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According to some, Pistoia is like a "little Florence" with an enormous amount of art and beauty inside. Although it is less known than other cities such as Pisa or Lucca, Pistoia is a delightful center where you can stroll in peace, admiring amazing monuments and the architectural traces of a flourishing past. Observing the medieval palaces, the main squares and the lovely buildings, you can retrace the history of the city and discover its smallest details. Fall in love with every glimpse of this stunning Italian town! If you love nightlife, art and the charm of small Tuscan centers, Pistoia is the ideal destination for you! It is located halfway between Pisa and Florence and is the perfect place to have a holiday in Tuscany. But what are the best things to see in Pistoia? Read on and discover the list of the most beautiful attractions you can find in this city! 1. Cathedral of San Zeno and Piazza del Duomo Piazza del Duomo is certainly the center of city life. The main monument is the Cathedral of San Zeno, a building erected on Roman ruins which is also the oldest building in Pistoia. The Cathedral was built in the Middle Ages, but it only acquired its present appearance in the 14th century. The magnificent marble facade is made of white and green serpentine marble and features columns, arches and artistic decorations. 2. Battistero di San Giovanni The baptistery of San Giovanni is located in the center of Piazza del Duomo and has a charming Gothic style, with decorations in white and green marble. It has an octagonal plan and is covered with a dome frescoed by the famous artist Andrea Pisano. Inside the baptistery, it is also possible to admire a baptismal font from the 13th century. 3. Piazza della Sala While Piazza del Duomo can be considered the artistic and historical center of the city, Piazza della Sala is certainly the commercial and social spot. It is one of the oldest squares, where the city market has been taking place for centuries. In the morning, the square is filled with the voices and noises of those who go to the market to shop, while in the afternoon the atmosphere is pleasant and quiet. During the night, the square comes alive with hundreds of people flocking to its bars to have an aperitif or to meet their friends! 4. Palazzo del Comune Palazzo del Comune is the seat of political power in Pistoia, which has resided there since 1294. The building was completed in 1348 and is also known as Palazzo di Giano, the name of the Podestà who commissioned its construction. The plan of the building is rectangular and the austere facade has important arches with mullioned windows and three-mullioned windows. It is an impressive building that today houses the beautiful Municipal Museum, full of Italian works of art created between 1200 and 1800. . 5. Ospedale del Ceppo The ancient Ospedale del Ceppo is located in Piazza Giovanni XXIII and was founded in the 13th century, when it played an important role for the community during the period of the Black Plague. The beautiful facade has many decorations, some of which are made by Benedetto Buglioni and Giovanni della Robbia, two famous terracotta decorators in Italy. Its frieze is, in fact, very famous: the beautiful scenes portray the theological and cardinal virtues and shed light on the theme of assistance and Mercy. 6. The Zoo of Pistoia The Pistoia zoological garden is a must! The zoo is home to an incredible variety of animals, which come from all over the world. It is a unique place to introduce the little ones to new exotic breeds and to spend a pleasant afternoon with their family! It is located only 15 minutes from the center of Pistoia and is certainly one of the most fun places to discover with children. Are you looking for a holiday home for rent near Pistoia? Discover more about Antico Fienile, one of our beautiful properties for rent near Pistoia! © Alice Pilastri

Everybody knows that Corfu is a nice holiday destination to choose. However, how to choose the best place to stay? There are tens of villages, beaches and towns to see, but where should your villa be located? Don't worry, we are here to help you! We have selected the best properties to rent depending on the part of Corfu you'd like to explore. Seaside, mountains, towns or traditional villages...what do you prefer? Read more to discover what to see in each tourist destination and which villa you should book for your magical stay in Corfu! 1. Sidari Sidari is a place to explore with calm, as its bays are hidden between hills and rocks. It offers some of the most charming beaches to see in Corfu, as well as the local atmosphere of a Greek village that hasn't lost its charm with the passing of times. Sidari is suitable for families, but also for couples and friends who look for a comfortable place to sunbathe and enjoy the sea. Our suggestion for you is Sidari Beach Villa, situated 600 m from the nearest beach. This is the ideal choice if you are a large of friends looking for a comfortable villa to reach the sea in a bunch of steps. Also, the sunset views will leave you breathless! 