Welcome to the ultimate Tuscany travel guide, where we’re about to embark on a journey through the heart of Italy that’s brimming with picturesque landscapes, delectable cuisine, and, of course, great wine. If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring the charming villages, rolling vineyards, and historic towns of Tuscany and the enchanting Chianti wine region, you’ve come to the right place. This blog post will give you a comprehensive overview of the region, sharing tips on where to find the coziest accommodations, revealing hidden gems for the most mouthwatering meals, and pointing you toward the must-visit attractions that will make your Tuscan adventure truly unforgettable. So, grab your passport, pack your bags, and get ready to head for an adventure under the Tuscan sun!
Tuscany travel guide: An overview
Tuscany isn’t just a place; it’s an experience that tantalizes your senses, and the region’s renowned wine culture is at the heart of it all. As you wander through the vineyard-covered landscapes, you’ll discover that Tuscany isn’t just famous for its world-class wines; it’s a place where wine-making is an art form, a centuries-old tradition that’s an integral part of the region’s rich tapestry.
Tuscany is a place that has been romanticised time and time again in movies and pop culture, and it’s easy to see why when you visit. But Tuscany itself is actually a huge area that includes many towns and cities, from smaller towns like Montepulciano all the way to cities like Florence. So it can be a little overwhelming to know where to start. When you do get there though you will be rewarded with so much more than wine. The incredible food, the history and culture, and the landscapes are just breathtaking.
Then of course there is the wine. Much like most of the old-world wine regions, Tuscany has many subregions to discover. And Tuscany itself isn’t actually the name of the wine region itself (just like Piedmont). So knowing which subregions you want to visit is critical for working out where you want to stay and planning your trip. It is quite spread out, so I recommend working this out first.
Tuscany subregions
To get you started, here is a bit of an overview of some of the main areas to explore in Tuscany for wine:
- Chianti: Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, Chianti is the quintessential Italian wine region, famous for its iconic Chianti Classico wine. With its rolling hills, medieval villages, and lush vineyards, this area is a postcard-perfect destination. Chianti wines, primarily made from Sangiovese grapes, exhibit a delightful balance of fruit and earthy notes, making them a versatile companion for your Tuscan culinary adventures.
- Brunello di Montalcino: Located to the south of Siena, Montalcino is home to the world-renowned Brunello di Montalcino. This small but mighty region produces powerful, age-worthy wines from the Sangiovese Grosso grape. The wine’s deep, complex flavors and aging potential have made it a favorite among wine enthusiasts. A visit to Montalcino offers a chance to savor these wines at the source and explore the charming medieval town.
- Montepulciano: This charming hilltop town in southern Tuscany is the heart of the Vino Nobile di Montepulciano wine region. The local Sangiovese grapes create wines with an enticing balance of fruit, structure, and elegance. Montepulciano is not only a wine lover’s paradise but also a picturesque town with historic streets and cultural treasures waiting to be explored.
- Bolgheri: Tuscany’s coastal gem, Bolgheri, is known for its groundbreaking Super Tuscan wines. Here, you’ll find innovative winemakers blending traditional Italian grape varieties with international ones like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. The result is a collection of bold, full-bodied red wines that have made Bolgheri a rising star in the wine world. The wineries here offer a taste of Italy’s modern winemaking prowess.
Understanding classifications around Tuscany
As you embark on your wine adventure through Tuscany, you might have encountered some cryptic acronyms on wine labels. Fear not; these are your trusty guides to the quality and authenticity of Tuscan wines. Let’s break down the basics of Tuscany’s wine classifications, specifically DOC and DOCG, and what they mean for your wine-drinking experience.
DOC – Denominazione di Origine Controllata (Controlled Designation of Origin)
Think of DOC as the quality assurance stamp for Tuscan wines. This classification ensures that the wines are produced in specific regions and adhere to strict regulations, preserving the authenticity of traditional winemaking methods. Each DOC area has its own set of rules and regulations, including which grape varieties can be used and how the wine must be produced.
For example, Chianti, one of the most famous DOCs in Tuscany, requires wines to contain at least 80% Sangiovese grapes, with the rest typically made up of indigenous varieties like Canaiolo and Colorino. These wines are known for their classic Tuscan character, boasting a harmonious balance of fruit and earthy notes.
DOCG – Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita (Controlled and Guaranteed Designation of Origin)
Now, if you see DOCG on a Tuscan wine label, consider it a gold star. DOCG represents the highest quality classification for Italian wines, and these bottles are the crème de la crème of the Tuscan wine world. To achieve DOCG status, not only do these wines have to meet the strict DOC criteria, but they also undergo even more rigorous testing and quality checks.
