Archive for 'Localities'

Continuing on from our last post, we are still following along Google's automatically generated itinerary for a day in Florence. Having just crossed the Ponte alle Grazie, a quieter bridge over the Arno, just a stone's throw from the busier and more famous Ponte Vecchio, we were on our way to the next attraction…

4. Santa Croce (Travel: Less than 5 minutes by foot. Approx. time to spend here: 1 hour)

This stunning Gothic church is a lovely polychromatic 13th century Franciscan basilica that is the final resting place of the likes of Michelangelo, Galileo and Machiavelli among others. Packed to the rafters with incredible frescoes, stained glass, sculptures and other objets d'art, there is plenty to see and do. In fact, there is too much to take it all in entirely in a single visit but the experience of stepping inside this jewel box of culture and history is worth the minor sensory overload.     Read More

Google seems to have the answers to all of life's questions, right? Whether you are looking for directions or somewhere good to eat, want to know when a museum closes or when to avoid peak crowds, having the internet at your fingertips takes the work out of holiday-making and makes your life a hell of a lot easier.

In fact, they've gone a step further now and Google has even compiled all of their data to generate automatic itineraries of destinations based on the post popular attractions, their locations and the distances between them. Based on the amount of days you will be in the place you have chosen, there are a variety of itineraries to choose from and one can't help but wonder at how well an algorithm might plan a trip.

So, here is Google's suggestion for what to do with 24 hours in Florence. Just find a luxury villa in Florence and see for yourself how suitable it might be.     Read More

In our final post in this series, here are some more of our picks of our best seaside villas in Tuscany. These are extraordinary properties, with excellent views, easy access to the beach and perfect accommodations to return to and relax after long days of fun in the sea. Just find the right one for you and get planning your perfect getaway on the Tuscan Coast.

8. Il Sorriso

This flat is situated in a recently renovated villa around 500m from the centre of Porto S. Stefano. Independent, with its own separate entrance, it is is tastefully furnished in comfortable furniture and neutral tones, with pops of colour throughout. The brightest colours, however, are outside, where a sunny terrace with bright orange terracotta tiles is set against the endless blue skies, clear sea and lush green surroundings. This terrace makes the most of the amazing view right over the water and is a perfect place for al fresco dining with a sea breeze.     Read More

Continuing on from our last two posts, here are even more of our picks of the best seaside vacation rentals in Tuscany that we have on offer. If you are looking for a perfect seaside getaway on the Tuscan Coast, these will facilitate long days on the beach, waking up to fresh salty air and evenings with incredible sunsets across the water.

5. Torre Rivolta

This ancient watch tower dates back to the year 500 and has been recently restored, all the while preserving its original architectural features. Located in the heart of the Maremma Natural Preserve in peacefully and isolated location, on a large 200-hectare estate bordering with the seaside, it amazing panoramic views extending from the Tuscan islands and Corsica in the distance to the beautiful hills of the Maremma region. The interiors are welcoming, furnished in a simple and rustic style but with all of the necessary modern conveniences to make for a pleasant stay.     Read More