Archive for 'Localities'

One of the things that you can be guaranteed is that if you book one of our luxury villas in Tuscany, the vacation rental in question is going to have pretty much every ingredient necessary for a perfect base for a dream holiday. Villa San Casciano is a perfect example of this: a beautiful old building that has been perfectly renovated and decorated with impeccable taste and boasts a stunning setting, a gorgeous garden, a private pool, air-conditioning, WIFI, and an array of incredible extra services that can be arranged for and offered to the guests at an additional fee. Sleeping up to 12 people comfortably in seven bedrooms with six bathrooms, this gem is the ideal spot for a luxury getaway in Tuscany with a group of the people you love the most.

The incredible birthplace of the Renaissance and capital city of Tuscany, Florence, is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. It is home to extraordinary churches designed by famous architects and filled with masterpieces by world-renowned artists, stunning palaces that housed the noble families of Florence and inspired architects all over the world, museums boasting collections of some of the most beloved and iconic works of art ever made, pretty streets and awe-inspiring town squares, world-class restaurants and bars, ancient markets and chic boutiques, flagship stores of some of the most recognisable fashion brands globally, and much more besides. Those who book one of our luxury villas in Florence, therefore, and spend time in the city will discover that there is no shortage of astounding things to see and do. However, much of these attractions require spending money and, very quickly, that can start to add up. It is always handy to have some excellent free activities to add into your itinerary when on vacation and Florence has some great ones. So, here are the best things to see and do for free while you enjoy a holiday in Florence...

Years ago, when I was working as an au pair in Italy for a summer during university, I temporarily became a member of an Italian family. As such, I escorted them on various weekends by the sea and in the Alps and on all sorts of family days out. Many of the outings involved heading to a neighbouring town or village to attend one of Italy’s endless sagre (festivals) to sample a local speciality. These events usually centred around a singular dish that was impossibly delicious and incredibly cheap, enjoyed among other attendees at long tables with plastic table cloths and bench seats. Music, rides for kids, and other entertainments were often on offer as well but it was mostly about the food and the food always delivered.

So, if you are planning a vacation in Italy, I always recommend finding out what the local food festivals are and attending if one is occurring during your trip. Not only will this offer an incredibly authentic Italian experience but it is a great way to eat well and cheaply – what’s not to love? This August, if you have found a villa in Tuscany or a holiday rental in Lucca, in particular, I suggest making your way to the town of Barga to enjoy a somewhat unlikely Tuscan food festival – their annual Fish and Chips Festival!

We have a wide range of villas in Italy, apartments in Italy, farmhouses in Italy, and more to choose from, with all sorts of unique selling points and incredible amenities, at various price points, and in different parts of the region. Before even looking at those factors, however, you might be wondering: “Should I rent a villa in Italy?”

To us, the answer is obvious: “Of course you should!” However, don’t just take it at our word. Take a look at the following questions and consider if a vacation rental in Italy is the right answer for your next vacation.

For the ultimate luxury experience of Apulia, it is hard to beat a stay in the stunning Villa Clementina. This modern villa in Monopoli is not only a luxury villa with a private swimming pool but it also boasts amazing sea views and private access to the beach that it overlooks. Sleeping up to ten guests in five bedrooms with six bathrooms, this chic and spacious gem is a dream escape on the coast with all of the bells and whistles that you could ask for.