This full-day tour to Val d’Orcia and the Gladiator’s Fields with Wines offers an inviting way to explore the stunning landscapes and historic towns of southern Tuscany. Priced at $85.46 per person, the tour lasts approximately 11 hours and 30 minutes, departing from Piazzale Montelungo in Florence. It includes comfortable coach transportation, expert multilingual guides, and wine tastings at renowned wineries, making it a practical yet immersive day in Italy’s countryside.

The tour is ideal for those seeking a balance between sightseeing, wine experiences, and relaxed exploration. While it doesn’t include meals or attraction tickets—those are at your own expense—the overall structure offers enough time in each location to enjoy the local atmosphere. Review scores of 4.5 out of 5, based on over 770 reviews, highlight its popularity and good value, especially considering the scenic drives and cultural stops.

Key Points

Visit three historic hill towns: Montalcino, Pienza, and Montepulciano
Taste renowned wines: Brunello di Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano
Enjoy scenic drives through the UNESCO-listed Val d’Orcia landscape
Includes guided visits to local wineries with tastings and cheese pairings
Round-trip coach transportation from Florence ensures comfort and convenience
Flexible free time in each town for sightseeing, shopping, and photos

Departure and Transportation from Florence

This tour departs daily at 7:45 am from Piazzale Montelungo, located about a 5-10 minute walk from Santa Maria Novella train station. The air-conditioned coach features complimentary WiFi, making the journey comfortable and connected. The group size is capped at 45 travelers, facilitating a relaxed atmosphere and easier interaction with guides.

The return to Florence is scheduled for early evening, with the journey lasting about two hours. Travelers should plan to arrive 20 minutes early to ensure a smooth check-in process, and should be prepared for a full, long day of sightseeing.

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Exploring the Landscape of Val d’Orcia

The drive into Val d’Orcia offers postcard-perfect views of rolling green hills, vineyards, and cypress-lined roads. This UNESCO World Heritage site provides a backdrop of breathtaking natural beauty, visible during the bus ride and at several scenic stops.

Your guide shares interesting insights about the land and towns along the way, setting the scene for a day immersed in Tuscany’s iconic scenery. The landscape remains a highlight, especially for those appreciating photography and outdoor views, with many reviewers noting that the scenery alone makes the trip worthwhile.

Montalcino: The Home of Brunello Wine

The first major stop is Montalcino, a fortress town famous for its world-renowned Brunello di Montalcino. The guide takes you through medieval cobblestone streets, leading to a local winery where a producer explains the wine-making process. Guests are invited to taste premium Brunello wines, which are described as some of Italy’s finest.

After the wine tasting, there’s time for independent exploration. Many appreciate walking uphill to the Fortezza di Montalcino, where sweeping views of vineyards, forests, and ancient city walls are perfect for photos. This fortress combines historical charm with panoramic scenery, making it a favorite stop among visitors.

Pienza: The Renaissance Town with a View

Next, the tour visits Pienza, a hilltop town designed during the Renaissance by Pope Pius II. The harmony of its architecture contrasts with the rustic Tuscan countryside. The town’s historic center encourages leisurely walks, with opportunities to shop for artisan products or sample local pecorino cheese.

A highlight is the Pienza Cathedral, a Renaissance masterpiece with sculpted facades and elegant details. The town’s atmosphere of peace and beauty makes it a relaxing stop, and many reviewers mention how charming and photogenic the streets are.

The Chapel of Madonna di Vitaleta and Gladiator’s House

One of the most photographed sites in Val d’Orcia, the Cappella Madonna di Vitaleta, features a small chapel framed by cypress trees and lush hills. The bus passes by this iconic spot, encouraging visitors to take photos from the vehicle or during photo stops.

The tour also includes a drive-by of the Gladiator film set, made famous in Ridley Scott’s Oscar-winning movie. While there’s no stop for a closer look, the views of the house used in the film are a quick but memorable sight from the bus.

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Montepulciano and Vino Nobile Tasting

The final town is Montepulciano, renowned for its Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. The town’s magnificent palaces, Renaissance architecture, and churches create an elegant atmosphere. Guests have about one hour to wander, shop, and enjoy the ambiance.

