Hi

We would like some help planning a day out in Chianti. We will be driving from just west of Florence.

We like art, history and architecture; food is important and just a little shopping wouldn't kill me. Scenery is very important to us; DH is a photographer, and I like to give him lots to shoot.

We don't drink (me not at all, and DH just a tiny bit of wine on occasion) so vineyards and wine tastings are not for us.

How would you describe a favorite day out in Chianti that might suit us, too?

We have lots of other days planned, but I am not sure what to do on our Chianti day (or days?).

Thanks,
Debbie

ttt

One of our favorite Chianti drives is along the S222. We also enjoy the small town of Greve for lunch and light shopping.

Ira, thanks for the topper. Does anyone else have any suggestions? I thought Chianti was a hugely popular area. Anybody?

I would make a stop in Radda in Chianti, a pretty hill town with some historic buildings and churches to enjoy. Other picturesque towns are Panzano in Chianti (terrific views to photograph), Monteriggioni, Volpaia, and Castellina. Studying the history of these places will give you an idea of what you find there to explore and enjoy. Have lunch in Volpaia, at La Bottega..

Be prepared for some climbing, winding, narrow roads! The hills of Chianti are quite rugged and heavily forested, but breathtakingly beautiful vistas are your reward.

Leaving Florence I would head first for San Casciano. They have an outdoor market in the morning(not sure of the day but I'm sure a bit of research would find it) that is worth a stop just to experience everyday life in rural Italy. Anyway even without the market it is still an interesting town. My next stop would be Greve. Falornis in Greve would have to be one of the best places in Tuscany to purchase local delicacies (they have a website)and I would have lunch in Greve. I would then visit Villa Vignamaggio. You can't go in, but it was the birthplace of the original Mona Lisa and is worth a visit. You will be able to get directions from Greve as it is near the town. Radda and Castelina should fill in your day as there are plenty of wineries to visit in that area. Speed through Poggibonsi on your way back as it is a very ordinary town. The original was heavily bombed during WW2. Enjoy your trip whatever route you take. The Val di Pesa is a wonderful area of Italy. IMO the best.

Oops! just realised you are not interested in the wineries. Never mind you will still have a great day. There is a book called "Too much Tuscan Sun" available from amazon.com. It is written by an Italain guide who spent many years taking tourists through that area. It is quite fun and would help you with your planning.

I agree with DownUnder, Villa Vignamaggio is amazing! It's one of my favorite memories of Italy. The views were breath taking!

These are just the sorts of suggestions I was looking for. Thank you very much. Been going to Tuscany and doing some work there for the past 3 or 4 years. but have not spent time in Chianti.