A Taste of Tuscany with Katie Herbek
Your TourHero
Hello! I'm Katie - I'm actually the Chief of Staff here at TourHero. I caught the travel bug when my dad drove cross-country and I rode shotgun at the age of 4 (it was the 80s, you could do that sort of thing). I visited all 50 states before I turned 30 and when I was 20, I studied abroad in Italy and, naturally, fell in love. I go back as much as possible, so it makes sense that I would end up working at a travel company! For this trip I'm focusing on the food, wine, art and culture of Tuscany. I'm so excited to travel with my friends and hopefully you! Please join us for a week in Tuscany as we visit hilltop towns, find the perfect Super Tuscan wine and decide whether we prefer pecorino or parmesan cheese (that is a trick question, we want both).
Duration
8 days · 7 nights
Travel Date
Mar 26 – Apr 2, 2022
Activity Level
Moderate
Group Size
6-12
Transportation
Van
Tour Price
Your Fellow Explorers
Age range
30 - 40
Travel interest
Food & wine, sightseeing, culture, history
Fellow Travelers
Katie
Remy
Amanda
Marguerite
Eleanor
MaureenYour Local Guide
Experience Italy’s heart and soul with Your Own Italy. This boutique travel company has 30+ years of experience and is proud to offer private tours of Rome, distinctive vacations throughout Italy, and day excursions for tour ship travelers. The company provides expert guides with in-depth knowledge of the region, creating distinctive tours for individuals and their traveling companions. They seek to create unforgettable vacations, with the customization that will make your trip unique. Your Own Italy’s goal is to provide all travelers a stress-free experience where all the details are taken care of ahead of time. With 24/7 support every step of the way, they guarantee you’ll have the trip of a lifetime.
Experience the beauty of Italy on an eight-day exploration around the iconic Tuscan region. You’ll visit the Uffizi Gallery and the Piazza della Signoria, enjoy lunch and a wine tasting at a famous wine cellar in Montepulciano, eat your way through the streets of Bologna, and participate in a private cooking class with a local chef in Florence’s city center, all while residing at a villa in the heart of the Tuscan countryside. With day trips to San Gimignano and Cecina, along with ample free time to relax, this trip will fill your heart, soul, and stomach with joy and stellar food.
Cancellation policy
Refunds for deposits
If you cancel your trip after placing a deposit but before your card on file is charged for the full payment, you can request a full refund of your deposit up to 30 days before the tour departure.
Refunds for fully-paid trips
If you cancel your trip after making the full payment, you may change or cancel your trip up to 30 days before the tour departure for a refund.
Your TourHero
Hello! I'm Katie - I'm actually the Chief of Staff here at TourHero. I caught the travel bug when my dad drove cross-country and I rode shotgun at the age of 4 (it was the 80s, you could do that sort of thing). I visited all 50 states before I turned 30 and when I was 20, I studied abroad in Italy and, naturally, fell in love. I go back as much as possible, so it makes sense that I would end up working at a travel company! For this trip I'm focusing on the food, wine, art and culture of Tuscany. I'm so excited to travel with my friends and hopefully you! Please join us for a week in Tuscany as we visit hilltop towns, find the perfect Super Tuscan wine and decide whether we prefer pecorino or parmesan cheese (that is a trick question, we want both).
Duration
8 days · 7 nights
Travel Date
Mar 26 – Apr 2, 2022
Activity Level
Moderate
Group Size
6-12
Transportation
Van
Experience the beauty of Italy on an eight-day exploration around the iconic Tuscan region. You’ll visit the Uffizi Gallery and the Piazza della Signoria, enjoy lunch and a wine tasting at a famous wine cellar in Montepulciano, eat your way through the streets of Bologna, and participate in a private cooking class with a local chef in Florence’s city center, all while residing at a villa in the heart of the Tuscan countryside. With day trips to San Gimignano and Cecina, along with ample free time to relax, this trip will fill your heart, soul, and stomach with joy and stellar food.
