Archive for 'Localities'

Volpaia is a pretty and picturesque fortified village in the Chianti Classico wine region of Tuscany. Also referred to as the Castello di Volpaia, although that is actually the registered name of the winery located there, much of the town is actually owned by said winery. In fact, it isn't really inaccurate to say that Volpaia is the wine village of Tuscany. If you are a great lover of wine, there really isn't any better town to visit in all of Italy and it has more to offer beyond the vineyard, as well. There are incredible views across the surrounding rolling hills and lush green fields of the Chianti landscape, a pretty and well-preserved historic centre, three excellent restaurants, exceptionally fresh air and various activities to enjoy.

So, if you've always wanted to learn about Tuscan wine and want to indulge in some tastings and excellent food, why not find a luxury villa in Chianti and spend a day in beautiful Volpaia.

Italy and food are pretty synonymous, right? Most people who have found a vacation rental in Italy and are planning their trip will be researching galleries, museums and attractions to visit but they are likely to also be impatiently awaiting all of the delicious meals that they have in store. While there are countless foods to be tried while in Italy, not to mention local specialities, there are some foods that are must and should not be missed while there. Even foods you may have tried plenty of times before can taste completely different in Italy and in a very, very good way.

1. Pizza

Pizza is an obvious choice but an important one. I am not a crazy pizza fan, personally, but there really is something completely different about the pizza in Italy. It's lighter and crispier and just tastier, overall.

In the last post in this series, we are discussing even more things to see and do in Pisa that don't involve posing next to, or scaling, a leaning tower. Just find a luxury villa in Pisa and begin exploring this stunning Tuscan city for yourself.

5. Knight's Square

The Knight's Square, or Piazza dei Cavalieri, is a town square in the city but is a beautiful landmark that holds particular historical importance. Located in the University Quarter, at the edge of the medieval city centre, just a short walk from the Piazza dei Miracoli, the square is thought to have Roman origins, became a political centre during the Middle Ages and is now a cultural and physical hub for the University of Pisa. The appearance of many of the buildings in the piazza that we see today dates to the 16th century and was created in a project headed by famous Renaissance architect Giorgio Vasari.

As the Leaning Tower of Pisa is so inordinately and overpoweringly famous, the other sights and attractions of Pisa often don't even get a look in. However, if you have found a luxury villa in Pisa and are visiting that beautiful city, you might wonder what else is there to do in Pisa? Luckily, we have compiled a list of some of the best things to see and do in Pisa that aren't towers with poor foundations.

3. Palazzo Blu

The Palazzo Blu is one of the most important art museums in the city and is, appropriately, located in a wonderfully restored 14th-century dusty-blue palace. Home to Foundation Pisa's art collection (on the 2nd floor of the building) that is made up of predominantly Pisan works from the 14th to the 20th centuries it also hosts various temporary exhibitions on the ground floor throughout the year.

If you have found a luxury villa in Pisa, a visit to the Leaning Tower of Pisa is, for many, a must, of course. However, there is lots more to see and do in this beautiful and historic Tuscan city.

We have compiled a list of other key attractions and things to see and do in Pisa so you don't miss out on the rest of this wonderful city, just because of the long shadow cast by the Tower.

1. Tuttomondo

While Italy might be more famous for her ancient, medieval and Renaissance artworks, the lineage of the production of great works of art in Italy continues right up to the present day. Pisa may be known for its medieval architecture but it is also home to Keith Haring's “Tuttomondo” mural, his last public work.