Val di Chiana Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Val di Chiana, Tuscany with our comprehensive travel guide filled with insider tips, must-see attractions, hiking routes, food scene, and transportation options.


Introduction to Val di Chiana

Val di Chiana is a beautiful valley located in the province of Arezzo, Tuscany, well-known for its picturesque landscapes, stunning hilltop towns, great cuisine, and friendly locals. The valley spans across two regions of central Italy- Tuscany and Umbria. The valley is named after the Chiana river, which flows through and is surrounded by lush hills and fertile land. Whether you are a nature lover, history buff, or a curious traveler, Val di Chiana will charm you with its splendid beauty and cultural richness.

List of Places to Visit in Val di Chiana

Val di Chiana is a treasure trove for history buffs, nature enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. Here are some of the must-visit attractions when you are in the valley.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Civic Museum of Sansepolcro: This museum houses some exceptional pieces of Renaissance artwork like the Resurrection painted by Piero della Francesca.
  • Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Chiusi: A museum dedicated to Etruscan art, culture and history that will take you on a journey through the ancient civilization.
  • Cortona: An ancient town located on a hilltop offers stunning views of the surrounding valley and has many attractions to visit, like the Diocesan Museum, Museum of the Etruscan Academy, and the Church of Santa Margherita.

Natural Attractions of Val di Chiana: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Trasimeno: The fourth-largest lake in Italy that offers many recreational activities like water sports, cycling, and hiking.
  • Monti Sibillini National Park: A vast protected area known for its diverse flora & fauna, hiking trails, and natural beauty.
  • Terme di Chianciano: A thermal spa known for its healing powers, and rejuvenating hot springs that offer therapeutic treatments that will leave you refreshed and revitalized.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Val di Chiana

Val di Chiana is a nature lover’s paradise with many scenic hiking and biking trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and hills. Here are some popular trails that you can explore.

  • The Sentiero della Bonifica: A popular cycling route that follows along the Canale Maestro della Chiana, a canal built in the early 20th century.
  • The Etruscan trail: A hiking trail that links several Etruscan settlements through scenic routes in the Tuscan countryside. You can explore the ruins of ancient Etruscan cities and tombs.

Best Things to Do in Val di Chiana: Activities and Tours

Val di Chiana offers many exciting activities and tours that you can’t miss. Here are some of our favorite things to do in the valley.

  • Wine tasting: Tuscany is known for its excellent wines, and Val di Chiana is no exception. You can visit local wineries and indulge in a wine-tasting tour.
  • Cooking classes: Learn how to prepare traditional Tuscan dishes like prosciutto and pasta from the locals and take back newly acquired culinary skills.
  • Hot-air balloon tours: Experience panoramic views of the valley from a hot-air balloon, a perfect way to explore the region from a different angle.

Week-Long Itinerary for Val di Chiana

Here is a 7-day itinerary that covers the best of Val di Chiana, Tuscany. | Day | Activities | | — | — | | Day 1 | Arrival, Check-in, and Relax | | Day 2 | Explore Arezzo and its historic center | | Day 3 | Discover Cortona and its museums | | Day 4 | Visit Montepulciano and taste the famous Vino Nobile wine | | Day 5 | Visit Pienza, a UNESCO Heritage Site, famous for its pecorino cheese. | | Day 6 | Take a scenic hot-air balloon tour over Val di Chiana. | | Day 7 | Departure |

Food and Drink Scene of Val di Chiana

The food scene of Val di Chiana is an integral part of its cultural heritage. Tuscany is known for its simple yet flavorsome cuisine, and Val di Chiana is no exception. Here are some dishes and beverages that you can’t miss when in the valley:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fiorentina steak: This dish is an iconic Tuscan specialty, made with thick beef steak cooked over a wood fire grill and seasoned with simple herbs.
  • Pappa al pomodoro: A traditional Tuscan soup made with stale bread, garlic, tomatoes, and olive oil.
  • Ribollita: A hearty vegetable soup made with cabbage, beans, and bread.

Local Beverages

  • Vino Nobile de Montepulciano: A full-bodied red wine from Montepulciano, known for its perfect balance of tannins, acidity, and flavor.
  • Vin Santo: A sweet dessert wine made with dried grapes and aged in small wooden barrels.

