As a Brit, I probably shouldn’t be writing about Italy today (we won’t mention the World Cup!), but having just returned from a glorious week in Tuscany, I cannot wait share our experiences and a few photos of our amazing trip to the land of fine wines, gourmet cuisine, architectural masterpieces and breathtaking scenery.

One of the most beautiful regions we have ever visited, La Toscana is a picture-perfect destination for those who appreciate the finer things in life, and if your idea of the perfect holiday includes visiting Renaissance palaces and churches, wine tasting in ancient vineyards, and dining on the most delicious Italian foods, Tuscany should be way up there on your bucket list!

Our first stop in Tuscany was the capital of Florence, which most definitely deserves its title as one of the most beautiful cities in the world, and as our hotel was situated just a short stroll from one of Florence’s most iconic landmarks ‘Il Duomo’, we were perfectly positioned for exploring the city.

Easy to navigate and bursting with sightseeing attractions such as the Piazza della Signoria, Palazzo Vecchio, the statue of David, the Basilica of Santa Croce, and the Ponte Vecchio, Florence has much to offer international travellers, and if you are prepared to brave the crowds, you can see most of the city in just one day.

When it comes to eating and drinking, Florence offers a huge selection, but Gelato, Chianti Wines, and Bistecca Fiorentina (T-bone steak) are a must!

From Florence, we headed further south to the Chianti wine region for a couple of nights of pure indulgence in the Tuscan Winelands. Dotted with historic villages, hilltop fortresses, vineyards and rolling hills, the Chianti region is quite simply stunning, and there is no better place in Italy for the gourmet and the connoisseur.

We also explored the medieval city of Siena, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is just as beautiful as Florence, and Colle di Val d ‘Elsa, a gorgeous little hilltop town which produces up to 15% of the world’s crystal.

I could write all day about these wonderful cities, but will leave you with a few pictures instead!