One notable DOCG wine you’ll encounter in Tuscany is Brunello di Montalcino. This wine is exclusively made from Sangiovese Grosso grapes grown in the Montalcino region. It’s aged for a minimum of four years, creating a wine of exceptional depth and complexity. When you uncork a bottle of Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, you’re not just tasting tradition; you’re experiencing the pinnacle of Tuscan winemaking expertise.
Key classifications you’ll find in Tuscany
Now that you know the difference between DOC and DOCG, what can you expect in Tuscan wines? Here are a couple of examples you might encounter on your trip:
DOCGs (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita):
- Brunello di Montalcino DOCG: Famous for its exceptional Sangiovese Grosso-based wines, aged to perfection in the town of Montalcino.
- Chianti Classico DOCG: The heart of Chianti wine production, characterized by its iconic black rooster on the label, producing Sangiovese-based wines.
- Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG: Known for Sangiovese-based wines produced in the town of Montepulciano, exhibiting a balance of fruit and structure.
- Brunello di Montepulciano DOCG: Often confused with Brunello di Montalcino, this wine is produced in the town of Montepulciano and features a blend of Sangiovese grapes.
- Vernaccia di San Gimignano DOCG: Renowned for its crisp, refreshing white wine made from the Vernaccia grape, from the town of San Gimignano.
- Carmignano DOCG: Known for its red wines, often a blend of Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon, produced in the Carmignano region.
DOCs (Denominazione di Origine Controllata):
- Chianti DOC: A broader designation encompassing the Chianti region, known for Sangiovese-based wines, often blended with other indigenous grape varieties.
- Colli Senesi DOC: A subregion of Chianti, producing a range of Sangiovese-based wines with distinct characteristics.
- Colli Pisani DOC: Located in the hills around Pisa, this area produces a variety of wines, including white, red, and dessert wines.
- Morellino di Scansano DOC: Renowned for its red wines made predominantly from the Sangiovese grape, from the Maremma region.
- Val d’Orcia DOC: A relatively new DOC in the Val d’Orcia region, producing Sangiovese-based red wines.
- Bolgheri DOC: Known for its Super Tuscan wines, a blend of local and international grape varieties, often producing bold and modern red wines.
- Maremma Toscana DOC: A coastal region in Tuscany, producing a variety of red and white wines, including Super Tuscans.
- Rosso di Montalcino DOC: Often considered a “younger sibling” to Brunello di Montalcino, this DOC allows for earlier-drinking Sangiovese-based wines from the Montalcino region.
Tuscany grape varieties
Tuscany’s grape varieties are like a joyful gathering of friends at a lively Italian fiesta, each bringing their own unique flair to the celebration. Each grape plays its unique role in crafting the rich tapestry of flavours that define Tuscan wine culture. Sangiovese is the undisputed star of the region, but there are also plenty of indigenous and international varieties that you’ll also find in Tuscan wines. Sangiovese, with its bold red fruit and earthy notes, takes centre stage, especially in iconic wines like Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino. But you’ll also find plenty of other grape varieties such as Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and other local grapes like Canaiolo, Colorino, and Vernaccia. Each grape variety contributes its unique flavour profile, making Tuscan wines a delightful exploration of diversity and tradition.
Tuscany travel guide: when to visit
Picking the right moment to explore the enchanting Tuscan wine regions is key to a memorable experience. We visited at the end of August revealing a well-kept secret: it’s a fantastic time to savour the delights of Tuscany. This year was very busy in Italy for tourism, but at the end of August the crowds felt manageable and we were able to get into most places we wanted to visit. The villages also weren’t too busy which made it a lot easier to visit. August is notorious for being scorching hot in Italy, but at the end of August, we found the temperature to be quite manageable.
What I also loved about visiting at this time was it was so close to harvest. It hadn’t happened yet, but the vines were covered in grapes which made for stunning scenery. I don’t think you can really go wrong with a time of year to visit Tuscany, but I honestly loved visiting at this time for these reasons. It was not to hot, not too cold, not too quiet, not too busy. Just right in my opinion!
Tuscany travel guide: where to stay
Selecting your base in Tuscany is like picking the perfect wine to complement a meal—it’s all about finding the right fit for your preferences. Florence, with its cultural treasures, bustling streets, and historical allure, makes for a fantastic choice if you crave the vibrant energy of a major city. It’s also great if you don’t have a car as you can do wine tours out from the city. But, keep in mind you really won’t get a proper feel for Tuscany from within Florence. While the Renaissance city has plenty to offer, it may leave you yearning for the breathtaking vineyard-dotted landscapes and quaint villages that define the heart of Tuscany.
