Grand Tour of Tuscany
The Ultimate Small-Group Tour to Tuscany
Embark on our 8-day Grand Tour of Tuscany with a convenient pick-up from central Rome and discover the must-sees and offbeat gems of Italy’s most popular region. From the vineyard-clad rolling hills to the hustle and bustle of Florence, this ultimate tour of Tuscany is sure to leave you in awe.
Join a small group limited to 12 guests for an intimate and slow-paced journey. We travel in style across Tuscany from the wine region of Val D’Orcia to the sandy beaches of Viareggio, climbing Carrara’s marble quarries and taking in the vibe of the Mediterranean coastline.
Visit Pienza, Montalcino, Pisa, Lucca, Siena, the abbey of St. Antimo, and Pietrasanta. Skip the line at the Accademia Museum in Florence for a closer look at the original David by Michelangelo.
Indulge in refined and handpicked culinary delights, and experience the quintessential Tuscan countryside in a luxury villa surrounded by olive trees and vineyards.
The Grand Tour of Tuscany is a relaxed, fun, and comprehensive vacation filled with contrasting experiences and flavors of this fabled region of Italy.
If we could give our Grand Tour of Tuscany more than five stars, we would. Marco was an amazing tour manager for our eight day trip. We stayed in lovely hotels and villas, indulged in amazing food/wine, and saw the beautiful region of Tuscany. Although there were many highlights, our trip to the Carrara marble quarry and to one of the contrada’s Palio museum really stand out. I cannot say enough about Meet Piemonte’s service. This was our first “guided” multi-day tour, and we will be back for another with Meet Piemonte. Thank you Marco for an unforgettable trip.
Karen V. – May 2023
Read all reviews on Tripadvisor and on Google
Trip Highlights
Skip the line and visit Michelangelo’s David with an experienced guide
Cheese tasting in an organic farm in Pienza
Visit a Contrada Museum in Siena and learn about the Palio horse race
Private Carrara’s marble quarry tour with off-road vehicles
Lunch in a castle and Brunello di Montalcino wine tasting
Sample gastronomic specialties in a food tour of Lucca
Climb the leaning tower of Pisa
Go to the full list of What’s Included in the tour package
Trip BASICs
8 days | 7 nights
From Rome / To Florence (see below flight information)
Group size: 6-12 guests
Learn more about the perks of our Small Group Tours To Italy
Learn more about Meet Piemonte and the team of Tour Guides
3 nights
in Montalcino
An ancient Villa, caressed by the Tuscan sea breezes where to be welcomed as friends. Surrounded by Brunello vineyards, and centuries-old chestnut trees, here time stops.
2 nights
in Viareggio
Situated in the heart of Viareggio’s seaside Art Nouveau district, Hotel Plaza e de Russie is a sophisticated 5-star design hotel affiliated with the Relais & Chateaux association.
2 nights
in Florence
An oasis of peace in the buzzing center of Florence. Newly-refurbished deluxe rooms facing a quiet garden where a young Michelangelo used to practice his art.
