Grand Tour of Tuscany
- 9 days | 8 nights
- From Rome / To Florence
- Group size: 6-12 guests
9-Day Luxury Small Group Tour of Tuscany
Experience Italy’s most fabled region on an intimate 9-day small group tour of Tuscany from Rome (6-12 guests). Featuring stays in a luxury villa near Montalcino, boutique hotels in Lucca and Florence, skip-the-line tickets to Michelangelo’s David, premier Chianti Classico and Brunello wine tastings, and 4×4 Carrara marble quarry excursion. This curated Tuscan tour package combines a delve into art and history, fine cuisine and a slow paced itinerary.
Trip Highlights
- Skip the line and visit Michelangelo’s David with an experienced guide
- Cheese tasting and lunch at an organic farm in Pienza
- Behind the scenes of Siena’s Palio and climb Pisa’s Leaning Tower
- Private Carrara’s marble quarry tour with off-road vehicles
- Lunch in a castle and Brunello di Montalcino wine tasting
- Cooking Class in Lucca
- Michelin-Guide restaurant in Montalcino
- Lunch at a Chianti Classico winery and a stroll in San Gimignano
After meeting in central Rome, our Tuscany tour settle in a luxurious villa on the rolling hills of Val d’Orcia for the first three nights. Surrounded by olive trees and the vineyards of Montalcino in Southern Tuscany, we enjoy a delightful lunch and wine tasting at a medieval castle. We also partake in al-fresco cheese tasting at an organic farm in Pienza and experience an enchanting evening in the picturesque village of Bagno a Vignoni, complemented by sumptuous dinners and a glimpse of the evocative Abbey of St. Antimo.
We take an intriguing look behind the scenes of Siena‘s famous horse race, the Palio, before continuing to the heart of Lucca, where an elegant palazzo will be our home for the next two nights. Nothing is like experiencing Lucca as a local, especially in the evening when day-trippers are gone, and immersing in the Italian lifestyle in one of Italy’s most charming small cities.
Our Tuscany tour package includes the chance to step inside the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and a private cooking class with a local chef to indulge in Lucca’s tempting foodie scene.
For the final two nights, we stay in central Florence at a hotel that features a quiet inner garden and rooms overlooking the city’s rooftops.
We will skip the line at the Accademia Museum to admire the original David by Michelangelo, a true Renaissance masterpiece, before exploring the city in a way that large groups simply cannot.
On your final day, experience the ultimate Tuscany tour: a full-day immersion through the rolling hills of Chianti Classico wines, paired with an exploration of the medieval towers and charm of San Gimignano.
From insightful and engaging local guides, dramatic scenery, and stunning architecture, our comprehensive Grand Tour of Tuscany is a hassle-free journey of discovery, pampered with small touches along the way that will leave you in awe.
Planning Your Grand Tour of Tuscany: Important Info
2027 Rates & Dates
5565€ per person in double occupancy; 7080€in single occupancy
- October 2 — 10, 2027: OPEN
The rate includes:
- 3 nights in the Tuscan countryside (Villa Le Prata or similar), breakfast and porterage included
- 2 nights in Lucca at Palazzo Dipinto (or similar), breakfast and porterage included
- 3 nights in central Florence (Orto De Medici or similar), breakfast and porterage included
- Private van or minibus (as per itinerary), with permits and parking included
- Tour manager for 8 days
- Tickets and reservation to the Accademia Museum
- 3-hour tour guide service in Florence with headsets
- Lunch at an organic farm with cheese tasting
- 2-hour tour guide service in Siena with headsets
- Access to a Contrada Museum
- 2 lunches paired with wine tasting (at a medieval castle and in a Chianti winery).
- Private excursion to Carrara’s quarry
- Private Cooking Class and Lunch in Lucca
- Tickets to climb the leaning tower of Pisa
- 4 traditional dinners, wine included
- VAT 22%
- Tour Operator Limited Liability Insurance and Bankruptcy/Extraordinary Circumstances Insurance (Fondo di Garanzia)
- 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
- Credit Card fees
- 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.
