Chianciano Terme is one of the most well-known spa towns in Tuscany and Italy. The city is located in a charming position between the Val di Chiana and the Val d’Orcia, in a picturesque landscape and just a few kilometers from many other places of great interest. Chianciano is therefore able to offer a relaxing, and as we shall see, also cultural vacation.

The area of Chianciano has been inhabited since the Bronze Age, and archaeological excavations in the surroundings have uncovered several Etruscan necropolises, such as those at La Foce and in the Pedata-Morelli area, which have yielded a large amount of material. In addition to the necropolises, sanctuaries dedicated to water deities and a farm where oil and wine were produced have been identified. The Etruscans were followed by the Romans, who built the Mezzomiglio thermal baths. The sanctuaries first and then the baths show that the thermal waters of Chianciano were well known and appreciated by both the Etruscans and the Romans.

Things to Do in Chianciano Terme

Thermal Baths in Chianciano Terme
Known since antiquity, Chianciano Terme in the Val di Chiana experienced an economic boom in the second half of the 20th century when it became one of the most important spa towns in Italy.
In this area, there are many thermal springs that have led the modern city to rapid growth in the last 50 years. During this period, many thermal establishments were created in the city, equipped with facilities for complete relaxation and for those who want to engage in recreational activities.
The waters that made Chianciano famous are known for their healing properties. Some of these waters are used in the thermal baths, while others are destined for bottling or used in the preparation of creams and cosmetics.
Thermal parks, sensory spas, hydrotherapy, thermal pools, and much more… In Chianciano, you will find everything you need to take care of your body and relax!

What to See in Chianciano Terme

We have just talked about the “modern” Chianciano, which is undoubtedly the main driver of local tourism with its spas and resorts; now it is time to talk about the “old” village of Chianciano.
The city has been documented since ancient times and offers several ideas for cultural tourism.

Archaeological Museum of Chianciano Terme
The Archaeological Museum of Chianciano Terme is one of the most important museums dedicated to the Etruscan civilization. This interesting museum displays numerous artifacts from various archaeological sites in the area, such as the necropolis of La Foce – Tolle.
The extraordinary artifacts, displayed according to chronological criteria, are enhanced by detailed information and a very precise presentation.
The museum is located on Via Dante (for all information on opening hours and tickets, please refer to the official website).

Collegiate Church of San Giovanni Battista
The Collegiate Church of San Giovanni Battista was built in the first half of the 12th century in Romanesque-Gothic forms, although the interior was renovated in neoclassical style in 1817. On the façade, you can admire a beautiful splayed portal with cord decoration and capitals with plant motifs.
Inside, we find an Etruscan urn reused to hold the ashes of Blessed Paolo Salimbeni, a 16th-century fresco depicting the Nativity, a 14th-century crucifix, and a wooden sculpture of the Dead Christ by Giuseppe Paleari.

Museum of the Collegiate Church
Set up inside the Palazzo dell’Arcipretura, the Museum of the Collegiate Church is a small gallery of sacred art (4 rooms) that houses a series of works dated between the 13th and 19th centuries. The core of the collection consists of items from the former Monastery of San Michele Arcangelo. Among the most important works are a Crucifix by Segna di Bonaventura, a wooden Madonna from the school of Nicola Pisano, and a polyptych “Madonna and Saints” by the Master of Chianciano.
The museum is located on Via Solferino (for all information on opening hours and tickets, please refer to the official website).

Chianciano Art Museum
In a sort of chronological tour of Chianciano’s museums, we come to the Chianciano Art Museum. This museum exhibits a vast collection of about a thousand works ranging from the Neolithic to Asian and contemporary art. Here, works by various artists such as Tom Nash, Francis Turner, Mario Schifano, Damien Hirst, Magritte, Guttuso, Munch, Dürer, and Rembrandt are displayed.
The museum is located on Via della Libertà (for all information on opening hours and tickets, please refer to the official website).

Things to Do Around Chianciano Terme

In the immediate vicinity of Chianciano Terme, we recommend the Garden of Villa La Foce, a beautiful formal garden built between 1924 and 1939.
The location between Val d’Orcia and Val di Chiana makes Chianciano an excellent starting point for reaching many cities such as Pienza, Montepulciano, Chiusi, and Sarteano.

How to Get to Chianciano Terme in the Val di Chiana

Chianciano is about 80 kilometers from Siena and 70 from Arezzo.
By car: from Florence, Arezzo, and Siena: take the A1 highway to the exit for Chiusi/Chianciano, then the provincial road SP146.
By train and bus: the nearest train station is Chiusi Scalo. From there, you can reach Chianciano by bus (line FT4 Siena Mobilità).

What are the enogastronomic itineraries?

Enogastronomic itineraries are routes that allow you to discover and appreciate the culinary and wine traditions of a specific region or territory.

These paths offer the opportunity to visit farms, wineries, olive oil mills, and other production facilities where you can taste and purchase local products.