Our own Tuscan adventure led us to the sweet spot of choosing a different path. We decided to rent a car and nestle ourselves in one of the main wine regions—a decision that made all the difference. Opting for a countryside location allowed us to experience Tuscany’s soul more intimately, soaking up the undulating vineyard vistas and savouring the region’s rustic charms at our own pace.
We found our own haven just a short distance from San Gimignano at a hotel that felt like staying in a Tuscan villa. It had a restaurant and pool making it the perfect base after a day of exploring. It also made you feel like you were getting the full Tuscan experience. From here, we could effortlessly explore nearby gems like Chianti, Montepulciano, and the nearby towns.
Tuscany travel guide: Towns to visit
As I’ve mentioned above, you won’t get a true feel for Tuscany without visiting some of the major towns. As much as wine was a focus of our trip, I also loved exploring some of the nearby towns. There is so much to discover in each, from cute little shops, to great culture and wine of course! So here are some of the main towns we visited on our trip.
San Gimignano
I’d been to San Gimignano before and couldn’t wait to get back on this trip! San Gimignano is a captivating time capsule that transports you to a world where medieval towers punctuate the sky, creating a breathtaking backdrop for your Tuscan adventure. This picturesque town is a treasure trove of history and culture, offering winding, cobblestone streets where you can wander through artisan shops, sample delectable gelato, and soak up the enchanting atmosphere. The skyline, adorned by its iconic towers, allows you to ascend into history, each tower sharing a story of its own. San Gimignano is a place where you can meander through history, shop for local crafts, and discover the irresistible allure of a bygone era.
Where to eat: Bel Soggiorno
We had dinner at Bel Soggiorno and I couldn’t recommend it enough. The restaurant has stunning views across the Tuscan countryside and the food was excellent. The service was excellent and the food was out of this world. One of the highlights for me was the pistachio cream pasta, but honestly, every pasta we got was amazing. They also serve a range of delicious steaks and meat dishes which you can’t go wrong with. From the view to the food, this restaurant ticks all the boxes.
Montepulciano
Montepulciano, perched on a Tuscan hill, is a gem waiting to be uncovered. Its historical streets beckon with an irresistible blend of Renaissance elegance and ancient charm, making it a must-visit destination. But what truly sets Montepulciano apart are its underground cellars, where the region’s renowned Vino Nobile is lovingly aged to perfection. I highly recommend visiting one of these cellars while you’re in the city as they are something I’ve never seen before.
If you happen to find yourself in Montepulciano in August, you’re in for an exhilarating treat. We had no idea when we visited that this event was taking place, and it made more sense why we couldn’t get a carpark once we entered the city. In August, the annual barrel race, known as the “Bravio delle Botti,” takes over the town’s streets. This spirited competition sees teams racing enormous wine barrels through the steep, cobbled lanes, showcasing the town’s rich winemaking heritage in an exciting and unique way. We weren’t able to stay for the race itself but it was incredible watching all the teams parading around the streets. The atmosphere was amazing and it made our visit even more special.
Where to eat: La Schiaccia dell’Opio
Panini’s are an awesome option for a cheap and delicious lunch in Italy, and the Italians know how to make a next-level sandwich. We stumbled across La Schiaccia dell’Opio as we were exploring and saw the line out the door, so decided it was worth going in. And it sure was! For under 10 euros, you got a sandwich piled with cured meats and various condiments. Honestly, the amount of meat they put on the sandwich would cost over $100 to make at home. They also had a help-yourself wine station where you could get a glass of wine for 2 euros to have with your sandwich. You then take it down the road to the lookout for the perfect spot for eating, sipping and enjoying the landscape. It was one of the most memorable meals of our trip!
Siena
Our visit to Siena was an unexpected delight, as we arrived just a week after the thrilling Palio horse race, an iconic event that annually electrifies the city. It was only after spotting the jubilant winning team parading through Siena’s historic streets that we realized our serendipitous timing. The city was still abuzz with the spirited energy of the race, and we got to experience the palpable excitement that lingered in the air. The best part? While the race brings a surge of visitors each year, we found ourselves in Siena when it was much quieter which allowed us to explore the enchanting medieval town with ease. A highlight of our visit was definitely the Siena Cathedral which is a must-see when you visit the city.