2024
May 18 — 26 : SOLD OUT
2025
June 8 — 15 : OPEN
- 4480€ per person in double occupancy
- Single supplement on request
September 21 — 28 : OPEN
- 4480€ per person in double occupancy
- Single supplement on request
The rate includes:
- 3 nights in the Tuscan countryside (Villa Le Prata or similar), breakfast and porterage included
- 2 nights in Viareggio (Hotel Plaza e de Russie or similar), breakfast and porterage included
- 2 nights in central Florence (Orto De Medici or similar), breakfast and porterage included
- Private luxury minivan throughout the tour (as per itinerary), with permits and parking included
- Tour manager for 8 days (fully-escorted tour and 24h assistance while on tour)
- Tickets and reservation to the Accademia Museum
- 3-hour tour guide service in Florence with headsets
- Lunch in an organic farm with cheese tasting
- 2-hour tour guide service in Siena with headsets
- Access to a Contrada Museum
- Lunch paired with wine tasting in a medieval castle
- Private excursion to a Carrara’s quarry
- Tasting of Colonnata’s cured lard and other specialties
- Tickets to climb the leaning tower of Pisa
- 2-hour tour guide service in Lucca and food tastings (lunch)
- 4 traditional dinners, wine included
- VAT 22%
- Tour Operator limited liability insurance
- Credit card fees
- Assistance throughout the planning process and travel tips
The rate does not include:
- Hotel City Tax (between 3 to 5€ per person per night)
- Personal travel insurance
- Airfare to/from Italy
- Airport transfers
- Florence post-tour extension (1 night in 4-star hotel, day trip with driver and tour guide to Chianti wine region, lunch paired with wine tasting)
- Any other meal, tasting, entrance fee, transfer, personal expense, tips and anything else not mentioned above in the field “The rate includes”. The wine included is the one presented during the meal or wine tasting and it is never unlimited. Any extra is at each guest’s discretion.
Day 1 – The Grand Tour of Tuscany begins in Rome
Meals included: dinner
Meet our experienced tour manager in central Rome at 2pm and drive to Tuscany.
This afternoon enjoy a smooth ride through Italy’s valleys and hills as you reach the iconic Val d’Orcia, one of the most picturesque wine regions in the world, located in southern Tuscany.Late afternoon, check-in at the stunning Villa Le Prata, originally a hunting lodge built in 1860 by a local Count and, in more recent decades, the home residence of the Losappio family of Montalcino.
Staying at the villa is a highlight itself as guests feel at home rather than in a hotel. Antiques, wooden ceilings, Persian rugs, an outdoor infinity pool and postcard-like grounds make guests fall in love with Tuscany.
Tonight we celebrate the beginning of our Grand Tour of Tuscany with a traditional dinner at the restaurant of Villa Le Prata and we toast with the full-bodied Brunello di Montalcino wine.
Day 2 – Val d’Orcia: Montalcino, Pienza and organic farms
Meals included: breakfast and lunch
Enjoy breakfast at Villa Le Prata as you wake up surrounded by the fabled countryside of Val d’Orcia.
We take a walk in the quaint village of Pienza, located a few miles or so from our villa. We take a stroll up to the central piazza, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture and enjoy a gelato along the pedestrian narrow streets overlooking Val d’Orcia.
Then, our Grand Tour of Tuscany stops at an organic farm founded more than three centuries ago, located on a hill crest with breathtaking views over southern Tuscany.
We tour the estate among olive orchards, friendly animals and a bucolic atmosphere. Step inside the aging premises where the farm’s award-winning Pecorino di Pienza cheese is stored, then sit at the table and partake in a generous tasting of the products of the farm including a fresh seasonal salad and more.
A short drive takes us back to Montalcino, for an optional walk on top of the medieval fortress.
After some free time at the villa to freshen up, tonight we take our guests to the charming village of Bagno a Vignoni, where you have enough time to enjoy a dinner on your own among the many cozy restaurants overlooking the large fountain of the central square.
Day 3 – Tuscan Wine Tasting in a Medieval Castle
Meals included: breakfast and dinner
The last day at Villa Le Prata deserves a leisurely late morning so you can enjoy it at your own pace: maybe a walk on a gravel countryside path among olive trees and vineyards. Maybe you prefer to relax by the outdoor infinity pool or read a book in the shade of the main living room of the villa.
Around noon, we step inside the aging premises of a medieval castle where wine has been produced for centuries. Perched on a hill crest, il castello is surrounded by bountiful vineyards originally tended by Etruscans, which today lays within the limits of Brunello di Montalcino‘s DOCG appellation.
A tasteful lunch is paired with the wine tasting as we learn stories of the family who owned the castle in the past as well as the present life of this charming gem of the Tuscan countryside.