2. Corfu Town Corfu Town is the major city of the island. In this mix of architectural styles and tourist attractions, you will get lost in a labyrinth of winding lanes where street signs are written in Greek characters. The center presents a Venetial influence and offers a large variety of restaurants and bars where you can taste some flavours of the local cuisine. The best villa to choose if you'd like to stroll in the streets of Corfu Town is Villa Jewel, a luxury property with a strategic position that can host up to 10 guests. With its pools and lovely interiors, Villa Jewel always guarantees a wonderful stay in the best area of the island. 3. Acharavi Acharavi is a renowned holiday destination, but it hasn't lost its traditional charm. Plunged in the green, this is a modern town with all comforts and activities, as well as a long stretch of sand beach where families can enjoy their afternoons. If you love adventures and extreme sports, this is the place for you! Hiking, trekking trails and water sports are just some of the things you can do during your holiday here. Looking for a villa to rent? Book our Acharavi Beach Villa,one of the most charming properties in the region. Made in marble, wood and stone, it is a luxury house that satisfies the needs of the hardest guests. Check it out! 4. Dassia Dassia is a popular destination located on the coast, filled with hotels, resorts, bars and restaurants. You will find everything you need to enjoy a fantastic vacation in Greece! Its lovely narrow streets lead to a child-friendly beach made of sand, where families can have a relaxing time under the sun. If you like water sports, this is surely the place for you! Banana boats, paragliding and water ski are some of the memorable things you can do here. For those visiting Dassia, the best property to rent is Villa Eleni! Located 500m away from the wonderful village fo Barbati, it offers a stunning panoramic pool that will make you fall in love with Corfu. 5. Benitses This small town with romantic charm is made of colorful houses and splendid views. Benitses is not so popular among the youngest groups, so it is a quiet place for a couple's getaway. However, the ruins of an ancient Roman bath make this destination suitable for history lovers! There are also a few walking paths to try in its surroundings: we recommend discovering the natural springs located in the green and do some hiking in the mountains! There is no better way to discover Benitses than staying at Beachfront Villa Rania, where you'll be able to listen to the sound of waves touching the beach underneath. A relaxing holiday in a luxury property is all you need! © Alice Pilastri

The Cathedral of Siena is definitely a must-see tourist attraction in town! The beauty of its exterio and the grandeur of this architectural work leave visitors speechless. Made entirely of white marble, with some decorations in red and green, the Cathedral dates back to the 13th century and is a perfect example of Italian Gothic style. However, its beauty does not end outside: upon entering the Cathedral, visitors are surrounded by a series of infinite masterpieces, created by the greatest Italian artists. The part that certainly surprises the most is the magnificent floor in marble, a unique work in Italian art for its richness! From 17 August 2020 to 7 October 2020, the floor is uncovered and open to the public, who can visit it taking part to the unmissable guided tour organized by the Opera del Duomo of Siena. Want to know more? Read on and find out how to book your visit! The floor is not always open: this only happens in some months, while in the other periods it is possible to see only a part of it. In total, the floor has 56 squares, created between the fourteenth and nineteenth centuries by the greatest Italian artists. This immense iconographic program has seen the participation of Sienese artists, such as Sassetta or Domenico Beccafumi, but also of the Umbrian painter Pinturicchio. In the fifteenth century, Giorgio Vasari defined the floor as "the most beautiful ... great and magnificent (pavement) that had ever been made" and, in fact, it is not difficult to understand why. Using the technique of marble intarsio and graffiti , the artists represented a symbolic journey based on the value of wisdom and on the celebration of the city. The mosaics cover the naves, the transept and the choir, plunging the visitor into a timeless story. if you would like to book a visit to the floor of the Siena Cathedral, you must contact Opera del Duomo on +39 0577 286300 or write an email to opasiena@operalaboratori.com. The visit hours are from 10:30 to 18:00 from Monday to Saturday, while on Sundays the visits start at 9:30. Tickets can cost € 20 (for a visit to the roofs of the Duomo, the Duomo with uncovered floors, the Piccolomini Library, the Opera Museum with a view from the Facciatone, the Crypt and the Baptistery) , € 15 (for a visit to the Duomo with uncovered floor, the Piccolomini Library, the Opera Museum with a view from the Facciatone, the Crypt and the Baptistery) or € 8 (for a visit to the Duomo with an uncovered floor and the Piccolomini Library) . Are you ready for your visit to the Cathedral of Siena? Organize a stay in Siena now and discover its most beautiful monuments! We sugget booking one of our splendid properties in the city, like Podere Orietta or Villa Capannino, to have an unforgettable holiday in Tuscany! © Alice Pilastri

