could gaze at it for hours and discover a new aspect of it every time.

Old town of Siena in Tuscany, Italy

Check out Musee Civico, one of the world’s most famous museums bursting with frescoed rooms and plentiful Sienese artists. Home to the famous painting by Simone Martinis, the Maestrà, meaning the Virgin Mary in majesty, from the year 1315, is crucial to the art world of Siena, as it was the first known painting by Martini, and is truly powerful and striking. Head to Room Sala dei Nove, meaning hall of the nine, which is where the ruling of council nine was held. Is it generously decorated in styles of art and frescoes that depict multiple meanings through gorgeous methods, and often feature scenes of Siena. These scenes and artworks are relevant today, as they mainly represent the importance of renaissance secularity.

A trip to Siena is a journey to discovering secrets and a new pace of life; a weekend in this Tuscan beauty will have you itching for more.

What better way to see Italy than to visit Tuscany, and explore its three major cities all on one trip? The region of Central Italy is one made of dreams and clarity; one can never get enough of Tuscany and all of its artistic beauty.

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