Tuscany is a region famed for its breathtaking landscapes, exquisite cuisine, and artistic heritage and is also well-renowned as a paradise for walkers. Here are five destinations that highlight the very best of what Tuscany has to offer.

Florence

Florence is a city of art and history, having once staged the masters such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michaelangelo and Galileo. Take a stroll through its cobbled streets and piazzas and you’ll soon see why Florence is a must-see on any Italy tour.

In the Piazza della Signoria, you can marvel at the impressive fortress-like Palazzo Vecchio, which is the town hall. In the square, you’ll find many famous statues such as the 500-year-old Fountain of Neptune and a replica of Michelangelo’s David. Art lovers won’t want to miss the Uffizi Gallery, which can also be found here and is home to famous works such as Botticelli’s Birth of Venus and Roman sculptures.

Siena

Explore the medieval cityscape of Siena, world-famous for its Gothic architecture and the historic Palio di Siena horse race.

For one of the most beautiful and breathtaking views of the city, you’ll want to climb The Torre del Mangia at the Piazza del Campo. Standing at 87 metres high, you’ll need to tackle 400 steep, narrow steps but the 360-degree view from the top is worth it. From here, you’ll be able to see not only the busy piazza below but also the city of Siena stretching out before you and the Tuscan countryside beyond.

There are also plenty of trails in and around Siena that will allow you to get off the beaten track and explore the true heart of Tuscany.

Pisa

It would be impossible to explore Tuscany without a trip to the world-famous city of Pisa. But what is there to do after you’ve snapped the obligatory photo of you propping up the leaning tower?

You’ll soon find that if you venture beyond Pisa’s cathedral square and the iconic tower, plenty awaits you in the city’s vibrant streets, such as the Piazza delle Vettovaglie, in the heart of the historic centre, where a vibrant fruit and vegetable market is held every day.

A short distance away, you’ll also find the Migliarino, San Rossore and Massaciuccoli Regional Park where you can explore pine forests, marshes and sand dunes whether by boat, on foot or even on horseback!

Chianti Region

Follow well-trodden Tuscan trails to wander through the Chianti region’s vine-covered hills, where you can taste world-class wines and olive oils and explore quaint villages, such as Panzano with its medieval streets and hilltop views.

Don’t miss the region’s delectable cheeses and cured meats either- the authentic Chianti cuisine makes the perfect treat after a long day of walking.

Val d’Orcia

The entire area of Val d’Orcia is a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site and an area of outstanding natural beauty. With its rolling hills, vineyards, olive groves and fields of sunflowers, the valley is a walker’s paradise.

The region is famous for its cheese, mushrooms and truffles, making it ideal for foodies too. There are also plenty of wonderful towns and villages that offer a glimpse into Italy’s past, such as the tiny and timeless Pienza or the medieval walled city of Montalcino that sits like a fairytale town atop a hill and is home to the world-famous Brunello wine.