If you love painting Florence is without compare. This is before we even think Brunelleschi and his dome and the finest collections of Renaissance sculpture in the world.

Defining the landscape of the city are the great churches of the Franciscans and Dominicans, treasure troves in themselves, and a reminder that these communities once shaped the cultural development of Europe. They sit alongside the palaces of the Medici whose artistic patronage helped change the course of art history.

There are many surprises behind the well trodden tourist routes, from architectural gems and hidden frescoes to small family run restaurants with plates of pear pasta and the best steak Fiorentina!

Overlooking the city is Fiesole where Art Tours likes to stay, and where the Romans first saw the ‘valley of flowers’ where Florence now lies.

Florence, Siena, San Gimignano, Volterra, Colle di Val d’Elsa, Pienza, Montepulciano, Greve, and these are just the more famous towns and cities in the region. Art Tours, however, will show you ‘Hidden Tuscany’, taking you to picturesque hilltop hamlets, and arranging visits to private palazzi and gardens. Art Tours also arranges fabulous private villas and palazzos to rent for families and friends.