Tuscany is known for its rolling hills with neat rows of vineyards and centuries-old olive groves, medieval towns brimming with history, mouth-watering traditional food and wines
Famous locations such as Florence, San Gimignano and Siena can be pricey – but Tuscany still boasts numerous spots where the charm of life in this stunning region is evident.
But the cost of holidays there can remain surprisingly affordable. Tuscany is renowned for its undulating hills adorned with orderly vineyards and ancient olive groves, medieval towns rich in history, delectable traditional cuisine, and wines.
Here are three places our International Living experts recommend:
Lucca
Lucca is a marvellous medieval town of refined palaces, belfries, and piazzas within easy reach of Pisa and only about 75 minutes from the sea. The city boasts one of the best-preserved historic centres in Italy and offers plenty to do, reports the Express. Lucca has been affluent for most of its history, and its landmarks are well-restored. Boutiques, bars, delicatessens, and restaurants are busy with customers.
Arezzo
Elegant yet unhurried, the city of Arezzo brings together the best of old and new Tuscany with an easy-going lifestyle and fewer tourists than you’d expect in such a culturally-rich and beautiful city.
Arezzo fell under the realm of the Medici’s grand duchy for a time, and shades of Florence abound in its public buildings, aristocratic palaces, churches, and artwork.
It’s hard not to draw parallels to Florence as you walk around the city. The pleasant pastel and stone buildings along cobbled lanes blend many similar Medieval and Renaissance styles, which you’ll recognize from Florence, just about an hour away.
Volterra
Volterra is consistently listed among the most beautiful towns in Tuscany, ranking along with better-known Cortona and Montepulciano.
But while tourists find their way here, it does not have the high tourist numbers found in other parts of Tuscany, leaving Volterra with a sense of local life and identity all its own.
Olive groves, cultivated fields, and vineyards punctuated with stately cypress trees create the classic Tuscan landscape, while the town itself preserves its Old World splendour – but with high-speed internet, a hospital, and strong cultural offerings.