Area Description: Well known for rolling green hills and curving lines of cypress trees, Tuscany and Umbria's idyllic landscapes remain remarkably untouched and still closely resemble those that have inspired many a masterpiece. Visitors unfailingly find this verdant & fascinating region an enthralling backdrop for their Italian villa holidays. Our holiday villas in Tuscany are mostly situated around the hilltop towns of Lucca in the west, and Arezzo & Cortona in the east. Our holiday villas in Umbria are near Perugia and Lake Trasimeno.

Culture: Tuscany was the birthplace of the Renaissance, and the influence of the great painters and architects, including Michaelangelo, is present in every major town. Its close neighbour Umbria is equally important culturally and historically, counting Perugia and Assisi among its treasures. There are countless hilltop towns to wander round, each with spectacular views over the surrounding unspoilt countryside.

Activities: Tuscany has miles of sandy coastline, and Lake Trasimeno on the border with Umbria offers an inland beach alternative.

Browsing the many boutiques & artisanal shops across Tuscany and Umbria is a real joy, sampling local specialities and looking for crafts, souvenirs & gifts.

Those looking for more energetic activities will find that the area is well provided for in terms of tennis & horse-riding, and there is ample opportunity for touring the region by foot, on cycle or by car.

VillaCentre's villas in Tuscany and villas in Umbria are well situated to appreciate the many delights of this varied and beautiful region of Italy.