This tour is a pre-cruise extension designed for guests joining Two’s a Crowd’s exclusive Danube River Cruise from Budapest to Vienna. It can also be booked as a standalone Tuscany tour. 👉 View the Danube River Cruise →
Solo Travel Tuscany: Florence, Chianti & the Val d’Orcia
A 9-Day Solos-Only Tuscany Pre-Cruise Extension | Florence Base | September 2026
⭐ 2026 Departure Sold Out — Join the Waitlist
There is a particular kind of travel that feeds the soul in a way that rushing between cities simply cannot. Staying in one beautiful place. Getting to know it properly. Waking each morning with the Duomo outside your window and nowhere pressing to be. Returning each evening to your own elegant room in the heart of Florence, carrying the day’s experiences with you — the taste of Brunello from a hilltop vineyard, the echo of the medieval market in Siena’s Piazza del Campo, the scent of lavender from the farmhouse cooking class.
This is that kind of travel. And it was designed exclusively for solo travellers.
Two’s a Crowd’s Tuscany Pre-Cruise Extension is a nine-day solos-only immersion in one of the world’s most beautiful and beloved regions — based entirely at the elegant 4-star Grand Hotel Cavour in the heart of Florence. Unpack once. Explore endlessly. No dragging luggage between hotels, no checking in and out, no logistics. Just Tuscany — at its most relaxed, most authentic, and most extraordinary.
At the end of your nine days in Tuscany, you’ll transfer directly to Budapest to join our exclusively chartered Amadeus Aurea Danube River Cruise from Budapest to Vienna — making this the most seamless and indulgent way to begin your European adventure.
Our 2026 departure sold out completely. The waitlist is now open.
What Solo Travellers Love About This Tour
Tuscany is the kind of destination that people have been trying to visit “properly” for years — but the logistics of doing it alone, the single supplements, the awkward dining tables for one, and the sheer overwhelm of trying to plan it independently always get in the way.
This tour removes every one of those barriers. Your fellow travellers are all solo adventurers. Your room is yours alone — always. Your Tour Host handles every detail. And the itinerary balances extraordinary guided experiences with genuine free time — because the best moments in Tuscany are often the ones that happen when you wander into a side street and find something nobody planned.
“My Italian Interlude was much better than expected. There were just so many OMG highlights. Loved not having to unpack and pack every day.” — Chris
“I did not want to come home.” — Anonymous
Tour Highlights
Florence — The Cradle of the Renaissance
Seven nights in the heart of one of the world’s great cities, at the Grand Hotel Cavour — steps from the Duomo, Piazza della Signoria, Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, and the best gelato in Italy. A full guided day explores the Piazza della Signoria, the soaring Duomo, Giotto’s Bell Tower, the Baptistery’s golden Gates of Paradise, the secretive Vasari Corridor, and the artisan lanes of the Oltrarno district. The afternoon is dedicated to the incomparable Uffizi Gallery — Botticelli, Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Caravaggio — one of the world’s greatest art collections under one spectacular Renaissance roof.
Chianti Countryside — Wine, Views & Terracotta Traditions
A full day through the fabled Chianti region along the scenic Chiantigiana road. Wine tasting at the magnificent Castello di Vicchiomaggio, lunch at a countryside restaurant, a visit to the legendary Antica Macelleria Cecchini in Panzano — where the theatre of a Tuscan butcher shop is an experience in itself — and a stop in Impruneta, famed for its centuries-old terracotta craftsmanship.
Siena & San Gimignano — Medieval Tuscany
Begin in Siena — where the extraordinary Piazza del Campo and the breathtaking marble facade of Siena Cathedral are among the finest medieval achievements in Italy. Continue to the UNESCO-listed hilltop gem of San Gimignano — nicknamed the “Medieval Manhattan” for its 14 surviving towers — for an afternoon of wandering cobbled streets and wine tasting at a traditional Chianti estate.
Tuscan Farmhouse Cooking Class
Head into the lush hills outside Florence for a hands-on cooking class in a 300-year-old country farmhouse — surrounded by olive groves, lavender, and the cheerful chaos of ducks and chickens. Learn treasured family recipes using fresh local ingredients, paired with wonderful Italian wine, and feast on your creations for lunch. One of the tour’s most joyful and memorable days.
Val d’Orcia — Pecorino, Brunello & the Musical Vineyard
A full day in the Val d’Orcia — one of the most beautiful UNESCO-listed landscapes in Italy. Visit a local organic farm in Pienza for a fascinating cheesemaking demonstration and tasting of aged Pecorino. Explore the medieval hilltop town of Montalcino — dominated by its 14th-century fortress. And discover the extraordinary Paradiso di Frassina winery — where Mozart plays among the Sangiovese vines in a 17th-century cellar, and the Brunello di Montalcino is among the finest wines in Italy.