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 space limitations in our van/bus during the tour, we ask that you 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 minibuses, as well as the overhead rack and the space under the seat, is typically very limited, just enough for small bags and purses.
- The tour is confirmed with at least 6 participants
- A 30% down payment is required in order to confirm the reservation (refundable up to 90 days).
- 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 here.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
Travel insurance can cover different trip components, from the full trip cost for unforeseeable reasons to medical expenses, emergency transport, luggage loss, theft while on tour, and evacuation. Without a membership, an emergency evacuation could cost over $100,000.
While each insurance company has different deadlines and policies, our partner Global Rescue allows customers to purchase their best insurance package (IMG Signature Plus) that includes the “Cancel-For-Any-Reason” policy within 20 days from the initial deposit. Other less-inclusive memberships can be purchased until the date of departure.
GLOBAL RESCUE
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, our guests can rely on Global Rescue to provide medical, security, travel risk, and crisis response services. More than one million members trust Global Rescue to get them home safely when the unexpected happens.
PASSPORT AND TRAVEL DOCUMENTS
It is your responsibility to obtain the necessary documents for traveling to Italy, depending on your country of residence.
If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally, you will need a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the end of your tour to enter Italy. Currently, no vaccinations are required, but it is your responsibility to stay informed about any changes to this requirement.
For citizens of other non-European countries traveling internationally, it is advisable to contact an embassy or consulate of Italy to determine the required travel documentation.
MOBILITY AND HEALTH
To enjoy our Grand Tour of Tuscany, 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.
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.
WHEELCHAIRS
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.
HOTELS, WI-FI, AIR CONDITIONING
Due to the historic nature of many luxury boutique hotels we stay in, some rooms may have stairs and can vary in size and layout. Additionally, air conditioning in Italy, as well as the Wi-Fi connection, may not be as reliable as it is in the United States.
GRATUITIES and OTHER THINGS TO KNOW
Gratuities for hotel staff and waiters are included in the tour price. Guests may choose to leave a tip for drivers and guides as a token of appreciation for their services. Suggested tipping amounts will be communicated approximately a month before departure via email, along with a list of important information about Italy, including what to pack, how to manage money withdrawals, electricity usage, VAT refunds, and more.
Accommodations in Montalcino, Lucca, Florence
3 nights in Montalcino
An ancient Villa, caressed by the Tuscan sea breezes, welcomes you as friends. Surrounded by Brunello vineyards and centuries-old chestnut trees, here time stops.
2 nights in LUCCA
In the heart of Lucca, a former noble palace has been carefully refurbished, featuring spacious, elegant rooms with wooden floors and design amenities.
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.
Day-by-Day Tuscany Tour Itinerary
Day 1 – Rome to Val d'Orcia: Southern Tuscany Countryside
Meals included: dinner
Accommodation: Montalcino
Join us at 2 PM for an unforgettable journey in central Rome, led by our knowledgeable tour manager. Enjoy a scenic drive through Italy’s enchanting valleys and hills, making your way to the breathtaking Val d’Orcia—one of the world’s most picturesque wine regions in southern Tuscany.
In the late afternoon, check in at the exquisite Villa Le Prata, a historic hunting lodge built in 1860 by a local count that has since been the cherished home of the Losappio family. Your stay at this charming villa is sure to be a highlight, offering a warm, welcoming atmosphere that feels like home rather than a hotel. With its elegant antiques, wooden ceilings, Persian rugs, and stunning infinity pool surrounded by postcard-worthy grounds, you will quickly understand why Tuscany captivates the heart.
This evening, we will raise our glasses to the start of our Grand Tour of Tuscany with a delicious traditional dinner prepared by the chef at Villa Le Prata, paired with the exceptional Brunello di Montalcino.
