The Chianti area in Tuscany is one of the most beautiful in the whole region, as well as the most well-known and appreciated by visitors from across the world. The borders of the Chianti region are not clearly defined but in general it extends over the provinces of Florence and Siena, covering all of the area between the two cities and extending to the east toward the Valdarno and to the west to the Val d’Elsa. The Chianti wine area extends further beyond the two cities, all around Florence and even toward Arezzo, Pistoia and Montepulciano.
Popular things to do in Chianti
Visit wineries
Chianti is famous for its wine, so visiting wineries is a must. Many wineries offer tastings and tours, allowing visitors to learn about the wine-making process and sample some of the region’s famous wines, such as Chianti Classico and Super Tuscan wines.
Explore the countryside
The Chianti region is known for its stunning landscapes, so taking a drive, hike or bike ride through the countryside is a must-do activity. The rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves offer beautiful views at every turn.
Visit historic towns
The Chianti region is home to several historic towns, such as Greve in Chianti, Radda in Chianti, and Castellina in Chianti, that are worth exploring. These towns have beautiful architecture, charming piazzas, and local shops and restaurants where you can taste the local cuisine and wine.
Attend festivals and events
Chianti hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including the Chianti Classico Wine Festival in September and the Mercantia International Street Theatre Festival in July. These events offer a unique opportunity to experience the local culture and traditions.
Visit castles and abbeys
The Chianti region is also home to several castles and abbeys, such as the Castello di Brolio and the Badia a Coltibuono abbey, that offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history and culture.
Relax in thermal baths
The Chianti region is also known for its thermal baths, such as the Terme di Rapolano and the Terme di Bagno Vignoni, where you can relax and soak in the healing waters.
There are several towns and cities located within the Chianti region. Some of the most popular ones include:
Greve in Chianti: Greve in Chianti is a charming town located in the heart of the Chianti region. It’s known for its beautiful piazzas, churches, and weekly farmers’ market. Greve is the biggest town in Chianti region and its main square, Piazza Matteotti, is a beautiful square lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops.
Radda in Chianti: Radda in Chianti is a small hilltop town with narrow streets, medieval buildings, and beautiful views of the surrounding vineyards.
Castellina in Chianti: Castellina in Chianti is a historic town with a picturesque town center and plenty of restaurants and shops.
Gaiole in Chianti: Gaiole in Chianti is a small town surrounded by vineyards and rolling hills. It’s home to several wineries and historic castles.
San Casciano in Val di Pesa: San Casciano in Val di Pesa is a larger town located just outside of Florence. It’s known for its beautiful churches and scenic countryside.
Panzano in Chianti: Panzano in Chianti is a charming hilltop town with a beautiful town square and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
About Panzano in Chianti
Our airbnb is located in Panzano and we chose the location which can be reached by public transport as we won’t have a car until Hubbie joined us again. The Bus journey from Firenze to Panzano in Chianti took around 1 hour and we passed thru many famous rolling hills of Chianti and the vine yards. We dropped off at Panzano bus stop, which was located in the town square and called our Host, Rosalba who said that she would pick us up. Rosalba was very understanding of our situation and helped us contacting a private driver so we could do sightseeing for the next day.
Panzano is a smaller village compared to Greve but it was much cooler because it was located up in the hill. Rosalba’s house was located in the upper part of the street which made it even cooler. Such a breeze in the middle of heatwave.
Our House in Panzano
I quickly fell in love with Rosalba’s house. It was as what I imagined a Tuscany house would be like and I love the backyard. We had a nice view of the vineyard and Achita got her slide and swings. The house was family friendly as well. There were many dolls and toys for Achita to play. It did however get hot in the bedroom on the second floor but Rosalba put a fan which helped.
In the evening we walked down to the square to find Dario Restaurant as recommended by Rosalba. Dinner only started at 8pm so we killed time by strolling around Panzano and found a perfect photo spot not far from the bus stop.
Dining at Dario Restaurant in Panzano
Dining at Dario was one of the best carnivore dinner experience I ever had. It was an all you can eat meat. Dinner started at 8pm and it was a communal set up where all the guests. sat together on a long table and wait for the waitress to serve us. The meat was so good and even Achita enjoyed the meat because they were juicy and tender. I was so full I couldn’t eat any more after the 3rd course. Fabio had a big appetite and he could finish all the meal. He said it was one of the best meal he ever had 😄
We were so lucky to get a spot without reservation. I was not even aware how famous Dario restaurant was and that his Restaurant was located in Panzano 😅 More about Dario Cecchini here.
Dinner finished around 10pm and everybody couldn’t eat anymore. We walked back to the house with Achita already asleep on her stroller. It has been a long day but ended with such a nice meal experience ❤️
