Six of the Best: Must Visit Jewels in the Crown of Beautiful Tuscany and Umbria

Where are Tuscany and Umbria?

Tuscany, consisting of 10 provinces, is in on the eastern side of central Italy, and Umbria just South East of Tuscany. Famous cities and towns in Tuscany include Florence, Pisa and Siena, and in Umbria can be found Perugia and Assisi. Central Italy is famous the whole world over for it’s outstanding beauty and cultural heritage, and if you’re planning your first visit there, it’s well be worth putting our “6 of the best” cities and towns on your travel itinerary – you won’t be disappointed.

First to Cortona in the Province of Arezzo, Tuscany. Built on a beautiful hillside, and only 50 miles from Florence, its architecture reflects its Etruscan roots. Cortona boasts an incredible 12th century town hall and main piazza, along with a number of important churches housing the finest examples of historic Tuscan pipe organs (13 of then). The area is naturally beautiful, steeped in history, and like so many areas in central Italy, is the site of frequent gastronomic festivals.

Next on to Arezzo in South East Tuscany and the main city of the Province which is surrounded by the most stunning landscapes, nestling monastic and roman-style settlements. Arezzo sits amid 4 beautiful valleys, and is home to fantastic Palazzos, and stunning gothic monuments such as the Duomo (cathedral), and the churches of San Domenico and San Francesco, all dating from the 13th century!

Assisi is perhaps most famous as the birthplace of St Francis, and is home to the Basilica which bears his name. Assisi is the most striking of towns, built in pink and white stone on the side of Mt Subasio, and its stunning architecture includes the old town walls, the churches of St Clare and St Peter, and the cathedral dedicated to St Rufino. Numerous restaurants and Trattorias will add a very pleasurable gastronomic dimension to your stay.

On to Umbria and the peaceful hill town of Montone in Perugia province. The 16th century gothic church of S. Francesco houses the beautiful frescos of Renaissance painter Bartolomeo Caporali. The ruins of the Rocca d' Aries are worth a visit. Charming restaurants, cafes, and tavernas ensure that you’ll have plenty of places to sit and take in the beauty of the area.

Perugia near the Tiber River is the main city of the province, and has a significant artistic heritage such as the frescoes by Pietro Vannucci. Perugia is also home to the incredible underground city Corsa Vanucci. Perugia was a mighty stronghold long before the rise of Rome and is surrounded by thick Etruscan town walls with their 7 portals. The National Archeological Museum of Umbria can be found in Perugia, as can one of Italy’s finest squares at the Prior’s Palace.

Finally, still in Umbria, and on to medieval Gubbio on the slopes of Monte Ingino, overlooking the Eugubine valley. As you’d expect from such an ancient town, it has a Roman theatre, an impressive Basilica, the 14th century Consuls Palace, and a 12th century cathedral and church. Medieval style festivals such as the Palio della Balestra in August make this a fascinating town to visit.

There’s no doubt that Tuscany and Umbria are steeped in beauty and history. As well as the many beautiful hotels, there are numerous Tuscany villa rentals , Umbria villa rentals , cottages, and apartments , close to the main attractions that can make your stay a very comfortable, leisurely and memorable experience. So why not try our “six of the best” in Tuscany and Umbria?