Join us for an experience that promises to be both memorable and delightful!
Day 2 – The Enchantment of Val d’Orcia: Montalcino and Pienza
Meals included: breakfast and lunch
Accommodation: Montalcino
Awaken to the beauty of the fabled Val d’Orcia as you enjoy a delightful breakfast at Villa Le Prata, surrounded by stunning countryside.
Your journey begins with a short drive to the heart of Montalcino, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of wine shops and explore the impressive medieval fortress that stands as a testament to the town’s rich history.
Next, experience the charm of an organic dairy farm that has thrived for over three centuries, beautifully situated atop a hill with breathtaking views of southern Tuscany.
We savor a tasting of Pecorino di Pienza and other local cheeses, including fresh vegetables, homemade pasta, and local wines.
After a satisfying lunch, enjoy a stroll through the elegant streets of Pienza, located just a few miles from our villa. Relax in the central piazza, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, and take in the lively atmosphere as you enjoy some people-watching, or treat yourself to a delicious gelato while wandering the picturesque pedestrian streets overlooking Val d’Orcia.
After some well-deserved time to refresh at the villa, we’ll journey to the enchanting village of Bagno a Vignoni. Famous for its hot springs and striking central steaming fountain, Bagno a Vignoni offers a perfect setting to conclude our second day of this Tuscan trip with dinner on your own at one of its cozy restaurants, where you can indulge in traditional Tuscan specialties.
Day 3 – Brunello Wine Tasting in a Medieval Castle
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Montalcino
Take full advantage of your last day at Villa Le Prata with a leisurely late morning designed for relaxation and enjoyment. Picture yourself strolling down a serene gravel path lined with olive trees and vineyards, soaking in the tranquil Tuscan countryside. Alternatively, you might prefer to unwind by the infinity pool or immerse yourself in a captivating book within the cozy main living room of the villa.
As noon approaches, we will venture into the enchanting halls of a medieval castle where generations have crafted exquisite wines. Nestled atop a hill, this historic castle is enveloped by fertile vineyards that trace their roots back to the Etruscans, now proudly belonging to the prestigious Brunello di Montalcino’s DOCG appellation.
Indulge in a delightful lunch expertly paired with a wine tasting, all while uncovering fascinating stories about the castle’s storied family heritage and its rightful place in the heart of Tuscany today.
This afternoon, seize the opportunity to either return to the villa or join our tour manager for an exploration of the stunning Abbey of St. Antimo. With its mesmerizing early-medieval sculptures and evocative ambiance, this site offers a remarkable glimpse into the past.
As evening falls, delight in a memorable fine-dining experience at a celebrated restaurant listed in the Michelin Guide, offering breathtaking views. Savor a traditional menu reimagined with a modern twist, ensuring a perfect end to your unforgettable day in Tuscany.
Day 4 – Behind the Scene of Siena’s Horse Race
Meals included: breakfast and dinner
Accommodation: Lucca
After a delightful breakfast, we bid farewell to the stunning Val d’Orcia and embark on our journey toward northern Tuscany. Our first stop is Siena, a captivating gem you simply cannot miss in Italy.
Accompanied by an expert local guide, we will dive deep into the fascinating history and vibrant traditions that make this city so extraordinary. From its pivotal role in banking to its ancient pilgrimage routes, Siena’s highlight is the iconic seashell-shaped square, Il Campo. Here, twice a year, the exhilarating Palio horse race unfolds, showcasing the fierce rivalry between city districts.
Experience the thrill firsthand as we gain exclusive access to the hidden rooms where devoted supporters of a Contrada prepare for this legendary competition. This rare opportunity takes us into the church where horses receive blessings, the hall adorned with banners from past triumphs, and the museum showcasing the elaborate costumes worn during the parade.
Later in the afternoon, our Grand Tour of Tuscany arrives in the enchanting heart of Lucca and checks into a luxurious boutique hotel nestled within a historic aristocratic palace, offering spacious and elegant accommodations.
