Tuscany's Fascinating Museums: 5 of the Best

As one of the most popular regions of Italy for tourists, in Tuscany, holidays are all about relaxing, taking it easy and enjoying the unique cultural attractions of the region. Many of the best museums are located in Florence - here are five of the best you can visit during your holiday.

1. Uffizi Gallery

In Tuscany, holidays should definitely take in at least one art museum! If you can only fit one in, the Uffizi Gallery is the place to go. Housed inside the Palazzo degli Uffizi, which dates back to the 16th century, it is one of the most famous galleries in the world, and you can easily spend a few hours exploring the huge collection it houses. The Uffizi is especially famous for its Renaissance collection, featuring masters such as Sandro Botticelli, Filippo Lippi, Titian, Michelangelo, Raphael and Leonardo da Vinci. There is also a rooftop cafe where you can relax and take in the view when you need a break.

2. Museo di San Marco

In Florence, the Dominican monastery adjoining the Chiesa di San Marco houses this impressive museum. The highlights of the museum are the artwork by Fra' Angelico, including the 'Deposition of Christ' and 'Annunciation', as well as 'The Miraculous Supper of St Domenic', by Giovanni Antonio Sogliani. Make sure you also see the monastic cells.

3. Palazzo Pitti

The magnificent Palazzo Pitti houses a number of art museums, the best of which is the Galleria Palatina. Here you will find work by masters including Rubens and Raphael. You will also see works of art by Fra' Filippo Lippi, Botticelli and Caravaggio.

4. Museo del Bargello

The Museo del Bargello is another must-see museum in Tuscany. Holidays where you spend some quality time in Florence will provide you with the perfect opportunity to visit a range of museums, and this should be top of the list. Housed in the Palazzo del Bargello, you will find an amazing Tuscan Renaissance art collection, along with early works by Michelangelo. The Sala di Donatello, on the first floor, features work by Donatello and other sculptors.

5. Museo Civico

This small museum in Sansepolcro has an excellent collection of art that makes it well worth a visit, even if you're just passing through the town. You will find three masterpieces by Piero della Francesca, as well as paintings from other artists including Matteo di Giovanni.

These are some of the best museums, but there are many more that you can explore while you're in Tuscany. Holidays to this stunning Italian region provide you with the ideal opportunity to experience some of the best art museums in the world.

Carolyn Spinks is COO of ABTOI - The Association of British Travel Organisers to Italy. If you’re looking for the perfect Tuscany holidays the LoveItaly website provides destination information, contact details of tour operator members to help you plan the best Italian holiday, insider tips, year round special offers and information on everything from beach holidays in Sardinia, cycling in Sicily, to a wedding or honeymoon in Tuscany.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.