Tuscany
The region of Tuscany is a part of Italy and located the north and central of the country on the Ligurian Sea. The region is 23000 square kilometers big and 3.6 million people live there. Its capital is Florence and Tuscany consists of 10 provinces as well as the island Elba. Tuscany is geographically divided into two parts: mountain and a vast coastline in the western part. Liguria is bordering the region in the north, Emilia Romagna is bordering it in the east and Latium is bordering Tuscany in the south.
Val D’Orcia in Siena is part of the most beautiful landscape in Tuscany and was appointed a World Heritage Site in 2004 by the UNESCO. There are many historical sites which were appointed World Heritage Sites by the UNESCO in Tuscany. Examples are the old town of Florence, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Campo Santo, Baptistery of Pisa San Gimignano and Pienza.
The vineyards in Tuscany are world famous. The region with the most and probably best vineyards is called Chianti. Many small towns in the region are producing premium wine from Sangiovese grapes. Brunello di Montalcino is claimed to be one of the best wines from Tuscany. The wine is produced in the small town of Montalcino. Generally speaking the wine from Chianti is divided into four different types: the Chanti Classico, the Colli Fiorentini, the Colli Senesi and Chianti Rufina. Because of the long tradition of wine making, while visiting Tuscany wine sampling is one of the must-dos.
Relaxing on the beach, swimming and diving is also very popular in Tuscany. Dozens of fabulous beaches can be found at the coast side. The island of Elba also offers breathtaking scenery and is one of the places to go for people who are interested in diving. Holiday on the beach here offers relaxation, tranquility and lots of nature.
Two insider tips from the locals to tourists are the Palio di Siena, which is one of the toughest races, and the prison restaurant of Volterra. Both of which can be found near the capital Florence and can be easily reached by car.