Begin your European adventure in timeless style with this extraordinary solos-only pre-cruise tour of Tuscany—crafted exclusively for guests joining our Amadeus river cruise from Budapest to Vienna.
Before you board the ship, slow down and truly savour the spirit of Italy from one exquisite base: the 4-star Grand Hotel Cavour in the heart of Florence. With its Renaissance skyline, cobbled laneways, and rich artistic soul, Florence is the perfect place to immerse yourself in la dolce vita—without ever having to repack your suitcase.
This unforgettable journey has been designed with the discerning solo traveller in mind. As always with Two’s a Crowd, every guest enjoys their own room, no sharing, and our groups are small, sociable and hosted by a dedicated Tour Host throughout. From wine tastings in the rolling hills of Chianti to hands-on Tuscan cooking in a centuries-old farmhouse, each day invites you to discover the food, landscapes and traditions that make this region so beloved.
You’ll explore medieval gems like Siena, San Gimignano and Monteriggioni; wander world-renowned galleries like the Uffizi; sample Brunello wines while Mozart plays in the vineyard; and marvel at the terracotta towns, artisan workshops, and golden sunsets of the Val d’Orcia. There’s time to relax too—whether it’s enjoying a cappuccino in a quiet piazza or picking up some souvenirs at a local market.
With Florence as your elegant base, you’ll experience the very best of Tuscany at a relaxed and comfortable pace—surrounded by fellow solo travellers who share your sense of adventure. It’s the ideal way to connect, unwind, and get into the spirit before your European river cruise even begins.
Your journey starts here—one hotel, countless moments to remember. Will you join us?
Day 1 – Thursday 17th September 2026
PRE TOUR ARRIVAL IN ROME
In order to maximise your time in Tuscany and align with flight schedules, we have included a pre night at an airport hotel in Rome
Overnight at Isola Sacra Rome Airport Hotel or similar
Day 2 – Friday, 18 September 2026
ARRIVAL IN FLORENCE – WELCOME TO TUSCANY! (B,D)
After breakfast at the airport hotel, a private coach will transfer you to your home for the week: the elegant 4-star Grand Hotel Cavour, located in the historic heart of Florence. Settle in, unpack once, and begin to soak in the timeless beauty that surrounds you.
Enjoy some time at leisure to unwind or explore the cobbled streets nearby. This evening, enjoy a delicious welcome dinner at a traditional Florentine restaurant.
Your own room at Grand Hotel Cavour, Florence, where you will stay for the duration of the tour
Day 3 – Saturday, 19 September 2026
THE CHIANTI COUNTRYSIDE – WINE, VIEWS & TERRACOTTA TRADITIONS (B/L)
After breakfast, set off on a full-day journey through the fabled Chianti region. Travelling along the scenic “Chiantigiana” road (SS222), your first taste of the countryside is Strada in Chianti—a modest village with a delightful café (Bar Giambi) boasting pastries and panoramic views. In Greve in Chianti, the historic gateway to the region, explore the porticoed Piazza Matteotti, browse wine bars (enotecas), and admire the statue of explorer Giovanni da Verrazzano.
Then it’s on to the majestic Castello di Vicchiomaggio, where you’ll enjoy a guided wine tasting amidst rolling vineyards. Lunch is served at a countryside restaurant before continuing to Panzano in Chianti, home to the world-famous Antica Macelleria Cecchini. This unique butcher shop and eatery is a celebration of Tuscan meat culture, complete with theatrical flair and poetry recitations.
Later, visit another boutique winery in the nearby village of Castellina or Panzano, followed by a stop in Impruneta, famed for its centuries-old terracotta craftsmanship. Return to Florence in the late afternoon with your evening at leisure.
