Tuscan countryside

travel wonder in Italy

Why the

Tuscan countryside

is special

The gently rolling hills of Tuscany are one of the world's most picturesque rural landscapes.

Medieval villages, castle ruins and renovated old farmhouses crown hilltops, as do copses of vertically soaring Cyprus trees.

On the slopes below stretch vineyards and olive groves, which have given Tuscany its worldwide reputation for interesting wines and olive oil.

Tips & insights on

the Tuscan countryside

Most visitors who explore the bucolic sights base themselves in Florence or Siena.

Alternatively, you can rent a private villa in the country for a week or longer (they come in all varieties to suit different preferences and pocketbooks). Most people share a villa with a group of their friends, making it a pleasurable and affordable vacation.

Another option is to sign for a cooking school vacation. You shop in the local markets with your instructor, cook the food in the rustic kitchen of your farmhouse dwelling, and enjoy the repast with local wine with your fellow students on an outdoor terrace overlooking the mesmerizing Tuscan countryside.

Generally, the most beautiful countryside lies between between Siena and Florence, the Chianti area. The most interesting small hilltop villages for exploring reside south of Siena. They include Pienza, Montalcino and Montepulciano.

View my other gold,

silver & bronze medal

winners in Italy

My Italian

phrase guide

for travelers

What every visitor should know.

Italian cuisine guide

Vatican City

Note: Its wonders are not listed in my Italy Guide. Even though the Vatican lies within Rome, it is not part of it or Italy. It's an independent nation. Click to see its gold, silver and bronze medals,

I hope your Italy travel dreams come true - and that 

my Tuscan countryside page helps you enjoy your vacation, tour or trip

©2008 HQP / Hillman Quality Publications