DK Travel : Tuscany

Limiting the choice of prime sights is not an easy task in a land as rich and varied as Tuscany. Its storybook landscape is home to medieval hill towns, fabled wines and, as crucible of the Renaissance, an unrivalled collection of artistic masterpieces. Here are the best of the best.

Emanuele, Elba

Unassuming beachfront shack serving Elba’s best seafood, freshest vegetables and excellent desserts. The tiny courtyard at the back leads onto the pebble beach.
Emilio Pucci

Pucci has had a fashion house in Florence for decades, offering his daring prints and colours.
Empoli

Piazza Farinata degli Uberti is ringed by 12th- and 13th-century palaces and the Romanesque Sant’Andrea church. Collegiata di Sant’Andrea museum contains a Masolino Pietà (1425) and a 1447 font carved by Bernardo Rossellino. Masolino shows up again at Santo Stefano with a large Madonna and Child fresco; Rossellino with an Annunciation .
Enoteca Alessi

This sweet shop’s basement wine merchant’s is the best in town.
Enoteca Baldovino

Situated next door to it's sister Restaurant Baldovino , this delightful enoteca offers up a superb selection of Italian wines and Grappa accompanied by a quality assortment of tasty snacks . You are ensured a friendly and welcoming service and also useful tips regarding the available wines . [ I developed a love of Brunello after visiting here !] . Unfortunately , I often visit Florence in early December to coincide with the feast of the Immaculate Conception and the Scottish Fair , and sadly , on my past two visits at this time the enoteca has been closed . Well worth a visit or two when you are in Florence .
Enoteca I Terzi

Atmospheric wine bar serving simple Sienese dishes under vaulted ceilings.
Enoteca Italiana Permanente

The vaulted cellars of the massive 16th-century Medici fortress are filled with Italy’s national wine museum (though, since vintners send in cases only on a voluntary basis, it’s far from comprehensive). Everything is for sale, and a selection of bottles is opened daily so that you can sample Italy’s oenological bounty by the glass at small tables or outside on the terrace.
Enoteca la Botte e il Frantoio, San Gimignano

This retail outlet for Luciano Bruni’s Vernaccia wine also sells olive oils and other top wines from across Tuscany.
Enoteca La Fortezza, Montalcino

Best selection of wine (and other food products) in town. Gorgeous setting in the airy remains of the medieval fortress.
Enoteca Le Logge, Massa Marittima

This is a great, simple Old World café-bar with tables set under the partly frescoed portico of the main piazza; their sandwiches and gelato are definitely worth a try.

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Restaurant price categories

For a three-course meal for one with half a bottle of wine (or equivalent meal), taxes and extra charges.
- under €25
- €25-€35
- €35-€55
- €55-€70
- over €70