Day 4 – Sunday, 20 September 2026
FLAVOURS OF FLORENCE – ART, ARCHITECTURE & THE UFFIZI (B,L)
After breakfast, embark on a guided walking tour through the heart of Florence. Trace the footsteps of Renaissance masters as you explore the Piazza della Signoria, the towering Palazzo Vecchio, the spectacular Duomo, and Giotto’s Bell Tower. Marvel at the Baptistery’s golden “Gates of Paradise” and catch a glimpse of the secretive Vasari Corridor. Wander into the artisan Oltrarno district, where Florence reveals her quieter, more intimate side. Enjoy lunch at a charming local eatery. In the afternoon, delve into the treasures of the Uffizi Gallery. Housing masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Caravaggio, this museum is a journey through centuries of Italian art. Return to your hotel to refresh with your evening free to explore.
Day 5 – Monday, 21 September 2026
SIENA & SAN GIMIGNANO – MEDIEVAL TUSCANY UNVEILED (B,L)
Today’s adventure takes you into Tuscany’s medieval heartland. Begin in Siena, where a local guide will bring the city’s history to life as you stroll through its winding lanes and past Gothic landmarks. In Piazza del Campo, imagine the thundering hooves of the Palio horse race; at Siena Cathedral, admire the exquisite marble details of one of Italy’s most stunning churches. Lunch is served at a local restaurant before continuing to the UNESCO-listed hill town of San Gimignano. Nicknamed the “Medieval Manhattan,” its skyline of 14 towers is a dramatic reminder of a bygone era. Wander the cobbled streets, browse artisan shops, and soak in the panoramic views. Conclude the day with a wine tasting at a traditional Chianti estate, where you’ll savour Tuscan vintages alongside local delicacies.
Day 6 – Tuesday, 22 September 2026
TUSCAN COOKING IN THE HILLS – A FARMHOUSE EXPERIENCE (B,L)
This morning, you’ll head into the lush hills outside Florence for a hands-on cooking class in a 300-year-old country home, once a working farm. Surrounded by olive groves, lavender, and the cheerful presence of ducks and chickens, you’ll learn treasured family recipes using fresh, local ingredients—paired, of course, with wonderful Italian wine. Feast on your creations for lunch, then return to Florence for a leisurely afternoon at your own pace. Dinner is free this evening—perhaps explore Florence’s dining scene solo or with new friends.
Day 7 – Wednesday, 23 September 2026
VAL D’ORCIA – CHEESE, WINE & ROLLING HILLS (B,L)
After breakfast at the hotel, we set off for a full-day exploration of the stunning Val d’Orcia region. Our first stop is Pienza, a charming hilltop village famed for its Pecorino cheese. At a local organic farm, you’ll witness a cheesemaking demonstration with Ulisse, starting in the open stables where the sheep are milked. You may even try it yourself! From there, we follow the journey from fresh milk to finished Pecorino, visiting the dairy and maturing rooms. Ulisse will guide us through the different stages of production, culminating in a delicious tasting of various Pecorino cheeses—aged, fresh, flavoured, and more.
Next, we travel to Montalcino, a picturesque medieval town perched atop a hill, where you’ll have free time to enjoy lunch. The village is dominated by the 14th-century fortress, Rocca, offering panoramic views and housing a wine shop. Highlights in the historic centre include Piazza del Popolo, the Palazzo dei Priori, and the churches of St Augustine and Madonna del Soccorso. Just outside the town lies the Abbey of Sant’Antimo, a serene Romanesque gem surrounded by olive trees.
In the afternoon, we visit the extraordinary Paradiso di Frassina winery. Here, Mozart plays among the Sangiovese vines and in the 17th-century cellars, where Brunello, Rosso di Montalcino, and a unique 12-grape blend are aged. This “musical vineyard” was the brainchild of Carlo Cignozzi, a former Milanese lawyer turned vintner, who pioneered the use of music in viticulture. His work, in collaboration with scientific institutions, explores how sound frequencies positively influence vine growth—a concept he shares in his book The Man Who Whispers to the Vineyards. We return to Florence in the late afternoon. Balance of day at leisure.
Day 8 – Thursday, 24 September 2026
MONTERIGGIONI – A WALLED MEDIEVAL TREASURE (B,D)
After breakfast, travel to Monteriggioni, a tiny walled village that has scarcely changed since the 13th century. With its 14 towers, cobbled lanes and tranquil atmosphere, it feels as though time has stood still.
