Tuscany villas to rent

Tuscan cuisine is one of the wonders of this land and is the gateway to our culture. Mostly of peasant origins, the Tuscan dishes make the most of what the territory offers. Tuscan cuisine is called "povera" - poor, of humble origins - mainly because of its core ingredients, but it definitely doesn’t lack in flavours and nuances, as you will discover in this guide to traditional Tuscan cuisine.

Despite following a typical method, each recipe can vary from town to town, and even from village to village. This has to do with the way in which recipes are passed down through generations, and local pride, which is very distinctive of our region.

The cornerstones of this cuisine are aromatic herbs, fine olive oil, seasonal vegetables, meats, and unsalted bread (pane sciocco, or pane toscano), which is perfect for accompanying strong flavours like cured meats and game.

In this article, we will give you a comprehensive guide on the main categories of the Tuscan tradition: pasta dishes, meat and game, fish and seafood dishes, soups, sides, and traditional sweets. Let’s dive in!

Chianti is well known for its rich history, fascinating culture, and historical traditions, but there are also endless opportunities to explore and discover a wide variety of events and activities within this stunning region. Immerse yourself in medieval festivals, experience the thrill of a vintage bike race, or indulge in wine-related events guaranteed to excite your senses. Our hand-picked selection of the best events and activities in Chianti will take you on an unforgettable journey, helping you uncover the best the region offers.

The picturesque region of Chianti is well known for its unique landscape, world-famous wine, and extraordinary cuisine, which reflects the area's rich history and culinary traditions. With so many exceptional options to choose from, we have handpicked the best Michelin-starred, fine-dining, and traditional restaurants that Chianti has to offer, all of which showcase the region's fresh and locally sourced ingredients nestled within scenic locations in and around Chianti. Read on to learn more about the region's best-loved restaurants in one of Italy's most breathtaking destinations.

Florence is well known for its rich history and stunning architecture, but something that can’t be missed is its outstanding cuisine, which is famous for its simple but high-quality ingredients. From award-winning restaurants to typical Trattorie, there is something for everyone. In this guide, you will find our best recommendations on three main categories: Michelin-starred, fine dining, and traditional restaurants. Keep reading, and make sure not to miss out on the best food on your next trip to Florence.

Viareggio is known for two things: the sea and its Carnival. This small coastal city in the province of Lucca hosts one of the most important carnivals in the world. During the cheerful celebrations, the Viareggio promenade overflows with people, music, and the majestic Carri Allegorici (allegorical floats). The floats - made of paper mache - address the great themes of the contemporary world with a satiric approach: from national and international politics to the environment and society.

The Viareggio Carnival is an annual event, celebrating its 150th year in 2023. If you’re considering a trip to Tuscany this year, the Carnival parade will be running every Sunday through the month of February, with an additional parade on Shrove Tuesday, and it is definitely worth visiting during your trip.

In this article we will dive into the history of the carnival, including the artisanal know-how of Viareggio Carnival, and the traditions tied to this event. Keep reading if you want to know more!

Lucca is a picturesque city filled with rolling hills and stunning countryside landscapes, renowned for its olive oil and wine production. Scattered on the beautiful hills of Lucca there are many wine and olive oil producers worth visiting. While enjoying your stay in one of our villas to rent in Lucca, why not plan a wine and olive oil tasting tour to truly appreciate this stunning scenery? Our local experts have put together a guide of the best wineries to visit. Keep reading to discover all the places you can’t miss on your trip to Lucca.

Embark on a journey through the picturesque landscapes of Chianti; only a few regions can offer such a beautiful and rich panorama. Find yourself surrounded by rolling green hills, vineyards, olive groves, ancient villages and winding roads that lead to breathtaking views.

Immerse yourself in natural beauty, rich history, and world-renowned wines, whilst enjoying a bike ride or a walk among the numerous castles and learning about the history of this region: the heart of Tuscany awaits!

Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, needs no introduction. As a city with a rich heritage of architecture, paintings, sculptures, and historical and scientific artefacts, it is universally recognised as one of the world's most significant centres of art.

This city has an abundance of offerings, including a thriving culture and art scene, excellent food, exquisite handcrafted goods, and a vibrant young nightlife. The options are endless.

This guide has gathered all the essential information you need to maximise your holiday to Florence and experience all this city has to offer.