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Not only is Greve situated perfectly for a day trip from Florence, but it really represents the true feeling of Tuscany. Surrounded by idyllic olive groves, vineyards, castles and villas, the medieval town features buzzing historic markets and wine fairs. Greve has also been home to a long line of explorers and artists who have left a treasured artistic heritage for you to discover during your trip. If that hasn’t already convinced you to add Greve to your itinerary, here are four more reasons why visiting this beautiful town should be high up on your list of things to do in Chianti. Piazza Matteotti The Piazza Matteotti is one of Greve’s most iconic features. This central triangular square has been a hub of daily life for the town over the last 500 years. To this day, the town hosts an organic farmers’ market on the piazza on the 4th Sunday of every month between March and December. When the Chianti Classico exposition is taking place, the piazza transforms into the “Chianti capital”, where the region’s finest wine is showcased among colourful stalls. The boutiques and artisan workshops around the “square” are known for their high-quality products and their own charming history. The Tuscan butcher shop, Antica Macelleria Falorni, has been operating in the same spot since 1729; while the workers at Bottega dell’Artigianato are experts in crafting hand-woven baskets. Santa Croce Another thing to do in Chianti’s Greve is to stop by the Santa Croce church. The neo-classic façade hides medieval masterpieces collected from the local area. Among the church’s treasure trove of important works is Lorenzo di Bicci’s 1420 triptych, as well as a fourteenth century fresco of the Virgin Mary. The neighbouring Museum of Sacred Art houses an original altar and a remarkable collection of terracotta sculptures. Montefioralle The Montefioralle village is one of the oldest sites in the area. The houses lining the cobbled streets are made of stone, and the fortified village still boasts its original defensive walls. Perfect for a picnic, the top of the hill offers panoramic views over the countryside and, while hiking to this point is a 1.5km trek, the rewards are worth the effort. The castle of Montefioralle is perched above Greve at the crossroads of three pilgrimage roads: The Chiantigiana road The road to Val di Pesa The road to Valdarno Back in the thirteenth century, the castle’s square served as a marketplace which flourished economically thanks to its prime crossroads position. On Saturdays, you can still purchase local produce from the stalls here. Quaint and charming Montefioralle should certainly be high up your list of things to do in Chianti. Lamole If you follow the Chiantigiana road past the vineyards and farmhouses, you’ll soon find yourself in a rural Tuscan paradise. Lamole is a tiny village with just a restaurant, green grocer’s and a rustic church, but it offers one of the most breath-taking panoramas in the area. Those who enjoy peaceful countryside retreats will fall in love with Lamole. Sitting back in nature here is one of the most relaxing things to do in Chianti. Those were just four of the many amazing things to do in Chianti. Greve has so much more for visitors to discover, and to really make the most of your trip booking on to a tour with a reputable travel company is highly recommended. Having a local guide to show you the highlights and introduce you to the culture will add so much value to your experience. Author Plate Mauro Bramante is the Director of WalkAbout Florence, an independent business offering unforgettable tours and excursions around Italy including the best things to do in Chianti. Whether you want to ride a Vintage Vespa, try the famous Chianti wine or get cooking with fresh local ingredients, Mauro's company promises excitement, adventure and above all, fun. If you're keen to experience the magic of Italy with the help of some passionate and knowledgeable tour guides, look no further than WalkAbout Florence for your next getaway.
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