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.

La Buca di San Francesco, Arezzo

Mario de Fillipis’s family has run this Arezzo culinary landmark in the basement of a 14th-century palazzo for over 70 years. The dishes are solidly traditional Tuscan – try the saporita del buonconte , a medieval soldier’s stew of assorted meats and leftovers. The portions are wonderfully generous.
La Buca di San Francesco, Arezzo

Very friendly cellar restaurant; generous portions.
La Buca di Sant’ Antonio, Lucca

The best food in Lucca since 1782. Here you will find a ramble of rooms hung with old kitchen implements and musical instruments. You can also experience the friendliest professional welcome of any fine restaurant in Tuscany, and, of course, excellent Lucchese cooking.
La Buca di Sant’Antonio, Lucca

The classy but friendly service and superlative food make this Lucca’s top restaurant by far.
La Canocchia, Elba

Close by the sea, this simple restaurant specializes in perfectly prepared seafood.
La Cantinetta di Rignana, near Greve

This is the ultimate in rural feasting: both the setting and the food are second to none.
La Cantinetta di Rignana, near Greve in Chianti

This establishment is set amid vineyards, miles from anywhere along winding dirt roads – you simply don’t get more countryside trattoria than this. Curing meats hang in the doorway, Madonna and Child icons and copper pots pepper the walls. The homemade pastas and grilled meats are delicious. There is also a glassed-in verandah for summertime dining.
La Cantinetta di Spedaluzzo, Spedaluzzo, near Greve

Roadside trattoria with commanding hilltop view from the summer terrace. Serves perhaps the best ribollita, crostini and tiramisu in Tuscany.
La Capannina, Forte dei Marmi

For 70 years La Capannina – part cocktail bar/restaurant and part night spot – has been serving the best beachside refreshments around.
La Chiusa, Montefollonico

Set in an 18th-century mill, La Chiusa won a Michelin star in 2002 for its creative Tuscan cooking and handmade pastas.

Jump to top

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