Golden hills, thermal steam rising at sunset and vineyards turning ruby-red: autumn in Tuscany creates a natural setting that seems to have stepped out of a painting. At this time of year, villages and lesser-known small towns show a more authentic side, with museums, Renaissance squares and artisan workshops. Grape harvest and truffle season add solid reasons for a trip, bringing together food, scenery and history.
Cortona, the Etruscan hill town overlooking the Val di Chiana
Perched on a promontory close to the Umbrian border, Cortona has an urban layout that traces centuries of history, with ancient-origin walls and the medieval imprint of its centre.
