Best Things to Do in Radda in Chianti
Imagine yourself wandering through a charming medieval town settled in the heart of Tuscany. This town is Radda in Chianti, a place full of history and Italian charm. Picture narrow, cobbled streets lined with stone buildings, all leading to a scenic main square. For history enthusiasts, exploring the 16th-century town hall and the remnants of the town’s defensive walls, which still encircle it, are among the best things to do in Radda in Chianti. And for wine lovers? Radda is your heaven! With its cooler climate producing some of Tuscany’s most elegant wines, and the Casa Chianti Classico offering tastings and wine education, you’ll feel a Chianti local in no time!
How to reach Radda
Plane to Radda
Even though Radda does not own an airport, there are several options nearby. For instance, Florence Peretola Airport (FLR), which is the closest option being found at approximately 24 miles away. Other airports in the surrounding area, are Pisa (PSA), Bologna (BLQ), and Bastia (BIA).
Public Transportation to Radda
For those relying on public transportation, a combination of train and bus services is available, such as
taking a train to Poggibonsi or Castellina in Chianti and then a local bus to Radda. Although bus schedules may be infrequent, careful planning can ensure a smooth journey. Alternatively, for a more direct and convenient option, you can arrange a taxi or private transfer. Adventurous travelers might also consider cycling, enjoying the breathtaking but also challenging routes through the Tuscan countryside.
Car to Radda
If travelling by car, you can take the route from Florence via the SR222 (Chiantigiana road), or from Siena through Castellina in Chianti, both offering stunning views and taking about 1.5 hours and 45 minutes.
Rent a car Tuscany
The best way to experience Tuscany is to rent your own car! We recommend booking well in advance using price comparison sites like rental cars if traveling in the peak summer season.
Best things to do in Radda
Fun Facts About Radda
- Rumors say that there is a secret entry, built into the town walls that was used as an escape if the enemy forces surrounded the city. Its existence still remains unproven. However, it adds a feeling of mystery to the already fascinating walls.
- The town walls are not only for defense but they also transform into a haven for wildflowers, especially in spring. Pay attention for colorful blooms appearing out from the stone crevices, adding a touch of natural beauty to the historical structure.
- In the past, the town walls functioned as a tax checkpoint for goods entering the town. Picture merchants waiting by the gates to pay a toll on their goods.
- Look closely at the stones in the walls. Some might have markings or engravings that could be messages left by builders centuries ago. Imagine discovering a hidden message left by a long-gone craftsman.
Town Walls
Explore Radda’s rich history by wandering along its town walls. These ancient structures, originally built for defense, offer a fascinating glance into the town’s medieval past. As you walk along the walls, you can imagine the stories and events that shaped this historic town, making it a captivating adventure not only for history supporters but every kind of visitor as well.
Radda’s walls have two main entrances, the Porta Valdarnese located in the east, and Porta Fiorentina located in the west part. You can explore Town Walls at any time during the day just make sure you wear comfortable shoes and have a hat and water along, especially for the sunny days. Even if climbing the walls might feel attempting it is not really possible due to safety reasons and a probable damage to the structure.
The Government Building
The Government Building, also known as the Palazzo del Podestà, is a magnificent 15th-century structure that exemplifies the architecture of its era. Serving as the seat of the Municipality since 1865, this building is a testament to Radda’s rich historical and political heritage, providing visitors with a window into the town’s storied past.
The walls of the Palazzo del Podestà are adorned with shields from those who served as the Podestà, featuring a total of 51 coats of arms on the front wall. Obtaining detailed information about the Palazzo del Podestà can be challenging due to Radda’s small size and the dispersal of government functions across various buildings. The best way to gather information is by contacting the tourist office. Since the building primarily serves the citizens, there is no admission fee.
Propositura di San Niccolò
This church represents the Romanesque architecture but also a neo-gothic aspect designed by Adolfo Coppedè in the 1920s. It’s a beautiful example of contrasting styles that captivates visual contrast, highlighting the evolution of design over centuries.
