You can climb a lot of towers and domes in Italy for breath taking views but at 3.50 euro per…read moreperson we had this place all to ourselves! Isn't that the best part? Classic medeville tower on the hilltop, rolling hills of tuscany below, enough said.

We did a wine tasting with Laura - she was amazing. Super knowledgeable and tailored to our…read moreinterest. She is funny, friendly and her English was on point. The tasting meal was divine - it was far more elaborate - and delicious than expected. The tasting room is elegant- furnished with antiques and vintage photos. Laura made sure we were well taken care of. We loved her sense of humor and how easily she engaged with us. Well worth your time and money. Highly recommend Laura as the host /guide and the winery.

The Duomo di Siena is one of the most visually appealing cathedrals in Italy...a place where art…read moreand devotion converge in extraordinary harmony. Towering over Piazza del Duomo in Siena's historic center, the cathedral immediately commands attention with its distinctive dramatic blackandwhite striped marble façade, a color scheme that reflects the ancient symbols of the city itself. While we have seen many beautiful Italian cathedrals, this one is one of the most unique ones. Stepping inside the cathedral is awe-inspiring and completely breathtaking. Unlike many cathedrals whose beauty lies primarily on the exterior, Siena's Duomo interior is splendid and grand. The interior is lavishly decorated with striped marble columns, gilded details, sculptures, and frescoes that make the space feel more like a grand art gallery than a traditional church. While indelible photographs are forever etched in our minds, our tour guide discouraged us from taking photos inside the cathedral. One of the cathedral's greatest highlights is its marble inlaid floor, created over several centuries by dozens of artists. Often described as one of the most beautiful cathedral floors in the world, it features intricate biblical scenes and moral lessons created in marble mosaic. When you view such beauty, it feels bigger than yourself. Majestic!

We were lucky enough to see the cathedral in October when the floors were uncovered and it was…read moretruly a sight to see. Absolutely worth the visit and make sure to go to the top of the bell tower during your visit for a spectacular view and a great photo opportunity.

From the Middle Ages to the present day, Piazza della Signoria, between Piazza del Duomo and the…read moreArno River, is the beating heart of the historic center of Florence with its distinctive L-shape, which my partner, our friends, family member, and I visited in mid-September. Palazzo Vecchio, the traditional seat of the Florentine government, with its distinctive tower, is yet another symbol of the city. In front stands a copy of Michelangelo's David (the original can be seen at the Accademia Gallery). One of the most impressive squares we've ever seen! The piazza looks like an outdoor museum, full of iconic statues and history in every corner. One can't miss the Fountain of Neptune that was commissioned to celebrate a Medici marriage. It is a colossal statue of Neptune, the Roman god of the sea and the counterpart of the Greek god Poseidon. The atmosphere is vibrant and lively with both tourists and locals, perfect to enjoy both during the day and at night. Definitely a must-see in Florence!

Nice gathering place next to Ponte Vecchio. There's a beautiful fountain here and plenty of places…read moreto gather and dine. I love these Italian palazzos!

This is a must-do when in the area! Lots of little shops, restaurants, and cafes. It's a really…read morenice feeling to be here, with a great view of the valley below. There are a few wineries nearby, 5-10 minute drive, to visit. Parking is located at the bottom of the hill, or you might be able to get one of the few spots near the gate.

Piazza del Campo is the main public square and heart of Siena, Italy. Renowned for its distinctive…read moreshell shape and gently sloping brick surface, it is one of Europe's most celebrated medieval squares and a centerpiece of Siena's UNESCO‑listed historic center. The square is framed by elegant palaces, including the Palazzo Pubblico and its towering Torre del Mangia, and serves as a gathering place for daily life and civic events. Twice a year, it becomes the dramatic setting for the Palio di Siena, the city's historic horse race that brings Siena's neighborhoods together in a display of tradition and rivalry.

Siena was one of our stops on our all day bus tour through Tuscany and I'm so happy it was!…read more We grabbed aperitivos and enjoyed the sun set while people watching. It's such a vibrant city center. Really fun place to relax after a long day.

Michelangelo's David is breathtaking in person! When we visited Florence, I thought the statue of…read moreDavid outside the Duomo was the authentic Michelangelo's David, and it actually is not. I think the Duomo area I reference may actually be the Piazza della Signoria. The real David statue is located at the Galleria dell-Accademia, or Accademia Gallery in Florence, and he stands almost seventeen feet tall at sixteen feet and 11.15 inches! David weighs in at 12, 478.12 pounds and he is made of solid marble stone! The sling on his left shoulder and the tree trunk behind his right leg were once covered with gold leaf, however, being outdoors in the elements in Piazza della Signoria for over 400 years washed the gold leaf away. I bet it was incredible to see the golf leafed version! In person at the Accademia Gallery, the statue is breathtaking! He is giant, and depicts the story of David and Goliath in 1 Samuel in the Bible. i love that Michelangelo decided to depict David before his battle with the giant Goliath, with the slingshot resting on his shoulder and the rock he will use, poised in his right hand not to mention the posture of David, poised and ready to defeat the giant! Do see David in person if you get the opportunity - see the original for certain and also the replica which you will pass often in the popular Duomo area of Florence Italy.

Statua del David Can't believe I just found this page. I…read morespent a lot of time in Florence enjoying the city. I love all the works of Michelangelo. Words are not coming. You must go! Get your photos I'll look for more of mine.

An amazing piazza right near the tourist piazza that everyone goes to. Well worth the 5 minute…read morewalk to see such an iconic location.

The Puazza dei Cavalieri or Knights' Square' is a landmark and the 2nd main square of Pisa. This…read moresquare was the political center in medieval ages. In the 16th century the square became the headquarters of the Order of the Knights of St. Stephen. Now it is the main house of the Scuola Normale di Pisa, part of the University founded by Napoleon. The main building on the square is Palazzo della Carovana, the palace of the Knights of St. Stephen; formerly the Palace of the Elders. It was modernised in Renaissance style & decorated with graffiti. In front of the palace is the large statue of Cosimo I de Medici, who also designed the Palace of the Priors in 1603. The Palazzo dell'Orologio, which is referred to in Dante's Inferno is in another corner.