As we stroll toward dinner, a knowledgeable local expert guides us through Lucca’s vibrant piazzas, sharing captivating stories of the city’s rich past. To cap off the day, indulge in a delectable dinner at a charming historic trattoria. We enjoy the vibe of Lucca at night after tourists are gone, a privileged point of view that will stay with you long after you leave.
Day 5 – Grand Tour of Tuscany: Pisa and Carrara’s Marble Tour
Meals included: breakfast
Accommodation: Lucca
Today, our Tuscan trip heads to the northern tip of the region. First, a short drive takes us to Pisa, a city that was once a powerful Maritime Republic and now hosts one of Italy’s most iconic landmarks.
We are dedicated to transforming your visit into an effortless and enriching experience by bypassing the crowds and placing you right in the heart of this remarkable site. Imagine capturing that classic photo at the foot of the Leaning Tower of Pisa—a snapshot you won’t want to miss! But that’s just the beginning—prepare for an exciting surprise waiting for you in Pisa!
Afterwards, we’ll head to the breathtaking Apuan Alps in northern Tuscany, where the world’s finest marble has been extracted for centuries. In a four-wheel vehicle, you’ll explore the majestic Carrara marble quarries alongside a knowledgeable local guide. Experience the thrilling ride as we ascend to greater heights, surrounded by the stunning “white gold” of the mountains and the picturesque Mediterranean coastline in the distance.
On our return, savor a free evening for dinner in the beautiful city of Lucca, where culinary treasures await.
Day 6 – Cooking Class With a Private Chef in Lucca
Meals included: breakfast and lunch
Accommodation: Florence
After a delightful breakfast, we check out and conveniently leave our luggage at the hotel. Just a short stroll away, we meet a talented local chef who warmly invites us into his kitchen.
Lucca is an undiscovered gem for food lovers, often eclipsed by larger cities like Florence and Bologna. With its rich culinary heritage, Lucca emphasizes simple, high-quality ingredients that highlight the true essence of Tuscan flavors. Join us for an immersive, hands-on cooking class featuring an array of recipes, ranging from beloved Italian classics to refined local specialties.
This engaging and friendly morning lets you dive into the culinary experience at your own pace—feel free to try every dish or take a break whenever you need to, just like you would at a local home. Plus, you’ll leave with printed recipes as cherished keepsakes. Lunch is a celebratory occasion where we gather around the table to savor the delicious results of our hard work alongside our chef.
In the afternoon, we journey to Florence, checking into a luxurious 4-star hotel located just steps from the city’s major attractions. For our final two nights on this Grand Tour of Tuscany, we’ll be staying in a historic palace where the young Michelangelo is rumored to have honed his craft. The serene inner garden offers a peaceful escape from the lively streets, creating a tranquil retreat. Our rooms are thoughtfully selected on the upper floors, providing stunning views of either the city rooftops or the charming courtyard.
Tonight, allow our tour manager to guide you in finding the perfect dining option for your independent evening in Florence—an opportunity to explore this captivating city at your leisure!
Day 7 – Skip-the-Line Michelangelo’s David and Florence
Meals included: breakfast, and dinner
Accommodation: Florence
Kick off your day with breakfast before meeting an experienced local tour guide. Enjoy the privilege of skipping the line to enter the Accademia Museum, where you’ll be awestruck by iconic masterpieces, including Michelangelo’s David.
Afterward, immerse yourself in the vibrant streets of Florence, where our local guide unravels the grand palazzi and the open-air museum atmosphere of Piazza della Signoria in an intimate, crowd-free walking tour.
In the afternoon, take advantage of your free time to explore the heart of the Renaissance at your own pace, or indulge in shopping at the renowned leather, gold, and fashion boutiques that Florence boasts.
