Classic Tuscany Tour

Today after our breakfast, we will depart for a tour of two of Tuscany’s most famous towns: Montepulciano & Pienza, set in the Val d’Orcia – what many view as the “quintessential” Tuscany.

Along the way, we should be seeing fields and fields of Sunflowers, as now is the season! We'll first stop in Pienza, famous for its Pecorino cheese, and have a tasting.

After lunch, it's off to the steeply sloped town of Montepulciano where you can wander the streets, stop at shops, churches and town squares.

As well, we'll visit an enoteca where we can tour the ancient cellars and have a wine tasting.

Head back to the villa and relax by the pool before dinner. (B, L, D)

Visit an elegant local villa set in the countryside for a tour of the villa, learning its interesting history and secrets, followed by a wine tasting.

Lunch at a local “Locanda” or inn.

Then head on to Arezzo, a beautiful medieval town, which has its origins in Etruscan history and later, the Romans.

The town was also made famous in the movie ‘Life is Beautiful’ by Roberto Benigni.

Parts of the city were destroyed during WW2, but many historical buildings remain including the Piazza Grande, a Roman Amphitheater, and the remains of a fortress.

Dinner with local wine. (B, L, D)

Full day in Florence. Upon arrival, we will meet our English speaking local guide and enjoy a walking tour of Florence.

Our first stop will be the colorful markets where you can find anything: from a tripe sandwich to a silk scarf!

During the tour our guide will point out famous sites such as the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, the Uffizi Gallery, Piazza della Signori, Piazza della Repubblica, and more.

We'll learn all about the dark secrets of Florence's famous noble families and artists with this behind the scenes & highlights tour. Enjoy time for lunch on your own.

The afternoon is free for you to shop, visit one of its famous museums such as the Uffizi (Botticelli) or the Accademia (The David), or just soak in the vibrant life of one of the many piazze while having a caffè or spritz. (B, D)

After breakfast, we'll depart to the Chianti region – an area of Tuscany made famous by the red wine of the same name.

This is a beautiful region of terra-cotta-roofed towns and winding roads, leading through groves of olive trees, with cypress and endless vineyards stitching sun-dappled rolling hillsides – this is wine country.

We'll visit some quaint villages, have lunch on a local farm and sample some wine. What else would you do in Chianti?

And since we are in Italy, we'll stop for some famous gelato!

Dinner at our villa with local wines. (B, L, D)

Today, depart for Cortona, made famous by Frances Mayes’ book & movie “Under the Tuscan Sun”.

Cortona which also has its roots in Etruscan history, is a quiet and romantic town nestled in the beautiful hills.

It is surrounded by a countryside, in which lavish villas are surrounded by large gardens and hosts many monasteries, churches and monuments.

Back to the villa in the afternoon for some pool and relaxing time.

Dinner with local wine. (B, D)

Today will be a full day of experiencing the local countryside life.

First we will visit one of the most famous sanctuaries of St. Francis of Assisi. Enjoy a tour with an opportunity to visit the gift shop with items made by the Franciscans such as honeys, chocolates, soap, & liqueurs.

After, visit an ancient olive oil mill operating since the 1400’s with a tour, tasting & lunch with the owner’s family.

Finally we'll stop in a quaint village that hasn't changed since the medieval ages.

We’ll finish the day with a farewell aperitivo and dinner. (B, L, D)

Early morning breakfast at our villa as we say our goodbyes.

We'll board our vans and depart for the Rome Airport (FCO).

Bid Arrivederci to Italy! (B)