Maremma is a splendid area located in the south of Tuscany , famous for its green landscapes, enchanting villages and dream beaches! You don't really need to go to the Caribbean Sea to dive into crystal clear waters and see the turquoise shades of a wonderful sea! Thanks to the fine sand and the stunning locations, the beaches in Maremma can be some stunning travel destinations to spend a summer holiday. Do you want to know which are the most beautiful beaches in Maremma? Read on and check out the list of the best places to see on a summer holiday in Maremma! 9. Gulf of Follonica The first stop on a trip to Maremma is the Gulf of Follonica, where you can spot some wonderful beaches. This stretch of coast is made up of fine sand and the seabed slopes gently, so as to allow people of all ages to enjoy their holiday. One of the most suggestive bays is Torre Mozza, located just 3-4 kms away from the center of Follonica. In front of the crystalline sea, there are the remains of a coastal watchtower from the 16th century. 9. Il Bagno delle donne (Women's Baths) in Talamone The name of this beach has fascist origins, because during this period, the entrance was allowed only to women. Now, it is a suggestive place frequented by snorkelers and trekking lovers, as you have to walk for a couple of kilometers between stones and rocks to reach the bay. However, the colors of the sea will reward all the effort! Bagno delle Donne stands on a fine gravel beach and the colors of its waters are truly spectacular. 8. Beach of Ansedonia If you love sand, but also history, you can't miss the beach of Ansedonia! As well as being a beautiful bay, Ansedonia houses a medieval defensive tower (where the composer Giacomo Puccini has also lived) and the "Tagliata Etrusca", an engineering work made by Ancient Romans. Another impressive site is "Spacco della Regina", a natural fissure in the rock where, according to a legend, Queen Ansedonia hid an enormous treasure. 7. Beach of Marze "Spiaggia delle Marze" is a perfect bay for those looking for comfort and a wonderful place to swim with friends and family! The coast is located between Castiglione della Pescaia and Marina di Grosseto, it is 100 meters wide and 6 km long. So, it is suitable for everyone, both for those who practice extreme sports, both for those who want to relax under the sun on the large free beach. What makes this beach enchanting is the contrast between the bright blue of the sea, the golden color of the sand dunes and the green of the Mediterranean scrub: you really cannot miss it! 6. Cala di Forno Cala di Forno is one of the most beautiful beaches in the Maremma Natural Park, a green area near Marina di Grosseto. Unfortunately, it is not easy to reach it: you must be accompanied by a park guide to walk the natural path, which is 12.4 km long. However, the walk will be rewarded with a beautiful place at the end! This paradise on earth is a long strip of white sand surrounded by the green and it is often possible to meet deer, fawns, seagulls and other wild animals walking on it. 5. Beaches of Giannella and Feniglia Giannella and Feniglia are two twin beaches located in the Orbetello lagoon and they connect the mainland to the Argentario promontory. Both are sandy, 8 km long and recognized as two of the most beautiful traits of coast in Tuscany. However, they also present some differences between them: Giannella beach faces north and it offers numerous services, while La Feniglia is mainly a free beach surrounded by a splendid natural reserve. Based on the wind and on your particular needs, you can choose the beach that suits you best! 4. Beaches of Argentario The Argentario needs no introduction! This famous tourist destination is loved by many VIPs and tourists looking for the beauty of wild nature. The promontory offers many beaches and coves, such as Cala di Gesso, La Soda, Bagni di Domiziano or Cala Grande. Some can be reached on foot via paths, but others can only be visited by arriving from the sea with a boat. The view from the top of the Argentario is always breathtaking: immersed in the vegetation, the rocky coves are bathed by a turquoise sea that create a splendid landscape! 3. Beach of Capalbio Are you looking for a fascinating, tropical beach that is frequented by VIPs and celebrities? Then you can't miss the beach of Capalbio, one of the southernmost bays in Tuscany! This sandy stretch of coast is famous for its beautiful dunes, which follow each other for all its 10 km in length. Capalbio offers a free beach, but also a series of bathing establishments and bars where you can have an aperitif at sunset. The crystal clear water is the setting for an enchanting place, ideal for groups of young friends or couples. 2. Beach of Rocchette This magnificent beach is located near Castiglione della Pescaia and has been elected as one of the most beautiful beaches in Italy for two consecutive times! This bay presents some light and fine sand, but also a trait of coast with pebbles and reddish stones. It is perfect for families because it offers all kinds of services, for couples looking for an intimate place , but also for snorkelers, who can look for wild animals in the pebble bottom. Well, this tropical island is worth visiting at all costs! 1. Cala Violina For the top of the ranking we have chosen Cala Violina, a small paradise beach located in a natural reserve. The water is crystal clear, the view is gorgeous and the bay is surrounded by lush vegetation. The name of the beach can be traced back to the sound that the sand makes when it is stepped on, which looks just like that of a violin. This is due to the quartz grains that mix with the white sand! Cala Violina can be reached via some paths traced in the park and about 1 km long: a short walk is enough to discover the unique charm of this beach! Book your holiday in Maremma to see these magnificent beaches! If you are looking for a villa for rent in Maremma, then check out our some splendid properties in this area! © Alice Pilastri

