Best of Tuscany in One Day from Rome
Take a break from the Italian capital and its chaotic streets to go on a one day Tuscan holiday. This tour will focus on the famous Val d’Orcia region, giving you the chance to visit historical villages like Montepulciano, Pienza and the rolling vineyards of Montalcino. You’ll explore the winding streets and soak in views of the Tuscan hilly countryside as it spreads out before you. You’ll hear old Gregorian chants and stop for lunch at a typical Tuscan farm, leaving you plenty of time to sample world-famous foods and wine, all produced locally. If you only have a short time to spend in Italy, but really want to experience Tuscany, this tour is for you.
A comfortable air-conditioned bus will pick you up in Rome’s city center and by mid-morning you’ll find yourself in the Etruscan town of Montepulciano. You’ll tour the town’s most important sights, from the brick Duomo and main square to Punch’s Tower where the famous character Punch strikes his bell on the hour, every hour. Visit ancient Etruscan wells and discover the medieval wine cellars still used today. Take some pictures before hopping back onto the bus as you head your way to Montalcino! You’ll be dropped off at Sant’Antimo Abbey where stone walls ring with the songs of Gregorian monks as they sing traditional chants that have existed for centuries. You’ll then enjoy the view of some of Tuscany’s most beautiful vineyards where Brunello di Montalcino, one of the country’s greatest wines, is made. Next up on this itinerary is lunch at a typical Tuscan farm where you will wine and dine with the finest local foods. Your meal will have three courses and will let you discover regional dishes that you’ll wash down with local wines.
Lunch is followed by a professional guided wine tasting of the wines produced on site.
Back on the bus, your guide will prepare you for our next stop – Pienza. You'll hear how this World Heritage site was conceived by Pope Pius II as a “utopian village” and get information on sites you may want to visit, such as the two Renaissance palaces and the beautiful Duomo. Your group will split up briefly at Pienza, giving you time to wander along the streets and alleyways on your own with the map that your guide will provide. Whatever you choose to do, be sure to make time to sample Pienza’s most important product – pecorino cheese. With satisfied appetites and bags packed with wine, cheese and pici pasta, you’ll meet back at the bus for a comfortable and scenic drive back to Rome. Take a well-deserved nap, watch the country fly past or spend the time planning your next visit to Tuscany – because one visit is never enough!
