a romantic weekend in Tuscany

In Florence, a 16th-century palazzo has been transformed into Numeroventi – part artist residence, part design-driven retreat. The feel is calm and understated: high-ceilinged apartments stripped back to pale plaster, industrial lights, and curated mid-century pieces. A communal kitchen brings guests together over coffee or late-night pasta, while rotating exhibitions and residencies keep the creative energy flowing. More than a place to stay, it’s a space for artists, designers, and anyone looking for a quieter, slower and more intentional overnighter. 

Cammillo is a real Florentine institution with top-notch Italian cooking and an unpretentious vibe. Order their famous ribollita soup and don't miss the roast beef!

Directly behind the Pitti Palace lies the regal splendour of the Boboli Gardens, created in the 16th century by the powerful Medici family and later imitated by courts across Europe. Today, it remains one of Italy’s most breathtaking gardens.  Wander along tree-lined avenues, past ancient and Renaissance statues, grottos, and fountains that showcase centuries of artistry. Among its highlights is the 18th-century Kaffehaus, a rare example of Rococo architecture in Tuscany, perched within a magnificent terraced area.

Transport yourself back to the Renaissance with a visit to the Strozzi Palace. This centuries-old palazzo plays host to a great collection of classic art, imaginative workshops and unique contemporary pieces.

In the vaulted cellars of 15th-century Palazzo Antinori, Cantinetta Antinori serves Tuscan food with old-school sophistication. It’s all crisp white linens, low-lit arches, and staff in cream jackets pouring the Antinori family’s own wines – from Chianti Classico to the iconic Solaia. Plates lean classic: pappa al pomodoro, artichoke pasta, bistecca with pecorino and the vibe is timeless but not showy. 

Founded in 1733 as a bozzolari, Cafè Gilli is the oldest café in Florence. We can hardly choose between the hundreds of traditional Italian pastries & chocolates on the menu here.

While the temptation to eat out for every meal in Lucca is strong, occasionally the itch to cook (or assemble, rather) sneaks up. When it does, head to this traditional local greengrocer for fresh groceries & very good wine. Equally, Gino Frutta offers delicatessan items - pasta fresca, pesce al forno, zupas - all delicious, and available to take-away. 

Just a short walk from the stunning San Frediano basilica, Santa Goccia Vineria is a welcome addition to the local wine scene. This charming wine shop and bar boasts an impressive selection of wines, highlighting biodynamic offerings from the picturesque Lucchesia plains alongside intriguing selections from various regions in Italy and beyond.

Pop into this authentic Tuscan trattoria situated in the gorgeous 18th-century Palazzo Arnolfini for a perfect Italian meal that has been noticed by the Michelin Guide. Inspired by traditional Italian dishes, and reinterpreted with a light modern touch - the dishes here are both decadent and elegant. Reserve a seat on the terrace overlooking the town's historic theatre and try the the siphoned potato sprinkled with bottarga and served with a squid sauce, chanterelle mushrooms and spicy parsley cream. The meat and fish options are also succulent and as fresh as it comes. 

A cosy wine bar at the top of Via della Zecca in the heart of Lucca, Vinaiolo offers wine by the glass – including an interesting rosé Primitivo – and a great atmosphere late into the evening. It can get pretty full, so be sure to arrive in good time after dinner. Or grab an aperativo as you wander through the historic piazzas to your dinner reservation. 

Caffè Santa Zita is a charming café with a terrace overlooking the San Frediano Basilica. It's the perfect place to start your day with a good cappuccino and a homemade cornetto.

We can't get enough of this cosy family hotel set amongst sprawling, verdant gardens. It's just a short walk away from the long sandy beach of Forte dei Marmi. Ideal location? We think so.

To pedestrians, Bar Pietrasantese might look like any other sun-soaked piazza spot, but with warm Italian hospitality, an extensive list of cocktails, and a secret bar to boot, it's the perfect spot for a late-afternoon Aperol Spritz. Keep this one to yourself, grazie.

Located in a secluded stone courtyard behind Pietrasanta’s winding streets, Da Giacomo is all white linen tablecloths and old-world Italian charm – la dolce vita at its best. The menu changes with the seasons, showcasing fish delivered fresh each day by local fishermen. Highlights include tuna tartare with blueberries and basil, lobster calamarata pasta, and the standout red prawn tartare paired with mandarin sorbet.

When you think of traditional Italian cafes, we can bet the picture in your head looks a lot like Caffè Sambo. It's the perfect place to start off your day with a good cup of coffee, fresh orange juice and a small sugar-dusted pastry.

Bagno Bruno embodies the Italian attitude to life by the sea and Forte dei Marmi from its most beautiful side. The small beach club and restaurant, characterised by unmissable Caribbean colours, sits directly on the beach; a local institution since 1951 and a meeting place for sun-kissed locals and famous names alike, all set to the tune of crispy squid and freshly caught lobster.

In the vibrant heart of Forte dei Marmi, Almarosa Music Bar has plenty of character. A patchwork of eclectic decor and traditional Tuscan charm, it attracts a fast crowd of nightlife enthusiasts who will eventually roll out into the night come 2am closing time. 

Ristorante Lorenzo is the grand dame of Forte dei Marmi dining – white-tableclothed elegance and polished service set the tone for an evening of quiet glamour. The plating is exquisite, the flavours are impeccable – crudo so fresh it tastes of the Tyrrhenian, pastas dressed simply but perfectly, and a cellar stacked with Tuscan vintages that locals guard like secrets. The crowd is as polished as the plates: elegant, sun-kissed regulars and a scattering of international names who slip in without fanfare. There are no theatrics, just flawless cooking, a room that glows in candlelight, and a sense that everyone present is exactly where they want to be.

Within the grounds of Villa Roma Imperiale, Tennis Roma is one of Forte dei Marmi's most iconic clubs (and among the oldest in Italy). Recently renovated under new owners Constanza and Marco, Tennis Roma still has the glamorous feel of a Bond set and the warmth of Italian hospitality. The gloobles travel team can help arrange an instructor or reserve a court for a quiet match under the trees. 

A simply lovely beach club, especially very well equipped for families. Bagno America is located to the east of Forte dei Marmi, in the Roma Imperiale area, the most famous part of the town.