Timeline
- Day 1 · Tuscany
- Arrive at Florence Peretola Airport
- Meet your driver outside exit doors
- Private transfer to accommodation in Tuscany
- Check-in at Agriturismo Mormoraia Villa
- Various activities at the villa (not included in price)
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Day 2 · Tuscany
- Breakfast
- Free time for activities at the villa
- Meet your driver outside accommodation
- Transfer from villa to San Gimignano
- ~ 15 mins van
- Explore San Gimignano
- Lunch (not included in price)
- Meet your driver at pick-up point
- Transfer back to the villa
- ~ 15 mins van
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Day 3 · Tuscany
- Breakfast
- Meet your driver outside accommodation
- Transfer from villa to Montepulciano
- Montepulciano visit
- Lunch and wine tasting
- Transfer from Montepulciano to Pienza
- Free time in Pienza
- Transfer back to the villa
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Day 4 · Tuscany
- Breakfast
- Meet your driver outside accommodation
- Transfer from villa to Florence
- Tour of Uffizi Gallery and Piazza della Signoria
- Lunch (not included in price)
- Meet your driver at pick-up point
- Transfer back to the villa
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Day 5 · Tuscany
- Breakfast
- Meet your driver outside accommodation
- Transfer from villa to Bologna
- Meet your guide outside Majestic Hotel
- Full-day Bologna food tour (with lunch included)
- Transfer back to the villa
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Day 6 · Tuscany
- Breakfast
- Meet your driver outside accommodation
- Transfer from villa to Cecina or Castiglioncello (or both)
- Free day in Cecina
- Lunch (not included in price)
- Meet your driver at pick-up point
- Transfer back to the villa
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Day 7 · Tuscany & Florence
- Breakfast and check out of accommodation
- Meet your driver outside accommodation
- Transfer from villa to Florence
- Check-in at Hotel Berchielli
- COVID-19 testing in Florence
- Arrive at Chef Laura's apartment
- Cooking experience with Chef Laura (meal & wine included)
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Day 8 · Departure
- Breakfast and check out of accommodation
- Meet your driver outside accommodation
- Transfer from hotel to Florence Peretola Airport
- Journey ends
Details
Day 1
Welcome to Italy! — Enjoy a private transfer directly to the luxurious Agriturismo Mormoraia Villa
We’re absolutely thrilled to have you here in Italy. Once your group has safely arrived at the Florence Peretola Airport, enjoy your private transfer to the Tuscany countryside. You’ll be taken directly to the stunning Agriturismo Mormoraia Villa, your beautiful home for the next six nights. Surrounded by undulating vineyards and the breathtaking scenery of the Chianti hills, live the good life amidst this delightful backdrop; enjoy the amenities and various optional activities that Mormoraia Villa offers, including horseback riding, use of multiple walking trails, swimming and sauna facilities, wine tasting tours, and more. There’s something for everyone! To keep you well-fed, there is an excellent restaurant on-site that serves lunch and dinner daily. Enjoy your first day settling into this gorgeous Tuscan sanctuary!
Day 2
Discover the charming Italian hill town of San Gimignano
Rise and shine! After a delicious breakfast and free time at the villa, it’s time for an afternoon of exploration and discovery. Be transported back in time and enjoy a visit to the nearby medieval gem of San Gimignano. Known as the “city of beautiful towers” for good reason, San Gimignano once boasted 72 mighty towers in its heyday. Now, 14 remain, and, rising above Tuscany's Elsa Valley, they give the town the appearance of a wonderful medieval dream. Your walking tour begins at the Piazza della Cisterna, Piazza del Duomo Collegiata, and Romanesque cathedral. You’ll then continue with a stroll along the ancient pilgrimage road: the Via Francigena. You’ll also have ample opportunity to visit the shops! Browse the lovely Santa Fina pottery and other handmade products, and purchase some saffron, a local culinary ingredient. This trip into San Gimignano includes round-trip transportation.
Day 3
Embark on a delightful journey to Montepulciano for lunch and wine tasting, then visit the town of Pienza
Good morning! Indulge in a filling breakfast before you are picked up from your accommodation by your driver. Today, we’re headed to the town of Montepulciano, a place steeped in medieval history and well-known for its red wine made from a variety of grapes of the same name. Here, you’ll visit the well-loved and truly historic Cantina de’ Ricci wine cellar for a spectacular lunch and unforgettable wine tasting experience. After your wine-filled tour, you’ll pop into the little village of Pienza for a visit. This hidden gem offers some of the most stunning views of the Orchia Valley, plus some picturesque alleys and cobbled streets that you’ll no doubt fall in love with. After soaking in the village’s 15th-century architecture, it’s time to return to the villa to rest.
Day 4
Enjoy a marvelous tour of the Uffizi Gallery and Piazza della Signoria in Florence
This morning, after a hearty breakfast, your driver will pick you up and accompany you to the bustling cultural hub of Florence to meet with your guide. It’s time to embark on an eye-opening art tour of the Piazza della Signoria. This is your perfect opportunity to delve into the iconic artworks of Florence and admire some true masterpieces, including a copy of Michelangelo’s Renaissance marble sculpture of David, and other sculptures by Cellini and Giambologna! Your knowledgeable guide will regale you with stories of the Medici — originally modest wool merchants — and their rise to prominence, tremendous wealth and influence. The tour will continue at the adjacent Uffizi Gallery. Built in 1560 for Cosimo I de'Medici to accommodate the offices of the Florentine magistrates, the building grew over the centuries into a location to exhibit works of art, and today, it houses an incomparable gallery with masterpieces by Botticelli, Raphael, Da Vinci, Titian, Michelangelo, Caravaggio, Ghirlandaio, Rembrandt, and many more. The Uffizi has officially been open to the general public since 1765 and remains one of the greatest collections of Renaissance art in the world! Your tour will span at least 3 hours, and you’ll be entitled to skip-the-line tickets. After the tour, you’ll have some time to spare in the city to grab lunch before you are transferred back to your accommodation.
