Welcome to Tuscany, Italy – the heart of the Italian Renaissance and the land of art, wine, and breathtaking landscapes. Here's your Lonely Planet style guide to help you make the most of your visit to this beautiful region.

Getting to Tuscany:

Tuscany is easily accessible by car, train or air. The region boasts a few airports including Florence, Pisa, and Grosseto airports covering the major Tuscan cities. You can also take a train from major Italian cities like Rome and Milan, either by high-speed trains or regional trains.

Where to Stay:

Tuscany has many different options to fit any budget, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury villas and hotels. For those looking for a unique experience, consider staying in an agriturismo – a country farm that offers accommodations and locally produced food.

Places to Visit:

Florence: Renowned for its art and architecture, Florence is a must-visit for any lover of Renaissance art. Head to the Galleria dell'Accademia to see Michelangelo's David, and the Uffizi Gallery to see Botticelli's Birth of Venus.

Siena: This ancient city is filled with narrow medieval streets and is an architectural feast. Be sure to visit the Piazza del Campo, the heart of the city, and the gothic cathedral.

Pisa: Home to the Leaning Tower, this city attracts tourists from all over the world. However, be sure to explore beyond the tower, and visit the Piazza dei Miracoli, the Cathedral and the Baptistry.

San Gimignano: Famous for its medieval towers, this hilltop town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the perfect place for a day trip.

Chianti: This wine region is famous for its red wines, and offers some of the best vineyard tours and wine tastings in Tuscany. Don't forget to sample some olive oil too.

Food & Wine:

Tuscan cuisine is simple but delicious, with an emphasis on local and fresh ingredients. Some popular dishes to try include ribollita (a hearty vegetable soup), bistecca alla fiorentina (a grilled T-bone steak), and panzanella (a bread salad).

Of course, no visit to Tuscany would be complete without trying the local wines, especially the Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. You can enjoy a glass of wine with some cheese and salumi while watching the sunset over the rolling hills of Tuscany.

Activities:

Tuscany offers plenty of activities for visitors beyond sightseeing and eating. Here are a few things to do:

- Cycling through the Chianti vineyards
- Hiking in the Tuscan countryside
- Relaxing in thermal baths in Bagno Vignoni
- Attending a cooking class to learn how to make Tuscan food
- Horseback riding in the Tuscan hills

Conclusion:

Tuscany is a region you'll never forget, and will always want to visit again. The incredible art, classic architecture, lush vineyards, stunning landscapes are just a small part of the Tuscany experience that you'll cherish forever. Enjoy your travels!