Top Spots in Tuscany
Italian cuisine is full of variety and each city within the 20 regions of Italy offers its own culinary specialties. In Tuscany, earthy staples abound, from hearty soups to ubiquitous antipasti (often composed of crostini and cold cuts), to parpadelle (ribbon pasta) served with tomato sauce of wild hare or boar, to Chianti and Tuscan steak. Follow this guide for must-see works of art and attractions throughout the region, in addition to food and dining highlights.
Must-See Treasures
Known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence houses magnificent masterpieces to add to your bucket list. See Michelangelo’s David (at Galleria dell’Accademia), Botticelli’s Birth of Venus (at Uffizi Gallery), Piazza del Duomo and the frescoed chapel Santa Maria Novella, to name just a few. Other must-sees of Tuscany include: Siena, a classic medieval hill town, the Chianti Classico wine region; the iconic leaning tower of Pisa, the walled city of Lucca with endless shopping and dining options, and the spa town Montecatini Terme.
Grand Hotel Medici Florence
Located in the center of Florence, Grand Hotel Medici Florence is a hidden gem luxury hotel housed in an elegant 18th century villa, hidden by a high wall and luxuriant gardens. Here you get the best of both worlds: privacy and a peaceful, tranquil environment, coupled with accessibility to all the culture and shopping that Florence has to offer. The hotel is only a 20-minute walk from major art attractions such the Duomo, Uffizi and Ponte Vecchio. Diners Clubmembers receive 10% off all tariffs charged at the hotel.
Ristorante Cibreo
Popular in the Santa Croce neighborhood of Florence since 1978, Ristorante Cibreo has built a reputation for outstanding Florentine cooking. Florentine terrine of chicken and rabbit liver with spinach and parmigiana reflect the rustic flavors of Tuscany. Diners Clubmembers enjoy a complimentary tray of various surprise little antipasti created by the chef for the table.
Ristorante La Conchiglia
Ristorante La Conchiglia is located in Viareggio, a popular seaside Italian Riviera-style resort where locals enjoy their summer holidays. Enjoy the backdrop of the gently lapping sea while feasting on cuisine that is a fusion of local and contemporary recipes. Diners Clubmembers receive 15% off rates.
To view these and other Diners Club Privileges in Italy, check out our current offers. Other must-see areas of Tuscany include Val d’Orcia, Arezzo and Volterra.
Located in southern Tuscany, the entire Val d’Orcia region is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with breathtaking views of hilly landscapes. Cheese lovers find paradise in the village of Pienza, where Pecorino is produced, and those seeking rest and relaxation can enjoy hot springs located at Bagno Vignoni, Bagni San Filippo and Vivo d’Orcia.
Perfect for a day-trip from Florence, Volterra is a walled town brimming with architectural treasures from the medieval, Roman and Etruscan periods.
A 40-minute train ride southeast from Florence, Arezzo is where ancient and medieval art intersects with a modern aesthetic. Highlights include: Piazza Grande (featured in the Roberto Benigni film, Life is Beautiful), the antiques market and Basilica of San Francesco, featuring the Cappella Bacci with frescoes by Piero della Francesca, and the beautiful castle of Poppi.
From Florence to Val d’Orcia and everything in between, Tuscany is a delight for the senses!