Monteriggioni — A Medieval World Frozen in Time
Visit the tiny walled village of Monteriggioni — a medieval masterpiece so perfectly preserved it feels like a film set. Walk the fortified walls, visit the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, and wander cobbled lanes that have barely changed since the 13th century — before returning to Florence for a final afternoon at leisure and a farewell dinner at a celebrated Florentine restaurant.
Your Base — Grand Hotel Cavour, Florence
For all seven nights in Tuscany, you’ll call the Grand Hotel Cavour home — an elegant 4-star retreat in the historic heart of Florence, perfectly positioned between the Duomo and Piazza della Signoria. Steps from the Uffizi Gallery, Palazzo Vecchio, Ponte Vecchio, and Florence’s finest boutiques and gelaterias.
The rooftop terrace — with panoramic views across Florence’s terracotta rooftops and Brunelleschi’s magnificent dome — is one of the great hotel moments in Italy. Wake each day in the very cradle of the Renaissance, where the spirit of Michelangelo, Dante, and Leonardo da Vinci still lingers in every stone street and sunlit piazza.
One hotel. Unpack once. Explore endlessly.
Why Choose Two’s a Crowd for Solo Travel in Tuscany?
- ✦ Pre-cruise extension — connects seamlessly to the Danube River Cruise from Budapest to Vienna
- ✦ 100% solo traveller groups — everyone arrives alone, nobody stays that way for long
- ✦ Your own private room — every night, always
- ✦ One hotel for the entire stay — unpack once, explore endlessly
- ✦ Dedicated Two’s a Crowd Host — with you throughout
- ✦ Florence base — the perfect city to return to each evening
- ✦ Chianti wine tastings, farmhouse cooking class & musical vineyard — all included
- ✦ Siena, San Gimignano, Val d’Orcia & Monteriggioni — all included
- ✦ September departure — golden autumn light, fewer crowds, perfect temperatures
👉 Join the 2026 Waitlist — Contact the Team
📞 1300 55 45 01 (AUS) | 0800 895 145 (NZ)
Or view the full Danube River Cruise here:
👉 Solos-Only Danube River Cruise — Budapest to Vienna →
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.
This tour is a pre-cruise extension designed for guests joining Two’s a Crowd’s exclusive Danube River Cruise from Budapest to Vienna. It can also be booked as a standalone Tuscany tour. 👉 View the Danube River Cruise →
Solo Travel Tuscany: Florence, Chianti & the Val d’Orcia
A 9-Day Solos-Only Tuscany Pre-Cruise Extension | Florence Base | September 2026
⭐ 2026 Departure Sold Out — Join the Waitlist
There is a particular kind of travel that feeds the soul in a way that rushing between cities simply cannot. Staying in one beautiful place. Getting to know it properly. Waking each morning with the Duomo outside your window and nowhere pressing to be. Returning each evening to your own elegant room in the heart of Florence, carrying the day’s experiences with you — the taste of Brunello from a hilltop vineyard, the echo of the medieval market in Siena’s Piazza del Campo, the scent of lavender from the farmhouse cooking class.
This is that kind of travel. And it was designed exclusively for solo travellers.
Two’s a Crowd’s Tuscany Pre-Cruise Extension is a nine-day solos-only immersion in one of the world’s most beautiful and beloved regions — based entirely at the elegant 4-star Grand Hotel Cavour in the heart of Florence. Unpack once. Explore endlessly. No dragging luggage between hotels, no checking in and out, no logistics. Just Tuscany — at its most relaxed, most authentic, and most extraordinary.
At the end of your nine days in Tuscany, you’ll transfer directly to Budapest to join our exclusively chartered Amadeus Aurea Danube River Cruise from Budapest to Vienna — making this the most seamless and indulgent way to begin your European adventure.
Our 2026 departure sold out completely. The waitlist is now open.
What Solo Travellers Love About This Tour
Tuscany is the kind of destination that people have been trying to visit “properly” for years — but the logistics of doing it alone, the single supplements, the awkward dining tables for one, and the sheer overwhelm of trying to plan it independently always get in the way.
This tour removes every one of those barriers. Your fellow travellers are all solo adventurers. Your room is yours alone — always. Your Tour Host handles every detail. And the itinerary balances extraordinary guided experiences with genuine free time — because the best moments in Tuscany are often the ones that happen when you wander into a side street and find something nobody planned.
