Tuscany

Val Di Chiana, Etruscans & Wine

The territory of Val di Chiana is the first glimps of Tuscany you have as you can north from Rome. When you base yourself near Sinalunga, Cortona or Montepulciano, you are close to the major roads in the area.  From here you can visit castles, musuems, vineyards and thermal water spas. You will want to be sure to save some time in your itinerary to discover all it has to offer. 

The Val di Chiana proposes a fertile landscape populated with charming Medieval towns, Etruscan tombs, famous vineyards and thermal waters, as well as outlet shopping, easy trails for biking and hiking and a side of Tuscany you have probably never seen before.

The small towns that crest the soft rolling hills have a long and illustrious history, like that of Cortona, long considered the cultural and artistic center of the Val di Chiana with its MAEC museum for Etruscan findings and it’s many events during the year. The Maggiolata Parade in Lucignano and Foiano della Chiana Carnival boast historical reenactments that are well known throughout all of Italy. The ever growing number of vineyards, DOC wines and savoury flavors, is proof that this area has much to offer at the table.

The hills of Arezzo that make up the eastern half of the valley, and they recommend an itinerary following the trail of the Sentiero della Bonifica from Arezzo down to the Lake of Montepulciano and its wildlife reserve. By car, bike, train or bus this area is easy to navigate and is dotted with many intriguing little towns like Civitella della Chiana, Monte San Savino with its delicious Porchetta Sagra and the hidden town of Gargona.

On the western banks of the canal Chiana, least known lakes in Tuscany, Lake of Chiusi, you will find a land best known for its thermal waters at Chianciano, Vino Nobile and extra virgin olive oil Montepulciano and Trequanda. The Val di Chiana Senese is characterized by the abundant, yet softly sloping hills, the beginning of the Creti Senese and Mount Amiata in the distance. You can wander the hillside and visit towns like Sarteano, Cetona and Chiusi all of which boast amazing museums about early life in Tuscany.

Highlights & Top Picks

Editor's selection
The Outlet Malls near Florence and in Tuscany
Shopping
The Outlet Malls near Florence and in Tuscany

Tuscany offers beautiful landscapes, great food and great shopping opportunities. If you're looking to have some fun outlet shopping for name brands and Italian fashion designer items, head to these shopping outlets near Florence and across Tuscany!

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The Medieval Village of Lucignano
Arezzo
The Medieval Village of Lucignano

The small town has its medieval, round plan still intact and the main square, with its city hall and two main churches deserves a visit. We recommend visiting the museum, where you can admire a beautiful Golden Tree!

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Chiusi: A Legend of Gold
Destinations
Chiusi: A Legend of Gold

First Stop when Driving up from Rome: Perched on a hilltop, Chiusi has an incredible visual of both the Val d’Orcia and Val di Chiana in Tuscany. Discover the treasures above and underground in this Etruscan city.

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Sarteano and its Castle
Destinations
Sarteano and its Castle

The small village of Sarteano, located between the Val d'Orcia and Valdichiana valleys, is easily identified from afar by the imposing castle standing guard over the town. Despite its small size, it hosts some of the most important Etruscan tombs in all of Tuscany, a magnificent 17th century…

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Cetona will Spark your Imagination
What to See
Cetona will Spark your Imagination

The amazing beauty of the landscape, the elegant town buildings & the rich archaeological heritage of this small town straddling Val d'Orcia & Val di Chiana has something for all ages. We suggest you make space in your itinerary & discover something new

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Camporsevoli - Elegant Apartments in a Tuscan Castle
Accommodation
Camporsevoli - Elegant Apartments in a Tuscan Castle

These family-run vacation villas and apartments are conveiently located for exploring the beauty of central Italy. Camporsevoli promises a special holiday home for couples, families and friends traveling for fun, adventure or a special event. You can also enjoy cooking classes, wine tastings and…

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The Natural, Outdoor Hot Springs at Bagni San Filippo
Val d'Orcia
The Natural, Outdoor Hot Springs at Bagni San Filippo

Discover the beautiful outdoor hot springs at Bagni San Filippo in southern Tuscany along the eastern skirts of Monte Amiata. Hot water at the source makes it possible to bathe even in cold seasons - and the spectacular White Whale needs to be seen and enjoyed!

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Montepulciano: Vino Nobile Wine Tasting Itinerary
Montepulciano
Montepulciano: Vino Nobile Wine Tasting Itinerary

When you find yourself touring the area of Montepulciano, you will have to find time to visit the vineyards and cantinas of some of Tuscany’s oldest winemakers: Vino Nobile. Suggestions from the DiscoverTuscany Team for creating your own wine tasting Itinerary in & around Montepulciano.

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Vacation Apartments & Villa Rentals
Accommodation
Vacation Apartments & Villa Rentals

Val di Chiana provides an excellent position in Tuscany for visiting small towns, vineyards, shopping and of course stunning panoramic views.  Look for a villa rental or vacation apartment for your holidays in Tuscany in Val di Chiana, and be in the middle of it all.

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B&B Country House Poggio del Drago near Arezzo
Bed & Breakfasts
B&B Country House Poggio del Drago near Arezzo

See for yourself! Poggio del Drago, surrounded by the beauty of Tuscany between Florence, Arezzo & Siena features 5 B&B rooms with an abundant breakfast. You will find many extras like AC & WiFI as well as green gardens, private pool & excellent service.

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Casale Cardini - Villa Suites Near Siena & Arezzo
Bed & Breakfasts
Casale Cardini - Villa Suites Near Siena & Arezzo

This enchanting red-brick Tuscan farmhouse B&B between Cortona and Montepulciano offers superior, duplex and junior suites to accommodate couples, families and groups (book all the rooms for exclusive access) enjoying a holiday in southern Tuscany. Perfect as a base for exploring the…

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Explore Val di Chiana

Tours & Experiences

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Experiences worth booking via Viator