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Chianti is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and famous areas in Tuscany. Located among the provinces of Siena and Florence, this breathtaking hills region is the ultimate embodiment of Italian beauty and history.

Even though Chianti isn’t a big city, it offers top attractions to visitors, including ancient fortresses, medieval villages, charming landscapes, castles, good restaurants, country houses, a succession of rolling hills, parish churches, and approximately 40,000 acres of vineyards.

Visiting Chianti allows for many activities like vineyard exploration, relaxation in the countryside, Italian history excursions, wine tasting, and unique food. Here is a complete guide on what to do in Chianti, Tuscany.

1. GO WINE TASTING

Chianti’s wine-making traditions and amazing wine products are undoubtedly some of the region’s main attractions. Therefore, it’s only right to taste local wine once you arrive in Chianti. Not tasting the local wine in Chianti is like visiting Paris and not admiring the Eiffel Tower! Fortunately, you have plenty of opportunities to enjoy the renowned Chianti Classico and Chianti wines.

You can opt to:

  • Sign up for wine tasting at one of the local wine bars that offer a wide selection of local wines
  • Take advantage of an organized wine tasting and a delicious meal at a traditional restaurant
  • Join a wine-tasting tour and learn about the wine-making process
  • Visit a tasting room at one of the wineries in Greve in Chianti for an educational wine tasting experience 

Signing up for a wine tour with one of the local wineries, ancient wine cellars, traditional estates, or vineyards will definitely provide you with the most profound wine-tasting experience.

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2. VISIT CASTLES AND MUSEUMS

In addition to green vineyards, olive groves, and forests, Chianti’s beautiful scenery also features breathtaking hilltop castles and historic centers. Visiting these castles means immersing yourself in the Tuscan tradition, culture, and history.

Some of the castles you’ll find in the Chianti region include:

  • Castello di Gabbiano in Mercatale in Val di Pesa
  • Castello di Meleto in Gaiole
  • Castello di Brolio of the Ricasoli family in Gaiole
  • Castello dei Conti Guidi in Poppi
  • Castello di Porciano in Stia
  • Castello Banfi in Montalcino
  • Castello Vicchiomaggio in Greve
  • Castello di Verrazzano in Greve
  • Castello di Vincigliata in Fiesole

The artistic tradition is deeply rooted in Chianti. In fact, Chianti served as an important location for all the artists who traveled to Rome from Florence and Siena. This explains why there are many museums in the region. Even though these museums are small, they store a wide selection of artistic work.

Some of these museums include:

  • Museo San Pietro in Colle di Val d’Elsa
  • Museum of Sacred Art, located in San Casciano, Val di Pesa
  • Jerusalem of San Vivaldo
  • Giuliano Ghelli Museum in San Casciano, 
  • Museum of San Francesco in Greve 
  • Archeological Museum of Chianti Senese 

 

3. A COOKING CLASS IN A CHIANTI HOME

One of the best ways to top off your visit or vacation in Chianti is by learning a few culinary skills from one of the locals. In recent years, cooking classes for all kinds of Italian dishes have become quite popular. These classes usually offer a deeper insight into Tuscan traditions.

With these cooking classes, you’ll gain expert cooking skills and be guided by knowledgeable chefs on how to cook like a true Tuscan. Based on the time of the day and the cooking class you’ve chosen, you’ll prepare a great lunch or dinner and enjoy what you’ve made while sipping a glass of local wine.

 

4. ATTEND FOOD FESTIVALS AND FAIRS

Chianti has a vast selection of food festivals and fairs for each season. For instance, during the summer, you’ll be treated to Ferie delle messi (medieval harvest festival) in San Gimignano and Siena’s Palio, a folklorist food festival with horseback riding.

During the spring, you can attend Festa della stagion bona (festival of the good season) in Panzano, where you’ll be entertained by a parade of people in period costumes, gastronomic stands, and a medieval play.

In San Polo, you can also attend the Festa del giaggiolo, a festival devoted to celebrating and cultivating the giaggiolo flower. This festival also involves olive oil flavors and Chianti wine.

During fall, in Impruneta, the locals celebrate Festa dell’Uva, a festival devoted to celebrating the grape harvest with a large market. During this festival, people are treated to good music, wine tasting, and local food.

 

5. EXPLORE CHIANTI’S MAIN VILLAGES

Chianti is filled with more medieval villages than other parts of Tuscany and central Italy. In these villages, you’re bound to discover great sceneries and experience the true feeling of Tuscany. These villages have curvy roads that are pleasant to drive on, medieval-era buildings, historical centers, and green vineyards that are inviting to visit.

One of the best ways to get a good view of these villages’ amazing landscapes is by taking a hot-air balloon ride. These rides usually take place in the morning to take full advantage of the strong wind currents.

Some of the main villages and towns you may consider exploring in the Chianti area include Panzano, Greve, Gaiole, Radda, Volpaia, Montefioralle, San Gusmè, Monteriggioni, and Castelnuovo Berardenga.

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FAQ ABOUT CHIANTI

HOW DO I GET AROUND CHIANTI?

The best way to get around Chianti is by car. However, you should be ready to navigate steep bends, climbs, and descents. It’s also possible to get around the beautiful Chianti hills by motorbike, scooter, or public transport.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT CHIANTI?

You can visit Chianti at any time of the year and enjoy your stay. However, spring and autumn are the ideal times if you’d like to visit the region when the landscape and climate are at their best. 

BOOK YOUR STAY WITH US

If you’re planning to visit Chianti, consider booking your stay with us at Hotel Le Fontanelle and The Club House in Castelnuovo Berardenga. We offer 5-star accommodation and a wide selection of delicious contemporary dishes that honor our great Tuscan traditions. Additionally, you can take advantage of our great facilities and off-site activities, like horseback riding and ballooning, to make your stay in Chianti more memorable. 

Book now