Italy

Tuscany and Umbria are the essence of Italy: picture-postcard countryside, classical learning and a rich Renaissance legacy combine with typical Italian hospitality.

With Florence, the ‘Cradle of the Renaissance’, at its heart, Tuscany is a seductive region of extraordinary landscapes and the world’s richest and most diverse collection of art and classical architecture. Neighbouring Umbria is best known for its outstanding natural beauty, with pastoral countryside giving way to rugged coastlines and mountainous reserves. It’s also the birthplace of St Francis of Assisi and St Benedict, giving the region the nickname ‘Land of the Saints’.

Travellers’ Secrets

Siena Races

The Tuscan city of Siena is home to the most spectacular festival event in Italy: the biannual bareback horse race, Siena Palio. Dating back to the 10th century, the race is run around the Campo twice yearly, once in July, and again a few weeks later in August. Preceded by days of medieval pageantry and preparation, the race involves ten horses, and the only rule is that the riders must not interfere with each other’s reins – everything else is fair game. It is a wild and thrilling spectacle, not to be missed.

A visit to a shrine

Don’t miss the fabulous Basilica di San Francesco in Assisi, a grand shrine to Umbria’s favourite son St Francis, founder of the Franciscan Order and patron saint of animals, birds and the environment. Building started in 1228, two years after his death, and today it houses a remarkable collection of frescoes, including paintings by Cavallini, Simone Martini and Pietro Lorenzetti. Open daily 6.30am to 7.30pm, entry is free.

Piazza della signoria

Head to Florence’s most famous square, situated in the heart of the historic centre, to enjoy a free open-air museum of sculptures, including the famous fountain of Neptune.