This afternoon the choice is yours to go back to the villa or explore with the tour manager the abbey of St. Antimo. Its early-medieval sculptures, evocative architecture and quiet surroundings provide an evocative journey back in time.
On the way to dinner, we take a secondary road for the quintessential views of Tuscany. A short and pleasant hike takes us to a countryside chapel for iconic pictures of the rolling hills and cypress trees of Val d’Orcia.
We continue to a nearby agriturismo for one more sun-kissed Tuscan dinner where simple and tasteful ingredients are cooked like grandma used to do.
Day 4 – Tour of Tuscany from Siena to Viareggio
Meals included: breakfast and dinner
After breakfast, we say farewell to Val d’Orcia and drive toward the northern Mediterranean coast of Tuscany. Halfway through, we arrive in Siena, an absolute must-see in Italy.
We bring to life the intricate combination of history and local traditions that makes this city unique.
From banking to ancient pilgrim routes, Siena’s highlight is the sea-shell-shaped square of Il Campo, where, twice a year, the most famous horse race of Italy known as Palio, takes place.
There is no better way to understand the passion that locals have for this competition between city districts, than visiting the secret rooms where the supporters of one of these Contrada gather in preparation for the horse race.
This exclusive tour, usually not available to the public, takes us inside the church where horses get the blessing, the hall with the banners won in the previous years, and the museum with the ornate costumes of the parade.
Relax onboard our comfortable van or minibus as we drive to Viareggio. Check-in at five-star Plaza et de Russie Hotel, a Relais & Chateaux property, located on the famous sea-front promenade flanked by fashion shops.
Take off your shoes and enjoy a walk on the sandy beach of Viareggio, steps away from our hotel or enjoy an Italian aperitivo inspired by the movie La Dolce Vita.
Tonight we reserved a table for our small group in a historic trattoria known for seafood and fish, prepared with the freshest catch of the day.
Day 5 – Pisa and Carrara’s Marble Tour
Meals included: breakfast
Viareggio is about thirty minutes away from Pisa, once a powerful Maritime Republic. We take you to the famous piazza by skipping the crowds of tourists and help you get the classic, not-to-be-missed picture at the foot of the leaning tower.
We strive to turn the visit to this popular site, into an easy and safe experience. A surprise awaits for you in Pisa.
Next, we drive to the mountains, known as Alpi Apuane, in northern Tuscany where the finest marble on Earth has been quarried since Roman times.
Board a 4X4 vehicle and discover, with a local expert, the fascinating stories and hardships of Carrara’s marble quarries. Enjoy scenery of unparalleled beauty, surrounded by the brightness of the “white gold” and, in the distance, the Mediterranean coastline.
Lastly, we toast with a glass of Prosecco and a tasting of a local specialty, Colonnata’s cured lard, refined with herbs and salt for 6-10 months in marble cellars.
On the way back to Viareggio, we spend the evening in Pietrasanta, home of artists and local people for some free time among art galleries, shopping, and plenty of choices for dinner on your own.
Day 6 – Food Tour in Lucca and Florence
Meals included: breakfast and lunch
After breakfast, we collect your luggage and we only drive 30 minutes or so to the city of Lucca.
Meet our passionate and knowledgeable local expert who will show us some of the highlights and hidden treasures of this wealthy community. Silk trade, pilgrims, and solid city walls made the fortune of Lucca which today is also a foodie destination.
We visit some bakeries for a tasting of local bread, then a local soup and many other specialties specific to northern Tuscany.
In the afternoon we arrive in central Florence. Check-in in a 4-star hotel located steps away from all major attractions.
Tonight let our tour manager suggest historic trattoria and fine restaurants for your free dinner in Firenze.
Day 7 – Michelangelo’s David and Florence
Meals included: breakfast, and dinner
After breakfast, meet an experienced local tour guide and skip the line to access the Accademia museum. We behold striking masterworks such as Michelangelo’s David and we walk through the lively streets of Florence, among stately palazzi, the open-air museum of Piazza della Signoria, and much else.
