Full Day PRIVATE Guided Tour in Val D’Orcia Region

Exploring Tuscany’s Val D’Orcia on a full-day private guided tour from Florence offers a seamless way to experience the region’s stunning landscapes, historic towns, and renowned wines. Priced at $432.15 per person, this tour spans approximately 9 to 10 hours, making it ideal for those looking for an in-depth day out without the hassle of planning. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, private transportation, and visits to several iconic sites, including Montalcino, Monticchiello, and Pienza.

What makes this experience stand out is the focus on authentic family-run wineries, showcasing world-famous Brunello and Nobile di Montepulciano wines. The tour is perfect for wine enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone eager to see the picturesque Tuscan countryside in comfort. While the pace is well-balanced, travelers should be prepared for a full day of walking and exploration, with optional wine tastings that cost €25 per person.

Key Points

• Private guided tour with hotel pickup in Florence ensures a personalized experience.
• Visit Montalcino’s organic family winery to taste 3-4 Brunello wines.
• Explore the medieval village of Monticchiello and enjoy a local lunch.
• Discover Pienza, the birthplace of Pope Pius II, with its historic architecture.
• Make a stop at the Vitaleta Chapel, famous for its stunning landscape setting.
• The tour lasts about 9 to 10 hours and is suitable for most travelers, with group discounts available.

Starting from Florence to the Heart of Val D’Orcia

The tour begins with a pick-up from your hotel or designated location in Florence, delivered in a luxury Mercedes minivan equipped with air conditioning, WiFi, and unlimited water. The driver, who is an English-speaking licensed professional, takes you on a scenic drive south through Siena, into the lush landscapes of Val d’Orcia.

The journey itself is part of the experience, with comfortable transport allowing you to relax and enjoy the rolling hills, cypress-lined roads, and charming vistas that define this UNESCO World Heritage Site. This setup is perfect for those who prefer a stress-free day, leaving navigation and logistics to the experts.

Exploring Montalcino’s Organic Family Winery

The first major stop is Montalcino, home to the legendary Brunello di Montalcino. Here, a small family-run organic winery welcomes the group, renowned for its respect for the land and commitment to authenticity. The winery owner and craftsman, Fabio, guides guests through a tasting session of 3 or 4 wines, offering insights into the production process and regional characteristics.

This visit lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving ample time to enjoy the wines and learn about their history and craftsmanship. The admission is free, but the tasting of Brunello wines costs €25 per person if you choose to participate. The experience emphasizes sustainable practices and the unique qualities of Montalcino’s wines, making this a standout part of the tour.

Discovering Monticchiello’s Medieval Charm

Next, the tour visits Monticchiello, a small, fortified medieval village that remains largely untouched by mass tourism. Its history as a Sienese stronghold and its resistance against Florence reflect its historical significance. Monticchiello held the status of municipality for over five centuries and continues to showcase authentic Tuscan architecture.

A walk through its narrow streets reveals well-preserved stone houses, fortifications, and panoramic views of the countryside. The group stops here for lunch at a local restaurant, allowing visitors to enjoy traditional Tuscan cuisine amid the scenic setting. The admission is included in the tour, and approximately 2 hours are allocated for this visit.

Exploring Pienza’s Renaissance Heritage

The historic center of Pienza is renowned for its Renaissance architecture, a transformation commissioned by Pope Pius II during his papacy (1458-1464). The city was originally called Corsignano before being renamed after the Pope, and its Cathedral, Palazzo Piccolomini, and other medieval structures** reflect the period’s architectural style.

This stop lasts about 1 hour, giving plenty of time to admire the well-preserved buildings and stroll through the picturesque streets. The admission is included, and visitors can soak in the atmosphere of this small but historically rich town, enjoying beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.

The Iconic Vitaleta Chapel and Its Landscape Setting

A short drive takes visitors to the Vitaleta Chapel, famous worldwide for its spectacular landscape backdrop. Framed between rows of cypress trees and set amidst the rolling hills, the small chapel is a favorite image of Tuscany. Its statue of the Virgin, once housed inside, is now kept in the Church of Madonna di Vitaleta in San Quirico d’Orcia.

This photo-worthy stop offers a moment to appreciate the region’s natural beauty and tranquility. The visit lasts around 30 minutes, making it a perfect brief pause during the day’s sightseeing.

Visiting De’Ricci Cantine Storiche in Montepulciano

The final stop is at De’Ricci Cantine Storiche, known as one of the most beautiful wineries in the world. Here, the group explores historic cellars that date back centuries, embodying the essence of Tuscan winemaking traditions. The guided tour of the winery includes tasting their famous Nobile di Montepulciano.

This experience lasts 1 hour and 30 minutes, but admission costs are not included in the tour price, and tasting costs €25 per person if chosen. The winery’s spectacular setting and storied past make it a memorable conclusion to the day.

Practical Details and Logistics

This private tour features luxury transportation with unlimited water and WiFi onboard for the entire day. The driver/guide ensures a smooth experience, and hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics effortless. The tour duration includes travel time, with the drive back to Florence taking about 90 minutes.

The experience is suitable for most travelers, including those who prefer a comfortable, guided day. Since alcoholic beverages at tastings cost €25, guests should be prepared for additional expenses if they wish to participate in tastings. The tour is most popular when booked 98 days in advance, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before.

Who Will Appreciate This Val D’Orcia Tour

This tour appeals most to visitors seeking a comprehensive and relaxed exploration of Tuscany’s scenic and cultural highlights. Wine lovers will especially enjoy the tastings at Montalcino and Montepulciano, while history enthusiasts appreciate the visits to Pienza and Monticchiello. The luxury vehicle and private guide make it suitable for those valuing comfort and personalized attention.

However, the long day might be challenging for those with mobility issues or limited stamina. The cost may be a consideration for budget travelers, but the all-inclusive experience and exclusive access to family-run wineries justify the price for many.

Final Thoughts on the Val D’Orcia Private Tour

This full-day private experience from Florence offers a well-rounded taste of Tuscany’s countryside, history, and wine culture. The tour’s emphasis on authentic family wineries and medieval towns delivers an immersive experience without the need for extensive planning. The comfortable transport, knowledgeable guide, and carefully curated stops make it a reliable choice for those wanting a luxurious, educational day.

While the additional costs for tastings and the full schedule may not suit everyone, the attention to detail and personalized approach stand out. Those eager to explore Val D’Orcia with expert insight and convenience will find this tour to be a worthwhile investment in their Tuscany visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs $432.15 per person.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 9 to 10 hours, including travel time.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off in Florence are included.

What are the main stops on this tour?
Stops include Montalcino, Monticchiello, Pienza, Vitaleta Chapel, and De’Ricci Cantine in Montepulciano.

Are wine tastings included in the price?
No, the wine tastings cost €25 per person and are paid on-site.

What is the maximum group size?
This is a private tour, so only your group participates.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but check mobility requirements if needed.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, a camera, and some cash or card for optional tastings.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Who provides this tour?
The experience is operated by UNIQUETUSCANY private tours.