Day 5
Eat your way through the city of Bologna on food tour
After a restful sleep, it’s time to get a taste of Italy on a delicious street food tour. Today, you’ll head to Bologna and take a private tour with your guide that will give you insight into the city’s history, culture, and of course, their scrumptious food! You’ll walk through the city center, stopping at important landmarks along the way, and try a variety of street food that tells the story of the area, its people, and ancestry. One notable stop will be at the Quadrilatero, the oldest food market in Bologna. Here, you’ll try favorites, such as Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, Bolognese ragu, mortadella, and much more. This eight-hour tour is sure to impress, letting your tastebuds run wild while you explore the region. Once the tour commences, you’ll take your transfer back to the villa and have the rest of the evening to rest, relax, and rejuvenate.
Day 6
Travel to Cecina or Castiglioncello (or both) and enjoy a free day of your own design
Wake up to another perfect day in Italy, enjoy breakfast at the villa, then take your transfer to the city of Cecina for a full day of exploration. This charming area on the Etruscan Coast was destroyed during World War II but was reborn through a period of reconstruction. Now, travelers from all parts of the world flock here to enjoy the azure water, golden beaches, and old-world hospitality. Check out the shoreline, stop by landmarks such as the Cecina Cathedral, marvel at Roman artifacts at the Guerrazzi Museum, then spend some time at the Villa di San Vincenzino archeological site. Grab a stellar Italian lunch right on the water, and your day will be filled with magic and unbridled joy. Alternatively, you might decide to head to Castiglioncello instead (or head to both!) depending on how you'd like today's adventure to unfold.
Day 7
Journey to Florence and participate in a cooking experience with a local chef
You have one more full day in Italy, and we promise it won’t disappoint! After breakfast, you’ll say goodbye to Tuscany and journey to Florence where you’ll have the privilege of cooking lunch with a local! This afternoon, you’ll travel to Laura Franceschetti’s kitchen in downtown Florence and help her prepare a custom meal. Do you prefer a gluten-free meal? A vegetarian focus? A recipe you remember your grandmother made or a traditional Tuscan meal? No worries; this personal, hands-on course will be tailored just for you. You‘ll use fresh, seasonal ingredients while learning Laura’s personal cooking techniques that make her a well-known, local favorite. The class will culminate with a sumptuous meal accompanied by paired Tuscan wine! This four-hour experience will leave you with new recipes to try and a happy stomach to boot. After the class, you’ll have free time to enjoy your final night in Italy. Live it up!
Day 8
Say ciao to Italy and hello to new adventures
Saying goodbye is the hardest part of any trip, but it’s time to leave this magical place. After breakfast, check out of your hotel and take your private transfer to the airport to catch your flight home. We hope you had a memorable experience and will travel with us again soon! Ciao, bella!
Accommodation
Agriturismo Mormoraia Villa (or similar according to availability)
What was once a convent is now an elegant farmhouse in the heart of Tuscany in the Chianti hills. Agriturismo Mormoraia features an organic vineyard, renovated farmhouse turned villa, delicious restaurant with fresh, seasonal ingredients, along with a pool, spa amenities, and variety of on-site activities. While the property has been resorted, you’ll find traditional Tuscan charm throughout with its rustic decor and Italian warmth. In your room, enjoy comfortable bedding, air-conditioning, satellite TV, WIFI, minibar, and safe, with some rooms offering private outdoor areas equipped with tables and chairs. All guests will have free access to the wellness area with sauna and Turkish bath, along with a delicious breakfast to start each day. Room type: Three classic double rooms.
Hotel Berchielli (or similar according to availability)
For your night in Florence, you’ll stay at the Hotel Berchielli which overlooks the Arno. Just a few steps from Ponte Vecchio and Piazza della Signoria, this recently renovated 4-star property is one of the landmarks of Florentine hospitality. In its past, the Berchielli had the honor of hosting people such as Pablo Picasso. Today, it has carefully preserved its charm of a historic Florentine hotel and stands out for its rooms, part of which face the front of Lungarno degli Acciaiuoli. Here, enjoy comfortable bedding, traditional furnishings, satellite television, air-conditioning, minibar, free WIFI, safe, and private en suite with hairdryer, an exclusive line of courtesy products, and terry linen. Room type: Three classic double rooms.