Enjoy a day at leisure to explore on your own the cradle of the Renaissance or shop among leather, gold, and fashion stores for which Florence is known for.
Tonight we celebrate the end of our Grand Tour of Tuscany with a traditional dinner in one of the historic trattoria near the Mercato Centrale.
Day 9 – Arrivederci (or join the optional day trip to the Chianti wine region)
Meals included: breakfast
Today you can say arrivederci to Florence or decide to extend your stay with one more night by joining our Florence Post-Tour Extension. This extra day includes a day trip to the iconic Chianti wine region with an exclusive lunch in a winery, paired with wine tasting.
- Stay one extra night in Florence (at the end of the tour) at the same hotel
- Join a private day trip to the Chianti wine region on a van with driver/guide
- Take a stroll in San Gimignano
- Partake in a 4-course lunch paired with wine tasting in a family-owned winery
- Return to Florence late afternoon. Dinner on your own
Rate available on request
The rate includes: 1 night at the same hotel of the tour (Orto De Medici or similar) with breakfast, driver/guide as per program above for 8 hours, lunch and wine tasting (4 courses) in a boutique, family-owned winery
The rate does not include: Hotel city tax and anything else not mentioned in the field “the rate includes”
Flight Information
- Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the tour cost.
- Suggested arrival airport: Rome (FCO).
- Suggested departure airport: Florence (FLR) or Rome (FCO)
AIRPORT TRANSFERS
- Day 1: meet in central Rome at 2pm. Specific directions will be provided. Please contact us if you’d like to add a private transfer to your tour package or a pre-tour hotel room.
- Departure day: no airport transfer is included from the city center of Florence. If you fly out of Florence, consider that the airport is located within a 15-20 minute taxi ride from the city center (about 25€ per car). If you fly out of Rome, we recommend booking your flights not before 1 pm or the following day. Convenient high-speed trains frequently connect Florence to Rome (the ride takes approximately 1h30′). Please contact us if you’d like to add a private transfer or a post-tour hotel room.
On-Tour Luggage Restrictions
In addition to airline luggage restrictions, please consider that:
- Due to our van/bus space limitations during the tour, we ask you to limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person, weighing around 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).
- Each guest can also bring one carry-on and a small, soft-sided bag or backpack for day-to-day travel. The space onboard our vans and minibusses, as well as the overhead rack and the space under the seat, is typically very limited, just enough for small bags and purses.
To save your spot, complete the form at the bottom of this page with any questions you may have. When you are ready to commit, you will receive via email the contract that you need to fill out with your information and sign electronically.
- The tour is confirmed with at least 6 participants
- A 30% down payment is required in order to confirm the reservation.
- The remaining balance is due 45 days before the tour.
Cancellation policy:
- There shall be a 250€ non-refundable processing fee (per person) on any cancellation request, regardless of the time frame within which the cancellation is submitted;
- From 90 days to 46 days before the performance of the Tourist Package, by paying a penalty equal to 30% of the price;
- From 45 days before the performance of the Tourist Package, by paying a penalty equal to 100% of the price
Read here the full terms and conditions.
Meet Piemonte Tour Operator partners with Global Rescue to offer the world’s leading travel protection services. Medical and security emergencies happen. When they do, we rely on Global Rescue to provide our clients with medical, security, travel risk and crisis response services. Without a membership, an emergency evacuation could cost over $100,000. More than one million members trust Global Rescue to get them home safely when the unexpected happens. We highly recommend our clients enroll with Global Rescue.
- To enjoy this tour, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances. This is not a physically demanding tour, however, there will be a lot of walking, often on uneven steps, cobblestones, uphill and downhill. One of the charming aspects of Italy is its historical and architectural conformation. Many towns and attractions can only be visited on foot, as vans and buses cannot access the pedestrian areas where most places of interest are located.
