Thinking of basing ourselves here for a 3-night stay in the region. I know this is a popular question, but maybe by telling a bit about ourselves..... We are a couple in our late 40s/early 50s and we will have a car. I'd like to stay somewhere not as busy as Siena, but not totally removed from everything. I don't mind a little "touristy," as I am admittedly a tourist. We enjoy food, wine, shopping and people watching. I like formal museums and art in small doses. I know many will say to pick out the towns I want to visit and then choose a central location, but my choices are too all over the place. I thought I would see which location is in the midst of places most others' recommend seeing, if that makes sense. Volterra, Castellina and Cortona also popped up on my radar. Thank you so much :)
Posted by
Auburn, Washington, USA
515 posts
Posted by
OP
Illinois
41 posts
Thanks for your reply! Unfortunately, I have already checked out quite a few links online and at this point am looking for some personal thoughts and experiences.
Posted by
Portland, Oregon, USA
320 posts
Ladydee: We absolutely love Panzano. We have enjoyed two extended stays in Panzano. The location between Florence and Siena is perfect for little side trips. The village is just the right size. There are a couple of really good restaurants and our favorite casual wine bar - Enoteca Baldi. Panzano is also the home of Dario Cecchini - Italy's most famous butcher - make sure to stop by his shop. Panzano has a cute little market on Sunday mornings - a nice contrast to the bustling Saturday market in nearby Greve. Nearby wineries like Panzanello, Vignamaggio, Fontodi and Volpaia offer wonderful wine experiences. There are a couple of hotels in town but we always rent a villa. Panzano means so much to our memories of Italy! Have fun.