As the day winds down, we gather to celebrate the culmination of our Grand Tour of Tuscany with a memorable dinner in one of the historic trattorias near the Mercato Centrale. Join us for a true taste of Florentine culture, and toast to the end of this curated Tuscan adventure!
Day 8 - Chianti Wine Tasting & San Gimignano
Meals included: breakfast, and lunch
Accommodation: Florence
After breakfast, meet your driver and guide for a scenic drive on the rolling hills of the Chianti Classico wine region. Nestled between Florence and San Gimignano, the Chianti region is world-renowned for its iconic rolling hills, cypress-lined avenues, and vast patchwork of vineyards and olive groves. This is the birthplace of the prestigious Chianti Classico DOCG, where winemaking is an ancient art passed down through generations.
We visit a boutique, family-owned winery and enjoy a traditional Tuscan lunch paired with a curated selection of local wines.
After lunch, transfer to San Gimignano.
Known as the “Manhattan of the Middle Ages,” San Gimignano is a stunning UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Italy’s best-preserved medieval hilltop towns. Its iconic skyline offers a breathtaking glimpse into the power and wealth of Tuscany’s past.
Spend the afternoon exploring the medieval town at your own pace, with ample time for shopping in the souvenir and ceramic artisanal shops, and grab one last gelato, among award-winning artisanal gelato makers.
Tonight, say goodbye to your tour manager and enjoy one last evening with dinner on your own in Florence.
Day 9 – Arrivederci
Meals included: breakfast
Accommodation: n/a
Enjoy one more breakfast before checking out and say arrivederci until we meet next time!
What Guests Say About Our Tuscany Small Group Tour
Don’t just take our word for it—discover why travelers rate our 9-Day Small Group Tour of Tuscany as their favorite Italian holiday.
Read all our reviews on Tripadvisor, Google, and WeTravel
"Just returned from a delightful experience in Tuscany with Meet Piemonte. The journey began with the most magnificent country home (originally a hunting lodge) in Montalcino. The lodgings, hosts and food were fantastic. Siena, Lucca (walking on top of the wall!!) then magnificent Florence.
Two hightlights: loved climbing to the top of the curvy, leaning tower of Pisa. My goodness those marble stairs were beautifully worn. Next, taking the crazy jeep ride up a Carrara marble mountain! Wowzer, what a gorgeous pure white view.
Second of my trips with Meet Piemonte and a third scheduled.
Book it! Won’t be a regret."
By Trisha B. on May 31, 2026 | From Google
"Trip met all of our expectations. It was what I pictured plus so much more. Being a small group(only 7 people) allowed us to see some Tuscan towns that other tours don't plus all of the major attractions. The food, wine, hotels, tours and local guides were all A+. Marco was our tour manager and took care of all of the logistics, reservations and even provided a lot of the local tours. Marco was great and took care of everything. If you are looking for a great tour of Tuscany where everything is taken care for you and yet you still have plenty of your own time to do what you want then this tour is for you."
By Mark S on Jun 22, 2025 | From WeTravel
"We truly enjoyed the Grand Tour of Tuscany. It was exceptionally well-planned and balanced, and Marco was a very knowledgeable leader and tour operator! The meals were exceptional, and we will never forget this wonderful experience with our great small group! Thank you!"
By Kimberly B on Jul 05, 2025 | From WeTravel
"The "Grand Tour of Tuscany" was nothing short of amazing. The accomodations were truly 5 star, the meals were amazing, the excursions were superb. Marco guided us through Tuscany where every detail was attended to, every expectation surpassed. We have traveled with luxury small group tour companies through Italy previously and Meet Piemonte exceeded all of our experiences at a much better price point. We recommend Meet Piemonte wholeheartedly and without hesitation!"
