The birthplace of the Renaissance, Tuscany is a region rich with artistic, architectural and culinary delights.

It encompasses the mountains of the Apennines, scores of World Heritage Sites, the olive groves and vineyards of Chianti, leaning tower of Pisa and beautiful beaches along its 250-mile coastline, making it varied and naturally attractive to incomers from across the globe.

Florence is the region’s capital city and its historic centre, which lies within medieval walls, is a World Heritage Site. The city is renowned for its stunning sights, Renaissance era cultural wonders and fine art and dining, making it the heart of Tuscany.

With such wonders in its boundaries it’s no surprise to learn that Tuscany’s properties carry the biggest price tags in the whole of Italy. A Rococo villa on the edge of Florence commanded a €48 million price, making it the nation’s most expensive home, and properties with views over the city are highly sought after. It’s the combination of this and the quality of the homes that makes the hilltop neighbourhoods of Bellosguardo and Poggio Imperiale popular.

It’s telling that the second most expensive property in the whole of Italy was to be found in Arezzo, a small city that also lies within Tuscany. Beyond this, the countryside is littered with fabulous farmhouses and dream cottages that make it well worth exploring off the beaten track. Areas such as Val d’Orcia or Pienza are home to hidden gem luxury homes that help to tap into the very best of Tuscan living.