Archive for 'Day Trips'

  

Wednesday, November 7, 2012
View of Sovana
Those looking for a hidden gem off the beaten tourist path will appreciate the quaint charms and Etruscan ruins of Sovana.
This tiny dot on the map is located in the heart of southern Tuscany, known for its sparse landscape with rolling hills and fields. Sovana is a beautifully preserved small town, filled with a rich history inside of its medieval architecture.

This architecture is perfectly preserved, which you can't help but notice as you stroll down the main street and take in the gorgeous luxury villas and central square. The town is Etruscan in origin, before being taken over by the Romans and later the Lombards.

Near Sovana lies the Tomb Ildebranda, the largest Etruscan mausoleum that has been found to date. It was decorated with 12 columns, and contained two imposing stone staircases as well as one underground leading to the internal funerary chamber.     Read More
Posted in: Day Trips, Localities, Small Towns

  

Monday, November 5, 2012
Volpaia
Dating back to medieval times, Castello di Volpaia is a fortified village behind a circular defense wall. It's notable not only for allowing visitors to see some remarkably well-preserved architecture despite repeated devastation, it also is home to the winery that produces the famous Chianti Classico wine.

Volpaia is a delightful day trip for those who wish to taste Chianti in its home, while learning more about the history of this interesting castle and fortified village.

Although parts of it have crumbled due to battles throughout history, you can still see the ancient chain of walls and many remains of this fascinating castle.

One of the leading highlights of the Castello di Volpaia is the tower church, which is dedicated to Saint Eufroino.     Read More
Posted in: Chianti, Day Trips, Localities

  

Tuesday, October 30, 2012
Poppi Castello
Although many travelers in Tuscany tend to stick to the major sites in cities like Florence and Siena, there are also numerous small towns that dot the picturesque countryside which are well worth a visit.

One of these is Poppi, which is located in the Province of Arezzo, located only a few miles to the east of Florence. This makes it an easy day trip when you have tired of the larger city. The name is thought to come from the word "poplo" which means mound or hill, and it is set on top of a hill affording wonderful views of the surrounding countryside.

When you visit this town, there are many sights that you will want to take in during your visit to get a feel for the history and culture here.     Read More
Posted in: Day Trips, Localities, Small Towns

  

Friday, October 26, 2012
Lucignano
Tuscany is filled with beautiful sights to see scattered throughout the memorable countryside. One of the most beautiful areas is located in the Province of Arezzo.

Lucignano is a municipality here located in between Florence and Arezzo, notable for its well-preserved medieval walls. Set on the top of a hill, it was the site of dispute between a range of Tuscan cities between 1200 and 1500, including Siena, Arezzo, Florence, and Perugia.

There are many historical sites to visit within this town, including a bevy of examples of medieval architecture which remain. The best way to appreciate these sights is by exploring on foot.     Read More
Posted in: Day Trips, Localities, Small Towns

  

Tuesday, October 23, 2012
Palazzo dei Vescovi
With a refinement, elegancy, and beauty that dates back to the golden age of Italy, visiting Pistoia allows you to see a well-preserved view into the past in its walled old town. Located just 25km northwest of Florence in Tuscany, visiting Pistoia is a great day trip for anyone renting a villa in northern Tuscany.

It has many interesting facets to explore, including a variety of cloisters, churches, art museums, and palaces from many different eras.     Read More
Posted in: Big Cities, Day Trips, Localities