By Elizabeth L. on May 29, 2023 | From Google
Best Tuscany Tour for Small Groups with Meet Piemonte
Meet Piemonte Tour Operator has designed an unforgettable journey through the heart of Tuscany, where breathtaking natural beauty blends with a rich cultural heritage. Our Tuscany trip includes exclusive experiences that define the best Tuscany tours for small groups, such as a slow-paced itinerary that balances free time and group activities, avoiding the hectic rush of a large-group schedule. Moreover:
Exclusive Access: A four-wheel drive journey up to the Carrara marble quarries.
Cultural Immersion: A visit to a private Contrada Museum in Siena to learn about the Palio.
Hands-on Learning: A private cooking class in the heart of Lucca.
Seamless Logistics: Professional drivers and guides handling every detail, providing value and access that an independent traveler simply couldn’t replicate alone.
The paragraphs below explain why our Grand Tour of Tuscany stands among the best Tuscany tours for small groups. Our comprehensive packages are designed by a team of Tuscany-native local guides who bring unparalleled insight and a personal touch to every mile of the journey.
Where does the Grand Tour of Tuscany start and end?
- Our Grand Tour starts in Rome and ends in Florence.
- It offers the ultimate small-group Tuscany tour with a personal driver and guide, covering all the highlights of Italy’s most fabled region.
Val D’Orcia and Lucca Small Group Tour
We pride ourselves on including three nights in the Val d’Orcia, a Southern Tuscany gem often overlooked due to its distance from Florence. The iconic rolling hills here—the backdrop for films like The Gladiator—boast quaint towns like Pienza and Montalcino, the medieval Abbey of Sant’Antimo, and the world-famous Brunello wine region, all framed by the majestic Mt. Amiata. This dormant volcano gave rise to Val d’Orcia’s rich soil and natural hot springs, such as those at Bagno a Vignoni.
For more background on regional history, climate, and food traditions, read our Ultimate Guide for a Tour of Tuscany.
After enjoying the countryside, our small-group Tuscany tour moves on for two nights to Lucca so that you can experience it as a local, especially at night when day trippers are gone. Lucca has an incredibly charming, relaxed vibe, blending medieval history, Renaissance elegance, and a laid-back Italian lifestyle. The city is famous for its well-preserved walls, which you can walk or bike along, in the evening or after breakfast, as locals do. The streets are narrow and atmospheric, filled with local boutiques, cozy cafes, and family-run trattorias serving authentic Tuscan dishes.
There’s a strong sense of tradition, yet it feels less touristy than Florence or Siena, making it a perfect place to soak in the Dolce Vita.
Exclusive Access and Hassle-Free Experiences in Tuscany
Traveling with a small group on a Tuscany tour with a personal driver and guide service means you enjoy effortless logistics as we explore:
Siena: A Palio of Siena behind-the-scenes tour, a deep dive into its rich traditions and Gothic architecture.
Carrara: A thrilling four-wheel-drive climb into the marble mountains.
Pisa: The perfect opportunity for the iconic “Leaning Tower” photo.
- Florence: Our journey concludes with a two-night stay in the heart of the city , steps from major attractions. Tuscany is a treasure trove of art, and our tour blends visits to celebrated masterpieces by legendary artists like Michelangelo with explorations of living traditions.
By choosing our Grand Tour of Tuscany with a personal driver and guide service, you gain exclusive access to artisan workshops in Pienza, where you can witness pottery, weaving, and painting firsthand. This personalized approach ensures a deeper appreciation for the skills passed down through generations and a truly stress-free Italian holiday.
A Tuscany Trip with Native Local Guides and Hosts
With the incredible support of a team of Tuscan-native tour guides who are also friends, our Grand Tour of Tuscany goes beyond the mass-market standard fares, offering access to unique venues, celebrated restaurants, and interactions with local hosts that add charm and value to the travel experience.
Guides play a game-changing role in our small-group tour of Tuscany. A native of the region with an excellent command of English, the local expert on our Tuscany trip goes beyond dates and history. Walking the streets of Florence, Siena, or Lucca brings to light local culture and reveals details that would be dismissed as insignificant by the inexperienced eye. In Siena, thanks to these local connections, we gain access to an exclusive Contrada Museum that is normally not open to the public. Learn more on our blog about Asti and Siena’s Palio Horse Race.