Walk the fortified walls, visit the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, and perhaps browse the Museum of Armour. Return to Florence for a relaxed afternoon—perfect for shopping, sightseeing or soaking up the ambiance.
Tonight, gather one last time for a farewell dinner at a celebrated Florentine restaurant.
Day 9 – Friday, 25 September 2026
FAREWELL FLORENCE – DEPARTURE DAY (B)
After breakfast, bid farewell to Florence as a private coach transfers you to the airport for your flight to Budapest and the next phase of your adventure begins – your Danube River Cruise. You’ll leave Tuscany with a suitcase full of memories, new friendships, and perhaps a bottle (or two) of Chianti.
TOUR PRICING: A$9,996
TOUR DATES: 17TH – 25TH SEPTEMBER 2026
About THE Grand Hotel Cavour
For all seven nights of your stay in Tuscany, you’ll call the Grand Hotel Cavour home—an elegant 4-star retreat set right in the historic heart of Florence. Perfectly located between the iconic Duomo and Piazza della Signoria, this stylish hotel places you just steps from Florence’s most treasured landmarks, including the Uffizi Gallery, Palazzo Vecchio, Ponte Vecchio, and the city’s best boutiques and gelaterias. Nestled on a quiet cobbled street, the hotel offers a peaceful refuge from the bustle, yet you’re never more than a few minutes’ walk from the art, architecture, and atmosphere that make Florence unforgettable. You’ll wake each day in the very cradle of the Renaissance, where the spirit of Michelangelo, Dante, and Leonardo da Vinci still lingers.
Inside, the Grand Hotel Cavour blends historic charm with modern comfort. Rooms are individually styled, with plush furnishings, elegant bathrooms, and thoughtful touches throughout. The rooftop terrace—boasting panoramic views over Florence’s terracotta rooftops and Brunelleschi’s dome—is a true highlight. With everything at your doorstep, including fabulous cafés and restaurants, this is the ultimate base for your Tuscan escape—offering the comfort of unpacking just once, and the luxury of being in the heart of it all.
Weather
Tuscany shares the classic Mediterranean climate—hot, dry summers and cool, wetter winters. Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are the sweet spots to visit. You’ll get plenty of sunshine, mild temperatures, and fewer tourists—perfect for wandering hill towns and sipping wine alfresco. Summer (July and August) can get scorching, especially in cities like Florence where the heat lingers in the stone streets. Expect temps around 30–35°C, so plan your days around early starts, shady lunches, and maybe an afternoon dip if your accommodation has a pool. Winter is generally mild in the valleys but can be cold and damp, especially in the hills.
Money
Tuscany, like the rest of Italy, uses the Euro (€). Prices are usually written with a comma instead of a decimal—so €7,50 means seven euros and fifty cents. While most places accept cards, cash is still handy for small towns, local markets, and charming trattorias tucked away in the countryside. Always keep a few coins for toll roads and public bathrooms too.
Electricity
Electricity in Tuscany runs on 220 volts with a frequency of 50 Hz, just like most of Europe. Plug types C, F, and L are used, so bring a universal adapter if you’re coming from outside the EU. Most accommodations will have sockets that fit multiple plugs, but it’s always wise to pack your own adapter—especially if you’re heading off the beaten track.
Visas
Visitors from Australia, New Zealand, the UK, and many non-EU countries can enter Italy (including Tuscany) for up to 90 days without a visa. Just make sure your passport has at least six months’ validity from your departure date. If you’re planning a longer stay or working while you’re there, check the latest entry rules before you go.
Language
Italian is the official language throughout Tuscany. You’ll also hear some delightful local dialects, especially in rural areas, but everyone speaks standard Italian. English is widely spoken in tourist spots like Florence, Pisa, and Siena, but a few polite Italian phrases (think: per favore, grazie, un caffè per favore) will earn you extra smiles from locals—and might even get you better service.