Tuscany travel guide: Wineries to visit
And it wouldn’t be a Tuscany travel guide without highlighting some of the wineries we visited. Now we only had two full days in Tuscany so we didn’t visit too many wineries, but the ones we did were great! We mainly focused on the Chianti Classico area so most of my recommendations are from there, but there’s also one from our day trip to Montepulciano which I also recommend.
Castello di Verrazzano
Visiting the Castello di Verrazzano winery in Tuscany is like stepping back in time to the roots of Italian winemaking. This enchanting estate, nestled in the heart of Chianti, boasts a history dating back to the 12th century and is named after Giovanni da Verrazzano, the explorer who sailed to the New World and gave his name to the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge in New York. Walking through the ancient cellars and vineyards, you’ll sense the centuries of tradition that have gone into crafting their remarkable wines.
Castello di Verrazzano has daily tours where you can visit the castle, and its underground cellars and learn about the rich history of this winery. The tour was great and we learnt so much not only about the estate but also about Chianti wines. It ends on their terrace with a wine tasting and sampling of some of their regional produce.
The tour was 28 euros per person and lasted for around 1 hour. You can book on their website.
Savignola
Savignola was the smallest winery we visited and was a completely different experience from any of the other wineries we visited. I absolutely loved the feel of the place, everyone was so welcoming and it almost felt like you were family. Savignola is a great spot if you want something off the beaten track. We were taken for a tour of the winery and then sat down in their lovely terrace area to a wine tasting and lunch. I highly recommend visiting here for lunch as it was absolutely delicious and really affordable too! I loved that the wine tasting was paired with each course, and we got to try some delicious delicacies from salami to an incredible Chianti risotto!
The wine tasting and lunch was 35 euros each and you need to book ahead.
Castello di Albola
We, unfortunately, couldn’t get in for a tour of Castello di Albola as the timing just didn’t work out with our visit, but we still got in for a great tasting of their wines. Castello di Albola is a beautiful winery set on a hill with expansive views across their vineyard. Their tastings are done in a lovely courtyard and they also do lunch and coffee if you need. There were a few options for the tastings too to match your budget which I loved. This winery is a great spot to visit if you want some beautiful scenery and great wine. Despite missing the tour, we still learned a lot about the winery and its wines on our visit from the lovely server who still took the time to conduct a full tasting for us.
The tasting was 15 euros per person, and you need to book ahead. Tours are a little more expensive.
Badia a Coltibuono
Nestled in the heart of Chianti, Badia a Coltibuono is a winery that effortlessly weaves history, tradition, and exceptional wine into a single enchanting tapestry. This Tuscan gem occupies the grounds of a thousand-year-old Benedictine abbey, showcasing a past that’s as rich as the wines it produces. As you explore the serene abbey and lush vineyards, you’ll sense the profound connection between the land and the winemaking heritage that has been meticulously preserved here.
The wine tour includes an extensive tour of the winery, grounds and cellar where you learn all about the history of the winery and its wines. The highlight for me was visiting the cellars where they have wines stored dating back decades. You can purchase but you need to call ahead (we wanted to on the day but the owners wouldn’t allow it so make sure you book ahead). The grounds are also beautiful and perfect for exploring. You then head back inside for a wine tasting which was really informative and gave a great sense of the difference in the red wines they produce.
The tour and tasting was 30 euros each and needed to be booked and paid for in advance via their website.
Cantina De Ricci
I mentioned above that visiting the cellars in Montepulciano is a must when you visit, and our visit to Cantina De Ricci was absolutely magical. They have a rich history dating back to 1150. I won’t give away the full story because it is really something to hear for yourself, but I will say learning the rich history that went into this underground cellar and the story behind the hedgehog that graces their labels is something really special. They conduct guided tours of their underground cellar which is almost like a cathedral dedicated to ageing wine. It was one of the most incredible cellars I’ve ever seen with cavernous ceilings and archways. It takes your breath away! The tour concludes in their tasting room where you can sample a range of their wines alongside regional produce.
The tour and tasting was 20 euros per person and needed to be booked ahead.
In summary: Tuscany travel guide
I hope this Tuscany travel guide has helped to inspire your next trip. There really is so much to discover when it comes to Tuscany and its wine regions, so planning your trip is essential to get the most out of it. Whether you want to explore Chianti or head further south to Montepulciano, there is plenty to see and do. From the rolling hills to the food-worthy wines and delicious dishes, you are sure to have a great trip full of memories!