ITALY
Italy in winter
From the Ancient Roman Empire to the Medieval Tuscan fortress towns and the Venetian Republic, Italy’s incredible historical diversity has come together to produce a country so incredible, so remarkable, so beautiful as to leave the visitor with an unquenchable desire to return again and again. The legacy of the Renaissance and its masterpieces of art, music, and architecture have left such a tangible mark on the Italian soul one can barely help being swept along in the tide of culture. If you’re a lover of nature, there are majestic mountains, crystal seas, rolling hills, fertile plains, sweeping cliffs, and magical lagoons, you need to travel to Italy.
The 5 most beautiful villages in Tuscany
Tuscany is a favourite region for both local and international visitors for its spectacular scenery, great shopping, food and wines. The region is also rich with history. If you are planning a holiday in Tuscany and would like to visit some of the most beautiful villages the following suggestions will not disappoint you.
A stop in the village of Lucchio in the Lucca Province is a great way to take in a day of history while touring the remains of the 11th century medieval castle and quaint stone houses that are built into the side of the mountain.
Just south of Florence is the medieval village of San Gimignano, which dates back to the sixth century and continues to host 13 towers that date from 1150, along with the villages, gates, walls and palaces. Do not miss the Duomo, museums and The People’s Palace.
Deep in the Tuscan hills is the traditional town of San Casciano dei Bagni that has become known for its hilltop tower. It is also known for the Fighine Castle, the Collegiata dei Santi Leonardo e Cassia and the small church of San Michele Archangelo that dates back to 1191.
If you are looking for an authentic gift for the food-lover then a trip to Montalcino should be on your list. This tiny town is located in the remote countryside of south Siena where both extra-virgin olive oil and Brunello red wine is made. The town is also known for its beautiful Duomo and 14th century La Loggia.
If you are visiting Florence or Siena during September, head to Greve as they celebrate their annual Greve Wine Festival, which just happens to be the largest event in the region. The town is also renowned for its 11th century architecture and paintings as well as convent and religious artefacts.
What to see elsewhere
Florence is the birthplace of the Renaissance and its presence reverberates through the old cobbled streets and beautiful churches. Venice – the most unique and romantic city in the world, stands timeless and beautiful in the midst of the Adriatic, a magnificent creation highlighting man at his most artistic. Finally the majestic and striking natural beauty of the Amalfi Coast, a place to relax, soak in the tremendous natural beauty, dine on the world’s favorite cuisine at its finest, and experience that special joy of being that is uniquely Italian. No matter what you’re seeking, it awaits you when you travel Italy and visit its cities.
In the southern regions, instead, the mean temperatures for January remain around 10C with the exception of the inland mountainous zones. Mean summer temperatures throughout all Italy rise to 24C-25C for July, only being lower in the highest zones. Rainfall distribution also varies considerably, due to the influence of both mountains and prevailing winds. The highest quantities are registered in the Alpine arc (over 3,000 mm pa in the Lepontine and Julian Alps) and on the Apennines (over 3,000 mm pa in the Apuan Alps). The plains, however, including that of the Po, receive scarce precipitation.