“My Italian Interlude was much better than expected. There were just so many OMG highlights. Loved not having to unpack and pack every day.” — Chris
“I did not want to come home.” — Anonymous
Tour Highlights
Florence — The Cradle of the Renaissance
Seven nights in the heart of one of the world’s great cities, at the Grand Hotel Cavour — steps from the Duomo, Piazza della Signoria, Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, and the best gelato in Italy. A full guided day explores the Piazza della Signoria, the soaring Duomo, Giotto’s Bell Tower, the Baptistery’s golden Gates of Paradise, the secretive Vasari Corridor, and the artisan lanes of the Oltrarno district. The afternoon is dedicated to the incomparable Uffizi Gallery — Botticelli, Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Caravaggio — one of the world’s greatest art collections under one spectacular Renaissance roof.
Chianti Countryside — Wine, Views & Terracotta Traditions
A full day through the fabled Chianti region along the scenic Chiantigiana road. Wine tasting at the magnificent Castello di Vicchiomaggio, lunch at a countryside restaurant, a visit to the legendary Antica Macelleria Cecchini in Panzano — where the theatre of a Tuscan butcher shop is an experience in itself — and a stop in Impruneta, famed for its centuries-old terracotta craftsmanship.
Siena & San Gimignano — Medieval Tuscany
Begin in Siena — where the extraordinary Piazza del Campo and the breathtaking marble facade of Siena Cathedral are among the finest medieval achievements in Italy. Continue to the UNESCO-listed hilltop gem of San Gimignano — nicknamed the “Medieval Manhattan” for its 14 surviving towers — for an afternoon of wandering cobbled streets and wine tasting at a traditional Chianti estate.
Tuscan Farmhouse Cooking Class
Head into the lush hills outside Florence for a hands-on cooking class in a 300-year-old country farmhouse — surrounded by olive groves, lavender, and the cheerful chaos of ducks and chickens. Learn treasured family recipes using fresh local ingredients, paired with wonderful Italian wine, and feast on your creations for lunch. One of the tour’s most joyful and memorable days.
Val d’Orcia — Pecorino, Brunello & the Musical Vineyard
A full day in the Val d’Orcia — one of the most beautiful UNESCO-listed landscapes in Italy. Visit a local organic farm in Pienza for a fascinating cheesemaking demonstration and tasting of aged Pecorino. Explore the medieval hilltop town of Montalcino — dominated by its 14th-century fortress. And discover the extraordinary Paradiso di Frassina winery — where Mozart plays among the Sangiovese vines in a 17th-century cellar, and the Brunello di Montalcino is among the finest wines in Italy.
Monteriggioni — A Medieval World Frozen in Time
Visit the tiny walled village of Monteriggioni — a medieval masterpiece so perfectly preserved it feels like a film set. Walk the fortified walls, visit the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, and wander cobbled lanes that have barely changed since the 13th century — before returning to Florence for a final afternoon at leisure and a farewell dinner at a celebrated Florentine restaurant.
Your Base — Grand Hotel Cavour, Florence
For all seven nights in Tuscany, you’ll call the Grand Hotel Cavour home — an elegant 4-star retreat in the historic heart of Florence, perfectly positioned between the Duomo and Piazza della Signoria. Steps from the Uffizi Gallery, Palazzo Vecchio, Ponte Vecchio, and Florence’s finest boutiques and gelaterias.
The rooftop terrace — with panoramic views across Florence’s terracotta rooftops and Brunelleschi’s magnificent dome — is one of the great hotel moments in Italy. Wake each day in the very cradle of the Renaissance, where the spirit of Michelangelo, Dante, and Leonardo da Vinci still lingers in every stone street and sunlit piazza.
One hotel. Unpack once. Explore endlessly.
Why Choose Two’s a Crowd for Solo Travel in Tuscany?
- ✦ Pre-cruise extension — connects seamlessly to the Danube River Cruise from Budapest to Vienna
- ✦ 100% solo traveller groups — everyone arrives alone, nobody stays that way for long
- ✦ Your own private room — every night, always
- ✦ One hotel for the entire stay — unpack once, explore endlessly
- ✦ Dedicated Two’s a Crowd Host — with you throughout
- ✦ Florence base — the perfect city to return to each evening
- ✦ Chianti wine tastings, farmhouse cooking class & musical vineyard — all included
- ✦ Siena, San Gimignano, Val d’Orcia & Monteriggioni — all included
- ✦ September departure — golden autumn light, fewer crowds, perfect temperatures
👉 Join the 2026 Waitlist — Contact the Team
📞 1300 55 45 01 (AUS) | 0800 895 145 (NZ)
Or view the full Danube River Cruise here:
👉 Solos-Only Danube River Cruise — Budapest to Vienna →
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.