The last activity involves visiting a local winery for a Vino Nobile tasting paired with light snacks. The guide explains the winemaking process and why this wine is a prized Tuscan specialty. Visitors often comment on the beautiful cellar setting and the flavorful wines.

Wine Tastings: Brunello and Vino Nobile

Two tastings are included at local wineries—one in Montalcino and another in Montepulciano. These offer the chance to sample premium regional wines, with reviews emphasizing their delicious flavors and exceptional quality.

The Brunello tasting is held in a famous winery in Montalcino, where a local producer shares insights into the wine’s history and production. The Vino Nobile tasting takes place in Montepulciano, with light snacks complementing the wines. Multiple reviews praise the quality of the wines and the knowledge of guides during tastings.

Managing Timing and Pacing

The tour balances guided explanations with free time in each town. In Montalcino, there’s an hour for exploration after the wine tasting; in Pienza, about an hour and ten minutes; and in Montepulciano, an hour before the final wine tasting. Reviewers note that the schedule allows for sightseeing, shopping, and photography without feeling rushed.

However, some mention that the long day can involve significant walking, so comfortable shoes are recommended. The timing in each location is generally well-paced, with guides emphasizing staying together during group activities and allowing flexibility during free periods.

The Experience of the Guides and Drivers

The guides are often praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and multilingual skills. Several reviews highlight Constantino’s engaging style, noting his lighthearted and informative commentary. The driver, Rafaele, is credited with safe driving on winding roads and providing helpful assistance.

Some reviews mention rude behavior from guides during specific incidents, such as a toilet emergency, but these are isolated and do not define the overall experience. The majority appreciate the professionalism and warmth of the guiding team.

Practical Tips for Tour Participants

Participants should arrive early at the start point to avoid missing departure, and wear comfortable shoes since the tour involves a lot of walking and uneven streets. No meals are included, so lunch is at your own expense, and attraction tickets are not covered.

The tour is suitable for adults aged 18 and over, especially those interested in wine, scenic landscapes, and historic towns. The tour’s moderate physical activity makes it accessible for most, but travelers should be prepared for some uphill walks and standing during tastings.

Who Should Book This Tuscany Day Trip?

This tour appeals most to wine enthusiasts and those looking for a relaxed day in Tuscany’s countryside. It’s also a good choice for visitors who prefer guided visits with free time to explore each location at their own pace. The scenic drives and photography opportunities attract travelers eager to capture the beauty of Val d’Orcia.

However, it may be less suitable for those seeking more in-depth tours or multiple attractions, as the schedule emphasizes towns and tastings over comprehensive sightseeing. The lack of included meals and attraction tickets means planning ahead for meals and additional visits.

Final Thoughts on the Val d’Orcia and Gladiator’s Fields Tour

This 11.5-hour guided experience from Florence combines stunning scenery, historic towns, and excellent wines, making it a well-rounded choice for a day in Tuscany. The guided visits, wine tastings, and scenic drives are highlights, and the small group size enhances the personal feel.

While it’s a long day with significant walking, the comfortable coach, engaging guides, and captivating landscapes make it a worthwhile outing. The tour’s good reviews and high rating reflect its value and the memorable experience it offers. It suits wine lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those wanting a relaxed but rich taste of Tuscany.

Ready to Book?

Full Day Tour to Val d’Orcia and Gladiator’s Fields with Wines

4.5

(771)

“The trips to all 3 towns were terrific. We had just about the right amount of time at each location. The towns were beautiful. The first winery, To…”

— Christopher S, Featured

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included; participants can explore and buy food during free time in Montalcino or Pienza.

Are attraction tickets included?
No, entrance fees to attractions are not covered; the tour focuses on sightseeing external to major monuments.

What wines are tasted during the tour?
Guests sample Brunello di Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, both renowned regional wines.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses fully fitted air-conditioned coaches with free WiFi for a comfortable ride.

How long is the drive from Florence?
The drive into Val d’Orcia takes about two hours each way, providing scenic views along the way.

Can I explore towns at my own pace?
Yes, the tour provides free time in Montalcino, Pienza, and Montepulciano for sightseeing, shopping, and photography.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The minimum drinking age is 18, so it’s intended for adult participants, especially due to wine tastings.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to walking on cobblestone streets and hilly terrain.

Are guides available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides are multilingual, and English and Spanish are always guaranteed.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure.