It’s taken me a while to decide how to write about Tuscany. Going around this gorgeous region of Italy was so jam-packed with delightful experiences that I have no idea how to even begin describing it. So I figured a shortlist of my top recommended experiences, while inadequate, would have to do.
As a self-proclaimed art history nerd, I greedily drank in Florence’s collection of Renaissance treasures. All over the city, reminders of the powerful Medici family’s love of commissioned masterpieces remain though the family is long-gone. But even the surrounding Tuscan provinces are a wonder to behold, boasting of amazing medieval churches, picture-perfect scenery, and fascinating glimpses of local culture.
In no particular order…
1. Michelangelo’s David, Florence
A bit cliché, but this is a no-brainer. There’s a reason why this piece is as famous as it is – it is breathtakingly, perfectly detailed. Michelangelo Buonarroti studied the bodies of corpses to enhance his knowledge of human anatomy, and it definitely shows in this piece. Veins, tendons, muscles, bones, all carefully executed, look positively lifelike though sculpted from cold, hard marble.
There is a replica of the sculpture where it originally stood in the Piazza della Signoria, but you can see the original in all its glory at the Galleria dell’Accademia.
2. City of Siena
A tour of Siena is like traveling back in time. Siena was a great city and had a booming economy from the 12th century onwards, until the Black Death killed almost 75% of the population and halted the city’s expansion. It never recovered to become the centre of banking and finance that it once was, but left many lasting reminders of the city’s great past.
3. Tuscan countryside
Driving through Tuscany is something that must be experienced – it can’t quite be described accurately. Lush vineyards and fields of sunflowers, as far as the eye can see. Definitely one of the best scenic rides of my life.
4. Florence as seen from Boboli Gardens
This was probably the most restful part of my Florence stay. The skyline, the gentle breeze, the cool, shady hillside, and welcome absence of tourists was a highlight for me. I spent hours just reading, sketching, and reflecting.
5. Piazza della Signoria, Florence
Many famous sculptures are displayed across the plaza, including Ammannati’s Fountain of Neptune, Giambologna’s Hercules and Nessus, and Cellini’s Perseus.
For some reason I never learned about Giambologna in my art history classes, but I became an instant fan. While Michelangelo was the master of lifelike anatomy, Giambologna was undoubtedly the master of dynamic composition.
6. Tourists at the Leaning Tower of Pisa
I was mildly impressed by the Leaning Tower, but thoroughly entertained by all the tourists trying to hold it up in their photos.
Look at me! I’m so clever and funny!
7. San Gimignano
Another medieval town frozen in time, San Gimignano hasn’t changed much since the Plague halted its development in the 1300s.
8. Street artists, Florence
I loved watching these talented artists at work! It must be hard to not feel inspired by this city.
9. Ponte Vecchio, Florence
No visit to Florence is complete without a touristy shot of this beautiful medieval bridge over the Arno river.
10. Boticelli’s Birth of Venus, Florence
The Uffizi Gallery is chock-full of priceless pieces, and this is one of its very best Italian Renaissance pieces.
11. La Carraia Gelateria, Florence
I have spent years in search of The One. And this is the REAL THING.
I’ve been obsessed with anything cold and creamy since I was a child, but nothing I’ve ever had comes close to the moan-inducing goodness of La Carraia’s gelato. I sampled a few of their exquisite flavours, but settled on a mixed cone of pistachio and white chocolate.
I sat on the curb outside the shop to enjoy my cone, and exchanged looks of ecstasy with the other Asian tourist sitting next to me. I still smile when I think of that delicious gelato!
Gelateria La Carraia is right on the bank of the Arno, at the corner of Ponte Alla Carraia.
12. Florentine steak
This was my one splurge meal during my whole trip, and it was well worth it. My mom had told me about this local specialty so I decided to give it a try.
Bistecca alla Fiorentina is a thick-cut, coal- or wood-grilled T-bone steak, and has been prepared the same way since the 16th century. It is seared on both sides then finished by standing the steak on its bone (the bone cooks the meat inside).
This one I had at Le Fonticine was relatively affordable and was really good! Bellissima! *cue finger kisses
13. Leather
Florence is famous for its locally-produced leather goods, and San Lorenzo Market is a great place to get some. If you like quality but don’t care about labels, go nuts at this outdoor extravaganza of bags, jackets, belts, and accessories. Don’t forget to haggle!
It’s located around Mercato Centrale (Florence), and is just a fun place to walk around, even if you don’t buy anything.
14. Wine
Alcohol isn’t served in most restaurants in Dubai, so being able to have wine with every meal was pretty awesome. I’m not really a wine connoisseur, but I liked everything I tried both in Florence and the rest of Tuscany. We visited a winery in San Gimignano that uses an 800-year-old variety of grapes.
I don’t think Tuscany can be accurately described, really. You definitely need to visit to understand why so many have fallen under its spell.
