VIP Brunello Montalcino, Montepulciano & Val d’Orcia with Lunch

Explore Tuscany’s Finest Wines and Scenic Towns in a Small-Group Tour

This VIP wine tour from Florence offers a carefully curated journey through some of Tuscany’s most iconic spots. Priced at $231.05 per person and lasting 9 to 10 hours, it combines wine tastings, delicious local food, and breathtaking views. The tour is limited to a maximum of 6 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience, and is highly recommended, with a perfect rating of 5.0 from 36 reviews.

Departing from Viale Fratelli Rosselli in Florence, the journey begins early at 8:30 am, with a focus on exploring Montalcino, Montepulciano, and the Val d’Orcia. This tour is ideal for those who appreciate fine wines, charming towns, and scenic landscapes, and who want a relaxed but enriching day outside the city.

Key Points

• Small-group experience with a maximum of 6 participants ensures personalized attention.
• Includes a guided lunch and wine tasting of Brunello di Montalcino, one of the world’s top wines.
• Visits to three iconic locations: Montalcino, Val d’Orcia, and Montepulciano.
• Scenic drive through rolling hills, olive groves, and vineyards, with stunning panoramic views.
• Flexible exploration time in towns, with options to visit wine cellars or enjoy leisure time.
• Highly praised guides known for their knowledge and friendly approach.

From Florence to the Tuscan Hills and Medieval Villages

The tour begins with a comfortable drive crossing the Chianti hills, offering views of cypress-lined roads and terraced vineyards. The first notable stop is Monteriggioni, a medieval castle from 1213, famous for its intact city walls and charming atmosphere. Here, travelers can appreciate the historical ambiance while enjoying a brief moment of relaxation before heading further into the countryside.

Visiting Montalcino’s Fortress and Artisan Streets

The medieval village of Montalcino is a highlight, especially for lovers of history and wine. The 14th-century fortress provides spectacular views of the Val d’Orcia, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The town’s narrow streets are lined with wineries and artisan shops, perfect for browsing local products.

Inside Montalcino, the tour visits a historic farm where a guided lunch-tasting unfolds. This includes tasting of Rosso di Montalcino and Brunello di Montalcino, both DOCG wines renowned worldwide. The lunch features local produce and a homemade dessert, complemented by visits to cellars to see wine production up close. Leisure time after the tasting allows for exploring or simply soaking in the scenic surroundings.

Scenic Drive Through Val d’Orcia’s Iconic Landscapes

Next, the journey takes a scenic detour into Val d’Orcia, celebrated for its rolling hills, cypress trees, and picturesque villages. This area has served as the backdrop for movies like “Gladiator”, and the views here are truly postcard-worthy. The stop lasts about 15 minutes, giving ample opportunity for photos of the stunning landscape. Travelers will see castles, churches, and farms that showcase Tuscany’s timeless charm.

Discovering Montepulciano’s Renaissance Charm

The final stop is Montepulciano, perched 600 meters above sea level. This hilltop town is famous for its Noble wine, with historic palaces and Renaissance architecture lining the steep streets. Visitors have around 1 hour and 30 minutes to explore, with options to visit wine cellars or simply wander through the town’s beautiful squares and streets.

An optional wine tasting can be enjoyed during this time, giving insight into the local winemaking traditions. The town’s panoramic views over the Val d’Orcia and Val di Chiana make for memorable photographs before the return journey to Florence.

Comfortable Transportation and Meeting Details

The tour departs from the Starhotels Michelangelo, located in central Florence. The transportation is a private vehicle with a driver-guide, ensuring a smooth and relaxing ride through Tuscany’s countryside. The small group size guarantees an intimate atmosphere, allowing for personalized attention and flexibility during stops.

The Experience of a Lifetime with Expert Guides

The guides are consistently praised for their knowledgeable and friendly approach. They share stories about winemaking, local history, and Tuscan traditions, enriching the experience beyond just sightseeing. Travelers appreciate the balance of guided commentary and free exploration, especially in towns like Montalcino and Montepulciano.

While some reviewers note the occasional use of phones by guides for traffic updates, this is seen as a necessary safety measure, and it does not detract from the overall quality of the experience. The guides’ passion and professionalism shine through, making the day both educational and enjoyable.

The Value of the Tour: Food, Wine, and Scenic Beauty

For $231.05 per person, this tour offers exceptional value given the inclusion of wine tastings, a homemade lunch, and visits to multiple towns. The scenery alone makes it worthwhile, with views of cypress-lined roads and golden hills throughout the day. The wine tastings are frequently highlighted as a standout feature, especially the opportunity to try Brunello di Montalcino, considered one of the best wines in the world.

Travelers leave with not just memories but also bottles of local wine, olive oil, or cheese, making the experience as much about culinary discovery as sightseeing.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine enthusiasts, history lovers, and those seeking authentic Tuscan landscapes without the hassle of self-driving. It’s suitable for most travelers, given the moderate physical activity involved in walking towns and visiting cellars. The small-group format makes it ideal for anyone wanting a more personalized and relaxed day amidst Tuscany’s iconic scenery.

Final Thoughts on the VIP Brunello Montalcino & Montepulciano Tour

This tour delivers a well-rounded day of scenic beauty, rich wines, and charming towns. The expert guides and intimate group size ensure a comfortable and informative experience. The lunch and wine tastings are thoughtfully included, adding value and depth to the trip.

While the drive includes some moments of guide phone use, this is balanced by the overall professionalism and knowledge shared. The breathtaking views combined with world-class wines make this tour a strong choice for anyone wanting to experience Tuscany’s essence in a day.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 to 10 hours, starting at 8:30 am and returning to Florence late afternoon.

Where does the tour start and end?
It departs from Starhotels Michelangelo in Florence and concludes back at the same location.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers transport, wine tastings, a guided lunch, and entry to towns and landmarks. No additional fees are required for the stops.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s mainly suited for those able to walk and stand for short periods in towns and wineries.

Can I purchase additional wine or products during the stops?
Yes, you are free to buy local wine, olive oil, cheese, or other products in the artisan shops and wineries.

What if I want to taste more wines?
Additional tastings are possible in Montepulciano, where you can visit historical wine cellars and enjoy local wines.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to 6 travelers, providing an intimate experience with personalized attention.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the private vehicle is comfortable, and the guide ensures a smooth ride through Tuscany’s scenic roads.

Can I cancel the tour if needed?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Who is the guide?
The guide, Morad, is highly praised for his friendly demeanor and extensive knowledge of wine and local history.

This VIP wine and scenic tour from Florence offers a balanced mix of culinary delights, historic towns, and stunning landscapes, making it an excellent choice for anyone eager to experience Tuscany’s best.