"Escape from the crowds of tourists to visit little-known artistic masterpieces, stroll through superb private gardens that even the Florentines are unaware of, marvel at an exceptional astronomical phenomenon, learn about Florence as the centre of Renaissance hermetism and the esoteric symbolism in the Boboli Gardens, get your children to count the number of bees carved on the monument to the glory of Ferdinand I, look out for medieval wine counters...

Suggests lodging, restaurants, and sightseeing highlights and provides travel tips and cultural information.

There's no better introduction to Italy than the classic itinerary of Rome, Florence and Venice. But it's not dummy-proof, which is why we enlisted three of Italy's most knowledgeable Italy experts to pen this totally revised and updated annual guide. Their helpful advice and honest, opinionated recommendations will allow you to find the hidden gems that other visitors miss, avoid crowds and lines and, most importantly: plan the vacation of a lifetime....

Lonely Planet Florence & Tuscany is your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. Gaze upon Renaissance masterpieces at Florence's Uffizi Gallery, hunt for truffles in the hilltop town of San Minato, or climb San Gimignano's medieval towers.

"Lonely Planet's Florence & Tuscany is your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. Travel the roads of Val d'Orcia, sample Chianti and explore the Uffizi's collections; all with your trusted travel companion. Get to the heart of Florence & Tuscany and begin your journey now!"--Publisher's description.