Chianti
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Latest update: 29 February 2024
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By Dion Protani
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The Chianti region is situated in the heart of Tuscany, primarily within the provinces of Florence and Siena.
It is renowned for its picturesque landscapes dotted with vineyards, olive groves, and medieval villages. The area is most famous for producing Chianti wine, a prestigious red wine recognised for its quality and distinctive flavour profile. |
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Chianti: the region and its wines
The Chianti region in Tuscany is renowned for its scenic vineyards, olive groves, and charming medieval villages. Its rolling hills are adorned with picturesque castles, ancient churches, and historic wine estates. Visitors can indulge in wine tasting tours, savoring the renowned Chianti Classico wines.
Quaint towns like Greve in Chianti and Castellina in Chianti offer authentic Tuscan experiences with their narrow streets and local trattorias. Nature lovers can explore the verdant countryside through hiking and biking trails. With its blend of cultural heritage, gastronomic delights, and stunning landscapes, Chianti promises an unforgettable Tuscan escapade.
Quaint towns like Greve in Chianti and Castellina in Chianti offer authentic Tuscan experiences with their narrow streets and local trattorias. Nature lovers can explore the verdant countryside through hiking and biking trails. With its blend of cultural heritage, gastronomic delights, and stunning landscapes, Chianti promises an unforgettable Tuscan escapade.
Chianti
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Provinces: Arezzo, Florence and Siena
Region: Tuscany Features: vineyards, rolling hills, cypress trees Towns: Radda in Chianti, Greve in Chianti, Impruneta Fly to: Florence Airport - 38 minutes (39 km) Recommended accommodation: Locanda Le Piazze |
What are the most popular tours and activities in the Chianti region?
- Wine Tasting Tours: Explore the renowned vineyards of Chianti with guided wine tasting tours. Visitors can sample a variety of Chianti Classico wines, including Sangiovese and other local varietals, while learning about the region's winemaking traditions and terroir from knowledgeable guides.
- Culinary Experiences: Immerse yourself in Tuscan cuisine with culinary tours and cooking classes in the Chianti region. Visitors can learn to prepare traditional dishes such as ribollita (Tuscan bread soup), pici pasta, and bistecca alla Fiorentina (Florentine steak) under the guidance of local chefs, or embark on gastronomic tours to markets, olive groves, and cheese farms to sample local specialties and artisanal products.
- Scenic Drives and Cycling Tours: Discover the beauty of the Chianti countryside with scenic drives and cycling tours along winding roads and picturesque landscapes. Guided excursions provide opportunities to explore charming hilltop towns, medieval castles, and vineyard-covered hillsides, while enjoying panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside.
- Historical Visits to Castles and Villages: Explore the rich history and cultural heritage of the Chianti region with visits to medieval castles, fortified villages, and historic landmarks. Visitors can tour iconic sites such as the Castello di Brolio, Castello di Meleto, and Castello di Volpaia, and stroll through charming villages like Radda in Chianti, Greve in Chianti, and Castellina in Chianti, admiring architectural treasures and Renaissance art along the way.
- Olive Oil Tastings: Discover the flavors of Tuscan olive oil with guided tastings and tours of olive groves and olive oil mills in the Chianti region. Visitors can sample a variety of extra virgin olive oils, learn about olive cultivation and production methods, and enjoy scenic views of the rolling hills and vineyards that characterize the Chianti landscape.
- Hiking and Nature Walks: Explore the natural beauty of the Chianti countryside with guided hiking and nature walks through forests, vineyards, and nature reserves. Visitors can discover hidden waterfalls, wildlife habitats, and ancient trails, while enjoying the tranquility and serenity of rural Tuscany.
Where should I eat in the Chianti hills?
- Osteria di Passignano: Located in the heart of the Chianti Classico area, Osteria di Passignano is known for its traditional Tuscan cuisine and extensive wine list. The restaurant is situated in the historic Antinori vineyard and offers a charming atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating options.
- Ristorante La Cantinetta di Rignana: Situated in the village of Rignana near Greve in Chianti, La Cantinetta di Rignana is a family-run restaurant known for its authentic Tuscan dishes and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The restaurant's menu features homemade pastas, grilled meats, and seasonal specialties.
- Osteria Le Panzanelle: Located in the village of Panzano in Chianti, Osteria Le Panzanelle is a cozy trattoria known for its warm hospitality and delicious food. The restaurant offers a menu of traditional Tuscan dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, as well as an extensive selection of Chianti wines.
