Tuscany, Italy is a popular destination for holiday travel. The region offers many choices in accommodations, including hotels, apartment rentals, farmhouses and luxury villas in Tuscany. Large city hotels or a rural Tuscany villa offer two completely different styles to fit every personality. Several large websites offer information including pictures and descriptions of various rentals in the region. Reviews can help you chose the best accommodations for your vacation needs.

Farmhouse Vacations in Tuscany Italy

Farm holidays in Tuscany are a very popular way to travel, especially if you prefer the countryside away from the hustle and bustle of city life. You get to relax in tranquillity in one of these Tuscany vacation rentals. Farmhouses are often large, with six bedrooms and several bathrooms. They are large enough to accommodate a few couples or two families with children. Rent one with another family and split the cost of the rental.

The typical farmhouse in Tuscany has thick walls, terra cotta floors and raftered ceilings. Most are furnished in older furniture that is about the same age as the house, which adds to the authentic feeling of a farm holiday in Tuscany. The décor will often contain older paintings and photographs on the walls.

Most have been modernized enough to be comfortable, without losing the traditional feeling. The kitchen will most likely have a wood burning hearth. You will be able to cook your meals here, or enjoy some at the many restaurants scattered throughout the region. The plumbing may not be totally modernized in many farmhouses. In addition, there tends to be low water pressure.

Spas in Tuscany Italy

Tuscany, Italy is well known for its thermal baths. These are hot waters supplied by deep springs in the ground. They have been valued since ancient times for their healing properties and are great for back pain, stress relief and some skin disorders. Each has different minerals in the water, such as carbon dioxide or sulphur and is thought to help heal a variety of ailments. Mineral mud baths are another popular attraction. Some smaller baths are open seasonally. Other, larger baths are open year round. An admission fee is charged to bathe in the waters.

A variety of large and small spas have been built around these baths. Some smaller ones are day spas. A few nearby resorts and hotels allow you to stay in the resort and enjoy the spa atmosphere. These vacations are great for relaxation and relieving stress.

Best Times to Visit Tuscany Italy

Summer is a popular time to visit this area, as it is throughout Europe. If you are planning to visit at this time, you will want to book your trip at least a year in advance. August is vacation season for residents of the area. Many shops and restaurants close for the month.

Holidays are also busy times in Italy. Easter is busy for holiday vacation rentals in Tuscany. There are a wide variety of celebrations and festivals scheduled throughout Easter week. December holidays include Christmas and the day after, which is the Feast of Santo Stefano. The Feast of the Immaculate Conception on December 8th is another popular holiday. Most shops are closed on these days and some restaurants as well.

The historic city of Turin is in the northwest part of Italy. Snow-capped mountains surround it and the Pro River runs close by. Not known for tourism, the city of Turin is shedding that image—thanks in part to the 2006 Winter Olympics.

Have you heard about the Mole Antonelliana? It’s the most recognizable tourist attraction in all of Turin. The Mole Antonelliana is a huge domes building with religious importance. The Shroud of Turin, which wrapped the body of Jesus Christ after his barbaric crucifixion, is a famous artifact here.

Okay, perhaps religious history isn’t your bag. Not to fear. Turin offers many sightseeing opportunities. Turin features many museums and points of culture—such as theaters.

But let’s face it, most people want to shop when in Italy and Turin will fit the bill. All your favorite designer items can be found in Turin—Versace, Armani, Dolce & Gabbana and many more.

Shopping in Turin is also your opportunity to purchase many handmade Italian items to bring back home. It’s easy to find and purchase locally made apparel, jewelry, chocolates and more.

Speaking of chocolate. Turin is home to many fine Chocolatiers. If you are a big fan of fine chocolate, bring your wallet and your sweet tooth. We’re not talking about run of the mill store bought chocolate.

Finally, Turin is a great spot to take in some Italian cuisine. Remember, not all dishes are the same throughout Italy. Take some time and sample the various local spins on common dishes and enjoy cuisine that’s special to the area.

Either way you slice it, Turin, Italy is a great vacation spot. When you’re done having fun in Turin, it’s just about a two hour drive to Milano, which is the to east. Or you could continue going to the southeast for about 3.5 hours and venture into Nice, France for a whole new culture.