Tuscany’s Chianti area is one of the most beautiful in the whole of Italy. Since it's not an official region or province, it is not possible to define its precise borders. In general, Chianti stretches over the provinces of Siena and Florence. It covers the area between the two cities reaching to the west towards Val d'Elsa and the east to the Valdarno. However, the wine-producing zone of Chianti extends even further beyond all around the city of Florence as well as toward Arezzo, Pistoia, and Montepulciano. The area has a long and eventful history. Home to Etruscan and Romans respectively, the lush woods, an abundance of water, and a lot of game to hunt made Tuscany popular since its early beginning. Furthermore, since Chianti is not accessible except through its main roads, it avoided the violent barbarian invasions which followed the fall of the Roman Empire.
However, the region did have the unlucky “honor” of being a medieval battlefield. It was caught between the ever-fighting Florence and Siena. When Florence won the final battle, people cleared the damaged areas for cultivation. Olive groves, vineyards, as well as chestnut and oak woods, took over the landscape once and for all.
Chianti charms its many visitors with a picture-perfect landscape. Its defining features include rolling hills, vast fields, lush vineyards, ancient olive groves, medieval villages as well as quaint farmhouses and Renaissance villas. The valley creates a perfect climate to produce the world-famous ruby-red wine Chianti and Chianti Classico.
All in all, Chianti is a small clandestine paradise for those curious to savor the authentic taste of Tuscany. Just driving through the region in the Vintage Fiat 500 or on a stylish Vespa is an adventure in itself. However, there is something for everyone. You can explore ancient wineries and take part in intimate wine tastings; enjoy authentic Tuscan dinners at old estates; immerse yourself in the exploration of medieval castles, or access the excluded areas of nature on an exciting Safari ride. Scroll below for suggestions on places to visit and things to do in Chianti!
