Valdichiana
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Latest update: 29 February 2024
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By Dion Protani
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The Valdichiana is located in the provinces of Arezzo and Siena in Tuscany. This fertile valley is famous for its picturesque landscapes, characterised by rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves.
The region is renowned for its excellent wines, particularly Vino Nobile di Montepulciano and Brunello di Montalcino. Visitors can explore charming medieval towns and indulge in wine tasting tours. |
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Valdichiana: the valley of wine and beauty
The Valdichiana region in Tuscany is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, charming towns, and rich history. Visitors can explore the medieval hilltop villages of Cortona and Montepulciano, known for their stunning architecture and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The area is also famous for its vineyards and wineries, offering wine tastings and tours for wine enthusiasts.
Nearby attractions include the ancient Etruscan town of Chiusi and the thermal baths of Chianciano Terme, providing relaxation and rejuvenation amidst scenic surroundings. With its blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty, Valdichiana offers a captivating Tuscan experience.
Nearby attractions include the ancient Etruscan town of Chiusi and the thermal baths of Chianciano Terme, providing relaxation and rejuvenation amidst scenic surroundings. With its blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty, Valdichiana offers a captivating Tuscan experience.
Valdichiana
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Provinces: Arezzo, Siena
Region: Tuscany Size: 2,300 km² Close by: Montepulciano, Cortona, Trequanda, Val d'Orcia, Pienza Fly to: Florence Airport - 1 hour 3 minutes by car (105 km) Recommended stay: Hotel I Due Cigni (Montepulciano) |
What are the most popular tours and activities in the Valdichiana?
- Wine Tours: Explore the renowned wine-producing area of Valdichiana with guided wine tours. Visitors can sample a variety of Tuscan wines, including Vino Nobile di Montepulciano and Rosso di Montepulciano, while visiting local wineries and vineyards nestled amidst the rolling hills of the Valdichiana countryside.
- Historic Village Visits: Discover the charming medieval villages of Valdichiana with guided tours. Visitors can wander through picturesque towns such as Montepulciano, Pienza, and Cortona, admiring ancient architecture, Renaissance palaces, and panoramic viewpoints, while learning about the region's rich history and cultural heritage.
- Culinary Experiences: Indulge in the flavors of Valdichiana with gastronomic experiences that showcase the region's culinary traditions. Visitors can sample local specialties such as pici pasta, ribollita soup, and Chianina beef, as well as artisanal cheeses, olive oils, and truffles, while dining in traditional trattorias and gourmet restaurants.
- Art and Cultural Events: Immerse yourself in the art and culture of Valdichiana with visits to local museums, galleries, and cultural events. Visitors can explore Renaissance art and architecture in towns such as Montepulciano and Pienza, attend classical music concerts and theatrical performances, and participate in festivals celebrating local traditions and craftsmanship.
- Outdoor Activities: Enjoy outdoor activities in the scenic landscapes of Valdichiana, including hiking, cycling, and horseback riding. Guided excursions take visitors through vineyards, olive groves, and rolling hills, providing opportunities to spot wildlife, discover hidden trails, and enjoy panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside.
- Thermal Spa Retreats: Relax and rejuvenate in the thermal spa resorts of Valdichiana. Visitors can enjoy therapeutic treatments such as thermal baths, massages, and mud therapies, while soaking in natural hot springs surrounded by tranquil countryside, providing a serene escape from the stresses of everyday life.
Where should I eat in Valdichiana?
- La Grotta di Fulignano (Montepulciano): Located in the heart of Montepulciano, this restaurant offers traditional Tuscan cuisine with a creative twist. Dishes are made using locally sourced ingredients, including fresh vegetables, cheeses, and meats.
- Osteria dell'Orcia (Bagno Vignoni): Situated in the picturesque village of Bagno Vignoni, Osteria dell'Orcia offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu featuring classic Tuscan dishes. Guests can enjoy homemade pasta, grilled meats, and regional specialties.
- Locanda di Casal Mustia (Pienza): Set in a restored farmhouse just outside of Pienza, Locanda di Casal Mustia offers rustic Tuscan cuisine in a charming countryside setting. The menu highlights seasonal ingredients and traditional recipes passed down through generations.
- Il Podere degli Orti (Montepulciano): This family-run restaurant in Montepulciano focuses on organic and locally sourced ingredients. Diners can enjoy dishes made with fresh vegetables, herbs, and meats from the restaurant's own farm.
- Osteria La Porta (Monticchiello): With its panoramic terrace overlooking the Val d'Orcia, Osteria La Porta offers stunning views along with delicious food. The menu features homemade pasta, grilled meats, and an extensive selection of local wines.
- Trattoria La Grotta (Montepulciano): Tucked away in a historic cellar in Montepulciano, Trattoria La Grotta serves up traditional Tuscan fare in a unique and atmospheric setting. Diners can enjoy dishes like pici pasta with wild boar ragu and grilled Chianina steak.
