Archive for 'Tuscany'

Postcard images of Italy probably flit before your mind’s eye the moment you think about the country. It is a land that has produced some impossibly scenic views where cityscapes and nature, architectural gems and incredible monuments all come together synergistically to create unforgettable scenes. But, if you were to pick a few to single out and ensure that you see them for yourself during a vacation in Italy, which ones would we recommend? Given that we think about Italy on a daily basis and have helped thousands of customers have perfect holidays in Italy throughout the years, we think we might have a bit of insight as to some of the unmissable views that you should make a note of...

1. Florence from the Piazzale Michelangelo

A very popular spot to watch the sun set over the city, the Piazzale Michelangelo is now a buzzing spot that attracts excited crowds who bring takeout to enjoy, musicians who set up and play to said crowds, and some particularly enthusiastic attendees who often start the crowd dancing. Those after the view and not so much this atmosphere can come at sunrise instead and will have the place pretty much to themselves. Either way, you’ll get some amazing views over the gorgeous skyline of the city and it is undeniably one of the best free things to do if you book a villa in Florence.

Nestled not far from the border between Umbria and Tuscany, the charming town of Città della Pieve is the birthplace of the famous Renaissance painter Il Perugino and is a medieval gem with winding streets, historic buildings, and panoramic views over the famously lush and lovely landscapes of Lake Trasimeno and the Val di Chiana. For those who want to experience a quintessentially Italian and picturesque spot, as well as the best of both regions, and to plan easy day-trips to the likes of Perugia, Cortona, Montepulciano, Montalcino, Assisi, Florence, and more, then it is a truly perfect base for your holiday in Italy. And, if you are after a vacation rental in Umbria that is equally charming, quintessentially Italian, and lovely in its own right, then Charming Apartment Cartoni is the ideal option!

While there are cities and destinations in Italy in which you could readily get about by public transportation, there are many beloved vacation spots where a car really would come in handy. Of course, if you’re on a city break in a big metropolis like Rome or a slightly more compact but highly historic destination like Florence, driving can be both tricky and impractical as there are plenty of other options when it comes to getting around.

However, if you were planning on booking a villa in Tuscany or a vacation rental in Apulia or another destination that is a little more remote or is a wider region that you wish to explore to your heart’s content, then a car will likely be necessary. Trains and buses will get you from town to town but it can be more complicated to visit attractions way out in the countryside or that are scattered all over the region.

Renting a car is a great way to ensure that you can go wherever you want, whenever you want and make the absolute most of your time on holiday in Italy. 

As with many places around the world, certain towns in Italy are known for local traditions in the production of specific foods and goods. In Italy, the regional foods of the country are often more familiar to us but there are some exquisite local craft traditions that continue to this day and that are well-worth checking out, especially if you are fond of the finer things.

Take, for example, the charming medieval town of Arezzo, which has an impossibly rich tradition of jewellery and gold craftsmanship that will make the magpies and lovers of sparkly things around the world want to book a villa in Arezzo and pay a visit. If you’re looking to enjoy a vacation in Tuscany and all that that entails but also want to invest in something truly special to commemorate your trip, then Arezzo is the perfect destination.