- Unfortunately we cannot accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters. Our tour managers and tour guides are unable to provide ongoing individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other physical needs.
- While the driving time on our tours is limited, getting to remote farmhouses and villages may require driving on windy roads that may cause motion sickness.
- Due to the historic nature of many of the luxury boutique hotels where we stay, some rooms may include stairs and differ in size and layout.
A complete list of things to know about Italy, such as what to pack, money, electricity, health, tipping, VAT refund, and more, will be sent after the completion of the first down payment.
Why a Tour to Tuscany with Meet Piemonte?
Embark on a journey through the enchanting landscapes of Tuscany and discover its hidden gems with our exclusive small-group tours. Immerse yourself in the rich history, culture, and beauty of this breathtaking region, known for its inspiring rolling hills dotted with cypress trees, full-bodied wines, and medieval towns.
Why choose Meet Piemonte’s Grand Tour of Tuscany to guide you through this famous and beloved Italian region?
A Comprehensive Tour to Tuscany
Our Grand Tour of Tuscany covers all the highlights of this fabled Italian region. We pride ourselves on taking our guests for three nights to Val D’Orcia, in southern Tuscany, often dismissed due to its distance from Florence. In addition to staying in the heart of Florence, steps away from the impressive Cathedral, we spend two nights on the sandy beaches of Viareggio. Northern Tuscany is a perfect departing point to explore many sites like the marble quarries and to live the early-1900s vibe of vacationing on this golden coastline.
Meet Piemonte Expert Leaders
With our experienced tour manager and knowledgeable local guides leading the way, you’ll unravel the secrets of Tuscany, visiting iconic destinations like Florence, Siena, Lucca, and Pisa, as well as off-the-beaten-path treasures like St. Antimo abbey, the steep roads of Carrara marble quarries, the elegant town of Pietrasanta and more.
Tuscany Luxurious Accommodations
On this Grand Tour of Tuscany guests enjoy luxury hotels in Florence and Viareggio, as well as three nights in a century-old Tuscan villa surrounded by cherry, olive, and chestnut trees. Be amazed by spectacular sunsets over the hills of Val D’Orcia, the quintessential Tuscan countryside, where the Mediterranean breeze blends with the fresh air coming from the peaks of extinguished volcanoes. The villa is an oasis of silence with luxurious rooms featuring original furniture mixed with modern and comfortable amenities.
Seamless Logistics
Our small group tours open to just twelve travelers offer a personalized and intimate experience, ensuring that you can fully immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of Tuscany. Skip the crowds and explore the busy must-sees in style, walk the streets of charming villages tucked away in picturesque valleys, meet friendly locals, and create memories that will last a lifetime. We will handle all the logistics of your Tuscany vacation, allowing you to relax and fully immerse yourself in the experience.
Unparalleled Tuscan Cuisine
Indulge in exquisite Tuscan cuisine, ranging from cereal and bean soups to elevated dining experiences, from the fresh seafood of Viareggio to the famous Florentine steak. Meet Piemonte Tour Operator invests budget and time to select unforgettable culinary activities like the cheese tasting in a Pecorino di Pienza dairy farm to have lunch paired with Brunello di Montalcino in a medieval castle. Dine in a historic trattoria of Florence and step into family-owned food stores in Lucca sampling traditional produce and local delights.
Meet Piemonte Tour Operator’s Flexibility
Traveling is an ever-changing adventure, and unexpected situations may arise. On our luxury tour to Tuscany, we will be flexible and adaptable, ready to handle alterations or adjustments for even the most discerning travelers. With our flexible cancellation policy and partnership with Global Rescue, you can book ahead of time and enjoy your time in Italy, knowing that you’re covered. Your safety, comfort, and satisfaction are our top priorities.
Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or simply seeking relaxation in stunning surroundings, Meet Piemonte’s small-group tour to Tuscany will leave you with cherished memories.