There is an island in the Mediterranean where Greeks believe that Zeus was born. It is a land that embodies the beauty of nature, together with the charm of history and mythology. Yes, we are talking about the stunning island of Crete! There's no better place to spend a wonderful holiday in Greece. Actually, Crete meets every need that a tourist can have, both adults and children. It is rich in history and archeology, but its pristine beaches and crystal clear sea will leave the youngest breathless, making them enjoy a memorable time. There is just a negative thing about Crete: it cannot be visited during one single holiday, as it takes a lot of time to visit it all. You really need to give it more time, as we are talking about the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean. Ready to go? Discover the best places to see in Crete and the top localities to visit during an unforgettable vacation! Crete is divided between four provinces, called Chania, Rethymno, Heraklion and Lasithy. Each one offers unique beauties to discover and it is suitable fora different kind of traveller. Check them out! The province of Chania hosts amazing beaches and traits of coast. Falassarna, Balos and Elafonissi are the most beautiful beaches of Crete and sea lovers will surely appreciate their charm. If you like sunbathing in one of the best beaches you'll ever visit, you won't be disappointed! Among these, Elafonissi is perhaps the one you must see at all costs, as this strip of sand where you can often meets sea turtles. However, Chania is not sea and sun: the famous Archaeological Museum of Chania preserves findings from the Neolithic to the Roman periods and is surely an attraction to include in your to-do-list. Leave some room for culture and discover more about Greek art and history! Instead, Rethymno is the smallest and most mountainous province of Crete. Tiny villages alternate with magnificent beaches in a beautiful landscape, where you can also find the charming monasteries of Arkadi and Preveli. Don't miss the small towns of Agia Galini and Balì, where you'll be enchanted by some gorgeous beaches! Also Lasithy presents some lovely beaches: the best-known is Vai beach, which is surrounded by a surreal palm forest. You can also visit the cave of Psycro: according to the myth, Rhea chose this secret place to give birth to Zeus, so Cronus could not find him and kill him. Actually, one of the children of Zeus was Minos, the god who gave the name to the famous locality in the province of Heraklion. This town hosts the legendary labyrinth where the creature called Minotaur was closed, as well as traces of the Minoan civilization. Heraklion is surely the province that attracts more tourists, as it boasts beautiful beaches and unique archaeological sites. The most famous one is surely the archaeological site of Knossos, which houses an impressive Minoan palace enriched by colorful frescoes and a wonderful throne room. Did you know that the legend of the Minotaur was born because the city was shaped like a labyrinth? Another important archaeological site in Heraklion is that of Phaistos. Being less touristy, you can visit it with tranquility enjoying the natural landscape and the absolute silence. After its discovery, the site has never been object of reconstruction works. It's here that archaeologists found the Phaistos Disc, a famous terracotta disc with double-sided engravings with hieroglyphic designs. The weather in Crete is on the side of tourists: a very short winter next to a very long summer make every moment of the year the ideal time for a holiday. © Alice Pilastri

As well as stunning landscapes and natural wonders, the surroundings of Montalcino present one of the best examples of Romanesque architecture in Italy. The Abbey of Sant’Antimo is a wonderful church immersed in the beauty of the Tuscan countryside, not far from some of its best-known villages. The building is located on top of a hill in Val d'Orcia and it's surrounded by vineyards, olive trees, groups of cypresses, scattered farmhouses and other countless wonders that always amaze first-time visitors. Want to know more about this tourist attraction? Discover more about Montalcino and the amazing Abbey of Sant'Antimo to plan your perfect tour in Tuscany! As we already said, the abbey of Sant'Antimo is located a stone's throw from the center of Montalcino. This town standing on a green hill is surrounded by numerous Sangiovese vineyards, which are used to produce excellent red wines such as Brunello, Rosso and Sant’Antimo. Entering this church