5 reasons why Tuscany is at the top of our family bucket list

Italy, one of the most culturally rich countries in the world with breathtaking countryside and you will find few who would argue that fact. The last time I visited Italy was before having kids, traveling around by train, exploring the narrow streets of Venice, lying on the beach in Rimini and learning about local delicacies in Bologna. But the one place I have had a longing to explore is Tuscany, the name alone conjures up scenes of miles of golden sunflower fields, long warm evenings eating al fresco with exceptional local wine in hand while the children run around without a care in the world. So if that doesn't sell Tuscany for you then here are 5 reasons why it should also be at the top of your family bucket list.

1. Be inspired by art

If you read my blog you know will know we love to visit Art galleries and seek one out on nearly every holiday we go on. Tuscany is recognised as the home of the Renaissance-era movement and was also the birthplace of many famous artists, creatives and intellectuals such as Michelangelo, Galileo and Leonardo da Vinci. This, of course, means that Tuscany has many great art galleries and museums to explore with your children. Florence is particularly rich in educational and historical places to take the kids that offer inspiring and interactive displays. I have also previously put together a post about why you need to visit Florence, make sure to check that out too. 

2. Strike a pose in Pisa

Okay, so I know everyone does it by why not I say? When in Pisa just go with it and take some funny photos of the kids holding the leaning tower up. This is also a great way to bring history alive as most school-age children will at some point learn about this iconic landmark so being able to see it first hand is really something magical. 

3. Explore by Bike

Italians love their bikes and the Tuscany region is perfect for exploring on two wheels and cycling also happens to be one of our favorite weekend activities as a family. The famous Chianti region is apparently one of the best areas to ride through as it's home to many an olive garden and vineyard which is great because whenever you get a little tired you can stop and have a little wine tasting along the way. 

4. Immersing yourself in local food and wine

Well, the Italians are famous for both and what is super handy for parents is most children love Italian food such as pasta or wood-fired pizza making it a very family friendly place to spend a week when it comes to dining. The restaurants in this region I've heard are also very welcoming towards children as with all their guests. When it comes to wine Tuscany has the perfect climate conditions to produce world-renowned wine such as Chianti Classico so it is without a doubt that taking the opportunity to tastes them right on the farm is produced would be too good to pass up. 

5. Enjoying the simple things

During the summer Tuscany has very consistent warm weather, something we do not have in Wales so embrace that laid-back culture and pick accommodation that offers a family pool so you can sit next to it, dip your toes in while reading a great book with a chilled glass of wine while the kids enjoy hours of fun under the Tuscan sun. To-Tuscany have an array of holiday Villas with pools and offer up some of the best locations in the area and homes for your family to relax and enjoy. 

Tuscany simply has everything we look for in a breakaway, plenty of nature and opportunity to spend outdoors, exploring new places as well as being very rich in culture, history, art and food. It's the kind of holiday destination where we can strip back to the basics, enjoy the simple pleasures while still being fun for kids (as well as educational) and creating plenty of memories for years to come as a holiday in Tuscany would be memorable in all the best ways to say the least. 

Tuscan Villa entry post