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.

Cantinetta Antinori

Wine bar/restaurant in a 15th-century palazzo. The Antinori family has been making Chianti for generations, and the produce comes from their farms.
Cantinetta del Verrazzano

Great pastries and wonderful stuffed focaccia sandwiches are on offer at the Cantinetta del Verrazzano, which is owned by the Chianti wine estate (see Chianti Vineyards).
Cantucci

Small, hard, half-moon almond biscuits – best from Prato – called biscotti outside Tuscany. Dip them in Vin Santo (a white dessert wine).
Capucaccia

Where stylish Florentine 30-somethings gather for aperativi . Don’t miss the Sunday brunch in this elegant spot.
Caravaggio (1571–1609)

Roman Baroque master whose life came to an untimely close in Tuscany.
Carli, Lucca

This atmospheric antique jewellers, set under frescoed vaults dating from 1800, also sells silver and watches.
Carlo Fagiani, Panzano

A modern showroom selling traditional leather goods. Jackets, bags and shoes made to measure.
Carmignano

One of world’s oldest official wine areas (1716), near Prato. DOCG Chianti blend with Cabernet. Long-lived, balanced.
Carrara

Carrara is a quarry town, its snowy white marble the source of grandiose sculpture from ancient Rome to Michelangelo to Henry Moore. The town’s Duomo is pure Carrara marble, and marble-cutting shops and sculptors’ studios fill the streets. On the main square, look for the plaque and relief of stone-carving tools that mark the house where Michelangelo once stayed. The Museo del Marmo features the ancient Roman altar Edicola di Fantiscritti.
Casa Buonarroti

Michelangelo’s nephew’s house. Carvings by the master are on display.

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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