is like taking a journey through time and returning to the Middle Ages. It was built during the Carolingian period in the IX century. According to a legend, Charlemagne stopped in this valley on his return from Rome, because his army had been hit by the plague. An angel appeared to the king in a dream, telling him to make soldiers drink an infusion made with a local herb. Thanks to this brew, all the soldiers recovered and Charlemagne decided to build a chapel as a sign of thanks. The so-called Carolingian Chapel stood in place of the current abbey: today, thanks to recent restoration works, you can still see the splendor of the original construction. The abbey is built with a spectacular material that gives it a unique shine, which is travertine with alabaster veins. The bell tower is in Lombard Romanesque style, while the interior of the abbey has beautiful pillars with decorated capitals. There is also a 9th century portal called "Portale dei Battezzanti", a painting of Madonna and Child Enthroned dating back to 1260 and a polychrome wooden crucifix from the second half of the 12th century. Well, as you can see, this abbey is a treasure trove of beauties to discover! Don't forget to go to the Monastic pharmacy in the Treasure Hall , where you can find traditional herbal products such as honey, jams, herbal teas and many other products! You can also buy Amaro di Sant’Antimo , a typical liqueur made with the essence of a local variety of grass called "Carlina". Another thing worth seeing is the vegetable garden of Santa Ildegarda, a mystical place with a thousand colors and a profound sacred meaning. Surely, one of the best ways to experience the abbey is to get involved by its magical atmosphere. Concerts, Gregorian singing courses, medieval miniature courses and various workshops are organized in the abbey and you can easily take part to them. The special environment will make these experiences unforgettable! Are you ready to go? Book one of our rental properties in Montalcino, like Villa Montalcino and start planning your visit! © Alice Pilastri

A visit to the island of Corfu needs to start from its most beautiful city! As well as having stunning beaches, crystal clear waters and a unique nature, this Greek island also hides a treasure of architectural and artistic wonders. Among these, Corfu Town is certainly one of the top places to visit if you like to discover the beauty found between the lovely streets of a typical Greek center! Want to know more about it? Keep reading and check out the best things to see and do in Corfu Town to plan your perfect tour! This ancient city was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2007. It really deserves to be included in the list of the paradises on earth: Corfu Town still shows traces of Byzantine and Venetian art in many of its buildings and it's something special to see. Actually, this is the only island in Greece that didn't go under the Ottoman influence, so it still presents the heritage of a long Venetian domination. The most interesting neighborhood is Campiello and it looks like a labyrinth of alleys (called "kantounia") surrounded by tall buildings. You can continue your tour crossing Via Filelinnon, a road located between the districts of Campiello and Spilia that presents a 15th century building and a romantic balcony looking like that of Romeo and Juliet. Then, walk until you reach "Spianada Square", whose name refers to the total lack of buildings overlooking it, because in the past it was needed to fire with the Fortress cannons. The square presents many monuments recalling illustrious Corfiot characters, as well as beautiful palaces dating back to various past dominations. One of these is called Liston Palace and it has been built during the French domination: its design was inspired by the buildings of Rue de Rivoli, it presents a long portico full of restaurants and cafes and it has also become the center of Corfiot social life. Another nice palace is the British Palace of Saints Michael and George, also called the Royal Palace. Today, it hosts the civic Art Gallery and the Asian Art Museum, which includes some important Chinese, Japanese and Central Asian works. If you'd like to visit another good art collection, don't miss Antivouniotissa Museum, as it houses important icons coming from various historical eras. Religion is an important part of Greek tradition: in fact, the historical center hosts twenty churches! The most famous religious monument on the island is Church of Saint Spiridone, a building built in 1590 presenting a stunning golden ceiling and the tallest bell tower of the city. According to a story, this Saint has made four miracles to save the Corfiot population, so every year the inhabitants celebrate him with some suggestive processions. After a walk in the city alleys, don't miss a visit to the ancient Fortress! This is the first thing you see when you arrive by sea and the panoramic view from its terraces is unique. The ancient and the new Fortress are the two fortified citadels that dominate the city and they had functions of sighting and defense. The entrance to the ancient castle is located right in front of the Liston, while the new one rises above the old port. At the end of your cultural tour, have some shopping in Corfu town! Don't forget to buy the typical Kumquat liqueur, as well as some typical olive wood objects, gold jewelry or local textiles. These are perfect gifts for your friends and family! Every period of the year is right to visit the oldest town of Corfu! In summer's coolest days, you can enjoy getting lost in the narrow streets trying to spot century-old monuments and churches between the countless shops. However, in winter you can visit it with fewer tourists, admiring the unique alternations of cultures and appreciating its enormous attractive power. Ready to book your holiday in Corfu? Check out our selection of properties on the island, like Beach Villa Blue and book your favorite one! © Alice Pilastri

