Unmissable UNESCO Sites

From enchanting landscapes to cities brimming with art, every corner tells a unique story steeped in tradition, nature, and creativity. For an unforgettable Tuscan experience, a stay in Lucca is the perfect choice.
With its medieval origins and unparalleled charm, our city serves as the gateway to countless wonders waiting to be discovered. By choosing Hotel Ilaria for your holiday, you’ll find yourself within Lucca’s historic 16th-century walls, enjoying outstanding service and the warm hospitality for which we’re renowned. Staying with us also places you at the heart of an incredible cultural and natural heritage that’s just waiting to be explored. Among the must-see destinations in Tuscany, we invite you to visit the seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites—all within easy reach of our hotel in the heart of Lucca.

The vibrant heart of the Renaissance, Florence is an open-air museum. The city flourished under the Medici family, leaving behind an artistic and cultural legacy of astonishing wealth. Among its most iconic landmarks are the majestic Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore with its dome designed by Brunelleschi, the magnificent Palazzo Pitti, and the churches of Santa Croce and San Lorenzo.
Florence is home to masterpieces by timeless artists such as Michelangelo, Donatello, and Botticelli, making it an unmissable destination for art lovers. Every corner of its historic centre is filled with treasures waiting to be discovered.

Few places in the world are as iconic as Pisa’s Piazza del Duomo, also known as Piazza dei Miracoli. Here, you’ll find four extraordinary monuments representing the pinnacle of medieval architecture: the Cathedral, the Baptistery—the largest of its kind in the world—the Leaning Tower, and the Monumental Cemetery.
The elegant design and masterful use of white marble make this square a unique artistic and architectural jewel. The famous Leaning Tower, with its curious tilt, attracts visitors from every corner of the globe and is one of the most recognisable symbols of Italy.

Perched on a hilltop, San Gimignano is renowned for its medieval towers that dominate the skyline. Of the original 70 towers, 14 remain today, standing as proud reminders of a time when a family’s wealth was measured by the height of its tower.
Strolling through the cobbled streets of San Gimignano feels like stepping back into the Middle Ages. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Cathedral, the Palazzo del Podestà, and the Torre Grossa, which offers breathtaking views of the Tuscan countryside.

Siena enchants visitors with its timeless medieval atmosphere. Its historic centre has remained virtually unchanged since the 15th century, preserving its authentic charm. At its heart lies the shell-shaped Piazza del Campo, the city’s main hub and the stage for the famous Palio horse race.
Highlights include the stunning Gothic Cathedral with its richly decorated façade and interiors brimming with art, as well as the Church of San Domenico.

The Val d’Orcia is like a living Impressionist painting. Rolling hills, wheat fields, and vineyards are dotted with charming villages such as Montalcino, Pienza, and Montepulciano.
This landscape was shaped during the Renaissance to reflect ideals of beauty and harmony, becoming a model for landscapes across Europe. Here, you can immerse yourself in nature’s beauty while savouring local specialities, including the renowned Brunello di Montalcino wine and Pienza’s delectable pecorino cheese.

Scattered across the Tuscan countryside, 12 villas and two gardens bear witness to the influence and wealth of the Medici family. Among the most famous are the Boboli Gardens and Villa di Castello in Florence, as well as Villa di Poggio a Caiano.
Built between the 15th and 17th centuries, these residences embody the Renaissance ideals of harmony between architecture and nature. The gardens, with their geometric designs, perfectly blend the natural and the man-made.

Pienza is a shining example of Renaissance urban planning. Transformed by Pope Pius II into an “ideal city” designed by architect Rossellino, it epitomises humanistic principles. The town is centred around Piazza Pio II, flanked by the Cathedral, Palazzo Piccolomini, and the Town Hall. Its harmonious proportions and elegant architecture make Pienza a truly unique destination and a symbol of the Renaissance vision.

After a day exploring Tuscany’s UNESCO wonders, return to Hotel Ilaria and unwind in our comfortable rooms, surrounded by the history and elegance of Lucca.

Book now and discover the best of Tuscany.