Tuscany, a region in central Italy known for its rolling hills, charming villages, and world-class cuisine. But Tuscany is more than just a pretty face; it’s also home to a rich food and wine tradition that will leave even the most discerning palates singing. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through three of Tuscany’s most scenic regions: Chianti Classico, Val d’Orcia, and Montalcino.
Chianti Classico: A Wine Lover’s Dream
Chianti Classico is one of Italy’s most famous wine regions, and for good reason. This picturesque region in the heart of Tuscany is home to some of the world’s best wines, including Chianti, Brunello, and Vino Nobile. But Chianti Classico is more than just a wine region; it’s also a land of stunning scenery, charming villages, and delicious food.
For our 3-day itinerary in Chianti Classico, we recommend starting in the small village of Impruneta, where you can visit the beautiful basilica and indulge in some of the region’s famous cheese and wine. From there, head to Greve in Chianti, a charming hill town that’s home to many excellent wineries and cellars. Be sure to stop by the Montefioralle farm for a wine and cheese tasting, followed by lunch at the Loggia del Chianti.
Day 2: Exploring Panzano and Volpaia
On day two, head towards Panzano in Chianti, where you can explore the medieval historic center and visit the famous Cecchini butcher’s shop. Be sure to stop by the Volpaia castle cellars for a wine tasting (€30 per person), followed by lunch at the Radda in Chianti.
Day 3: Castellina and Castelnuovo Berardenga
On day three, head towards Castellina in Chianti, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk, visit the fortress, and stop for lunch at the pastececi tavern. In the afternoon, reach Castelnuovo Berardenga, where you can admire the stunning views of the Chianti from above, climbing the clock tower (€2 per person). For dinner, head to the Berardenga tavern.
Val d’Orcia: A Land of Villages and Wine
Val d’Orcia is another must-visit region in Tuscany, known for its stunning scenery, charming villages, and delicious food. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to some of Italy’s most famous wines, including Montepulciano and Pecorino di Pienza.
For our 3-day itinerary in Val d’Orcia, we recommend starting in the picturesque town of Pienza, where you can visit the beautiful cathedral and indulge in some of the region’s famous cheese and pasta. From there, head to San Quirico d’Orcia, a charming hill town that’s home to many excellent wineries and cellars.
Day 2: Exploring Bagno Vignone and Rocca di Tenennano
On day two, visit the Poggio Grande winery for a wine tasting (€30 per person), followed by lunch in the historic center of San Quirico d’Orcia. In the afternoon, head to Bagno Vignone, where you can relax in the spa and enjoy some of the region’s famous snails.
Day 3: Monticchiello and Montepulciano
On day three, visit the scenic cypress road (SP 88) along the way to Montepulciano. Visit the historic center, cathedral, and crociani art gallery civic museum, followed by a wine tasting at de’ Ricci historic cellars.
Discovering the White Truffle of San Miniato
Tuscany is famous for its white truffles, which are harvested in the region from October to December. For our 1-day itinerary in San Miniato, we recommend starting with an excursion in search of truffles, organized by Truffle in Tuscany.
The Road of Flavors of the Tiber Valley
The Tiber Valley is a region in central Italy that’s known for its stunning scenery and delicious food. For our 1-day itinerary, we recommend starting in Anghiari, where you can visit the medieval village and indulge in some of the region’s famous cheese and pasta.
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Oil Road of the Pisan Mountains
The oil road of the Pisan mountains is a scenic route that takes you through some of Tuscany’s most picturesque countryside. For our 1-day itinerary, we recommend starting in Calci, where you can visit the Certosa di Calci and indulge in some of the region’s famous cheese and pasta.
Wines of Montalcino and Montepulciano
Brunello and Vino Nobile are two of Italy’s most famous wines, produced exclusively in the regions of Montalcino and Montepulciano. For our 1-day itinerary, we recommend starting in Montalcino, where you can visit the Grotta del Brunello wine shop and indulge in some of the region’s famous cheese and pasta.
Tips for Visiting Tuscany
- Be sure to book your accommodations well in advance, especially during peak season.
- Don’t forget to try some of the region’s famous cheeses, such as pecorino and parmesan.
- Wine tastings are a must-do experience in Tuscany; be sure to visit at least one winery on your trip.
- Don’t miss out on the scenic cypress road (SP 88), which offers breathtaking views of the Tuscan countryside.
Local Cuisine
Tuscan cuisine is known for its simple yet flavorful dishes, often made with fresh ingredients from local farms. Some must-try dishes in Tuscany include:
- Ribollita: a hearty soup made with vegetables and bread
- Pappardelle: a pasta dish topped with wild boar ragu
- Bistecca alla Fiorentina: a thick, juicy steak grilled to perfection
- Castagnaccio: a chestnut flour cake typically served during the fall season
Wine Pairings
Tuscany is famous for its wines, which pair perfectly with local cuisine. Some must-try wine pairings in Tuscany include:
- Chianti Classico and ribollita
- Brunello di Montalcino and bistecca alla fiorentina
- Vino Nobile di Montepulciano and pappardelle
Getting Around
Tuscany is a vast region, but many of its towns and villages are easily accessible by car or public transportation. Be sure to rent a car for at least one day to explore the countryside.
Accommodations
From luxury villas to cozy B&Bs, Tuscany has something for every budget and preference. Some must-try accommodations in Tuscany include:
- Hotel La Collegiata in Siena
- Hotel Palazzo Wellness & Relais in Pienza
- Agriturismo La Fattoria in San Gimignano
Language
While many locals speak some English, it’s still a good idea to learn some basic Italian phrases before visiting Tuscany. Some must-try phrases include:
- Ciao: hello
- Grazie: thank you
- Per favore: please
- Scusa: excuse me
Currency
The Euro is the official currency in Italy, and can be exchanged at most banks or currency exchange offices.
Safety
Tuscany is a generally safe region, but as with any travel destination, it’s always a good idea to take some basic precautions. Be sure to lock your doors and windows when you’re not home, and avoid traveling alone at night.
Conclusion
Tuscany is a food and wine lover’s paradise, with a rich tradition of delicious cuisine and world-class wines. Whether you’re interested in exploring scenic countryside, visiting charming villages, or indulging in some of Italy’s most famous cheeses and pasta dishes, Tuscany has something for everyone. So why not plan your trip today?