Begin your European adventure in timeless style with this extraordinary solos-only pre-cruise tour of Tuscany—crafted exclusively for guests joining our Amadeus river cruise from Budapest to Vienna.
Before you board the ship, slow down and truly savour the spirit of Italy from one exquisite base: the 4-star Grand Hotel Cavour in the heart of Florence. With its Renaissance skyline, cobbled laneways, and rich artistic soul, Florence is the perfect place to immerse yourself in la dolce vita—without ever having to repack your suitcase.
This unforgettable journey has been designed with the discerning solo traveller in mind. As always with Two’s a Crowd, every guest enjoys their own room, no sharing, and our groups are small, sociable and hosted by a dedicated Tour Host throughout. From wine tastings in the rolling hills of Chianti to hands-on Tuscan cooking in a centuries-old farmhouse, each day invites you to discover the food, landscapes and traditions that make this region so beloved.
You’ll explore medieval gems like Siena, San Gimignano and Monteriggioni; wander world-renowned galleries like the Uffizi; sample Brunello wines while Mozart plays in the vineyard; and marvel at the terracotta towns, artisan workshops, and golden sunsets of the Val d’Orcia. There’s time to relax too—whether it’s enjoying a cappuccino in a quiet piazza or picking up some souvenirs at a local market.
With Florence as your elegant base, you’ll experience the very best of Tuscany at a relaxed and comfortable pace—surrounded by fellow solo travellers who share your sense of adventure. It’s the ideal way to connect, unwind, and get into the spirit before your European river cruise even begins.
Your journey starts here—one hotel, countless moments to remember. Will you join us?
Day 1 – Thursday 17th September 2026
PRE TOUR ARRIVAL IN ROME
In order to maximise your time in Tuscany and align with flight schedules, we have included a pre night at an airport hotel in Rome
Overnight at Isola Sacra Rome Airport Hotel or similar
Day 2 – Friday, 18 September 2026
ARRIVAL IN FLORENCE – WELCOME TO TUSCANY! (B,D)
After breakfast at the airport hotel, a private coach will transfer you to your home for the week: the elegant 4-star Grand Hotel Cavour, located in the historic heart of Florence. Settle in, unpack once, and begin to soak in the timeless beauty that surrounds you.
Enjoy some time at leisure to unwind or explore the cobbled streets nearby. This evening, enjoy a delicious welcome dinner at a traditional Florentine restaurant.
Your own room at Grand Hotel Cavour, Florence, where you will stay for the duration of the tour
Day 3 – Saturday, 19 September 2026
THE CHIANTI COUNTRYSIDE – WINE, VIEWS & TERRACOTTA TRADITIONS (B/L)
After breakfast, set off on a full-day journey through the fabled Chianti region. Travelling along the scenic “Chiantigiana” road (SS222), your first taste of the countryside is Strada in Chianti—a modest village with a delightful café (Bar Giambi) boasting pastries and panoramic views. In Greve in Chianti, the historic gateway to the region, explore the porticoed Piazza Matteotti, browse wine bars (enotecas), and admire the statue of explorer Giovanni da Verrazzano.
Then it’s on to the majestic Castello di Vicchiomaggio, where you’ll enjoy a guided wine tasting amidst rolling vineyards. Lunch is served at a countryside restaurant before continuing to Panzano in Chianti, home to the world-famous Antica Macelleria Cecchini. This unique butcher shop and eatery is a celebration of Tuscan meat culture, complete with theatrical flair and poetry recitations.
Later, visit another boutique winery in the nearby village of Castellina or Panzano, followed by a stop in Impruneta, famed for its centuries-old terracotta craftsmanship. Return to Florence in the late afternoon with your evening at leisure.
