Tuscany: Things To Do

Boboli Gardens Stroll through the enchanting Renaissance gardens at the Palazzo Pitti, landscaped for the Medici family in 1550. Don’t miss the amphitheatre and Viottolone – an avenue of cypresses and statues with breathtaking views over Florence. Piazza Pitti 1; 011-39-055-238-8786; www.30fps.com/boboli
culture | historic | view | nature

Cooking classes Italians are extremely passionate about cooking, and learning from the masters on their home turf is an extraordinary experience; the combined language/cooking classes are the best. 40 minutes from Florence, Organic Tuscany; 347-417-5907 (U.S.-based number); www.organictuscany.org
culture | culinary | smart splurge

Cortona Made famous in Frances Mayes’ 1997 book and the film Under The Tuscan Sun, this romantic hilltop town is believed to be one of Italy's oldest continually inhabited towns. Soak up the atmosphere and Valdichiana Valley views in the lively Piazza della Repubblica.
culture | views | history

Duomo Boldly patterned in black and white marble, the Duomo in Siena is among Italy’s greatest cathedrals. The central panels are only uncovered in August during the famous horse races. Piazza del Duomo; 011-39-0577-238-048
architecture | culture | history

Fonteverde Natural Spa Resort Bask in baths overlooking the Tuscan hillside. The same source that feeds this modern, elegant spa also bubbles up in the 42 thermal springs of nearby San Casciano dei Bagni. San Casciano dei Bagni; www.fonteverdespa.com
spas

Galleria dell'Accademia This relatively out-of-the-way Florence museum is famous for housing Michelangelo’s iconic "David" statue. The other sections, including rooms devoted to sculpture, historical instruments, and medieval art, can be seen quickly. 58-60 Via Ricasoli; 011-39-055-238-8612; www.firenzemusei.it/accademia
family | culture | history | art

Il Palagio / Retreat / Yoga Fancy meditating in style? Make your way to Chianti and stay at this sophisticated yoga retreat that’s housed in a 16th-century villa, summer home of Sting and film producer Trudie Styler. Figline Valdarno, Chianti; yoga@palagioretreats.com; www.palagioretreats.com
outdoors | health

Isola Del Giglio If you’re craving seafood, leave the mainland via ferry to the beautiful Isola Del Giglio, a top Italian destination in the Tyrrhenian Sea. Isola Del Giglio; www.isoladelgiglio.it
beach | island | seafood

Puccini's birthplace Visit the home of Giacomo Puccini, the great composer of operas Madam Butterfly, La Boheme, and Turandot. Corte San Lorenzo,9, Via di Poggio; 011-39-0583-584-028
culture | museum | history

Ricasoli This winery in the famous Chianti district has been owned by the Ricasoli family since 1167. Because it's one of the first Chianti producers, a visit to their cellars for a guided wine tasting is a must. Gaiole; 011-39-057-77-301; www.ricasoli.it
culinary | history

Shopping in Florence The Fifth Avenue of Florence is Via dei Tornabuoni – Versace, Gucci, Armani, and Ferragamo are all here. Head to Ponte Vecchio for jewelry.
outdoors | shopping

Uffizi Gallery Come face-to-face with the original paintings that adorn so many cards and posters the world over. See Boticelli’s Birth of Venus and Primavera, as well as important works by Da Vinci and Raphael. 011-39-055-294-883; www.uffizi.com
culture | museum | art