TUSCANY The insiders' guide

From grabbing a lampredotto panino to enjoying a drink at the winemakers' favourite hangout, let our experts help you get around Tuscany like a local, avoid the tourist traps and enjoy the best the region has to offer

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Top tips: Getting around the region

Filippo Magnani says... ‘Landing at Pisa or Florence airports, you can rent a car and head towards the province of Livorno on the Tuscan coast, where you'll reach the renowned wine districts of Bolgheri and Suvereto. Right across from the coast lies Elba island - just a one-hour ferry ride away. Alternatively, if you land at Rome's Leonardo da Vinci airport, you can transfer to Termini central station and take a high-speed train to Florence. From there, you're perfectly positioned to discover the inland of Tuscany, Chianti Classico, Brunello di Montalcino and San Gimignano.

Åsa Johansson says... ‘Set your alarm and hit the famous towns early in the morning. Experiencing places such as Siena, Florence or San Gimignano before the crowds descend is pure magic.’

Raffaele Mosca says... ‘Venture beyond the renowned areas. The less well-travelled parts of the region have plenty to offer!’

Richard Baudains says... ‘The Autolinee Toscane public bus network covers every corner of the region. It’s slow but economical - and you get to see the real provincial Tuscany on the winding routes through the villages.’ at-bus.it

Sarah Lane says... ‘Walk! The slow way is the best way to really experience the lovely Tuscan countryside. To cover longer distances, make use of the sometimes sparse but usually reliable public transport.’

Michelle Cherutti-Kowal MW says... ‘If travelling by car, be aware that you frequently need to park on the edge of town to avoid congestion charges. For reaching the main towns, trains are a good option.’