Exclusive Val dOrcia Full-Day Wine Tour from Florence

Planning a day trip into the heart of Tuscany’s stunning landscapes, delicious wines, and charming medieval towns? This Exclusive Val d’Orcia Full-Day Wine Tour offers just that — a carefully curated experience that combines the best of the region’s scenery, history, and gastronomy. While the price might seem steep at nearly $600 per person, the tour’s focus on private, boutique winery visits, a local guide, and authentic regional foods makes it a compelling choice for those seeking a high-quality, immersive day away from Florence’s crowds.

What we particularly love about this tour is its emphasis on small, family-run wineries and the chance to taste prestigious wines like Brunello di Montalcino, all paired with a multi-course organic lunch overlooking scenic Tuscan vistas. Plus, strolling through the medieval towns of Montepulciano and Pienza provides a sense of genuine Tuscany that larger, less personalized tours often miss.

A potential consideration? The tour’s full-day duration and private nature demand a full day of your time, but if you’re eager for a deep dive into Tuscany’s wine and food culture, this can be a real highlight. It’s especially ideal for travelers who appreciate guided experiences that blend sightseeing, tasting, and authentic regional charm. If you’re after a relaxed yet educational taste of Tuscany’s best, this tour is a strong contender.

Who is this tour best suited for?

This experience is perfect for wine lovers, foodies, and travelers craving a personalized, intimate look at Tuscany’s countryside and culinary delights. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy guided experiences and want to avoid the hassle of self-driving. Keep in mind, it’s not designed for mobility-impaired travelers, and a certain level of physical comfort (comfortable shoes and clothes) is recommended.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private, boutique winery visits offer a personalized tasting experience.
• The multi-course organic lunch with local products is a highlight.
• The tour explores historic towns of Montepulciano and Pienza, rich in character.
• Expert guides enhance the experience through storytelling and wine knowledge.
• The tour includes free time in towns, allowing for personal exploration.
• It’s a full-day commitment, ideal for those seeking an immersive experience.

Exploring Tuscany’s Hidden Gems: A Closer Look at the Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown

This tour’s strength lies in its well-structured itinerary, designed to combine sightseeing, wine tasting, and regional cuisine in a seamless flow. Starting with pickup from Florence, you’ll head into the Val d’Orcia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its rolling hills, picturesque towns, and cinematic landscapes.

First stop: Montepulciano. Known as the “pearl of the 16th-century Renaissance,” this medieval town offers stunning views, narrow winding streets, and a chance to stretch your legs. With about an hour of free time, you can wander at your own pace, perhaps exploring the town’s historic streets or grabbing a coffee.

Next: Cantina Ercolani. Here, you’ll enjoy a guided tour of a historic winery and underground caves, followed by a tasting of a selection of wines including 100% Sangiovese, such as Brunello di Montalcino. Our review sources praising the guides mention how knowledgeable and engaging they are, making the wine tasting both enjoyable and educational.

Then: Pienza. Known as the “ideal city of the Renaissance,” this charming town’s free hour gives you time to explore its quaint streets and panoramic views of the Val d’Orcia.

Finally: Tenuta Fanti. This is the highlight for food and wine lovers. The multi-hour experience includes a guided tour of the winery, a sumptuous multi-course lunch featuring local, zero-kilometer products, and tastings of Brunello wines and extra virgin olive oil. Guests often praise the quality of the food and wine, as well as the friendly, expert guides—a few reviews mention how guides like Paula and Angel make the experience feel heartfelt rather than just another tourist stop.

What Makes the Wineries Special?

The tour’s focus on family-run wineries means you’ll get to see the passion and craftsmanship behind each bottle. These are not mass-production factories but places where tradition and care shine through. The wine tastings encompass a spectrum—from the bold, structured Brunellos to more nuanced varietals—giving you a well-rounded taste of Tuscany’s wine heritage. Many reviewers comment on how attentive guides and patient explanations help deepen their appreciation for each wine.