How many people are on the Meet Piemonte Tuscany tour?
- Our small group tour is limited to 6 to 12 travelers. The small size of our group allows us to avoid lines and crowds, going from iconic landmarks to less-visited towns that few tourists ever get to see.
- Local guides will enhance your experience with fascinating stories, ensuring this Tuscany trip leaves you with a deeper understanding of the region’s treasures.
A Grand Tour of Tuscany with Luxurious Accommodations
Meet Piemonte Tour Operator, handpicked each accommodation included in the Grand Tour of Tuscany. Following the philosophy that our small group tours stay in charming rooms that are more than just places to sleep, the atmosphere and vibe of Tuscany are reflected in the accommodations.
- The first three-night stay in a century-old Tuscan villa surrounded by cherry, olive, and chestnut trees is a dream come true. While enjoying top-notch bathroom amenities and the latest in bed comfort, our Tuscan villa delivers the coziness and warmth of a private home, yet is elegant and luxurious. From the original furniture to works of art to a rich, freshly made breakfast, the villa is a retreat that reconnects with the quintessential Tuscan countryside, where the Mediterranean breeze blends with the fresh air from the peaks of extinct volcanoes.
- The next two nights of this Tuscany trip are at a boutique hotel in Lucca, a former palace that once belonged to a local noble family. The spacious and elegant rooms are the result of a careful and detailed restoration that combines the preservation of the original structure with modern comforts. Located behind one of Lucca’s most popular piazzas, the hotel’s position is ideal for experiencing the town like a local, strolling along the city walls, or enjoying shopping and dining opportunities, all within easy walking distance. Nothing like being in Lucca when the crowds leave!
- In Florence, our Tuscany Tour Package includes an oasis of peace is an elegant hotel with an inner quiet courtyard, perfect for escaping and relaxing after sightseeing. Florence’s crowds can be tiring, so having a place to recharge just a couple of blocks from all major attractions is a real bonus. Regain energy before going out again!
4×4 Carrara Marble Quarry Tour and other Tuscan Hassle-Free Logistics
Our all-inclusive Tuscany tour package is meticulously designed to offer a seamless experience from start to finish. We understand that travel can often be stressful, which is why we handle every detail for you. From the pick-up in central Rome to driving on the winding roads of Tuscany, from securing a timed entrance to Florence’s Accademia museum and booking restaurants and offbeat activities, you can relax knowing that everything is taken care of.
The Tuscany trip focuses on enjoying the region’s beauty without worrying about logistics. You can expect a comfortable journey as we provide modern vans or minibuses throughout the tour. And even when we climb Carrara’s mountain slopes up to the marble quarries on a bumpy and fun four-wheel drive, you will be pampered with extra touches. Sit back, relax, and fully immerse yourself in the experience.
Pecorino Cheese Tasting in Pienza Unparalleled Tuscan Food
Indulge in the finest wines and savor the delicious Tuscan food at a selection of celebrated restaurants, for a complete overview of rustic local recipes, alternated with modern, urban reinterpretations. As we explain in our blog article “Tips to Find Authentic Food on a Tuscany Tour“, the exquisite Tuscan food has it all, from cereal and bean soups to elevated dining experiences, from the fresh seafood of the Mediterranean coast to the famous Florentine steak.
Meet Piemonte Tour Operator, which invests a generous budget and resources in this Tuscany Tour Package to deliver unforgettable culinary activities, such as cheese tasting at a Pecorino di Pienza dairy farm or lunch paired with Brunello di Montalcino wine in a medieval castle. Dining at a historic trattoria in Lucca and Florence, and at an upscale restaurant in Montalcino mentioned in the Michelin guide, are gastronomic journeys that tantalize your taste buds.
