Tuscany
Posted in: Must See Attractions Pretty Views Tourist Attractions Travel Tips

Lonely Planet has long been a key name in the travel industry when it comes to guides to specific destinations and in highlighting places you should think about visiting. Starting as guidebooks and now a mainstay of internet research ahead of a trip or as a spot for some serious travel inspo, 2024 marks 50 years of the brand.


In this special year, they have highlighted 50 amazing destinations to celebrate 50 years in their annual Best in Travel awards. While it certainly is not news to us, one of the best regions that they have decided to feature is Tuscany! A villa in Tuscany is always a good idea but in order to reiterate our own opinion on the matter, here’s what Lonely Planet had to say and why they decided to choose Tuscany among the regions of the world as one of the best to visit...

Siena's cathedral, exterior
Posted in: Churches & Religious Buildings Localities Museums & Galleries Must See Attractions Siena Tourist Attractions

The grand cathedrals of Tuscany’s cities are generally an extraordinary collection of buildings, often with ancient origins, additions throughout various periods and architectural styles, contributions by named and famous architects, gilded interiors full of stunning objects, and artworks by the likes of Michelangelo, Giotto, and more. Those, therefore, who find a villa in Tuscany and visit any given town or city should always make time to pop into the local cathedral but, in particular, if you book a vacation rental in Siena, we really recommend a visit. This absolutely gorgeous church has lots of remarkable details touched by famous and beyond talented hands. Here are just five of its highlights that make it a must-see for those on holiday in Siena.

Leaning Tower of Pisa
Posted in: Architectural Gems Churches & Religious Buildings Day Trips Food and Wine Localities Museums & Galleries Must See Attractions Pisa Tourist Attractions

If you book a villa in Tuscany and decide on one destination – a vacation rental on the Tuscan Coast, for example, or a holiday rental in Florence – but you also want to see the famous city of Pisa on a day trip, then that is pretty easily arranged. Tuscany is a diverse, fascinating, and large enough region but not so big that day trips between different cities or areas is overly challenging. What can be more difficult, however, is if you want to see as much of the region as is possible and you only have a day to spend in any one destination. In this case, what do you prioritise? Well, we’re here to help with our handy guide of what to do if you only have a day (12 hours) in Pisa!

Leather gloves
Posted in: Activities Florence Localities Must See Attractions Shopping

One of the things that Florence has long been famous for is her leather goods and those serious fashionistas who book a luxury villa in Florence and are looking to perfectly complete an outfit with the ideal finishing touch should make sure to swing by Madova.


Located on Via de' Guicciardini, Madova is over a century old, dating all the way back to 1919 and is entirely dedicated to gloves made from artisanal leather. In fact, it is the only shop in Europe that still exclusively produces and sells leather gloves.

Florence
Posted in: Books and Movies Florence Localities Must See Attractions

While the Hannibal television show (2013-2015) was ultimately cancelled, it has since become a major cult classic and has been long recognised by critics as one of the best television shows in recent history. Fans of the show are of the especially passionate variety and if you are among their number and considering a villa in Florence for your next vacation, then you may be interested in learning about the filming locations that were featured in season 3, much of which takes place in the city.