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The Lunch Experience

The lunch at the Brunello winery is more than just a meal; it’s an integral part of the tour. Tasting local olive oil alongside regional dishes allows for a true food-and-wine pairing experience. The fact that the ingredients are locally sourced emphasizes Tuscany’s farm-to-table ethos, and the setting offers sweeping views of the countryside—perfect for savoring your meal.

The Scenic Towns

Montepluciano and Pienza are like living postcards, filled with historic architecture, artisan shops, and views that seem straight from a painting. The free times are generous enough to allow for wandering, shopping, or simply soaking in the scenery. This flexibility adds value, especially for travelers who want a bit of personal exploration.

The Details: Transportation, Guide, and Overall Value

Transportation is private, meaning you won’t be crammed with strangers, and your guide—who is a certified sommelier and local expert—is with you throughout the day. The pick-up and drop-off service from most Florence accommodations adds convenience, especially after a long day of wine and sightseeing.

While the tour price might seem high, it includes many elements that contribute to its value: two boutique wineries, wine and olive oil tastings, lunch, and private transportation. The guided experience ensures you gain insights that self-guided visits might miss, making it particularly worthwhile for those new to Tuscan wines or looking for a more educational experience.

The full-day duration (about 8 hours) means you’re truly enjoying the region, rather than rushing through. Reviewers mention how attentive guides like Stephano and Paula make the day feel like visiting a friend, adding a personal touch that elevates the experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a wine enthusiast, eager to taste some of Tuscany’s most prestigious bottles while learning about their history and production, this tour hits the mark. Food lovers will appreciate the authentic regional lunch with local ingredients, and culture buffs will enjoy walking through medieval towns full of character.

The private nature means it’s best suited for those who want a personalized experience rather than a crowded bus. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone who values guided insight, stunning scenery, and authentic regional flavors.

However, travelers with mobility issues should note that the tour involves walking through historic towns and some uneven surfaces. Also, the full-day commitment might be a consideration if you prefer a shorter, more relaxed excursion.

Final Thoughts

This full-day private tour from Florence offers a comprehensive, authentic taste of Tuscany’s landscapes, wines, and towns. With visits to family-run wineries, a scenic lunch overlooking the countryside, and ample free time in iconic towns, it provides a well-rounded experience that appeals to culinary and cultural travelers alike.

While the price tag might be on the higher side, the personalized, expert-guided approach and inclusion of regional delicacies justify the expense for those seeking a luxurious, immersive day. It’s less about ticking off sights and more about savoring the region’s soul through its food, wine, and history.

If you’re ready for a full-day journey into Tuscany’s heart, with knowledgeable guides and a focus on authenticity, this tour promises a memorable, enriching experience.

FAQ

What does the tour include?
The tour includes visits to 2 boutique wineries, wine tastings, extra virgin olive oil tasting, a local multi-course lunch, free time in Montepulciano and Pienza, private transportation, and a certified sommelier guide.

Is the tour private?
Yes, it’s a fully private tour, ensuring a personalized experience without strangers, making it ideal for those who prefer more intimacy.

What is the duration?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting from pickup in the morning and returning to Florence in the evening.

How many wineries will we visit?
You will visit two family-run wineries during the day, each offering a different perspective on Tuscan wine-making.

Can I customize the experience?
Specific dietary requirements should be communicated in advance, but the tour is generally organized as described, with a focus on regional products and wines.

Is it suitable for children?
Those under 18 are not allowed to consume alcohol, but they can participate in the sightseeing and lunch portions of the tour.

How do pickup and drop-off work?
Pickup is included from most hotels or apartments in Florence, starting 15 minutes before departure. Some central areas may require a nearby pickup point.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended, as there will be some walking through towns and winery grounds.

What is the cost?
The price is $597.36 per person, reflecting the personalized, guided nature of the experience, quality tastings, and gourmet lunch.

To sum it up, this Exclusive Val d’Orcia Wine Tour offers a rich, authentic dive into Tuscany’s landscapes, wines, and towns—perfect for those seeking a well-rounded, guided day in Italy’s most picturesque region.

You can check availability for your dates here: