From the busy streets of Florence among the world-class shopping boutiques and an endless number of exquisite cafés and restaurants to the peaceful serenity found amidst the miles upon miles of vineyards and picturesque towns and villages, Tuscany truly has something to offer everyone. At 8,900 square miles, 3.8 million people call this fascinating region home, and the number of domestic and international visitors to this part of Italy continues to grow each year with more than 52 million overnight stays recorded in 2024. Explore three ways to discover the best of Tuscany, complete with several of the best luxury hotels sure to provide an authentic and elevated localized experience.
Florence | A Walking City for Everyone
There’s not a finer city for walking than the exhilarating streets and hidden alleyways of Florence. From high-end fashion houses like Ferragamo and Gucci to local boutiques producing fine leather jackets and shoes, and eye-opening museums showcasing iconic masterpieces to outstanding restaurants and cafés serving delicious pastry, pizza, pasta, and Tuscan wines, Florence will never disappoint. Keeping in mind that Italians don’t dare engage in cappuccinos after 11 a.m. and only drink espresso in the afternoons and evenings, locals and visitors alike pour into their favorite coffee bars to stand at the counter, enjoy a perfect cappuccino, and then proceed with their day. Consider Coronas Café at the corner of Via Calzaiuoli and Via del Corso for a local experience or Rivoire by the Fountain of Neptune at Piazza della Signoria, where you’ll rub elbows with a few more tourists but still enjoy a smooth cappuccino.
While there are many luxury hotels throughout Florence, one that shines bright is Antica Torre Tornabuoni, ideally situated on Via Tornabuoni and just steps away from the famous Santa Trinita bridge. Discover the luxury suites that seamlessly merge the historic glamour with a contemporary design that are perched high above the city in a striking medieval tower that dates back to the 13th century. Splurge on the Presidential Granduca Suite, located on the sixth floor of Palazzo Gianfigliazzi featuring three bedrooms, four bathrooms, and a private terrace with views of the city and Arno River.
Start the day with a bountiful spread and iconic views of the river from the breakfast room and end the day with a refreshing cocktail on the hotel’s exclusive dome terrace taking in the views of Brunelleschi’s Dome and Giotto’s bell tower in the distance as opera singers take their turn at singing down below at the Statua della Giustizia. Whether it be the enchanting views from the Panoramic Bar, spacious suites with premium amenities, or a prime location just steps from the best shopping and dining in the city, guests will feel at home at Antica Torre Tornabuoni. For more information, visit feelflorence.it.
Borgo San Felice | A Picture-Perfect Escape
The excitement builds during the drive along the narrow road, surrounded by vineyards on both sides. Guests are quickly swept away from the moment they arrive at this charming hamlet and prestigious winery that looks to be frozen in time, a postcard of the quintessential getaway in Tuscany. A walk through Borgo San Felice reveals a piazza, a charming chapel, and meandering lanes and paths that were once home to a school, bakery, and an olive press.
This authentic Borgo is Chianti’s only Relais & Chateaux property, seamlessly blending the rich history of the structures and original village with the modern conveniences and touches of luxury that provide a guest experience that is simply unparalleled. Discover medieval streets, loggias, and cozy courtyards overlooking the acres of vineyards where you can enjoy quiet moments or opt for a delicious lunch overlooking the pool, a customized massage, or facial at The Botanic Spa. Venture further along a path in the vineyard to uncover the working farm producing many of the ingredients being served at the restaurants.
Dining is an art at Borgo San Felice. From the expansive breakfast spread featuring all the local and international selections to the warm service by the staff while dining on the veranda, the exquisite food and perfectly prepared cappuccino is the perfect way to begin a day filled with Tuscan adventures (or simply a day by the pool with a good book). It might be a small hamlet but the two dining options are world-class operations. Poggio Rosso, led by Chef Juan Quintero, is a prime example of what a passionate chef with Columbian roots who lived in the United States but studied in Italy can deliver to his guests. This Latin-infused Italian cuisine has gained a Michelin star and a Michelin green star while Chef Quintero continues to use the freshest of ingredients to showcase his motto that “cooking is an act of love” every day. For a more rustic approach to dining, visit Osteria Il Grigio and savor a perfectly prepared Tuscan steak or one of the many delicious pasta dishes in a warm atmosphere with the elevated service one comes to expect and appreciate at Borgo San Felice. For more information, visit borgosanfelice.com.
Viesca Toscana | A Bespoke Estate Hideaway
Escape to this countryside estate that is as fashionable as it is beautiful. Viesca Toscana was purchased in the 1950s by the Ferragamo family, and it served as a private oasis for family gatherings for decades while they also invested in a major restoration and architectural recovery of the primary residence and surrounding villas. With the success of the Ferragamo’s Il Borro resort nearby, the family decided to open this exclusive estate for a limited number of guests each season who can choose from grand, multi-bedroom villas with private pools or spacious suites housed in the primary structures.
Explore the grounds to better understand the Ferragamo family’s love they have for this property. From taking a dip in the refreshing pool or playing a little tennis to discovering the walls of archival photos and original fashion sketches or savoring afternoon gelato in the courtyard, visitors feel the passion that the Ferragamo family has for this special estate.
The superior experience is further enhanced by the level of bespoke hospitality guests receive from the moment they drive through the private gate of this estate. Culinary offerings are intimate with menus reflecting seasonal ingredients that are locally sourced and served with a true sense of caring. Take a leap and inquire about the incredible cooking classes they provide, and in many cases, the culinary enthusiasts can enjoy the meal that was prepared in class for dinner the same night. Round out the experience with a relaxing afternoon at the spa where specialized offerings include sound bath sessions, revitalizing therapy treatments, and the ability to privately enjoy the sauna, steam room, and whirlpool. Discover timeless elegance in the heart of Tuscany at Viesca Toscana. For more information, visit viescatoscana.com/en.