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.

Ostello Archi Rossi, Florence

Arrive early in the day at this popular, well-located hostel that accepts no advance bookings. The hostel also offers laundry facilities, a restaurant and internet access.
Ostello del Chianti,Tavernelle Val di Pesa

Activies here are geared toward wine production and tasting. It has some family rooms, where the price includes breakfast (otherwise it’s an extra €2). SITA buses stop nearby. Closed Nov–14 March.
Ostello San Frediano, Lucca

Outside the town walls (take buses 59, 60, 3 or navetta 2). A mix of dorms and family rooms, some with private bathroom.
Ostello San Marco, Cortona

Located in an old convent, this hostel has 80 beds in rooms for two, four, six or eight people. The management arranges visits to local Etruscan sites. Midnight curfew.
Ostello Villa Camerata, Florence

Though a 20-minute ride from the centre (bus 17B), you can’t get lodging in a 16th-century villa any cheaper. Mostly dorms, though 2- and 3-person family rooms are available. The wooded grounds host a campground.
Osteria Belle Donne , [ Via Delle Belle Donne ] .

One of the , for me , three best restaurants in Florence [ along with Cibreo Povero and Baldovino ] . Run by the irrepressible Giacinto , Belle Donne serves up good , traditional Tuscan dishes in a delightfully rustic ambience , the little dining area decked out with plants , pots and pictures . It helps if you try and speak a little Italian , it's appreciated [and I think it ensures a better service ! ]. I have dined here on every one of my eight visits to Florence and have never been disappointed . I recommend it .
Osteria da Tronca, Massa Marittima

A family-run trattoria in a room with stone walls and hewn beams. This is Tuscan cooking the way Grandma used to make it (Grandma, incidentally, is in the kitchen).
Osteria dei Cavalieri, Pisa

A friendly tavern on the ground floor of a medieval tower-house. Try the beans and funghi (mushrooms).
Osteria del Buco, Castiglione della Pescaia

Small cellar osteria in this fishing village/resort. The Maremmana food is excellent, balancing meat and seafood, and the gregarious owner carries a good tune.
Osteria del Ficomezzo

This small upstairs room has tiled floors, romantic nooks and soft music. The cook combines Tuscan ingredients in sometimes unusual ways.

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Hotel price categories

For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes and extra charges.
- under €50
- €50-€100
- €100-€150
- €150-€200
- over €200
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