Italy's largest region, Tuscany is famous for its rolling hills, terracotta farmhouses, winding renaissance streets of Florence and world famous vineyards. There is so much to do and see in Tuscany, so our guide is limited to the places we visited during our 2022 trip. Keep reading for a guide to Chianti, Italy.
WHERE TO STAY
We stayed in the chianti region, one of the most popular regions of Tuscany to visit. We stayed at the COMO Castello Del Nero, which was once a private castle and now is converted to a luxury hotel resort. The property spans nearly 700 acres of rolling hills, vineyards, olive groves and forrest. The hotel boasts a large spa and gym with a full roster of yoga and pilates classes. The property is centrally located and only a short 30 minute drive to the nearby city of Florence, which is worth taking a day trip or a tour of. The hotel is beautiful, but not our favorite hotel we've stayed at. Despite being a five star resort, the service was severely lacking, the property is under staffed and there lacks an attention to detail that you expect to see at a five star hotel under the COMO name. I would recommend looking elsewhere for accommodations.
WHAT TO DO
Wine Tour - see below for vineyard recommendations
Cooking Class - book a cooking class through your hotel and learn about the local cuisines.
Truffle Hunting - Take a truffle hunting tour with Oressea il Piacere in Tavola, where you'll explore tuscan forests accompanied by truffle hunting dogs. Hunt for truffles and then have your hotel prepare a truffle tasting menu that evening.
Day Trip to Florence
Olive Oil & Balsamic Vinegar Tasting - Casa Emma
Car Rental - explore the rolling hills and valleys of the tuscan countryside. Yo
WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK
Vineyards
Castellare di Castellina - boutique, family owned organic vineyard
Casa Emma - traditional wine tasting and excellent lunch pairing
Antinori Vineyard - world famous yet still family owned, the Antinori family built a tasting venue into the Tuscan mountain side exclusively for tastings. The vineyards and manufacturing is actually located in another spot in the area.
Restaurants
Osteria di Passignano - 5/5 - overlooking Antinori vineyards, this Michelin star restaurant was a highlight in Italy for us. The delicious food was matched with a vast wine list and excellent service.
Osteria di Casa Chianti - 4.5/5 - a local favorite, this casual restaurant specializing in meat dishes has a spectacular sunset view. If you are looking to eat where the locals eat, look no further.
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