Shopping & Parking

In addition to superb wine and foodstuffs, Chianti shopping is also about local crafts and colourful markets. Art, table linen and hand-crafted shoes are all found locally. As for crafts, the Chianti towns showcase the local traditions of woodworking, basket weaving, terracotta and ceramics. For more specific suggestions see our destination guides to Gaiole, Greve, Panzano, Castellina, Radda and Castelnuovo Beradenga.

Castello di Brolio, a famous Chiantishire castle, lies between
Gaiole and Castelnuovo Beradenga.The Brolio wine-tasting experience and gift shop can form part of a great day out, as does the route there. This is classic Chianti countryside, with its mix of vineyards, olive groves, oak and chestnut woods. Records attest to the Ricasoli family having been in wine since 1141 so count on buying some fine vintages and possibly even some lovely wine glasses. Along with Chianti Classico, the estate also produces Super Tuscans, such as Casalferro. Even so, the market leaders in the Super Tuscan stakes are Ornellaia and Masseto, produced by the rival Frescobaldi wine barons. While at Brolio, book a visit to the castle cellars, tour the estate, taste the wines, and see the family museum.


Address: Castello di Brolio
Localita Madonna a Brolio
53013
Gaiole in Chianti
Tel: (+39) 0577 7301
Web: www.ricasoli.com

In the ancient abbey of Badia a Passignano do a wine-tasting and shop for Antinori produce, such as the wine dynasty’s olive oil. The Bottega showcases Antinori wines, along with upmarket foodstuffs from Procacci, the renowned Florentine delicatessen now owned by the Antinori. Tasty souvenirs include Procacci jams and truffled delicacies. You can also buy wines from other Antinori estates, from solid Chianti Classico wines to acclaimed, pricey Super Tuscans.


Address: Via di Passignano 33
Badia a Passignano
Localita Badia di Passignano
50028
Tavernelle Val di Pesa

www.osteriadipassignano.com
www.antinori.it
Tel: (+39) 055 8071278

Parking

Most Tuscan towns operate a strict ZTL system, a Limited Traffic Zone. This means that the Centro Storico (historic centre) is essentially closed to traffic, particularly for non-residents. Cars will need to be left outside the walls. That said, the Chianti towns are small so present far less trouble than such cities as Florence and Siena. Parking tips: for advice on individual Chianti towns, please see our individual Destination guides, including those on Greve, Panzano, Castellina, Radda and Castelnuovo Beradenga. 

Advice on ZTLs: You may see other cars crossing the ZTL boundary (Limited Traffic Zone) and assume you can proceed. Not so. The drivers crossing into the ZTL zone will probably be locals and have residents’ permits. Visitors do not so are liable to fines. Zones are monitored by cameras, so tickets are issued immediately and automatically, as soon as (and each time) the car crosses the ZTL boundary. 

Getting around

The Chianti can be delightful driving country. Its appeal lies in the rolling countryside, array of vineyards and olive groves, relatively quiet roads, and the mix of small medieval towns. Public transport in the Chianti is rather sporadic so car hire makes the most sense if you want to explore the area properly. Driving in the Chianti can be deeply enjoyable, especially with a detailed map or GPS navigator to hand.

Greve, the main gateway from the north, lies on the SR222, commonly known as the Chiantigiana, about 30 km south of Florence and 40 km north of Siena. From Greve, the scenic Chiantigiana meanders through the Chianti, passing through many typical villages. This is a charming route to take by day. At night, however, you might encounter wild boars, porcupines or deer crossing the road.

Instead, the Florence-Siena road (Superstrada Firenze-Siena) is a dual carriageway leading to the Chianti. Poggibonsi Nord is the Chianti exit. From there, follow your map or your GPS.

The SR2 - Cassia is the old Roman road that runs parallel to the Superstrada and borders the Chianti, passing through Poggibonsi and Monteriggioni.

The Chianti by train: the Chianti is not an easy place to reach by rail. The train service barely touches Chianti's attractions, which is part of the reason why the area is so peaceful. The main Chianti station is Castellina in Chianti, which is on the Siena-Florence line but you need to change trains at Empoli.

The Chianti by bus: buses provide more useful services but the sporadic 365 service still means that bus schedules are not always convenient, with only a limited service operated on Sunday. Buses run from Florence to Greve, Radda, Castellina and Gaiole.

On your bike: The Chianti is a lovely place to explore by bike. The combination of romantic Tuscan scenery and challenging gravel roads is what makes it so enjoyable. The cycling races also attract big crowds. Whether as a spectator or a participant, L’Eroica is worth following. This renowned amateur event that allows cyclists from around the world to experience the region while riding classic bikes.