The name of Pisa has always been linked to the famous Leaning Tower, but the architectural beauty does not end there. Discover the best attractions of the city and the things to see at all costs during a short and magnificent tour! 1. Piazza dei Miracoli Your tour should absolutely start from Piazza dei Miracoli, a wonderful sqaure that owes its name to a novel by Gabriele D'Annunzio where the square is called "Prato dei Miracoli". Its surface is partly paved, while the rest is covered by a green lawn that also surrounds some of the greatest architectural masterpieces of all time. The most important monument is the Leaning Tower, the symbol of the city of Pisa in the world. It was built in 1163 on a sandy bottom that did not hold the weight of the structure, so it immediately began to tilt. Likely, its designer was Diotisalvi, who also built another building in the Piazza. This is the gigantic Baptistery, which contains some splendid statues and an invaluable pulpit made by Nicola Pisano. Even this building had a difficult history: due to lack of money, the dome was made with different materials than the rest of the complex! The other great monument of Piazza dei Miracoli is the Cathedral of Santa Maria Maggiore, a Pisan Romanesque church dating back to the end of the 11th century. The facade has four orders of loggias, while the interior is divided into five naves. Among the most beautiful works located inside, it is necessary to mention the mosaic by Cimabue, the pulpit by Giovanni Pisano and the reproduction of the chandelier that inspired Galileo Galilei's theory of isochronism. Finally, you have to visit the last wonder of the square, called Camposanto Monumentale. In this sacred place, the Crusaders brought the land of Golgotha in ancient times. Nowadays, it hosts the burials of some illustrious Pisan personnalities and important works of art dating back to the Etruscan, Medieval or Roman periods. If you have little time available and you can't get into all these buildings, don't worry: a simple walk around the Piazza is enough to admire its beauty and to take some amazing photos in front of the Tower! 2. Piazza dei Cavalieri The name of this elegant square is given by the headquarters of the Knights of Santo Stefano located inside it. All the palaces overlooking the square conserve a unique charm, and these are the Rectory, the "Palazzo del Consiglio dei Dodici", the Church of Santo Stefano (built by Vasari) and that of San Rocco. The most famous palaces are certainly Palazzo Carovana, a splendid Renaissance building housing the exclusive "Scuola Normale Superiore", and Torre della Fame inside Palazzo dell'Orologio, which is the place where Count Ugolino della Gherardesca and his children died in 1289 according to Dante's story in the "Divine Comedy". The beauty of the square is enhanced by one last detail, namely the statue of Cosimo I de 'Medici in the role of Grand Master of the order of the Knights. By day, Piazza dei Cavalieri is certainly the perfect place to take some photos and appreciate the beauty of the buildings, but at night it becomes one of the main places of Pisa's nightlife: don't miss it! 3. The historic center The old town centre is not very large, so a few hours will be enough to see everything! Borgo Stretto is the best-known street, distinguished by the lovely arcades and Renaissance palaces. It also features Casino dei Nobili, a place where 18th century nobles went to have fun organizing parties, conversations and gambling. Instead, passing through Via delle Colonne you can reach Piazza delle Vettovaglie, an ancient food market that transforms into a lively location on Friday and Saturday nights. Admire the beauty of the center, taste some Pisan specialties in one of the restaurants and enjoy some shopping in the countless shops: you'll surely enjoy the best of this wonderful town! 4. Lungarno One of the most beautiful areas of the city is definitely the Lungarno, the perfect place to take a walk or admire the view from a bridge. The so-called "Lungarno Mediceo" houses some important palaces such as Palazzo Toscanelli, Palazzo dei Medici or the Church of San Matteo in Soarta, while "Lungarno Gambacorti" presents the beautiful Church of Santa Maria della Spina, an architectural jewel of Gothic art that owes its name to the relic of a thorn from the crown of Christ. 5. Museum of Ancient Ships / Murals "Tuttomondo" Do you love art and want to visit a nice museum? If you are interested in archeology, you cannot miss the "Museum of Ancient Ships" inside Medici Arsenals! These beautiful ancient ships were discovered in 1998 during some railway works, which brought to light about thirty Roman ships, their commercial loads and a series of priceless testimonies. If you prefer modern art, instead, don't forget to go to the Convent of the Servant Friars of Mary inside the Church of Sant'Antonio: you will be fascinated by the "Tuttomondo" mural created by Keith Haring! Are you ready to start your amazing tour of Pisa? Discover our selection of villas in Pisa and surroundings and start organizing your dream vacation ! © Alice Pilastri

