Regional Information
Cinque Terre & Tuscany
At a Glance
Currency: Euro (€)
Population: 3.5 million
Language: Italian, English widely spoken
Local Time: Irish and UK time +1 hour
Voltage: 230V – continental adaptors purchased in Ireland / UK can be used
Airport: Malpensa airport is located 45km (28 miles) from central Milan and approximately 2 hours from Santa Margherita Ligure
Climate: Tuscany’s coastline climate is generally mild but it tends to assume a continental character as you go inland, because of the Apennine peaks. The coasts enjoy fresh summers and mild winters, whereas the inland valleys are characterised by very hot summers and cold winters.
Overview
Tuscany is a region in central Italy, regarded as among the most beautiful parts of Italy. Tuscany harbours the classic landscapes of Italy, familiar from Renaissance paintings and TV travel shows alike, with their backdrop of medieval hill-towns, rows of slender cypress trees, vineyards and olive groves, and artfully sited villas and farmhouses. Tuscany was essentially the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance and its artistic heritage includes architecture, painting and sculpture, collected in dozens of museums. The region is known for its wines and has 120 protected regions (nature reserves).
The Cinque Terre can be translated as “The Five Lands”. It comprises five villages situated on the Italian Riviera ; Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore. This scenic coastline, including the five villages and surrounding hillsides, forms part of the Cinque Terre National Park and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Highlights
Camogli - Tucked away between Portofino Mountain and the Ligurian Sea, Camogli is a small fishing village. The town has a double meaning in Italian. The first translation, "houses close together," is apparent in the town's narrow streets, which are lined by tall columns of pastel-colored homes. The second meaning, "houses of wives," refers to the fishermen's wives, who traditionally spent their time at home while their husbands were out at sea.
Portofino - With its dramatic tree-lined cliffs, ocean views, warm weather and delicious food, Portofino is the incarnation of La Dolce Vita. Its small harbour is considered to be among the most beautiful Mediterranean ports.
San Remo - The city, with its 57,000 inhabitants, lies on the Mediterranean coast of western Liguria. Its old town is characterised by perched houses, steep streets, covered alleys, and little squares, offering a glimpse of medieval times. The modern part of San Remo, formerly a fishing village, is now a well known holiday destination.
Riomaggiore - Dating from the early thirteenth century, this Cinque Terre village is well known for its historic character and the wine produced by the town’s vineyard. Riomaggiore like its neighbouring Cinque Terre villages climbs up along the ridges overlooking the sea and is characterised by typical stone houses with coloured facades and slate-roofs.
Florence - The city is one of Italy's most atmospheric and fascinating, retaining a strong resemblance to the small late-medieval centre that contributed so much to the cultural and political development of Europe. Its striking buildings, formidable galleries and treasure-crammed churches attest to the Florentine love of display. Sightseeing highlights include the Piazza Signoria, Uffizi Gallery, Palazzo Pitti, Ponte Vecchio and the famous domed cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore.
Getting Around
The public transport system connecting Tuscan cities is excellent. Buses and trains are scheduled frequently. Within the cities most sights are accessible on foot and there is generally no need to use the bus.
Health/Security
Most Italians take mineral water with their meals; however, tap water is safe everywhere, as are public drinking fountains. Unsafe sources will be marked ACQUA NON POTABILE. Although most locations in Tuscany and Liguria are considered safe, pick-pocketing and theft can occur, especially in tourist areas. Generally, tourists should take the common-sense precautions they would while travelling anywhere. Avoid carrying large sums of cash or leaving belongings unattended.
Passport/Visa
Italy is a member of the EU; therefore no visa is required for Irish/UK citizens. A valid passport is required.
Useful Contacts
Irish Embassy:
Piazza di Campitelli 3, 00186 Rome
Tel: + 39 06 697 9121
www.embassyofireland.it
British Embassy:
Via XX Settembre 80, I-00187 ROMA RM
Tel: + 39 06 4220 000
www.ukinitaly.fco.gov.uk
Local Emergency Services: Ambulance 118 / Fire 115 / Police 112
Calling Tuscany from Ireland/UK:
00 + 39 + 055 + the number
Calling Ireland from Tuscany:
00 + 353 + area code (omit 1st ‘0’) + the number
Calling the UK from Tusacany:
00 + 44 + area code (omit 1st ‘0’) + the number
Local Emergency Services: Ambulance 118 / Fire 115 / Police 112
Useful Websites
www.turismo.toscana.it
www.discovertuscany.com