Where to Stay in Val di Chiana: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Val di Chiana offers many accommodation options that cater to all kinds of travelers, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some top picks for every budget.

  • Luxury: Il Falconiere (Cortona) and Fonteverde Tuscan Resort & Spa (San Casciano dei Bagni)
  • Mid-Range: Hotel Italia (Arezzo) and Palazzo del Capitano (San Quirico d’Orcia)
  • Budget: Ostello del Chianti (San Casciano Val di Pesa) and Podere Pratovecchio (Lucignano)

What to Buy in Val di Chiana: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Val di Chiana is famous for its crafts and artisan products. Here are some items that you can buy to bring back home:

  • Handmade jewelry: Made with precious metals and stones and designed by local artisans.
  • Leather products: Tuscany is known for its high-quality leather, and you can buy leather bags, shoes, jackets, and belts.
  • Olive oil: Val di Chiana produces some of the best olive oil in Italy. You can buy a bottle of freshly pressed olive oil to take back home as a souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Val di Chiana

Val di Chiana has a rich cultural heritage, and the locals take pride in preserving and promoting their traditions and customs. Here are some things to keep in mind when you are in the valley:

  • Respect local customs and traditions like dress codes while visiting religious places.
  • Val di Chiana is an agrarian society, and farming is an essential part of their life.
  • Italians love to interact and socialize, and you will find the locals friendly and hospitable.

Best Time to Visit Val di Chiana

The best time to visit Val di Chiana is from April to September when the weather is warm and pleasant, and the valley is in full bloom. However, if you want to skip the crowds and experience the valley’s calmness and tranquility, October to March is a great time to visit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Val di Chiana

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisine and wine.
  • Learn a few basic Italian phrases to interact with locals.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter in public spaces.
  • Don’t dress inappropriately while visiting religious sites.
  • Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat during the summer months.

Safety and Health

Safety in Val di Chiana

Val di Chiana is a relatively safe place to visit, with minimal risks to travelers. However, like any other place, visitors should take precautions to safeguard themselves and their belongings.

  • Keep your valuable possessions safe and secure while traveling.
  • Avoid deserted areas at night.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and stay alert.

Health in Val di Chiana

Val di Chiana has a well-equipped healthcare system, and visitors can seek medical help in case of an emergency. However, it is essential to carry travel insurance to cover any medical expenses.

Getting to Val di Chiana: Transportation Options and Logistics

Val di Chiana is easily accessible by road and rail. Here are some transportation options to get to the valley.

Airports Near Val di Chiana

  • Florence Airport (FLR) (85km)
  • Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO) (195km)

Bus Stations Near Val di Chiana

  • Siena Bus Station
  • Arezzo Bus Station

Other Options

  • Car rental: You can rent a car from any major Italian city and drive to Val di Chiana.
  • Private transfers: You can book a private transfer from any major Italian city to Val di Chiana.

How to Get Around in Val di Chiana

Val di Chiana is best explored by car, as public transportation is not very convenient. However, here are some transportation options available to visitors:

  • Car Rental: Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore Val di Chiana.
  • Public transportation: There are regular bus services connecting the various towns in the valley.
  • Taxi: Taxis are readily available, but they can be expensive.

Where to Go Next from Val di Chiana: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Val di Chiana is located in the heart of Tuscany, and visitors can explore nearby attractions like:

  • Florence (95km): Florence is the capital of Tuscany and is famous for its beautiful architecture, art, and museums.
  • Siena (56km): Siena is a charming medieval city, known for its annual horse race called Palio.
  • Cortona (22km): Cortona is a nearby town that offers splendid views of the surrounding valley and is rich in history and culture.

Conclusion

Val di Chiana is a beautiful valley that promises to take you on a journey through Tuscany’s cultural heritage and natural beauty. Whether you are a history buff, nature enthusiast, or a curious traveler, Val di Chiana will charm you with its stunning landscapes, friendly people, and great cuisine. Plan your visit to this hidden gem of Tuscany and experience the beauty of Italy like never before.



    Castiglion Fiorentino
    Monte San Savino