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- March 25, 2023 0

Discover Florence in the Best Way Possible: By Train!

If you are planning a trip to Florence, Italy, then you have made a great choice. Florence is one of the most beautiful and historic cities in the world, and it offers an abundance of attractions, including museums, art galleries, churches, and historic landmarks. 

However, with so much to see and do, it can be challenging to decide how to get around the city. While there are several options, including buses, taxis, and rental cars, taking the train is undoubtedly the best way to discover Florence. 

In this article, we will provide you with ten reasons why taking the train is the best way to explore this beautiful city. 


1. Convenience 

Taking the train is the most convenient way to travel in Florence. The city has an extensive rail network that connects it to the rest of Italy and Europe. 

The central station, Santa Maria Novella, is located in the heart of the city, making it easy to get to your hotel or Airbnb. 

Furthermore, the train schedules are frequent, and the journey times are relatively short. You can easily plan your day and travel between attractions with ease. 

2. Flexible Ticket Options

Train travel in Florence offers flexible ticket options to suit your needs and budget. You can choose between first or second-class seating, and select from a range of ticket types, including one-way, round-trip, and multi-day passes. If you're traveling with a group, you can also take advantage of discounted rates and group packages. With so many options, you can find a ticket that fits your travel plans and budget.




3. Affordability 

Taking the train is also an affordable way to explore Florence. Train tickets are often cheaper than rental cars or taxis, and you can save a lot of money by purchasing a rail pass. Moreover, you won't have to worry about parking fees or fuel costs, which can add up quickly. 


4. Scenic Views 

One of the best things about taking the train in Florence is the stunning views of the countryside. As you travel through Tuscany, you will see some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world, including rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves. The train journey is an attraction in itself, and it's an excellent way to appreciate the beauty of Italy. 

5. Environmental Friendliness 

Taking the train is an environmentally friendly way to travel. Trains emit far fewer greenhouse gases than cars or planes, making them an excellent choice for eco-conscious travelers. By taking the train, you can reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future. 


 6. Accessibility 

The train is an accessible mode of transportation, making it an excellent option for travelers with mobility issues. The trains are equipped with ramps, lifts, and other accessibility features, and the stations are designed to be wheelchair-friendly. If you have any special needs, you can contact the train company in advance, and they will make arrangements to accommodate you. 

7. Avoid Traffic Jams 

One of the biggest challenges of driving in Florence is the traffic. The city is famous for its narrow streets, and it can be difficult to navigate the roads, especially during peak hours. By taking the train, you can avoid traffic jams and arrive at your destination on time. You can also relax and enjoy the journey instead of stressing about driving. 

8. Safety and Security 

Taking the train can be is a safe and secure way to travel. The trains are well-maintained, and the staff is highly trained to ensure your safety. You don't have to worry about accidents or theft, as trains are much safer than rental cars or taxis. 




9. Opportunity to Meet Locals 

Taking the train is an excellent way to meet locals and experience the culture of Florence. You can strike up conversations with fellow travelers or locals, and they can provide you with insider tips on where to go and what to see. You can also practice your Italian language skills and learn about the local way of life. 

10. Efficient and Comfortable 

Traveling by train is efficient and comfortable, and it's an excellent way to relax and enjoy your journey. The trains are equipped with comfortable seats, air conditioning, and ample legroom, so you can sit back and enjoy the ride. You can also use the train's onboard Wi-Fi to stay connected with your friends and family or catch up on work. 

Conclusion 

In conclusion, taking the train is the best way to discover Florence. It's convenient, affordable, and eco-friendly, and it offers stunning views of the Italian countryside. You can avoid traffic jams, travel safely and securely, and meet locals who can provide you with insider tips on what to see and do. So, the next time you visit Florence, make sure to take the train and experience the city in the best way possible.




FAQs

How do I buy train tickets in Florence?
You can purchase train tickets at the station, or you can buy them online in advance.

Is it easy to navigate the train system in Florence?
Yes, the train system in Florence is well-organized and easy to navigate, even for first-time visitors.

Can I bring my luggage on the train?
Yes, you can bring your luggage on the train, but make sure to check the baggage allowance and any additional fees.

What's the best time to take the train in Florence?
The best time to take the train is early in the morning or late at night when there are fewer crowds.

Can I get a refund if I miss my train?
It depends on the type of ticket you purchased. Make sure to check the refund policy before buying your ticket.


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- October 03, 2019 0

Tuscany is a region located in central Italy and is known for its beautiful landscapes, rich culture, and delicious cuisine. It is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors every year. However, before embarking on your trip to Tuscany, there are a few things you should know to make the most of your experience. In this comprehensive guide, we will provide you with everything you need to know before traveling to Tuscany.


Tuscany - A Brief Overview

Tuscany is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Italy, known for its beautiful landscapes, rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves. The region is home to some of the world's most famous art cities, including Florence, Pisa, and Siena. Tuscany is also known for its exquisite cuisine, fine wines, and rich cultural heritage.

