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Admire Tuscany’s stunning natural landscape as you wander around medieval cities, hilltop towns, and spectacular cathedrals; experience the region’s celebrated art and unrivalled culinary scene; and if you’re feeling energetic, pick your way through endless olive groves, pausing only to sample the delights. Heaven!
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
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
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.
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
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