Is there a city as beautiful as Florence? The "birthplace of Renaissance" is a treasure trove of beauties and things to see are endless. Among these, there are certainly many churches and cathedrals that deserve to be visited at least once in your lifetime. But how can you see them all in a few days? How can you choose the best ones to visit during your short stay? We have selected the 7 most beautiful churches in the city to help you organize your next tour: discover them all and get ready to discover all the beauties of the center of Florence! 1- The Dome The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore was started by Arnolfo di Cambio in the 13th century, while the Brunelleschi's dome was finished in the fifteenth century. The façade in white, pink and green marble is richly decorated and is a masterpiece of Italian Gothic style. Inside, the left nave hosts three 15th century frescoes made by Domenico da Michelino, Paolo Uccello and Andrea del Castagno. The dome was frescoed by Vasari with scenes from the Last Judgment: there is nothing better than climbing the stairs inside the dome to admire them from a closer distance! Also, at the end of the numerous stairs you will be rewarded by a splendid panoramic view of the whole city! Don't forget to visit the Baptistery of San Giovanni and the Campanile of Giotto, which are two unmissable monuments right next to the Dome. 2- La Chiesa di Santa Maria Novella This church is one of the most important Gothic churches in Tuscany. The façade is a beautiful work by Fra Jacopo Talenti and Leon Battista Alberti. Inside, you will see a magnificent Giotto crucifix, some frescoes by Ghirlandaio and the famous "Trinità" by Masaccio. If you love Renaissance art, you can't skip this stage! 3- The Church of Santa Croce The Church of Santa Croce is the burial place of many art, music, literature and science personalities. Walking along the imposing white marble tombs, you will be overwhelmed reading important names like Machiavelli, Michelangelo, Galileo Galilei, Leon Battista Alberti and Alfieri. The building was started at the end of the thirteenth century by Arnolfo di Cambio, but the facade remained unfinished until the nineteenth century, when it was completed using polychrome marble and reproducing the typical Florentine Gothic style. In addition to the famous tombs, the interior of the church houses some frescoes by Giotto and Gaddi, as well as a beautiful crucifix by Donatello. The visit does not end here: you can also visit the cloisters built by Arnolfo di Cambio and Brunelleschi, along with the wonderful Cappella de 'Pazzi decorated by Luca della Robbia and Giuliano from Maiano. Finally, you will be able to see works such as the Cimabue crucifix inside the Museo dell'Opera. It's a fantastic stop of your tour! 4- The Church of Orsanmichele The name of this church derives from the union between the names of "San Michele Arcangelo" oratory and the garden from which it was surrounded. In ancient times, there was a building called "Loggia del Grano" (wheat's market) located at the church's place. Actually, you can still spot the drawings of the ancient units of measure and the corridors that connected the warehouses to the market! What immediately catches one's eye in Orsanmichele arecertainly the tabernacles on the façade, decorated by the "Florentine arts" and depicting the patron saint of each guild. They were made by splendid artists such as Donatello, Ghiberti and Brunelleschi! 5- The Church of Santo Spirito This church is hidden among the houses on the other side of the Arno river and it presents a very simple look. The original building dates back to the Renaissance, but the interior part was made in the Baroque age. Here, you can find some important works, such as the "Pala Nerli" by Filippino Lippi or a wooden crucifix carved by Michelangelo. The square in front of the church is always lively and crowded, as this is one of Florentine nightlife's main locations! 6- The Church of San Miniato al Monte The charm of Piazzale Michelangelo is unique and its splendid church makes this place even more splendid! The Cathedral of San Miniato is located in the upper part of the city and is a perfect example of Italian Romanesque style. It presents a splendid entrance stairway and a magnificent mosaic with a golden background, depicting Christ in throne. It is one of the most romantic places in the city, where you can enjoy a unique view of the entire center! Don't forget to visit the crypt frescoed by Taddeo Gaddi and the Monumental Cemetery, which is a panoramic location containing tombs of illustrious characters such as Montale, Villari or Stibbert. 7- The Church of San Lorenzo San Lorenzo is perhaps the oldest church of Florence... however, its facade is still unfinished! Its three naves contain magnificent works by Bronzino, Rosso Fiorentino and Donatello, while the Old and the New Sacristy are two splendid chapels that will leave you breathless. Built by Brunelleschi, they house some tombs of the Medici family and Michelangelo's sculptural decorations. Don't miss them! Looking for a vacation rental in Florence? Discover about Villa Le Fonti and Villa Ancora, some wonderful properties in the city's surroundings! © Alice Pilastri

