Greve in Chianti

Considered the gateway to Chianti, Greve is the first major town as you head towards Siena from Florence. Small it may be, but this charming Tuscan village is a joy, with a big reputation. The main square, Piazza Matteotti, is beautiful, and every Saturday there is a fantastic market selling livestock and fresh produce and has been doing so since the early 1500s. Overlooking the square are ancient houses with pretty balconies, and at one end of the square is the Santa Croce Church, home to several masterpieces from the local area. The Chianti region is recognised worldwide as producing some of the best wines in the world. Greve celebrates this every September with a Chianti Classico wine festival. Local merchants display their products and visitors are encouraged to try their wines for free, once they have purchased a glass. There's also hunks of bread drizzled with the local olive oils for tasting. It's a sensory delight.