The Best Ways to Explore On Tuscany Holidays

Oh, Tuscany! Holidays under a sun that has inspired countless artists, musicians, chefs and lovers everywhere are just as wonderful as one would expect. An endless palette of muted colours dotted with olive groves and vineyards, and rolling hills gently melting into distant plains – this is a landscape that inspires a slow kind of exploration.

So just what is the best way to explore Tuscany? Holidays in this delightful Italian region provide a journey of discovery in many different modes.

On Foot

It’s been said time and time again that the best way to get to know a region is on foot – and this is particularly true in Tuscany. Holidays weren’t meant to be spent cooped up in a car, and in this region it would be a sin to do so. Walking or hiking allows you experience things up close and personal, talk to the real people, and get in touch with the authentic pulse of the region. Countryside hikes, strolls through museums and galleries, vineyard tours interspersed with romantic picnics and cosy breaks at roadside cafes or charming bistros – what better way to fall in love with a region?

Motorcycles, Scooters and Bicycles

Imagine zipping around the city on an iconic Italian Vespa, weaving in and out of the narrow streets, stopping at the museums, galleries and trattorias. Or how about touring the countryside, navigating the picturesque winding roads with the Tuscan sun on your face and the wind at your back? Italy is ideal motorcycle and scooter country, and it’s a cinch to get around and park on your two-wheeled wonder – and a whole of of fun too!Florence, Siena and other Tuscan cities and towns are full of little nooks and crannies only navigable by foot or bike, while in the countryside, the open road is the very best way to experience true heart of the region.

For those who are up for a little more physical exertion, bicycles are also a great way to get around Tuscany. Holidays planned around bicycle tours can be arranged through specialised companies and can be a great deal of fun. To go it alone, rentals are available hourly, daily and weekly in most cities or towns.

Bus

If you want to make the most of your time and get around to a few different places, the buses are a great and inexpensive way to get around. A certain amount of planning may be required so you can make the most and get farther on itinerary, so make sure you check bus schedules carefully - particularly on Sundays and holidays when buses are few and far between.

Train

A faster alternative to the buses are the trains. The convenient rail network criss-crosses the region and it's an easy and very pleasant way of covering a lot of ground in a little time.

Carolyn Spinks is from ABTOI - The Association of British Travel Organisers to Italy. If you’re looking for the perfect Tuscany holidays their 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.