Included
- 6 nights in Agriturismo Mormoraia Villa (or similar)
- 1 night in Hotel Berchielli (or similar)
- Shared occupancy in accommodation
- Airport and activity transfers
- All breakfasts
- Lunch with wine tasting in Montepulciano at Cantina de’ Ricci
- Food walking tour in Bologna
- Cooking class with Laura Franceschetti in Florence (includes lunch and wine)
- All other activities described in the itinerary
Not included
- Flights
- All food not mentioned in inclusions
- Optional add-ons
- Travel insurance
- Gratuities
Cancellation policy
Refunds for deposits
If you cancel your trip after placing a deposit but before your card on file is charged for the full payment, you can request a full refund of your deposit up to 30 days before the tour departure.
Refunds for fully-paid trips
If you cancel your trip after making the full payment, you may change or cancel your trip up to 30 days before the tour departure for a refund.
- Your guide will take you to various local markets and cafes to explore the history of the city through its food. - Unsplash: Stefano Zocca
- Today, you'll travel to the city of Bologna to eat your way through the streets with a local guide. - Unsplash: Petr Slováček
- Learn about pasta making and taste some delicious samples along the way. - Unsplash: Nik's
- You'll leave this experience with a full heart and full stomach! - Unsplash: Mark de Jong
- Welcome to Florence, the capital of Tuscany. - Unsplash: Ali Nuredini
- Enjoy traditional Tuscan design in each room with en suite bath and pristine views of the vineyards. - Agriturismo Mormoraia
- Welcome to Agriturismo Mormoraia, your idyllic home away from home for the next six nights. - Agriturismo Mormoraia
- When you're not out exploring, have a meal at the property's restaurant, Il Fienile. - Agriturismo Mormoraia
- Welcome to Tuscany. Your incredible eight-day journey begins now! - Facebook: Agriturismo Mormoraia
- Upon arrival, you'll be whisked away to a gorgeous villa in the heart of the Tuscan countryside. - Facebook: Agriturismo Mormoraia
- What better way to start this trip than with a glass of wine? Grab a bottle and toast to a stellar getaway with great friends. - Facebook: Agriturismo Mormoraia
- Spend part of your day exploring the property, which features horses and various animals, walking trails, and a pool, along with a picturesque backdrop. - Facebook: Agriturismo Mormoraia
- Looking to relax? Visit the villa's spa and enjoy the sauna and Turkish bath, along with massage services. - Agriturismo Mormoraia
- You'll have a full day in San Gimignano to explore. - Unsplash: Error 420 📷
- Wander through the main square and marvel at the architecture in this medieval city. - Unsplash:
- As you walk through the ancient streets, stop for lunch, take some pictures, and buy a souvenir or two for your friends and family back home. - Unsplash: Antônia Felipe
- Your next stop is at the Uffizi Gallery, where your guide will teach you the history of the building and show you all the classic art housed inside. - Unsplash: Matteo Lezzi
- From the building's architecture to the sculptures on site, this experience will leave you speechless. - Unsplash: Tzenik
- Today, your guide will take you to Florence and start the tour with a trip to Piazza della Signoria. - Pixabay: JobiWan
- Here, you'll learn about the piazza and see some famous sculptures, including a copy of Michelangelo's David. - Unsplash: Steve Barker
- Travel to the beautiful town of Montepulciano, famous for, you guessed it, wine! - Unsplash: Rowan Heuvel
- You'll tour the historic Cantina de’ Ricci wine cellar and learn about the Montepulciano wine. - Cantina de’ Ricci
- Indulge in a stellar lunch and guided wine tasting. - Unsplash: Caroline Attwood
- You'll travel to the small town of Pienza. - Unsplash: Federico Di Dio photography
- This hidden gem features that old-world Italian charm with cobblestone streets, delicious cafes, and pristine views of the valley. - Unsplash: CLAUDIO MOTA
- Walk through downtown, do some souvenir shopping, and have a stellar lunch on the shoreline. - Wikimedia Commons
- Spend your day in the coastal town of Cecina. - Flickr: Ian McKellar
- On your last full day in Italy, you'll travel to Florence for a special cooking experience. - Unsplash: Heidi Kaden
- You'll meet with a local chef at her private kitchen and plan a stellar meal with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. - Unsplash: Anastasia Saldatava
- With Laura's help, you'll create an unforgettable meal. - Facebook: Laura Franceschetti
- Once your masterpiece is complete, you'll enjoy your meal with a paired wine selction. - Facebook: Laura Franceschetti
- Your last stop on this incredible adventure in Italy is at the Hotel Berchielli in Florence. - Hotel Berchielli
- Enjoy the hotel's comfortable rooms with traditional decor and historic past. - Hotel Berchielli