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Tuscany, Italy represents 8,900 square miles of pure cultural phenomenon. It is considered to be the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance and home to some of the most influential artistic icons such as Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo. It is also home to Galileo, an Italian mathematician, physicist, philosopher and astronomer who was a huge influence in the Scientific Revolution and is thought by some to be responsible for the beginning of modern science. Very well known for its arts, culinary delights and exemplary Tuscan wine forte, Tuscany is history personified, and the ability to be able to sample even a small part of its architecture, landscapes and overall beauty truly makes it worthy of consideration.
This region of Italy is filled with many stunning attractions and educational sites. These tourist jewels are located in some very popular cities in Tuscany. The city of Pisa is a university town and is known for its Leaning Tower. Visitors can visit the Piazza dei Miracoli which means”Square of Miracle” where the tower, the Cathedral and the Baptistery make up the city's main lure. You can also visit the Opera del Duomo museum as well as the Camposanto and the Museum of the Sinopie.
The city of Florence, which is the regional Capital of Tuscany, houses some of the most well known works of art in the world. The Accademia museum houses Michelangelo’s David. The Uffizi Gallery is one of the worlds greatest museums housing some of the most famous works of the Renaissance. The Bargello is mainly a sculpture museum. It displays Giambologna’s bronzes, famous works by Donatello, considered to be the "greatest sculpture since antiquity", and Michelangelo’s marbles.
Siena is referred to as the medieval city. Its famed central piazza called Il Campo is world renowned for the Palio, which is a festival and horse race that occurs twice a year during the summer months. The Island of Elba is the third largest island in Italy, the biggest island of the Tuscan Archipelago and when grouped with eight other islands, it is part of the National Park of the Tuscan Archipelago. This is the largest marine park in Europe. From a historical standpoint, the Island of Elba is famous for its role in harboring the French Emperor Napoleon in the year 1814 during his exile. It is also frequented for its azure seas and striking beaches as well as its outdoor water activities such as snorkeling and diving.
 As for other things to do in the breath-taking region of Italy, hiking to the Monte Forato located in the Garfagnana area of Tuscany is definitely an option. Bike riding is encouraged and wine tasting of the great Tuscan wines is available to pleasure your palette. For culinary lovers, cooking classes are accessible to learn to make that fabulous pasta from scratch, and for those who just want to relax, check out the thermal baths. The sulfurous waters have healing properties and massages and spa treatments are usually a part of that overall package of rejuvenation.
Thinking of spending some time is this part of Italy? Travelers will find a wide range of hotels, Bed and Breakfast Inns and even Tuscany Villas that will fit all budgets. Sit back, sip a glass of one of Italy's many fine wines and enjoy the scenery of the Tuscany region.
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