It can be hard to land on just one vacation destination in Tuscany when it has so much to offer and has a more varied landscape than many might imagine. From seaside breaks to cosmopolitan getaways to rural retreats, there are all sorts of holidays to be had... and some locations that allow you to enjoy a little bit of everything! So, if you’re trying to decide on where you should base yourself in Tuscany we have put together a handy guide to help you out so that you can find the ideal villa in Tuscany for your tastes and needs...
Getting Away From It All In The Countryside
One of the most enduringly famous images of Tuscany is of her rolling green hills, fields of olive groves and vineyards, winding roads lined with cypress trees, ancient hilltop villages perched in the distance, and the occasional farmhouse along the horizon. While there are plenty of parts of the region with these sorts of views to one degree or another, the Val D’Orcia is renowned for having the most picture-perfect scenery of this kind.
For those who are looking to really get away from it all, who want to escape to a properly remote location, and just forget the rest of the world for a while, our vacation rentals in the Val D’Orcia are a perfect option.
Hang out by the pool in a villa with pool in the Val D'Orcia, enjoying long, lazy meals al fresco, sip wine while taking in the sunset over those postcard-perfect views, and totally unwind. Plus, if you still want to enjoy some day-trips and tick some things off your bucket list, this area is ideal for easily accessing Siena, Montalcino, Montepulciano, Cortona, and more.
Soaking Up The Vineyards
Similarly, while there are plenty of areas with ample vineyards all around all throughout Tuscany, dedicated wine-lovers planning a trip to Tuscany are likely going to want to book a villa in Chianti. This incredibly famous and beloved wine area of Tuscany has endless vineyards, wineries. and wine towns. It is comprised of a vast expanse stretching through much of the centre of the region and across multiple provinces.
For wine fans, there will be ample opportunity to explore the pretty villages, go on wine-tasting sessions and tours, enjoy meals in local eateries paired with incredible regional vintages, and more. As with those basing themselves in the Val D’Orcia, meanwhile, you’ll still be able to plan day-trips to famous towns and tourist attractions throughout your trip in Chianti as well!
Basing Yourself In Siena and Central Tuscany
Speaking of basing yourself in central Tuscany, booking a holiday rental in Siena or in the surrounding province or area is a great idea if you want to really make the most of your time in Tuscany!
Not only is the town well-connected with buses to nearby towns and the likes of Montalcino and Montepulciano but there is also a train station with regular trains to the likes of Pisa, Florence, Montepulciano, San Gimignano, and more. Those up for a bigger journeys and day-trip outings could even catch the train to Bologna, Rome, or Milan.
If you’re staying in a villa in Siena and have a car, meanwhile, you can drive all over the region readily and easily. So, for those who want a versatile vacation in Tuscany, this might be a good idea.
Take A Hike
While there are lots of places to go on wonderful walks in Tuscany, those after more serious hikes in spring, summer, and autumn (and some skiing or other winter sports in the winter) should head to the Apuan Alps. This area boasts a wide range of hiking trails and natural wonders with Carrara and her famous marble quarries acting as one incredible portal to the area and Lucca, Pisa, Pistoia, and the northern stretch of the Tuscan Coast as other ideal areas to base yourself if you are looking to start hiking in this stunning part of the world.
Plus, if you are spending time in this northern area of Tuscany then you can also enjoy plenty of beach days along the beloved coast of Liguria and the Tuscan Coast and dip a toe into Emilia-Romagna and her foodie delights.
Exploring The Tuscan Coast
For those who love to be by the sea, meanwhile, a villa on the Tuscan Coast is an ideal option. Not only does this allow you to plan day-trips to famous tourist spots inland and generally soak up the Tuscan lifestyle but the Tuscan Coast itself is a less talked about but no less wonderful stretch of the Italian coastline.
With lots of large and sandy beaches, it is less dramatic than some other coastlines in Italy but boasts some stunning beaches all the same and is well-suited to days by the sea with your family, friends, or the one you love.
Diving Into Florence
If you are after more of a city break with all of the convenience, choice, and cosmopolitan charm that come along with that, then Florence is really your only option in Tuscany. While not an especially large city, it has endless things to see and do, wonderful bars and restaurants, a rich cultural heritage, and all of the amenities you would expect from a city.
Book your vacation rental in Florence and tick off major tourist attractions like the Duomo, the Uffizi, Michelangelo’s David, and more; use the public transportation options to plan day-trips to other key destinations and attractions in Tuscany easily; and enjoy strolling through impossibly picturesque historic streets to enjoy aperitivi in chic rooftop bars and to eat in local restaurants that will blow your mind. Base yourself in Florence and dive into that great city or use it as a perfect hub to cover plenty of ground - or both!