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.

Banfi (Montalcino)

Massive American-owned estate founded in 1978, producing scientifically perfect wines and a massive Brunello riserva . There’s a huge shop and enoteca and a small glass and wine museum.
Bar I Combattenti, San Gimignano

Get great home-made gelato and decent coffee on San Gimignano’s main street.
Baroque

Similar to Mannerism, but using strong contrasts of light and shade to achieve high drama (16th–17th centuries).
Bellavista, Elba

Everything an island retreat should be. The terraces of most rooms enjoy expansive views over the owner’s vines and olives to the wooded headland of Sant’Andrea. You can walk these paths to the resort’s beach or to a secluded cove. Rooms are simply furnished, tile-floored and comfortable.
Belli, Colle di Val d’Elsa

The Etruscans crafted crystal in this area. Belli is the best of those workshops carrying on the tradition, producing both refined objects and souvenirs.
Benvenuto Cellini

Cosimo I convinced Cellini to return to Florence to make his masterpiece, Perseus .
Bernini, Siena

Tiny, much-requested hotel in Mauro and Nadia’s own home (Mauro may even entertain you with his accordion). Perched atop St Catharine’s convent, the whitewashed rooms are quiet, and two have views of the Duomo.
Biagiotti & Figli, Pienza

Cast and wrought iron of great beauty in everything from candlesticks to bedsteads and fantastical chandeliers.
Biking Lucca’s Walls

Tool around the top of the city’s massive 16th-century ramparts shaded by trees, and peek down into elaborate gardens.
Birth of Venus

Botticelli’s beauty strikes a Classical, modest pose, covering her nakedness with her hands while an Hour rushes to clothe her and the west wind, Zephyr, blows her gracefully to shore in a swirl of pink roses (1485).

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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