Archive for 'Florence'

While there is an endless list of delicious things to be sampled and enjoyed if you book a villa in Florence and are spending time eating your way around the city, those with a sweet tooth are probably wondering about the unmissable desserts of the city. Without a doubt, the absolute must-try sweet treat that is on offer in Florence is the Zuccotto.

Said to have been born in the Renaissance and created by a famous chef of the time, Buonatalenti, this chilled dessert was then lost to time before being eventually rediscovered in the 1930s. Some alterations were made to suit a 20th century palate and the Florentine dessert became a local staple once more after centuries!

2024 has already begun… or has it?

Well, if you plan a vacation in Tuscany and head to a villa in Florence, you might be surprised to find that the city’s traditional New Year’s celebrations have actually not yet happened…

In Florence, New Year’s is actually celebrated on March 25th! Of course, many ring in the new year on the 1st of January like the rest of us today but there are still celebrations and events to mark the event on the 25th of March as well. 

Florence is a truly incredible city that is hard to fully imagine unless you get a chance to wander around its stunning historic centre for yourself. Full of astounding architectural gems, glittering churches, world-class museums, lovely flagship stores, ancient palaces, historic cafes, excellent restaurants, grand town squares, and dazzling statuary and fountains: it is a feast for the eyes with something to see no matter where you turn. The list of attractions in the city, therefore, is truly staggering and endless and those who book a villa in Florence might find it hard to know where to start. 

Tuscany has more than her fair share of famous, beloved, and iconic tourist attractions and destinations but which of these are also UNESCO World Heritage sites?

A title that indicates incredible cultural value, the absence of this accolade does not diminish an attraction but being awarded it does underscore the immense significance of a place. Attractions that are named UNESCO World Heritage sites are immediately considered, by many, to be unmissable. So, if you have booked your villa in Tuscany and you are wondering about the UNESCO World Heritage sites near you that you should check out during your trip, then read on to our definitive list to help you plan a dream vacation in Tuscany...

There are eight official UNESCO World Heritage sites in Tuscany:

Dante Alghieri is, without a doubt, Italy’s best-known writer and a massive figure in the history of literature whose influence is still felt today. He is most famous for his epic, “Divine Comedy”, a trilogy and tale that brings readers through hell and purgatory before ending up in heaven. This work is one of the defining pieces of literature throughout history and is beloved by many around the world. For the most die-hard fans who are also looking to enjoy a getaway in Florence, a visit to the Museum of the House of Dante Alighieri is a must. Just book a luxury villa in Florence and come explore this extraordinary attraction and artist for yourself...