What else is there to discover in Chianti aside from fine wine?

When you first plan to rent a holiday villa in Italy, you are probably dreaming of days soaking up the warm Tuscan sun and nights sipping on a glass of locally-produced Chianti Classico.

But there is much more to this stunning region of Italy than its fine wines - and you may find that your relaxing break is even better than you may have imagined!

While vineyards and wineries make up an important part of the local culture and you'll no doubt want to spend plenty of time exploring them, you may also wish to examine the other delights Tuscany has to offer.

Chianti is renowned as one of Tuscany's most beautiful areas, with postcard-perfect landscapes that have inspired artists and photographers for many years. The lovely landscapes here are made up of gentle, rolling hills, fragrant olive groves and countryside homes made from stones - keep your camera at the ready to capture the beauty as you pass through this stunning region.

For a close-up look at Italy's exciting past, why not stop at the Basilica of Santa Croce, the world's largest Franciscan church? Located in Florence, this is where some of Italy's most illustrious citizens are buried, including Galileo, Michelangelo, Machiavelli and Rossini, in a part of the building known as the Temple of the Italian Glories.

You may also wish to pay a visit to the former market town of Greve, which dates back to the Middle Ages. The municipality is most well-known for its unique triangular piazza and is a brilliant place to learn more about the history, art and culture of the Chianti area thanks to its fascinating architecture, museums and galleries.

Nearby, you'll also find several well-preserved castles - many of which are still inhabited as elegant residences today. Originally designed with defence in mind, some of these structures are now famous estates.

No matter where you choose to visit during your time in Italy, when you rent a villa in Tuscany, you are sure to have a brilliant time exploring all the area has to offer. Start planning your stay in Chianti today!




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