Chieti might not be as famous as Rome or Venice, but it offers a surprisingly rich selection of tours that showcase its agricultural roots and stunning coastal scenery. Whether you’re a wine lover, into olive oils, or simply want to experience the sea from a kayak, Chieti has something for you. We particularly love the Winery Tour with wine and food tasting for its educational aspect and panoramic vineyard views. Plus, the Sea kayak excursion offers a refreshing way to explore the famous Trabocchi coast, distant from crowded beaches.
This list highlights three standout experiences: a guided wine tour, an olive oil mill visit, and a sea kayak adventure. Each offers a unique taste of Abruzzo’s landscape and local produce. Whether you prefer sipping wine, tasting olive oils, or paddling along the coast, you’ll find these options offer a good mix of flavor, scenery, and authentic local culture.
1. Winery Tour with Wine and Food Tasting in Chieti
For about $58 per person, the Winery Tour with Wine and Food Tasting in Chieti offers a taste of sustainable wine production just outside the city. This tour lasts around two hours and includes a guided visit to Azienda Agraria Rabottini, where you’ll learn about eco-friendly vineyard practices. The highlight is tasting four different wines, carefully paired with cured meats and cheeses, which makes it a delightful way to deepen your understanding of local flavors.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on sustainable viticulture. The guide shares insights into how the winery maintains environmentally friendly practices, which adds meaning to each sip. The second half of the experience takes you on a scenic walk through the vineyards, giving you a chance to appreciate the landscape and see where the wines are made. Guests love the relaxed pace and the quality of the tasting, with some noting the panoramic views as a memorable backdrop.
Bottom line: If you’re interested in learning about wine production while enjoying excellent local pairings, this tour offers a practical, engaging experience at a good value. Ideal for wine novices and connoisseurs alike.
2. Sustainable Olive Mill Tour with Olive Oil Tasting in Chieti
For a more down-to-earth taste of Abruzzo, the Sustainable Olive Mill Tour with Olive Oil Tasting offers a 1.5-hour glimpse into olive oil production. Costing around $37 per person, this tour explores a working olive mill that emphasizes sustainable farming practices. You’ll learn how high-quality oils are produced with minimal environmental impact, and sample three different extra virgin olive oils.
This tour stands out because of its focus on sustainable agriculture and the chance to see the entire process, from harvesting to bottling. The panoramic views from the mill provide a scenic backdrop, and there’s an optional walk through the olive groves, perfect if you want to combine tasting with fresh air. Visitors often comment on the rich flavor of the oils and the depth of knowledge shared by the guide, who explains what makes these oils so special.
Bottom line: If olive oils fascinate you or you’re interested in sustainable farming, this tour offers a hands-on, flavorful experience. It’s perfect for those looking for a quick, enriching taste of local agriculture.
3. Trabocchi Coast: Sea Kayak Excursion “The Little Horse”
For roughly 3 hours, the Sea Kayak Excursion “The Little Horse” takes you along the scenic Trabocchi coast, famous for its fishing platforms called trabocchi. Although the exact price isn’t listed, availability and starting times vary, so check ahead. You’ll paddle real sea kayaks with equipment provided, exploring crystal-clear inlets and spotting the iconic trabocchi structures—authentic fishing gear that’s become symbols of the coast.
This experience is perfect if you’re comfortable with outdoor activity and want to see a less commercialized side of the coast. The guide, speaking both Italian and English, ensures safety while taking you through breathtaking landscapes that are only accessible by sea. The water is calm, making it suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. Expect to get a good workout and enjoy some fantastic photo opportunities.
Bottom line: If you’re after a memorable outdoor adventure and want to see the coast from a different perspective, this kayak trip offers a scenic, active option. It’s best suited for those comfortable with water sports and physically active travelers.
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your interests, budget, and physical activity level. If you’re passionate about wine or want a relaxing, educational experience, the winery tour is a strong pick. For those intrigued by local agriculture and oils, the olive mill tour offers a flavorful, hands-on experience. If outdoor adventure and scenic coastlines call your name, then the sea kayak excursion promises an active day on the water.
Booking early is advised, especially in peak summer months, as these tours can fill quickly. Think about combining a wine or olive oil experience with a seaside walk or meal—Chieti’s tours are best enjoyed with some local flavor in mind. Consider your fitness level and weather conditions too; for example, kayaking is best in calm seas and warm weather.
Final Thoughts
Chieti offers a range of authentic experiences that highlight the region’s rich agricultural traditions and stunning coastal scenery. Whether you’re savoring wines at a sustainable vineyard, tasting premium olive oils, or paddling along the Trabocchi coast, each tour provides a meaningful way to connect with local culture. For a relaxed, educational visit, the wine or olive oil tours are excellent choices. For an active day by the sea, the kayak adventure is hard to beat.
With so many options, planning ahead and booking early will ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable experiences. Whatever your interest, Chieti’s tours offer a genuine taste of Abruzzo’s landscape, food, and history—something every curious traveler should experience.