- Ristorante La Solita Zuppa (Cortona): Located in the charming town of Cortona, La Solita Zuppa offers hearty Tuscan cuisine in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The menu features soups, pastas, and grilled meats, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
- Trattoria da Cagnano (Montepulciano): Situated in the historic center of Montepulciano, this trattoria specializes in traditional Tuscan dishes made with seasonal ingredients. Diners can enjoy classics like ribollita soup, bistecca alla fiorentina, and pici pasta with garlic and olive oil.
- Osteria del Borgo (Pienza): Housed in a historic building in the center of Pienza, Osteria del Borgo offers a menu of authentic Tuscan dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant's terrace provides panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
- Ristorante La Briciola (Montepulciano): Known for its warm hospitality and delicious food, La Briciola serves up classic Tuscan fare with a focus on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. The menu features homemade pastas, grilled meats, and fresh seafood.
Valdichiana Gallery
What are the best places to stay in Valdichiana?
- Villa di Piazzano (Cortona): Situated in the heart of the Valdichiana countryside, Villa di Piazzano is a historic villa dating back to the 16th century. This elegant property offers luxurious rooms and suites, a swimming pool, landscaped gardens, and a gourmet restaurant serving traditional Tuscan cuisine.
- Hotel Villa Marsili (Cortona): Located just steps from the historic center of Cortona, Hotel Villa Marsili is a charming boutique hotel housed in a renovated Renaissance villa. Guests can enjoy beautifully appointed rooms, a tranquil garden, panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, and a delicious breakfast buffet.
- Borgo Il Melone (Cortona): Nestled amidst olive groves and vineyards, Borgo Il Melone offers stylish accommodations in a restored farmhouse and cottages. Guests can relax by the swimming pool, explore the scenic grounds, and dine at the on-site restaurant specializing in local and seasonal dishes.
- Villa Fontelunga (Cortona): Situated in the Tuscan countryside near Cortona, Villa Fontelunga is an elegant boutique hotel offering luxurious accommodations in a historic villa and adjacent farmhouse. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms and suites, a swimming pool, manicured gardens, and personalized service.
- Relais Il Falconiere & Spa (Cortona): Set on a hillside overlooking the Valdichiana valley, Relais Il Falconiere & Spa is a luxury hotel housed in a restored 17th-century villa. This upscale property features elegant rooms and suites, a Michelin-starred restaurant, a wine cellar, a spa, and cooking classes.
What's the closest airport to Valdichiana?
Florence Airport (FLR):
Pisa International Airport (PSA):
- Located approximately 120 kilometers northwest of the Valdichiana region.
- Florence Airport is the nearest international airport to the Valdichiana.
- From the airport, you can reach the Valdichiana region by rental car, taxi, or a combination of train and bus.
Pisa International Airport (PSA):
- Located approximately 170 kilometers west of the Valdichiana region.
- Pisa Airport is another option for travelers to reach the Valdichiana, although it's a bit farther away than Florence Airport.
- From the airport, you can reach the Valdichiana region by rental car, taxi, or a combination of train and bus.
What are the main train stations in Valdichiana?
Chiusi-Chianciano Terme Train Station:
- Chiusi-Chianciano Terme is the main train station serving the Valdichiana region.
- It is well-connected to major cities in Italy, including Florence, Rome, and Milan.
- From Chiusi-Chianciano Terme Train Station, you can easily access various towns and attractions within the Valdichiana region by rental car, taxi, or local buses.
How do you get to the Valdichiana from the airport?
From Florence Airport (FLR):
From Pisa International Airport (PSA):
- Rental Car: Renting a car at Florence Airport is a convenient option for exploring the Valdichiana region at your own pace. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
- Train and Bus: Take a taxi or shuttle from the airport to Florence's main train station, Santa Maria Novella (Firenze SMN). From there, catch a train to Chiusi-Chianciano Terme Train Station. Upon arrival, you can take a bus or taxi to your destination in the Valdichiana region.
From Pisa International Airport (PSA):
- Rental Car: Renting a car at Pisa Airport gives you the flexibility to drive to the Valdichiana region. The journey takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
- Train and Bus: Take a taxi or shuttle from the airport to Pisa Centrale Railway Station. From there, catch a train to Chiusi-Chianciano Terme Train Station. Upon arrival, you can take a bus or taxi to your destination in the Valdichiana region.
What private transfer options are there for Valdichiana?
A private transfer from Florence Airport to Cortona takes around 1 hour 25 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 Valdichiana?
- Major Cities: Cities within the Valdichiana region such as Arezzo and Cortona may have car rental agencies where you can rent a car directly.
- Regional Airports: While there are no major airports within the Valdichiana region, you can consider renting a car from nearby airports such as Florence Airport (Peretola Airport) or Perugia San Francesco d'Assisi – Umbria International Airport. These airports are within driving distance of the Valdichiana region and may offer a wider selection of rental options.
