Archive for 'Tourist Attractions'

For those interested in opera, a vacation in Italy at some point in your life is an absolute must. As both the birthplace of the genre and one of the major world capitals of opera, if you are interested in seeing the most incredible productions in the most spectacular historic venues, it is the destination for you. However, if you are a super fan of Puccini, in particular, and you were thinking of a vacation in Tuscany, then you should browse our villas with a pool in Lucca. Lucca has many claims to fame but one of its most lauded and famous sons was Puccini and for those who love him and his work, it is a special experience to walk streets that once inspired the artist. And, of course, you can't miss out on a visit to the Villa Museo Puccini, or Puccini House Museum.

Located at Torre del Lago, with an incredible view over Lake Massaciuccoli, the Puccini House Museum was Puccini's home and is now run as a museum dedicated to the great composer by his descendants. Not only is it a fascinating spot for those looking to learn more about the famous maestro and his life and work, it is also, in of itself, a beautiful and incredibly interesting architectural gem. Designed by the architect Giuseppe Puccinelli, this Art Nouveau looker was created in collaboration with Puccini himself and a host of great artisans such as Galileo Chini, the maker of the gorgeous fireplace in the main living space, and Nomellini, who painted the pictorial decorations on the walls.

Florence is known as the birthplace of the Renaissance and is a major art and cultural centre that produced some of the most talented and innovative artists, architects, writers, and thinkers of all time, as well as some of the most exceptional masterpieces. Art-lovers who want to vacation in Tuscany should definitely browse our luxury villas in Florence as the city is the perfect place for those who want to dive into an endless supply of museums, architectural gems, works of art, and more. Once you find yourself in the city, you'll be faced with the unenviable task of having to choose which attractions and cultural institutions to go and see as there are enough in the city for a lifetime of vacations. This is why we recommend a visit to the Palazzo Pitti, a lush Renaissance palace that was built for Luca Pitti but later purchased by the Medici and which went on to become their primary residence. It is today a state-owned gem that is home to several different museums including the Palatine Gallery, Gallery of Modern Art, and several other gallery spaces and exhibitions. With so many great cultural institutions under one roof (or in one area), it is an ideal place to get a real taste of the incredible artistic heritage of Florence.

Florence is one of those incredibly beautiful cities and holiday destinations in holiday in Tuscany where there are hidden gems and surprises around every corner. While those who have found a villa with a swimming pool in Florence may spend plenty of time seeking out the city's world-class museums, attractions, architectural gems, stores, bars, restaurants, and more, we also recommend plenty of time spent just wandering around and soaking up the stunning scenery and unique atmosphere of the wonderful birthplace of the Renaissance. As you do so, you may take a little while to go and explore the impossibly lovely Horticultural Garden of Florence.

If you are a movie-lover, then the cinematic beauty of Tuscany is very appealing and makes it a perfect place for a vacation but so, too, does its history as a destination where famous films have been set and made. Fans of Roberto Benigni's beloved 1997 Oscar-winning masterpiece, “La Vita è Bella,” can head to a villa in Arezzo to see many locations from that movie, those who have always wanted to see the heavenly land from the end of the Russell Crowe vehicle, “Gladiator,” can wander it themselves with a vacation rental in the Orcia Valley, and Hannibal can be followed around Florence. In fact, we have a whole section of articles based around films and books set and made in Tuscany that you can browse and use to plan all sorts of adventures and holidays in Tuscany. However, if you have been considering a luxury villa in Florence, in particular, but are in search of somewhere to actually go and see some films while you are on holidays, then you will find yourself very much in luck. Florence happens to be home to a rather exceptionally beautiful and special cinema called the Cinema Odeon Firenze that any self-respecting movie buff will tell you makes for a magic place to relax and see a film while on vacation.

Cortona is a famously quaint and scenic historic town located on a hillside overlooking the stunning rolling landscape of the Valdichiana. It is a place where scenes from the beloved, Under the Tuscan Sun, starring Diane Lane were filmed and a spot that made many fall in love with Tuscany. Dating back to Roman and Etruscan times, the town is enclosed by ancient walls and though it is small, it has lots to offer a visitor who has found a villa rental in Cortona!