Tuscany Top 10

In traveling through Italy the Tuscan region is one of my favorite areas.  Tuscany is located in central Italy with Florence as the capital city.  Toscana - as the Italians say it - is known for it's great landscapes, from mountains to the western sea coast.  It's famous for vineyards and rich in producing olives, honey, pepper, truffles, balsamic vinegar, and the list continues.
My neighbor from Laguna Beach, Annie, came to visit me in Europe.  We traveled to Italy and found ourselves driving through Tuscany.  It was breathtaking.  Stopping at towns along the way to walk the streets, look at art, and eat some amazing food.  The people are warm and friendly.  The views are amazing!  My favorite area was Cortona.  The city we stayed in was Montepulciano.  I will write more about them later...
Here is my Tuscany Top 10:
10 - A region in central Italy with 10 provinces with the most famous being Pisa, Siena, Florence.
9 - Siena is beautiful.  Go there. 
8 - Visit Cortona - it's where Under the Tuscan Sun was filmed... beautiful city sitting on top of a hill giving amazing views of the region.
7 - Drive to the coast.
6 - Famous wines made in the area are Chianti and Salcheto - both are very very good.  Drink up!
5 - Hop in a car and explore... it's the fun roads and vineyards out in the country that take your breath away.
4 - Visit Florence.  A tourist friendly city that is easy on the eyes.
3 - When in Florence see the Statue of David... my favorite piece of art...period!  I was speechless.
2 - Eat the food.  Eat the food.  Eat the food.  Don't worry about calories just eat the food!
1 - Visit Montepulciano - it's where the Twilight movie was filmed and a beautiful old city.

As my friend Annie would say, "Tuscany is both peaceful and yet modern at the same time."

 If ever in Italy - Tuscany is the place to visit.  Truly beautiful.