1. Sicily & Outer Islands

2. Campania & Amalfi Coast

3. Tuscany & Umbria

4. Puglia & The South

5. Veneto & The Dolomites

6. Piedmont & Liguria

7. Rome & Lazio

8. Emilia Romagna

9. Lombardia & The Lakes

Best time to visit: Spring and Fall

Go for this: Florence’s artisans are known worldwide. It doesn’t get more authentic than visiting them at their ateliers in Oltrarno as they make jewelry or leather goods, or assist in the creation of one-of-kind scents, or watch restorers repair Renaissance masterpieces. Or, the art and architecture of Assisi seen through the eyes of today’s Franciscian monks brings new meaning to the iconic frescoes by Giotto and Cimabue.

But try this:  Visit Maremma, Tuscany’s undiscovered coastline for pristine beaches, wild landscapes where Spaghetti Westerns were shot, and to enjoy Super Tuscans in Bolgheri. Or, visit Brunello Cucinelli’s cashmere factory in Solomeo and see how his world-class sweaters are made right at the source.

Favorite hotels:

• Castello del Nero - Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, Castello del Nero exudes timeless elegance with its historic castle setting.

• Castello di Casole - Belmond’s Tuscan castle offers luxury stays with a focus on nature and gastronomy deep in the Chianti countryside

• Portrait Firenze - An all-suite property located right on the Arno, Ferragamo style.

• Hotel Savoy - Located right on Piazza della Repubblica, this Roccoforte gem puts you in the heart of the action, steps away from the Duomo and major sights.

• La Bandita Townhouse - Located in Pienza, this boutique property seamlessly blends historic charm with modern luxury in a renovated 16th-century building.

• Palazzo Seneca - Norcia’s Relais & Chateaux offers Michelin star dining in the deep heart of Umbria.

Favorite guest experience: Food and wine are an art in Tuscany. Go wine tasting at Chianti’s Fonterutoli and learn about the family’s ties to Thomas Jefferson. Or, visit Urbani’s headquarters in Scheggino and go truffle hunting with adorable dogs and then enjoy a lavish meal centered on the white or black tuber.

Favorite restaurants:

• La Pineta (Marina di Bibbona)

• Atto di Vito Mollica (Firenze)

• Osteria di Passignano (Tavernelle)

• L'Imbuto (Lucca)

• Trattoria dell'Orso (Orvieto)

• Trattoria Sostanza (Firenze)

• Scottadito Osteria Tagliavento (Bevagna)

Foods: Bistecca alla Fiorentina, pappa al pomodoro, pappardelle al cinghiale, farro anything, cacciucco, tortelli di Mugello, cantucci & vinsanto, cavolo nero, lentils, game, truffles white and black (of course!)

Wines:

• Brunello di Montalcino

• Carmignano

• Chianti Classico

• Morellino di Scansano

• Aleatico Passito dell'Elba

• Super Tuscan

• Vernaccia

• Vino Nobile di Montepulciano