Day 4 – Sunday, 20 September 2026
FLAVOURS OF FLORENCE – ART, ARCHITECTURE & THE UFFIZI (B,L)
After breakfast, embark on a guided walking tour through the heart of Florence. Trace the footsteps of Renaissance masters as you explore the Piazza della Signoria, the towering Palazzo Vecchio, the spectacular Duomo, and Giotto’s Bell Tower. Marvel at the Baptistery’s golden “Gates of Paradise” and catch a glimpse of the secretive Vasari Corridor. Wander into the artisan Oltrarno district, where Florence reveals her quieter, more intimate side. Enjoy lunch at a charming local eatery. In the afternoon, delve into the treasures of the Uffizi Gallery. Housing masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Caravaggio, this museum is a journey through centuries of Italian art. Return to your hotel to refresh with your evening free to explore.
Day 5 – Monday, 21 September 2026
SIENA & SAN GIMIGNANO – MEDIEVAL TUSCANY UNVEILED (B,L)
Today’s adventure takes you into Tuscany’s medieval heartland. Begin in Siena, where a local guide will bring the city’s history to life as you stroll through its winding lanes and past Gothic landmarks. In Piazza del Campo, imagine the thundering hooves of the Palio horse race; at Siena Cathedral, admire the exquisite marble details of one of Italy’s most stunning churches. Lunch is served at a local restaurant before continuing to the UNESCO-listed hill town of San Gimignano. Nicknamed the “Medieval Manhattan,” its skyline of 14 towers is a dramatic reminder of a bygone era. Wander the cobbled streets, browse artisan shops, and soak in the panoramic views. Conclude the day with a wine tasting at a traditional Chianti estate, where you’ll savour Tuscan vintages alongside local delicacies.
Day 6 – Tuesday, 22 September 2026
TUSCAN COOKING IN THE HILLS – A FARMHOUSE EXPERIENCE (B,L)
This morning, you’ll head into the lush hills outside Florence for a hands-on cooking class in a 300-year-old country home, once a working farm. Surrounded by olive groves, lavender, and the cheerful presence of ducks and chickens, you’ll learn treasured family recipes using fresh, local ingredients—paired, of course, with wonderful Italian wine. Feast on your creations for lunch, then return to Florence for a leisurely afternoon at your own pace. Dinner is free this evening—perhaps explore Florence’s dining scene solo or with new friends.
Day 7 – Wednesday, 23 September 2026
VAL D’ORCIA – CHEESE, WINE & ROLLING HILLS (B,L)
After breakfast at the hotel, we set off for a full-day exploration of the stunning Val d’Orcia region. Our first stop is Pienza, a charming hilltop village famed for its Pecorino cheese. At a local organic farm, you’ll witness a cheesemaking demonstration with Ulisse, starting in the open stables where the sheep are milked. You may even try it yourself! From there, we follow the journey from fresh milk to finished Pecorino, visiting the dairy and maturing rooms. Ulisse will guide us through the different stages of production, culminating in a delicious tasting of various Pecorino cheeses—aged, fresh, flavoured, and more.
Next, we travel to Montalcino, a picturesque medieval town perched atop a hill, where you’ll have free time to enjoy lunch. The village is dominated by the 14th-century fortress, Rocca, offering panoramic views and housing a wine shop. Highlights in the historic centre include Piazza del Popolo, the Palazzo dei Priori, and the churches of St Augustine and Madonna del Soccorso. Just outside the town lies the Abbey of Sant’Antimo, a serene Romanesque gem surrounded by olive trees.
In the afternoon, we visit the extraordinary Paradiso di Frassina winery. Here, Mozart plays among the Sangiovese vines and in the 17th-century cellars, where Brunello, Rosso di Montalcino, and a unique 12-grape blend are aged. This “musical vineyard” was the brainchild of Carlo Cignozzi, a former Milanese lawyer turned vintner, who pioneered the use of music in viticulture. His work, in collaboration with scientific institutions, explores how sound frequencies positively influence vine growth—a concept he shares in his book The Man Who Whispers to the Vineyards. We return to Florence in the late afternoon. Balance of day at leisure.
Day 8 – Thursday, 24 September 2026
MONTERIGGIONI – A WALLED MEDIEVAL TREASURE (B,D)
After breakfast, travel to Monteriggioni, a tiny walled village that has scarcely changed since the 13th century. With its 14 towers, cobbled lanes and tranquil atmosphere, it feels as though time has stood still.