Furthermore, during these itineraries, you can participate in guided tastings, cooking classes, visits to markets, and enogastronomic festivals, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the culture and history of the area. Enogastronomic itineraries represent a unique opportunity to know and appreciate the quality and authenticity of local products, as well as to have an unforgettable experience in the world of gastronomy.

2-Day Enogastronomic Tour in Tuscany

A two-day enogastronomic tour in Tuscany is a breathtaking culinary and wine experience. During these two days, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in Tuscan enogastronomic culture, visiting renowned wineries and tasting some of the world’s finest wines.

You will also have the chance to savor traditional Tuscan dishes such as ribollita, bistecca alla fiorentina, and pappa al pomodoro. You can explore charming Tuscan cities and villages like Florence, Siena, and San Gimignano, offering a perfect blend of art, history, and culinary delights. This two-day enogastronomic tour in Tuscany will leave you with unforgettable memories and a deep understanding of the culinary and wine richness of the region.

Culinary Experiences in Tuscany

Enter the picturesque landscapes of Tuscany, where gentle hills are adorned with vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see. In this idyllic setting, a gastronomic adventure awaits you.

Tuscany, renowned for its rich culinary heritage, has long been a mecca for enogastronomy enthusiasts. The region boasts a series of vineyards producing some of the world’s best wines, from the prestigious Chianti Classico to the robust Brunello di Montalcino, showcasing the passion and dedication of its winemakers.

But exploring Tuscan vineyards is not just about sipping wine; it’s a sensory experience immersing you in the heart of Italian culture. The vineyards provide a wonderful backdrop for a leisurely stroll, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Tuscan countryside while learning about the winemaking process.

In each vineyard, you’ll have the opportunity to delight your palate with tastings of exquisite wines produced on-site. Guided by expert sommeliers, you’ll learn to appreciate the nuances and complexity of each sip, from delicate notes of fruit and flowers to subtle hints of oak and spices. These tastings open the door to discovering the artistic skill involved in creating the perfect bottle of wine.

Traditional Tuscan Pairings: Exploring the Classics

When it comes to traditional Tuscan pairings, there are some classic combinations that have stood the test of time.

One such pairing is the marriage of Chianti Classico and bistecca alla fiorentina, a delicious Florentine-style steak. The bold flavors of the steak complement the robust and fruity notes of Chianti Classico, creating a harmonious balance on the palate.

Another classic pairing is pecorino cheese with Vernaccia di San Gimignano. Pecorino, a sheep’s milk cheese with a rich and spicy flavor, pairs beautifully with the crisp and refreshing Vernaccia wine. The creamy texture of the cheese is enhanced by the citrusy nuances of the wine, creating a delightful combination that is both indulgent and refreshing.

No exploration of traditional Tuscan pairings would be complete without mentioning Vin Santo and cantucci. Vin Santo, a sweet dessert wine made from dried grapes, is often enjoyed alongside cantucci, almond biscuits. The hazelnut flavors of cantucci complement the honeyed sweetness of Vin Santo, making it the perfect finale for any Tuscan meal.

Wine Pairings: Unlocking the Perfect Match

While traditional pairings maintain their charm, there is also an opportunity to explore beyond these classics and unlock new flavor combinations.

When it comes to wine pairings in Tuscany, you can never go wrong with Vermentino paired with seafood dishes. The sparkling acidity and mineral notes of Vermentino cut through the richness of grilled shrimp or spaghetti alle vongole (clam pasta), creating a refreshing contrast on your palate.

For something heartier, try pairing a bold and full-bodied Super Tuscan wine with a rich and savory dish like wild boar ragu. The robust flavors of the wine stand up to the wild flavors of the boar, creating a perfect match for the cuisine.

For those with a sweet tooth, Moscato d’Asti is the perfect companion to desserts like panforte or ricciarelli. The light and effervescent nature of Moscato d’Asti balances the richness of these sweet delicacies, leaving you with a harmonious combination that satisfies your cravings.

Beyond Tuscany: Global Influences and Fusion Pairings

While Tuscan wines are undoubtedly exceptional on their own, they also lend themselves well to fusion pairings that incorporate global flavors.

An example is pairing Sangiovese with sushi: the bright acidity and red fruit notes of Sangiovese complement the delicate flavors of sushi, creating an unexpected but delicious combination.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try pairing a bold Tuscan red like Brunello di Montalcino with spicy Indian curry. The wine’s tannins help temper the heat of the curry, while the complex flavors of both elements create a palate-explosive taste experience.

Finally, for those who prefer vegetarian options, a crisp and aromatic white wine like Vernaccia di San Gimignano pairs beautifully with dishes like caprese salad or vegetable risotto. The fresh and herbaceous notes of Vernaccia enhance the natural flavors of the vegetables, creating a light and refreshing pairing, perfect for summer dinners.
In Tuscan vineyards, culinary delights abound. From traditional pairings that have stood the test of time to innovative fusion combinations pushing boundaries, the world of Tuscan wine tastings offers something for every palate.