Tuscany's Culture and Customs


Tuscany has a unique culture and customs that are different from the rest of Italy. The people of Tuscany are known for their hospitality, warmth, and friendliness. The region's culture is deeply rooted in its history, art, and cuisine, and this is reflected in the way of life of its people. Some of the customs you should be aware of before traveling to Tuscany include:

Dress Code: Italians are known for their sense of fashion, and Tuscans are no exception. You should dress appropriately, especially when visiting religious sites, and avoid wearing shorts or revealing clothes.
Siesta: Like the rest of Italy, Tuscans take a siesta in the afternoon, typically between 1 pm and 4 pm. During this time, most shops and businesses close, so plan your day accordingly.
Language: The official language of Tuscany is Italian, and while English is widely spoken in tourist areas, it's always a good idea to learn a few basic Italian phrases before your trip.

Tuscany's Cuisine

Tuscany's cuisine is world-renowned for its simplicity, freshness, and quality. Tuscan cuisine is based on local and seasonal ingredients, including olive oil, fresh vegetables, meats, and cheeses. Some of the most popular Tuscan dishes include:

Ribollita: A hearty traditional vegetable soup made with bread and beans.
Bistecca alla Fiorentina: A thick, juicy T-bone steak, usually served rare or medium-rare.
Pappa al Pomodoro: A delicious tomato soup made with stale bread, olive oil, and garlic.
Cantucci: Tuscan almond biscuits, perfect for dipping in sweet Vin Santo wine.
Pici all'aglione: a type of pasta with a garlic and tomato sauce.

Don't forget to sample Tuscan wines, particularly those from the Chianti region, which is known for its red wines.

Look for local trattorias and osterias for an authentic dining experience, and don't be afraid to ask for recommendations from locals or your hotel staff.

Tuscany's Attractions

Tuscany has a wealth of attractions that cater to every taste and interest. From art and history to nature and adventure, Tuscany has it all. Some of the must-see attractions include:

Florence: The birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is a city that's rich in history, art, and culture. Some of its famous attractions include the Duomo, the Uffizi Gallery, and the Ponte Vecchio.
Pisa: Home to the world-famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, this city is a must-visit attraction for many tourists.
Siena: Another famous art city, Siena is known for its beautiful Gothic architecture, medieval history, and the Palio horse race.

Chianti Wine Region: Tuscany is home to the famous Chianti wine region, which is a must-visit destination for wine lovers. The Chianti wine region is located between the cities of Florence and Siena and is known for its vineyards and rolling hills. If you're interested in wine tasting, then you should definitely visit this region. You can taste some of the best Chianti wines at the wineries in the area.

The countryside of Tuscany also offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and horseback riding.



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What to Eat in Tuscany:

When in Tuscany, you must try the local cuisine. Tuscan food is simple and flavorful, made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Some of the must-try dishes include:

Bistecca alla Fiorentina: a grilled T-bone steak, seasoned with salt and pepper and served with a drizzle of olive oil
Ribollita: a hearty vegetable soup made with bread, beans, and kale
Pappa al Pomodoro: a thick tomato and bread soup
Crostini Toscani: toasted bread topped with chicken liver pâté and a sprinkle of salt and pepper
Panzanella: a bread and tomato salad.

When it comes to food, try visiting local markets for fresh produce, cheeses, and meats, or take a cooking class to learn how to make Tuscan dishes yourself.

Don't forget to indulge in gelato and other sweet treats, and consider taking a food and wine tour to explore Tuscany's culinary

Conclusion:

Tuscany is a beautiful region in central Italy that is known for its picturesque landscapes, rich history, and delicious cuisine. From the rolling hills of Chianti to the iconic city of Florence, there is something for everyone in Tuscany. If you're planning a trip to Tuscany, be sure to visit some of the region's wineries, try the local cuisine, and take in the breathtaking scenery.

About the author: Wizootravel



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FAQs:


Q. What is the best time to visit Tuscany?
A. The best time to visit Tuscany is in the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November). The weather is mild, and there are fewer tourists during these months.

Q. Is Tuscany safe for travelers?
A. Tuscany is generally safe for travelers. However, like any other place, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions.

Q. What language do people speak in Tuscany?
A. The official language of Tuscany is Italian. However, some people in the region may also speak Tuscan, which is a dialect of Italian.

Q. What is the currency used in Tuscany?
A. The currency used in Tuscany, like the rest of Italy, is the Euro.

Q. Do people in Tuscany speak English?
A. English is widely spoken in Tuscany, especially in tourist areas.

Other Resources:

https://www.visittuscany.com/en/
https://www.lonelyplanet.com/italy/tuscany
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g187893-Tuscany-Vacations.html
https://www.fodors.com/world/europe/italy/tuscany
https://www.tuscanyaccommodation.com/
https://www.tuscany-tickets.com/
https://www.viator.com/Tuscany/d206-ttd
https://www.italymagazine.com/region/tuscany
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- April 10, 2019 0

It's not hard to tell when you're approaching the popular Umbrian town of Assisi - its thirteenth-century basilica stretches along the hilltop, dominating the horizon for miles around.

