Tuscan Countryside

Why the Tuscan countryside is special
The gently rolling hills of Tuscany are one of the world's most picturesque rural landscapes. Medieval villages, castle ruins and renovated old farmhouses crown hilltops, as do copses of vertically soaring Cyprus trees. On the slopes below stretch vineyards and olive groves, which have given Tuscany its worldwide reputation for interesting wines and olive oil.

Tuscan countryside tips & insights
Best places to visit

• Countryside
  Generally, the most beautiful countryside lies between Siena and Florence, the Chianti area.
  
• Hilltop Villages
  The most interesting small hilltop villages for exploring reside south of Siena. They include Pienza, Montalcino and Montepulciano.

Most popular cities to base yourself for exploring Tuscany
Most visitors who explore the bucolic sights base themselves in Florence or Siena.

What about staying in a private villa and using it as your base?
Many travelers do it. You can rent a private villa in the country for a week or longer (they come in all varieties to suit different preferences and pocketbooks). Most people share a villa with a group of their friends, making it a pleasurable and affordable vacation.

Tuscany cooking school vacations are popular
You shop in the local markets with your instructor, cook the food in the rustic kitchen of your farmhouse dwelling, and enjoy the repast with local wine with your fellow students on an outdoor terrace overlooking the mesmerizing Tuscan countryside.

Location in Italy