Propositura di San Niccolò obtains a specific schedule aligned with all the other churches. It is open to the public for prayer and visits during the day with possible closures during noon and evening. The entrance is completely free leaving the donation possibility optional. Here are some handy tips from our visit: dress modestly because it’s a place of worship, keep your voice down, and always ask if it’s okay to take photos before snapping away. It really helps make the experience more enjoyable for everyone.
Medieval Walkways.
Walking through Radda’s Medieval Walkways was such a unique experience. The narrow streets, lined with old stone buildings, really made us feel like we were stepping back in time. It was a simple, yet memorable way to connect with the town’s history.
The Ice House of the Grand Duke
This outstanding monument is an existed witness of the historical inventiveness. It was used in order to store ice during the winter months. It showcases the innovative methods applied by past generations to preserve perishable goods.
Ice houses weren’t public buildings but functional structures associated with grand estates or palaces. There is a small porch where you can see the peak of the structure that it is also cool in the summer months.
Visit the Black Rooster
Watching the sunrise in Radda, we found ourselves captivated by the black rooster statue. At first glance, it seemed like just another statue, but then we searched and learned its deep history. The black rooster has been a symbol of power, victory, and pride for the Florentines since the 1200s. It’s amazing how such a simple figure can hold so much significance. This rooster isn’t just a piece of art; it represents the spirit and essence of the Chianti Classico wine region. You’ll see its image on every bottle, a reminder of the rich tradition and history that define this famous wine-producing area. Taking a moment to learn about the legend behind the black rooster added a whole new layer to our visit, making it even more special.
Morning Walk and Picnic
One of our favorite experiences in Radda was the 13km walk along the ring trail near town. The natural beauty along the way is just breathtaking. Before setting off, we made a stop at Casa Porciatti dal 1965 to pick up some picnic supplies. If you love food, this store is a must-visit. They have an amazing selection of handmade, special products that will delight your taste buds. From freshly baked bread and savory cheeses to flavorful meats and seasonal fruits, we found everything we needed to put together the perfect picnic feast. It made the walk even more enjoyable and memorable.
Piazza Ferruci
Piazza Ferrucci is actually the vibrant heart of the village. Here you will find Palazzo del Podestà and the graceful Propositura di San Niccolò, both timeless landmarks that stand as guardians of Radda’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Orti Cintati
While wandering in the narrow streets of the town center, don’t miss the captivating Orti Cintati. These graphic walled gardens, framed by rugged dry stone walls, that offer a look into the agricultural heritage of Chianti. With their rustic beauty and timeless charm, Orti Cintati stands as a perfect representation of the region’s pastoral character, inviting visitors to pause and appreciate the simple yet great connection between nature and culture.
Santa Maria al Prato
A short walk through the historic centre leads you to the charming church of Santa Maria al Prato. Here, you can admire the graceful 15th-century Madonna and Child painting by the famous artist Neri di Bicci. Due to the statue of Virgin Mary, it is rumored that this church was built in the 10th century. Santa Maria al Prato has a flexible hour schedule for pray and visits but it is often closed at noon and evenings. There is no ticket for entering the specific church but make sure to be humble dressed and preserve the quite since some of the visitors are there to pray and find peace.
Go for a bike ride
The beautiful countryside surrounding Radda in Chianti is perfect for exploring by bike. Rent a bike and enjoy an easy-goingride through the vineyards and rolling hills.
Chiantigiana, is one of the most beautiful routes to explore this incredible town. A circle shaped route that allows you to to explore the Chianti Classico region, starts and finishes in the heart of town. This path is 64 kilometres long, lasts approximately 4 hours and is considered to be quite challenging in general. However, the incredible view of the countryside makes it look totally effortless.
Balade in Chianti, is a route suitable for all skill levels. Starting in Radda and finishing in Balade, this path gives you the opportunity for a more relaxing cycling adventure. While it is 24 kilometres long and lasts 1:30 hour it is a pleasant route for everyone.