One of the highlights is the opportunity to participate in a cooking class in the heart of Lucca, one of Italy’s finest foodie towns. Learn to prepare classic Tuscan food guided by a local chef, and discover the secrets of making fresh pasta, sauces, and much else. This hands-on experience not only enhances your culinary skills but also deepens your appreciation for the region’s rich food culture.
Wine tasting is an integral part of experiencing the flavors of Italy, and our Tuscany trip includes visits to some of the region’s most renowned vineyards in the Brunello di Montalcino production area, perfectly complementing the world-class Tuscan food you will enjoy throughout the journey.
Trip Highlights
- Skip the line and visit Michelangelo’s David with an experienced guide
- Cheese tasting and lunch at an organic farm in Pienza
- Behind the scenes of Siena’s Palio and climb Pisa’s Leaning Tower
- Private Carrara’s marble quarry tour with off-road vehicles
- Lunch in a castle and Brunello di Montalcino wine tasting
- Cooking Class in Lucca
- Michelin-Guide restaurant in Montalcino
- Lunch at a Chianti Classico winery and a stroll in San Gimignano
Reviews
Read all our reviews on Tripadvisor, Google, and WeTravel
"Trip met all of our expectations. It was what I pictured plus so much more. Being a small group(only 7 people) allowed us to see some Tuscan towns that other tours don't plus all of the major attractions. The food, wine, hotels, tours and local guides were all A+. Marco was our tour manager and took care of all of the logistics, reservations and even provided a lot of the local tours. Marco was great and took care of everything. If you are looking for a great tour of Tuscany where everything is taken care for you and yet you still have plenty of your own time to do what you want then this tour is for you."
By Mark S on Jun 22, 2025
"This trip was everything I had hoped it would be. I traveled from the city to the lake, to the mountains, and to the Mediterranean. The tour was full of activities that were so much fun. The group walked and shopped, tasted chocolate, had a cooking class, ate at a Michelin star restaurant, swam in the sea. toasted one another with fabulous local wines, and much much more. If you want to get a great tour of these regions of Italy, this is the tour of tours! Book it now!!!!!! I have to applaud the trip leader, Marco Scaglione, for an outstanding job of being leader, tour guide, and friend. He was so professional and handled everything with ease, even when there was a "hiccup" and the weather didn't cooperate one day. He quickly found a replacement activity that was magnificent. I highly recommend Marco and Meet Piemonte."
By Elizabeth C on Aug 01, 2025
"Traveling with Meet Piemonte on their small group tour of Sicily and Taormina was an absolutely delightful and enriching experience. One of the stand-out highlights in Sicily was our visit to a local olive farm. We learned firsthand about traditional olive oil production, walked among ancient groves, and sampled fresh oils paired with regional delicacies. The tour’s inclusion of several small, family-run wineries was a true treat for wine lovers. Exploring the salt pans was another unique highlight. In Palermo we enjoyed vibrant streets and shopping, fascinating architecture, and great street food. Our day trip to Farvignana island was a fascinating experience. The Meet Piemonte tour manager, Clarissa, was fantastic, and the guides on our excursions were outstanding. Transportation was comfortable, accommodations were fantastic, and every meal showcased Sicilian flavors. The balance of guided excursions and free time allowed us to explore independently while benefiting from expert recommendations. I highly recommend Meet Piemonte’s small group tours to anyone eager to experience Sicily, or any other Italian location."
By Kathleen L on Oct 25, 2025
"This is our second tour with Marco. Our first tour was northern Italy, and we thought nothing could compare. Well, our tour to the Amalfi Coast was just as spectacular. Everything including the hotel with private terraces overlooking the Mediterranean in Positano, the many private tours, the private boats to and around Capri, the cooking class and all the food were amazing. Marco is very accommodating; he always goes out of his way to ensure everyone is having the trip of a lifetime. Already thinking about where we want to go on our third tour with Meet Piemonte!"
By Christine M on May 27, 2025
