Exactly half-way between Florence and Sienna, the scenic via Chiantigiana highway leaves the valley of the River Greve and winds up to the ridge between the Val di Greve and the Val di Pesa, to the charming little town of Panzano in Chianti.

Panoramic view of Panzano in Chianti

Panzano’s central location makes it an ideal base for your vacation in Tuscany. In the countryside around Panzano there are numerous beautiful agriturismi – farmhouse holiday homes – often with a swimming pool and without exception with wonderful views out over the olive groves and vineyards. There is an excellent hotel – Hotel Villa Le Barone – ten minutes away by car. For true luxury accommodation, look no further than the exclusive Vitigliano Relais & Spa on the old highway between Panzano and Greve. All the supplies you will need are available in Panzano and nearby Greve in Chianti. Both towns have good restaurants and there are even better restaurants out in the country.

In addition to the Church of Santa Maria Assunta built into the remains of the castle of Panzano, there are two ancient and charming churches near Panzano – the Pieve (Parish Church) of San Leolino and the Oratory of Saint Euphrosynus, both of which are worth a visit. The walled mediaeval village of Montefioralle is a few minutes drive away and just beyond that is the Abbey of Badia a Passignano.

Panzano in Chianti is well-known for two fairs that take place here. One is Vino al Vino, the wine festival held on the third weekend in September and the preceding two days, and the other is the Festa della Stagion Buona held on 25 April (Liberation Day), with a procession in Renaissance costumes, a mediaeval play and plenty of food and wine stands.

Panzano is also home to Dario Cecchini, a well-known butcher and enthusiast for bistecca alla fiorentina – Florentine beefsteak. Cecchini’s butchery and restaurant (Solociccia) are local landmarks.

Click here for vacation villas and apartments in and near Panzano in Chianti.

Click here for vacation rooms and Bed and Breakfasts in and near Panzano in Chianti.

Anna Maria Baldini

About Anna Maria Baldini

Anna Maria is a frequent contributor to web content on life in Tuscany. She researches all aspects of Tuscan life, with emphasis on history, art, architecture and the culture of the people of this beautiful region of Italy.

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