Things to See, Eat & Drink

Chianti

Castello di Meleto is located just outside of Gaiole in Chianti, a small town in the southern part of Chianti Classico, an appellation of Tuscany which holds the title as the oldest officially designated wine region in the world. As you can imagine, there are tons of incredible wineries within reach. There's nothing quite like a Bistecca alla Fiorentina accompanied by a bottle of Chianti!

Walk or Bike the Hills of Chianti

Take a stroll through the hills on one of the many wonderful paths in this area, including one that cuts right through the castle's property. There are also many bike rental shops in the area if you would prefer to cycle the paths.

Wine Shop at Castello di Meleto

The wine shop at the castle will be open everyday except for the day of the wedding. Feel free to taste the different vintages of Castello di Meleto's Chianti, or try some of their other wines. You can also book a tour of the castle and vineyards before your tasting!

Maurizio Brogioni Winery

If you want to experience authentic Italian viticulture, this is it. Maurizio's family has been making Chianti for generations. Enjoy their wine in the vineyard (his backyard), accompanied by local cheeses drizzled in his own production of olive oil. (40 minutes from Castello di Meleto)

Fattoria di Montemaggio

Montemaggio offers delicious Chianti Classico wine as well as other fun experiences. Test your knowledge with a blind taste-test or book a private picnic in the vineyard. (30 minutes from Castello di Meleto)

Osteria Al Ponte

A short drive from the venue, Osteria al Ponte will set a high bar if it's your first taste of Tuscan fare. Do not pass up on the steak tartare! (5 minutes from Castello di Meleto)

Il Vescovino Ristorante

Enjoy a classic Tuscan meal on their stunning terrace while watching the sunset over the hills. (30 minutes from Castello di Meleto)

Officina della Bistecca

Vegans look away. At the restaurant of the famous Italian butcher, Dario Cecchini, they offer several coursed menus with one thing in common: steak. Enjoy a family style meal with other diners huddled around the grill where they're cooking your various cuts of Chianina beef. (30 minutes from Castello di Meleto)

Florence

Florence (Firenze) is the urban jewel of Tuscany. You will not be bored in this city, steeped in history from Roman times to the Renaissance. Witness the paintings of Botticelli at the Uffizi or Michelangelo's David at the Accademia. Admire the architectural wonders of Brunelleschi's Dome or the Ponte Vecchio. Enjoy the wines and cuisine from all over Tuscany. You can't go wrong with restaurants here, so we've included our favorite places you can stop for a quick bite while exploring the city. (1 hour from Castello di Meleto)

Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore

If there's one thing we recommend in Florence, it's climbing Brunelleschi's dome atop the Florence Cathedral. It's hard to appreciate the scale of this architectural marvel without seeing it up close. Make sure to book tickets ahead of time.

Uffizi Galleries

The other can't miss stop in Florence, the Uffizi, houses works of the Renaissance masters: Da Vinci, Raphael, Michelangelo, Botticelli, etc... Booking a tour, or buying tickets ahead of time, is highly recommended.

Piazzale Michelangelo

Got some free time before dinner? Grab a bottle of wine and some fresh focaccia and enjoy while watching the sunset over the city from the steps of the Piazzale Michelangelo.

Da Nerbone

Located in the bustling Central Market, many believe that Da Nerbone offers the best version of Florence's most famous street food: the lampredotto panino (tripe sandwich).

La Nicchietta in Calimaruzza

Nicchietta has a variety of mouthwatering sandwiches made with fresh focaccia, the ancient bread of Tuscany.

Vivoli

Vivoli has been serving gelato for almost 100 years. Don't let the lines keep you from trying their TikTok-famous affogato.

San Gimignano

Inhabited since the 14th century BC, San Gimignano once had 72 medieval towers rising above the Tuscan hills. While most have since disappeared, we're lucky that twelve still stand today. Climb the Torre Grossa for the best view in all of Tuscany or get gelato at Gelateria Dondoli (voted Italy's best Gelato). Home to Liam's favorite restaurant, Perucà, San Gimignano is worth seeking out to spend a day or two. (1 hour from Castello di Meleto)

Perucà

Gelateria Dondoli

Torre Grossa

Montalcino

If you find yourself in southern Tuscany, we highly recommend you stop in Montalcino. Atop a hill that overlooks Val d'Orcia, this charming town is home to one of the world's most famous wines (and one of Ali and Liam's favorites): Brunello di Montalcino. Stop by at La Magia for a fun tour, a great view, and even better Brunello. Also, don't miss Locanda Demetra, a local restaurant/cooking school that sources their produce directly from their garden. (1 hour from Castello di Meleto)

La Magia Winery

Locanda Demetra