- Ristorante Castello di Spaltenna: Situated in a historic castle near Gaiole in Chianti, Ristorante Castello di Spaltenna offers an elegant dining experience with a focus on gourmet cuisine and impeccable service. Guests can enjoy dishes inspired by traditional Tuscan recipes, as well as creative interpretations prepared by the talented chef.
- Antica Macelleria Cecchini: Located in the village of Panzano in Chianti, Antica Macelleria Cecchini is a renowned butcher shop and restaurant owned by Dario Cecchini, known as the "Butcher of Panzano." The restaurant serves high-quality meats prepared according to traditional Tuscan recipes, as well as a variety of other dishes showcasing local ingredients.
Chianti Gallery
What are the best places to stay in the Chianti hills?
- Borgo San Felice: Situated in the heart of the Chianti Classico wine region, Borgo San Felice is a luxurious wine resort housed in a restored medieval village. Guests can stay in elegant rooms and suites, dine at the Michelin-starred restaurant, and enjoy wine tastings and tours of the estate's vineyards and cellars.
- Castello di Casole: Located near the town of Casole d'Elsa, Castello di Casole is a five-star hotel set within a historic castle and estate. Guests can stay in luxurious suites and villas, relax by the infinity pool overlooking the Tuscan countryside, and enjoy gourmet cuisine at the hotel's restaurant.
- Villa Mangiacane: Nestled in the hills south of Florence, Villa Mangiacane is a stunning Renaissance villa surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. Guests can stay in beautifully appointed rooms and suites, relax by the pool, and enjoy wine tastings and cooking classes on the estate.
- Castello del Nero: Set on a historic estate near the town of Tavarnelle Val di Pesa, Castello del Nero is a five-star hotel housed in a restored castle. Guests can stay in elegant rooms and suites, dine at the hotel's gourmet restaurant, and indulge in spa treatments using local ingredients.
- Villa Bordoni: Located in the village of Greve in Chianti, Villa Bordoni is a boutique hotel housed in a restored villa overlooking the vineyards of the Chianti Classico region. Guests can stay in beautifully decorated rooms and suites, dine at the hotel's Michelin-recommended restaurant, and explore the nearby towns and wineries.
What's the closest airport to the Chianti hills?
Florence Airport (FLR):
Pisa International Airport (PSA):
- Florence Airport, also known as Peretola Airport, is the closest airport to the Chianti region.
- It offers domestic and international flights, making it a convenient option for travelers visiting the area.
- The airport is located approximately 45-60 minutes away by car from the Chianti region.
Pisa International Airport (PSA):
- While further away than Florence Airport, Pisa Airport is another option for reaching the Chianti region.
- It offers a wider range of international flights and is located approximately 1.5 to 2 hours away by car from the Chianti region.
What are the main train stations in the Chianti hills?
Florence Santa Maria Novella Train Station:
- Florence's main train station, Santa Maria Novella (SMN), serves as a major transportation hub for the region.
- From here, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach the Chianti region.
- Additionally, some organized tours and transportation services may offer transfers directly from the station to Chianti.
How do you get to the Chianti hills by car?
Driving Directions:
- From Florence: If arriving by train at Florence's Santa Maria Novella Station, you can rent a car or take a taxi to drive to the Chianti region. The journey typically takes around 30-60 minutes depending on your specific destination within Chianti.
- From Pisa: If arriving at Pisa Airport, you can rent a car and drive to the Chianti region. The drive takes around 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic and your specific destination.
What private transfer options are there for the Chianti hills?
A private transfer from Florence Airport to Greve in Chianti takes around 45 minutes.
If you'd like a price for this service just email us using the [email protected] mailbox, providing the following details:
Once we have those details we'll get back to you with a price, a travel schedule and how the transfer will work.
If you'd like a price for this service just email us using the [email protected] mailbox, providing the following details:
- Arrival location (airport, train station or other)
- Arrival date
- Arrival time
- Number of passengers
- Destination (either town or specific hotel)
Once we have those details we'll get back to you with a price, a travel schedule and how the transfer will work.
Alternatively, you can use the private transfer booking engine below:
Where can I rent a car to visit the Chianti hills?
- Florence: Florence, the capital city of Tuscany, is a major transportation hub and offers numerous car rental agencies, including international chains. While not within the Chianti region itself, Florence provides convenient access to rental services.
- Siena: Siena is another major city located near the Chianti region and may have car rental agencies available. You can find rental options within the city center or at Siena Railway Station.
- Greve in Chianti: Greve in Chianti is a town located within the Chianti region and may have local car rental options available. You can check with local rental companies or search online for options.