San Donato in Perano, is an even smaller route, 15 kilometres long and lasts about 1 hour. The retaining smoothly surface offers the opportunity to explore the stunning countryside, the vineyards and the olive forests without much effort.
Where to eat in Radda
Established in 1965, La Bottega di Giovannino offers Tuscan delights for tasting. Think preserved meats, cheese, bruschetta, alongside a stellar Chianti Classico selection. Pastas and salads round out the menu, keeping it simple and delicious.
Enjoy plentiful portions of regional cuisine, featuring handmade pasta and roasted meat in Osteria Le Panzanelle, Lucarelli. This establishment has earned the prestigious Bib Gourmand status from the Michelin Guide.
Borgo Castelvecchi offers a gastronomic journey through the flavors of the region. Currently open by reservation, this dining gem serves up delectable local plates and celebrates the bounty of the land.
Bar Ucci hosts an excellent wine list with fantastic bottles from all over Tuscany and a special focus on Chianti Classico. This is accompanied by rustic food and cakes.
Where to Stay in Radda
Borgo di Vescine is a truly magical destination steeped in history and authenticity that was restored with passion and dedication by Lucia Paladin. This property has its roots back to a Langobardic fortress, offering a quick look into centuries of the historic past. With 28 unique rooms and suites radiate charm and character, guests are treated to an unforgettable stay that celebrates the heritage of the small village. Including a central terrace being the perfect setting for sunset drinks, it also offers exceptional view from the grounds.
The Borgo Castelvecchi is literally a farmhouse ten minutes away from Radda in Chianti, and is the perfect spot for relaxing break. The rustic mansion is surrounded by stone buildings, which provide capacious rooms and apartments. Each one has been carefully decorated in classic style, with visible wooden beams on the ceiling and earthenware flooring. Other comforts, include an outdoor swimming pool with breathtaking views over the Chianti hills, and a restaurant offering typical local cuisine.
Hotel Palazzo San Niccolò can be found in the main square of Radda. The rooms are decorated in typical Tuscan style that evoke a sense of rustic sophistication. There’s a sunny courtyard on the ground floor where guests can enjoy breakfast in the morning and wine in the evening. It also hosts a spa and a jacuzzi on an outdoor terrace. The hotel provides cooking courses that you can try on your own, learning how to create local cuisine.
What to see and do near Radda
There are many things to do in Radda. This small village offers a variety of experiences for solo travellers, couples and families alike.
Wine Tasting: Chianti is a popular wine region and visiting the wineries there, can be an incredible experience. There are many wineries in the area to choose from, appealing to a solo traveller who wants to taste local wines, or a couple aiming to spend a romantic day in the vineyards. Some popular wineries near Radda include Castello di Volpaia, Castello Monterinaldi, Fattoria di Montemaggio, and Badia a Coltibuono, a Medieval former monastery.
Explore Medieval Towns: The area around Radda has a majority of charming medieval towns, each with its own unique history and character. Some of the most popular towns to visit include Castellina in Chianti, Greve in Chianti, and Panzano in Chianti. A stimulating thing to do is shopping at the butcher shops and particularly the well-known Falorni, said to be the oldest in Italy. Observe the views from the Church of San Leolino.This beautiful church offers a panoramic landscape, ideal for breathtaking photography of the surrounding vineyards. Shop unique souvenirs and gifts by local artisans and taste traditional Tuscan meals. No matter which town you choose to visit, these are all within a short drive of Radda, and make for a great day trip.
Go Hiking or Biking: The Chianti countryside is majestic and offers plenty of opportunities for hiking and biking. There are trails to suit all levels of ability, from easy paths through the vineyards to more challenging hikes up into the hills. You can rent bikes in Radda, or many hotels offer them to their guests.
