Bolgheri is one of those places that seem to have been painted by an artist’s imagination. This small Tuscan village, part of the municipality of Castagneto Carducci, is a concentration of beauty, history and authentic flavors.
Strolling through its stone streets, enjoying a glass of wine in a historic cellar or admiring the famous Viale dei Cipressi are just a few of the experiences that allow you to fully appreciate this enchanting place.
Get ready to be amazed at every corner: in this post we’ve collected 10 things to do in Bolgheri to help you soak up its atmosphere and experience the magic of this jewel just a few kilometres from our hotel.
1. The Cypress Avenue
To reach Bolgheri you travel along the famous Viale dei Cipressi, immortalized by the poet Giosuè Carducci in his verses:
“The cypresses that in Bolgheri, tall and straight,
run from San Guido in a double row.”
(“I cipressi che a Bolgheri alti e schietti /
Van da San Guido in duplice filar”.)
This scenic road is about 5 kilometres long and connects the Oratorio di San Guido to the historic village of Bolgheri. Lined with more than 2,500 majestic centuries-old cypress trees, it creates a spectacular natural corridor through the Tuscan countryside.
Today it is considered one of the symbols of the area and a must-see spot for photographers and visitors.
2. Wander Through the Village
In the heart of Bolgheri, enclosed by stone walls and surrounded by a timeless atmosphere, there are many small wonders to discover. The historic centre is compact but full of charm and perfect for a slow stroll.
The first landmark you’ll notice is the Castello di Bolgheri. The red-brick castle dominates the entrance to the village and, although it is privately owned and cannot be visited inside, it is an unmistakable icon.
Passing beneath the castle tower you enter the medieval gate that leads into the village, where you can admire the noble coat of arms of the Della Gherardesca.
On the left stands the Chiesa dei Santi Giacomo e Cristoforo, a small Romanesque church and one of the oldest buildings in the village. Continue wandering through the streets lined with artisan shops, wine bars and stone houses with flower-filled balconies.
3. The Photo Frame in Largo Nonna Lucia
In Largo Nonna Lucia you’ll find a panoramic frame installed by the winery Le Macchiole.
This frame is part of an artistic project designed to highlight some of the most beautiful views of the area, inspired by the poetry of Giosuè Carducci.
The installation is linked to the following verses:
“With the new April light that fills
the room with rosy glow, you smile again,
suddenly in my heart, O fair Maria.”
These artistic frames allow visitors to observe the landscape through a poetic “window”, creating a beautiful connection between nature and literature.
4. The Statue of Nonna Lucia
Still in Largo Nonna Lucia you’ll find a bronze statue dedicated to Lucia Galleni, affectionately known as Nonna Lucia, the grandmother of Giosuè Carducci.
The sculpture shows her seated on a bench with a welcoming smile, inviting visitors to sit beside her for a memorable photo.
Nonna Lucia is mentioned in Carducci’s famous poem Davanti a San Guido, where she is described returning from the cemetery, tall, solemn and dressed in black. The statue celebrates the strong bond between the poet and his beloved grandmother.
5. The Olive Tree of 1723
In the heart of Bolgheri stands the Olive Tree of 1723, a majestic centuries-old tree that represents a living witness to the village’s history.
More than three hundred years old, this ancient olive tree has seen generations pass by, and its twisted trunk and wide canopy tell stories of times gone by.
A short walk through the charming cobbled streets will lead you to it. It stands in a small square that is easy to find, near Via degli Orti and close to the centuries-old holm oaks lining Via del Poggio and Piazza Ugo.
6. Enjoy a Delicious Stop at a Traditional Trattoria
In Bolgheri, stopping for something delicious is almost mandatory. The village is a small oasis of authentic flavours where Tuscan cuisine meets outstanding local products.
You can opt for a stop with a charcuterie board and a glass of wine, or choose a restaurant and indulge in traditional dishes.
Many small shops also sell local specialties such as extra-virgin olive oil, honey, jams and artisanal biscuits, often available for tasting. Don’t miss the classic cantucci biscuits, perfect when paired with a small glass of Vin Santo.
7. Wine Tasting in a Wine Bar
Wine tasting in Bolgheri is a journey through Tuscan excellence, among prestigious vineyards, family traditions and the famous Supertuscans that have conquered wine lovers around the world.
A stop at one of the village’s wine bars is highly recommended. Here you can taste or purchase wines from the Bolgheri DOC and other local labels.
To take home a memorable souvenir, choose a Bolgheri Rosso DOC, a fresh and aromatic Bolgheri Vermentino, or a refined Supertuscan for a special occasion. Many wineries also produce excellent local extra-virgin olive oil.
8. Visit a Winery
Just outside the village, it’s a great idea to stop at one of the many wineries in the area.
The countryside around Bolgheri hosts some of Italy’s most prestigious wine estates, many of which welcome visitors by reservation and offer tours through vineyards, barrel cellars and guided tastings.
How does a winery visit work in Bolgheri? It’s best to book in advance and choose between different experiences: from classic tours and basic tastings to vertical tastings or more elaborate food-and-wine pairings. Plan to spend at least one hour for this experience.
9. Drive Along the Bolgherese Road
The Via Bolgherese is a scenic road connecting Castagneto Carducci with Bolgheri, surrounded by neat vineyards, ancient olive groves and stone farmhouses.
Often described as one of the most beautiful stretches of Tuscan countryside, it is also known as the “wine road” because many of the most renowned wineries of the Bolgheri DOC are located along it.
It’s also a perfect place for landscape photography or simply for a romantic stop among the cypress trees. Several panoramic points—some unmarked—offer spectacular sunset views over the vineyards with the sea visible in the distance.
10. The Bolgheri WWF Oasis
Just a few kilometres from Bolgheri lies a hidden natural treasure: the Oasi WWF di Bolgheri.
Founded in 1959, it was the first protected oasis in Italy. The reserve covers more than 500 hectares of dunes, forests and wetlands and provides a habitat for hundreds of species of birds, deer, foxes and amphibians.
The atmosphere is quiet and wild, perfect for those seeking a relaxing break away from the busiest tourist spots.
Visits are available by reservation only and always accompanied by a WWF guide. The oasis is located along the old Via Aurelia between Donoratico and San Guido. It’s easily reachable by car, with parking available at the beginning of the trail.
This activity is ideal for families, birdwatching enthusiasts and anyone who loves nature.
