Palazzo Pucci
Posted in: Activities Florence Localities Museums & Galleries Shopping Tourist Attractions
Now that you know where to go for bargains in Florence, it seems only fitting to discuss some of the greatest and most important designers to come from the city. Most are still headquartered there and Florence's history is intimately connected to clothing and design. It is, of course, well-known that Florence was a great art centre in the Renaissance but its wealth, which allowed for the production of all that art, came, in part, from the roaring wool and silk trade of the Middle Ages. The rise of the Medici from merchants to almost-kings led to their becoming taste-makers and influencers, the first fashionistas, if you will.
The Mall, Florence
Posted in: Activities Florence Localities Shopping
One of the things that immediately springs to mind when people think of Italy is fashion, however, designer brands are not within everyone's budget. Plus, nothing beats the thrill of finding a good bargain. This is precisely why outlet shopping is increasingly popular and, in the area around Florence, there are plenty of outlets to choose from.

If you are planning a holiday to Italy and want to treat yourself while there, find a villa with pool in Florence as a base and spend days exploring the surrounding countryside as you make your way to a range of outlets dotted in the landscape.
View of Florence with Cathedral
Posted in: Activities Florence Localities Shopping
Being on holidays means treating yourself; eating out multiple times a day, drinking a little more than maybe you should, taking taxis for journeys you might normally walk, and generally just being a little bit more indulgent than normal.

Shopping, buying souvenirs and gifts for people at home is all a part of most people's vacations. However, when you find yourself somewhere completely alien to you, it can be difficult to even know where to start or where to find particular things that you might be looking for.
Christmas markets in Tuscany
Posted in: Activities December Events Florence Localities Pisa Shopping
Come to Tuscany to enjoy the best Christmas holiday you’ve ever had with your family! This is considered to be the most important celebration in the Italian calendar as children eagerly await the coming of Santa Claus and many adults enjoy going to the religious ceremonies that take place in their local parish. Why not treat yourselves to the very best by staying in one of many available Tuscany luxury villas during your vacation?

Visit the many cities, towns and villages across Tuscany that are decorated with twinkling lights, Christmas trees and colourful ornaments; wonderful smells fill the air as families busily prepare lots of traditional Christmas food.

All the cities and many of the region’s towns host a superb Christmas market for visitors to experience. It’s a true delight to walk around this warm and welcoming atmosphere and see the exquisite crafts and delicacies for sale.
Artisan stalls in Forte dei Marmi
Posted in: Activities Localities Shopping Tuscan Coast
If you enjoy browsing around the shops on your holidays then the towns within the Versilia region of Tuscany have everything you could possibly desire! Visitors wishing to stay in the Versilia area for a few days have a plentiful choice of tuscany villa rentals in Forte dei Marmi town to enjoy a pleasant stay, for example

Many artisan shops are scattered across the Versilia area, selling jewellery, marble sculptures, cosmetics, beautiful pottery, ornaments and much more. Enjoy strolling around the winding streets of Pietrasanta and looking at all the beautiful products on display in shop fronts. If you're a huge fan of retail therapy then why not read our article on the best shopping malls in Tuscany to help you plan your fun shopping experience here!

While you’re there, a climb up to the ruins of what was once the majestic Rocca di Sala will provide you with spectacular views of the Apuan Mountains and the winding Tuscan coast.