Walk the fortified walls, visit the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, and perhaps browse the Museum of Armour. Return to Florence for a relaxed afternoon—perfect for shopping, sightseeing or soaking up the ambiance.
Tonight, gather one last time for a farewell dinner at a celebrated Florentine restaurant.
Day 9 – Friday, 25 September 2026
FAREWELL FLORENCE – DEPARTURE DAY (B)
After breakfast, bid farewell to Florence as a private coach transfers you to the airport for your flight to Budapest and the next phase of your adventure begins – your Danube River Cruise. You’ll leave Tuscany with a suitcase full of memories, new friendships, and perhaps a bottle (or two) of Chianti.
TOUR PRICING: A$9,996
TOUR DATES: 17TH – 25TH SEPTEMBER 2026
About THE Grand Hotel Cavour
For all seven nights of your stay in Tuscany, you’ll call the Grand Hotel Cavour home—an elegant 4-star retreat set right in the historic heart of Florence. Perfectly located between the iconic Duomo and Piazza della Signoria, this stylish hotel places you just steps from Florence’s most treasured landmarks, including the Uffizi Gallery, Palazzo Vecchio, Ponte Vecchio, and the city’s best boutiques and gelaterias. Nestled on a quiet cobbled street, the hotel offers a peaceful refuge from the bustle, yet you’re never more than a few minutes’ walk from the art, architecture, and atmosphere that make Florence unforgettable. You’ll wake each day in the very cradle of the Renaissance, where the spirit of Michelangelo, Dante, and Leonardo da Vinci still lingers.
Inside, the Grand Hotel Cavour blends historic charm with modern comfort. Rooms are individually styled, with plush furnishings, elegant bathrooms, and thoughtful touches throughout. The rooftop terrace—boasting panoramic views over Florence’s terracotta rooftops and Brunelleschi’s dome—is a true highlight. With everything at your doorstep, including fabulous cafés and restaurants, this is the ultimate base for your Tuscan escape—offering the comfort of unpacking just once, and the luxury of being in the heart of it all.
Weather
Tuscany shares the classic Mediterranean climate—hot, dry summers and cool, wetter winters. Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are the sweet spots to visit. You’ll get plenty of sunshine, mild temperatures, and fewer tourists—perfect for wandering hill towns and sipping wine alfresco. Summer (July and August) can get scorching, especially in cities like Florence where the heat lingers in the stone streets. Expect temps around 30–35°C, so plan your days around early starts, shady lunches, and maybe an afternoon dip if your accommodation has a pool. Winter is generally mild in the valleys but can be cold and damp, especially in the hills.
Money
Tuscany, like the rest of Italy, uses the Euro (€). Prices are usually written with a comma instead of a decimal—so €7,50 means seven euros and fifty cents. While most places accept cards, cash is still handy for small towns, local markets, and charming trattorias tucked away in the countryside. Always keep a few coins for toll roads and public bathrooms too.
Electricity
Electricity in Tuscany runs on 220 volts with a frequency of 50 Hz, just like most of Europe. Plug types C, F, and L are used, so bring a universal adapter if you’re coming from outside the EU. Most accommodations will have sockets that fit multiple plugs, but it’s always wise to pack your own adapter—especially if you’re heading off the beaten track.
Visas
Visitors from Australia, New Zealand, the UK, and many non-EU countries can enter Italy (including Tuscany) for up to 90 days without a visa. Just make sure your passport has at least six months’ validity from your departure date. If you’re planning a longer stay or working while you’re there, check the latest entry rules before you go.
Language
Italian is the official language throughout Tuscany. You’ll also hear some delightful local dialects, especially in rural areas, but everyone speaks standard Italian. English is widely spoken in tourist spots like Florence, Pisa, and Siena, but a few polite Italian phrases (think: per favore, grazie, un caffè per favore) will earn you extra smiles from locals—and might even get you better service.