A visit to Siena is like a beautiful journey through time: walking among historic buildings, churches and ancient buildings, you will feel like taking a dip in the Middle Ages! This beautiful center is one of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and it can be consederd as one of the most beautiful in Italy, as well as in the whole world. Have you planned a trip to Siena? Get ready to see its top attractions during your tour! Discover 7 wonderful things to see in this city to organize a perfect tour! 1- Piazza del Campo The first stop on a trip to Siena is certainly Piazza del Campo, a world-famous square, known for the Palio (discover more about this event!) that is run twice a year, on July 2nd and August 16th. The square presents a shell-shape divided into nine segments, as it refers to the "Government of the Nine" that administered the city in the fourteenth century. It also includes a fountain called Fonte Gaia, one of the most important monumental fountains of the city. Piazza del Campo is located in a neutral territory and it is considered part of a common heritage of all the city "contradas". Actually, the Palio is particularly felt in Siena and it ignites great rivalries between its districts! 2- Palazzo Pubblico Overlooking Piazza del Campo, the wonderful Palazzo Pubblico housed the Government centuries ago. It is a Gothic-style palace with mullioned windows, three-light windows, arches and richly decorated facades. Its interiors host the Civic Museum, which is an exhibition space containg the famous fresco by Lorenzetti, called the "Allegory of Good and Bad Government". Yo can also climb the beautiful "Torre del Mangia", a bell tower built in 1338 that is also one of the highest towers in Italy! 3- The Dome and its Monumental Complex The Cathedral dedicated to Maria Assunta is an architectural masterpiece. Its façade is made in white marble and it's decorated with inserts in green and red marbles. It houses some works by Donatello and Michelangelo, as well as a majestic pulpit by Nicola Pisano. However, the floor is the part that always surprises the most: the fifty-six scenes inlaid in marble have been made by important artists of the fourteenth century and they leave every visitor speechless! However, the Cathedral complex does not only include the Dome: in addition to the Piccolomini Library frescoed by Pinturicchio, there is a magnificent crypt, the Museum of the Opera del Duomo and the Baptistery of San Giovanni. This last presents a charming marble baptismal font made by Jacopo della Quercia, which shows some splendid bronze panels made by Ghiberti and Donatello. 4- The Museum Complex of Santa Maria della Scala Right next to the Cathedral stairway, you'll find a magnificent complex with works of art covering a period of a thousand years. Now it is an important museum, but in the medieval period this building was a hospital for pilgrims from the Via Francigena ! Precisely for this reason, one of its most beautiful rooms is called "Sala del Pellegrinaio": it has some beautiful frescoes reconstructing the history of the place and its welcoming function! 5- Palazzo Buonsignori and Pinacoteca Nazionale You list must surely include one of the most beautiful buildings in Siena! Today, Palazzo Buonsignori houses a museum called "Pinacoteca Nazionale", exhibiting works by Sienese school artists dating back to the 13th-18th centuries. Some of these are Duccio di Buoninsegna, Simone Martini, Pietro and Ambrogio Lorenzetti. 6- San Domenico Basilica Go outside the fourteenth century city walls and find one of the most beautiful Gothic churches in the city! This Church presents a chapel in the middle of the nave and it houses the relic of Saint Catherine, who is also the patron saint of Siena. As well as being a stunning building, it contains some magnificent frescoes. 7- The Contradas The best thing to do to discover Siena is to venture through its narrow streets looking for beautiful views. However, you won't really know the city if you don't live its districts! We advise you to visit the buildings of some contradas, where you can admire the "Drappelloni" won in the past Palios, which are exhibited as trophies. In fact, the period of Palio is also the best time to visit Siena! In summer, the town center comes alive with songs, shouts, flag-waving parades and traditional dinners organized by each district, as everybody is waiting for the day of the race. Taking part in one of these parties or attending a Palio is definitely something to do at least once in your life! There are many more palaces and places you should visit in this city! All you have to do is start organizing your trip to Siena to see all its most important monuments: to bookan accommodation i Siena have a look at the villas below. © Alice Pilastri