Luxury coastal villas in Chianti and northern Tuscany

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Florence

Florence’s skyline must be one of the most famous vistas in the world, with the gracious dome of its duomo rising above the surrounding terracotta roofs. A stroll through the city is a must if you are in Tuscany and the list of cultural sights is endless: the Pitti Palace, the Boboli Gardens, the Uffizi Gallery, the Ponte Vecchio, and of course, Michelangelo’s ‘David’.

Piazza del Campo, Siena

But if you’re looking for a different take on Florence, then wander down the back streets, where you’ll find a treasure chest of small boutiques, including an apothecary where monks still make herbal potions and perfumes. Bargain hunters should head out of town to the Prada, Gucci and Armani outlets in the environs. Alternatively, make for Via Maggio where you’ll find a good selection of crafts and antiques shops.

A great way to escape the bustle of Florence is to head for Fiesole, the dignified district in the hills above the City. Here, elegant villas are set amongst scented woods and Etruscan monuments.

Siena, to the south of Tuscany is very different in feel to its larger cousin, Florence. Often at war with each other, the two towns have developed their own characters. Siena’s wide-open central piazza seems much less frenetic than Florence, although that is disputable during the ‘Palio’ – the furious horse race held here every year.

Surrounding Siena is the undulating Chianti region, which gives its name to the fine wine, produced here. Every inch of land seems to be covered in vines and olive groves, so visitors will not be disappointed with the delicious food and wine. Gaiole, Greve, Cortona, Radda, Arezzo, Volterra, Montepulciano - these are just some of the evocative names that you will find in Chianti.

• Holidays in Tuscany
• The Palio, Siena
• Map
• Weddings and parties in Tuscany