Tuscany, Italy
WHY WHINE, WHEN YOU CAN WINE, WINE & WINE!
A visit to Italy and not go to the wine country?
WINE COUNTRY immediately comes to mind when you talk about Tuscany, Italy. Well, that’s correct! It is indeed THE wine country of Italy. Tuscany is also gorgeous landscape, with picturesque villages, rolling hills, Vineyards, Olive groves and Apennne mountains. Tuscany has a lot more to offer than just wine and there are a number of different places to visit in the region.
In this travel picture blog from AllAboutTrip.com, we will take you to the dreamy wine country and old medieval villages like Monteriggioni, Sienna, San Gimignano and of course the vineyards :) These are some of the prettiest villages in Tuscany or maybe the whole of central Italy!
If you are based in Florence and would like to take the day trip to explore this region, you can rent a car and travel at your own pace. If you just want to relax and would like to drink without worrying about driving, you can take one of the plentiful tours. There are big bus tours and there are small & intimate tours. Another option is to hire a driver which is the best option, but it does come with a price tag. Well the choice of course, is yours.
But staying in the heart of wine country like Chianti region is a pure bliss.
Monteriggioni -
This medieval “castle town” in Sienna province is surrounded by famous Chianti region. This 12th century walled castle is known for its perfectly intact structures and the circular shape of the castle which was constructed following the curves of natural grounds. There are two gates, 14 watch towers and a church in main piazza. You can walk around the walls and there are couple of towers you can climb along the way. It's a short walk not just looking at the walls but the breathtaking Chianti region surroundings.
There is an Armoury museum if you like the medieval & renaissance weapons and armour or armor as in American English. It's quite interesting and if not, you can hang around the main piazza and the streets of the town sipping energizing cappuccinos.
Siena -
The city of Siena is the most popular in Siena region. It has lot to offer so you can spend a few days or just one. The lively huge fan shaped central piazza is known as Il Campo and is famous for its Palio Run. It is a horse race running twice in summer right in the middle of piazza. Palio run lately got famous for its appearance in the James Bond movie "The Quantum of Solace". During Palio Run, the crowds (waaay too crowded!) are cordoned off in the middle and the race happens around them! People are packed like sardines, but the balcony tickets are expensive.
Also, in Il Campo, there is Palazzo Publico and Torre del Mangia, the tower was the tallest in the region when it was built. There is a 15th century Fountain of Joy made of marble. The water is supplied by ancient aqua ducts from the canals close to Siena. The beautiful fountain is a one of the focal points in Il Campo.
There are lots of restaurants in Il Campo. Usually pricey tourist traps but pick one with the best view and they are best for people watching. Vegetarian food easily available but not many offer vegan options here.
Duomo di Siena aka Siena Cathedral is a 12th Century majestic medieval church in Cathedral square. Usually there are long lines for tickets and also to get in but if you have time, do visit. It's worth the time.
There are quite a few museums to visit, to learn history of Siena if you have the time and inclination.
San Gimignano -
This 13th century hill town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Tuscany & another walled city is right in the middle of Florence & Siena. San Gimignano, like other towns we just saw, this walled city has impressive medieval architect and tower houses that symbolize the power of wealthy families.
Even though some say it's a tourist trap, it definitely has its charm. The steep climb to the alleys, the main square Piazza della Cisterna, Roman influenced cathedral in Piazza del duomo. There are lots of stores selling souvenirs, wine and other stuff.
There is a restaurant at one of the lookout point to just have a glass of Chianti where you can take a break with gorgeous views. Small snacks are “so so” for vegetarians.
The watch tower with a moderate climb offers magnificent views of vineyards and rolling hills. Don't forget to have a gelato at Gelateria Dondoli in Piazza Cisterna. They are the Gelato world champions. Lots of amazing and unique flavors of Gelatos. Lines are long but oh boy that silky-smooth Gelato is worth every lick
Once you are through with your exploring, visit one or many of the vineyards in the area. If you want, take a tour of winery & if not, just sit back, relax and enjoy the wine
There is no shortage of Pizzas & Piazzas in Italy!!
TIP – Prepare to be "wined"!
TIP – If planning a day trip, expect to walk and climb a lot in a single day.
TIP - Rent a car from Florence and stay in Tuscany for a couple to few days.
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