If you don't know by now that Tuscany is one of the most popular photographic destinations on the planet, you really haven't been paying attention. It's the stuff of best-selling romance novels, dream weddings, once-in-a-lifetime vacations and brilliant works of art by the masters. From its iconic architectural marvels to its quaint villages and rolling, wonderfully-lit Italian landscapes, it's long been known as one of the world's most inspiring and rewarding destinations for photographers.

The fact is, there's so much to shoot in Tuscany that you can literally get lost in the process and never find your way to some of the places that will bring out the master photographer in you. Fortunately for you, we're about to list a few of those locations for you, and the reasons why you need to include them on your checklist. Grab your pen and planner!

Orvieto

We're sneaking one in on you here. This fortress town isn't actually in Tuscany. It's in the neighboring region of Umbria, but if you don't take the time to visit it, here's a taste of what you'll be missing:

Siena

Steeped in history and overlooking the former site of the Roman forum, this location will provide you with one "OMG!" moment after another. Don't miss it.

Montichiello

This estate is wine country at its absolute finest. It offers vineyards bathed in the legendary light of the Tuscan sun, and neighbors Pienza, a charming village known for its architecture and its incredible cheese:

Civita di Bagnoregio

We've done it again – this location isn't really in Tuscany. We've included it because it's close by and actually worth a trip from anywhere to see. Aside from its perilous location, this rare jewel has survived two World Wars and remains relatively unaffected by modern culture. See it while it still stands!

San Quirico d'Orcia

Last, but far from least, here's a stop that encompasses all of the history and charm that Italy is famous for. Situated on the ancient road from France to Rome, it's home to 8th-Century churches, some of the world's most photographed and painted trees, and Tuscany's most friendly residents. Did we forget to mention incredible vistas?

How to See it All – and Much More

These five locations are only a minuscule sample of the rare and varied opportunities Tuscany has to offer photographers. It simply isn't possible to do this incredible region justice in the space of this article, with words or pictures. Instead, we'd like to recommend seeing and photographing all of the above and much, much more in a tour from one of our favorite partners.

The "Capturing Tuscany" tour from Tuscan Muse and Jaroslaw (Jarek) Pawlak is an amazing, 10-night journey through this land of romance, history and light, under the guidance of one of Italy's top photographers. Among the 14 stops of the tour are those listed here, as well as others that will leave no doubt as to why this region has gained its reputation.

This is the Tuscan vacation you've been waiting for. Take a look at some sample photos below, then visit the website to book your spot before it fills. You won't regret it.

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