Although this area was once known by people in the Middle Ages as 'the hill of hell', nowadays thousands of people - art historians, holidaymakers, and religious pilgrims alike - arrive in the town every year, to visit the basilica where St Francis of Assisi (or San Francesco di Assisi, to give him his original Italian name) is buried.

The vast building is actually made up of two churches, one set above the other, and they are very different in style. The upper church is Gothic and slender, while the lower one, which you enter via a thirteenth-century archway, has a much more austere, almost squat aspect.

Here in the lower church, the magnificent frescoes - including works by Giotto, Lorenzetti and Martini - captivate visitors, irrespective of their religious beliefs.

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The remains of St Francis were not actually discovered until excavations were carried out under the altar in the early 1800s. In 1820, Pope Pio IX canonized Francesco and ordered the building of the neoclassical style crypt, and it is here that countless people now come to pay their respects to San Francesco.

Although the Basilica of San Francesco is the main attraction for visitors, there is yet more to discover in this town where the Franciscan Order was born. By contrast, for example, the Lyrick Theatre (Teatro Lyrick) in Via G. D'Annunzio offers a varied programme of dance, music, drama and comedy all year round.

As with anywhere in Italy, it goes without saying that you can also enjoy some of the finest food and wine to be found. In Assisi, the regional specialities include delicious mushrooms and that prized delicacy, the truffle. Extra virgin olive oil too is particularly fine here, owing to the landscape's many thousands of olive trees that give Umbria its silvery green shimmer.

Reaching Assisi is fairly easy, with a variety of options. The small Sant'Egidio international airport is about 10km away, although there is no bus connecting it with the town. Alternatively, the train is a good option. Travelling from Florence, for instance, you can take one of the regular daily trains, just changing at Terontola or Cortona. From Rome, again take one of around ten daily trains, this time changing at Foligno. Remember though, the train stations in Umbria are at the foot of the hills, while the towns cling to the sides... and the Basilica of San Francesco is at the top.

Keeping the St Francis connection, you might also like to take in Isola Maggiore, the largest of the three islands on Lake Trasimeno, which is within easy reach around 50km away. St Francis chose to spend Lent on the island in 1211, recognising its closeness to nature and how perfect it was for quiet reflection. Today, Isola Maggiore is gently evolving into a simple cultural retreat, and creative writing workshops take place there each Spring and Autumn, as well as the annual Isola del Libri book festival.

Author: Glynis Charlton

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- January 11, 2019 0

This wild, untamed and hauntingly beautiful region is fairly close to Rome and yet is surprisingly infrequently explored by foreign tourists. Get off the tourist bandwagon and explore this exciting area on foot. This is the perfect part of Italy for a hiking holiday, whether you are looking to scale the Apennine Mountains, follow trails between idyllic, hill-top villages, or simply take a gentle stroll in a beautiful valley or through fragrant wild-flower meadows. 

 The scenery, friendly locals and outstanding trails of this region will make for a memorable holiday. If you are thinking about visiting Rome but have been put off by the summer crowds, why not visit this region for some time as well, combining a hectic city visit with a more laid back countryside vacation?



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Whether you walk independently or take a guided tour, there is much to see and do here. This region does, after all, boast not one but three national parks! There is the Gran Sasso, which contains many of the Apennines' highest peaks, the Majella National Park, another dramatic mountain range, and the National Park of Abruzzo, which is an important place for the preservation of native flora and fauna, which includes bears, wolves, chamois and wild boar. 

 Throughout Abruzzo, you will find a large number of exemplary mountain hikes and valley trails to suit most fitness levels, though this is a rugged region with more steep gradients and challenging walks than gentle rambles.

The dramatic peaks of Gran Sasso offer the greatest challenges to mountain walkers in the area. These are a bulky massif comprising two parallel mountain chains flanking the Campo Imperatore Plain that stretches for 27km at over 2000m above sea level. The National Park has a huge number of hiking trails that allow you to explore this dramatic region.

In the Abruzzo National Park, you can base yourself in the central village of Pescasseroli, which will allow you to strike out on one of the trails that radiate out from this hub. Get away from the tourist village and you will swiftly find yourself in the glorious scenery of the Apennines.


In the Maiella Mountain Range, there are about 500km of walking trails to be enjoyed. Here, you can also see the cave paintings in the Grotta Sant'Angelo and you can explore one of the deepest natural caverns in Europe that is open to the public, the Grotta del Cavallone. You can also ascend to the highest peak of the massif, Monte Amaro, which is 2793 m high.



 There are many dramatic landscapes to be experienced in the varied and wild region of Abruzzo. Be sure to bring a camera to capture the sublime and breathtaking views you will get from high in the mountains and of course always be sure to arm yourself with the right gear and a good map - as is usual in Italy, signposting can be patchy and it can be easy to miss an indication. That said, even if you do get lost once in a while, you are sure not to mind when you are surrounded by such natural beauty.


Has that dream vacation been on your mind a lot lately, but the travel costs keep holding you back? Make that much-needed getaway possible with Wizootravel. Save up to 60% on hotels and flights with our guaranteed cheapest deals to destinations worldwide. No hidden fees. Just what you see. Book your dream holiday now. 
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