Hiking to Volpaia is a great path near Radda to consider. A 14 kilometres trail regarded as a medium difficulty level is ideal for hiking and running. The trail is open all year and extra bonus is that you can take your dog along and leave it off leash in some areas. Valimaggio route is known as an even easier one since its distance is 6 kilometres long and lasts less that 2 hours. This trail is great for hiking, and it’s unlikely you’ll encounter many other people while exploring, perfect for a quite and peaceful day. Enjoy Passeggiata La Vila path, with length 4.3 kilometres taking an average of 1 hour and 22 minutes to complete. It is generally considered an easy route meaning that you will meet many hikers along the way.
Visit a Cooking Class: Learn how to make traditional Tuscan dishes in a cooking class. This is a great way to learn about the local cuisine and culture. Imagine cooking with your other half or your even your entire family! Many cooking classes are offered in the area, and they typically include a visit to a local market to purchase fresh ingredients which makes it even more interesting.
Parking in Radda
Parking in Radda in Chianti can be a bit tricky, especially during peak season. You have two options for parking your vehicle.
The first one is by paying to park along the town walls or in selected car parks around the city. Usually there are marked spots including counters about where you should pay and cost a few Euro per hour. Some of them accept cards but be sure to carry cash as well. When we visited Radda during our one-week road trip in Tuscany we parked our here.
Free parking can be found outside the town walls and in some streets around it. Sometimes though, parking spots can be limited especially during the day so you should consider arriving early or parking in a nearby town and take a bus or a taxi
Getting Around Radda
There are a few ways to get around Radda, depending on your needs and mood. Radda is actually a very small town and you can do and see most of the things by walking. This is not only a good way for you to exercise but to see the town and enjoy the calming atmosphere as well. Another great option is rending a bike and explore the town or even an e-bike if you are not used to cycling. An even easiest alternative is using a car especially if you are planning to explore outside of Radda. Taxis are also available but they can be expensive. They can be a good option if you are in a hurry or have heavy luggage.
Radda with Kids
Radda in Chianti is a perfect town for families with kids. Even if it does not have specific built attractions, the relaxing atmosphere, the graphic streets and the delightful food markets are the ideal place for vacation with family.
One of them, can be the town exploration since it is small and has many cute shops to browse in and plenty of cafes and restaurants. Visiting the playground which is located out of the town walls can be an interesting day trip especially if you combine it with a picnic.
An essential activity could be a day dedicated to a local farm. Kids will connect with nature and will love seeing animals and learn about them. La Palazza, is a farm offering a swimming pool, tasting the local cuisine and a horseback riding which promises the creation of core memories. Fattoria Castello di Radda offers the same, plus cooking classes, where kids will enjoy learning how to make traditional dishes and the family can have a fun activity.
FAQs
Why base yourself in Radda?
Radda in Chianti is consisted of vineyards in the peak of mountains, family- friendly places and beautiful views for couples and solo travelers who want to escape real life for a while.
Where is Radda in Chianti?
Radda in Chianti is located in the Province of Siena in the Tuscany region of Italy. It exists among rolling hills and vineyards, roughly 35 kilometers (22 miles) southeast of Florence and 15 kilometers (9 miles) north of Siena.
Why You’ll Love a Visit to Radda in Chianti?
Radda in Chianti is the ideal place for wine and food lovers, for those searching quite and explorers as well. Its amazing view combined with the small capacity of the town will make you relax and enjoy this trip.
Why You May Want to Skip a Visit to Radda in Chianti?
If you crave a crowded and active night-life scene, a wider range of shops and prefer not to spend time in nature and focus on vineyards this village might be a little too peaceful for you.
When to Visit Radda in Chianti?
Spring offers pleasant weather with blooming landscapes, ideal for exploring the outdoors and potentially catching the tail end of the “Radda nel Bicchiere” wine festival. Seasons April-May & September-October boast comfortable temperatures and smaller crowds. However, if you seek the typical Tuscan summer experience with warm weather and vibrant festivals, aim for June-August. Just be prepared for potentially higher prices and larger crowds.
X22Gak
Posted at 01:08h, 04 JulyHey people!!!!!
Good mood and good luck to everyone!!!!!