Lands of Brunello wine Pienza and Montalcino with Gourmet Lunch

Explore Tuscany’s Iconic Towns with a Guided Full-Day Tour

This full-day tour from Florence offers an engaging way to experience the heart of Tuscany’s Val d’Orcia. Priced at $109.72 per person, it lasts approximately 12 hours and is designed for those seeking a comfortable, well-organized day trip that combines scenic views, cultural highlights, and exceptional wine tasting.

The tour is particularly praised for its knowledgeable guides, who share insights about the region’s towns and traditions, and for its all-inclusive approach—covering transportation, activities, admission tickets, and a gourmet lunch paired with three glasses of local wine. With an average booking window of 59 days in advance, this experience suits travelers wanting a curated, hassle-free day exploring Tuscany’s classic spots.

While the tour offers ample free time at key stops, it’s best for those comfortable with walking and open to a full day of sightseeing. It’s a particularly good choice for lovers of wine, history, and breathtaking landscapes.

Key Points

• Price: $109.72 per person for a 12-hour guided experience
• Includes: Transportation, activities, admission tickets, gourmet lunch with wine
• Highlights: Pienza, Montalcino, Temple of Brunello, Abbazia di Sant’Antimo
• Guides: Multilingual, knowledgeable, friendly
• Group size: Up to 25 travelers for a more intimate experience
• Booking: Average reservation made 59 days in advance

Transportation and Meeting Point in Florence

The tour departs from Piazzale Montelungo, close to Santa Maria Novella train station, making it easy to reach using public transportation. The comfortable coach bus takes approximately two hours to reach the scenic Val d’Orcia, giving you a relaxing start with insights from your guide about the region’s land and towns.

The return journey also uses the same coach, arriving back in Florence in the early evening. The vehicle is noted for its smooth and efficient driving, and the group size is limited to 25 travelers, ensuring a more relaxed atmosphere.

Visiting Pienza: The Renaissance City

Your first stop is Pienza, about one hour and a half from Florence, renowned for its honey-colored Renaissance architecture. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding rolling hills.

You can explore Piazza Pio II, home to the Duomo of Santa Maria Assunta and Palazzo Piccolomini. The town’s pedestrian streets are perfect for wandering, with shops and cafés lining the way. The free time here allows you to soak in the authentic atmosphere and take photos of the dreamy landscape.

For those who opt in, there is an opportunity to visit the Palazzo Comunale di Pienza, which was once the residence of the Priors and now functions as the town hall. However, this ticket is not included in the base price.

The Temple of Brunello: A Museum of Wine and Culture

A highlight of this tour is the visit to the Temple of Brunello inside the monumental complex of Sant’Agostino in Montalcino. This interactive museum provides an immersive journey into the history and production of Brunello di Montalcino, Italy’s famous red wine.

The multi-sensory experience explains why Brunello is called the King of Sangiovese wines. After exploring the exhibits, visitors sample the wine in a sumptuously laid table within the cloister, paired with gourmet dishes carefully matched with three glasses of local wine.

This stop lasts about one hour, with admission included in the tour, making it a memorable part of the day for wine enthusiasts and culture lovers alike.

Montalcino: The Medieval Fortress Town

Next is Montalcino, about thirty minutes from the Temple, famous for its massive fortress and historic charm. Here, the steep alleys and medieval architecture set the scene for a relaxed two-hour exploration period.

Visitors have time to stroll through the bustling streets, admire the ancient fortress, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this authentic hilltop borgo. Montalcino’s medieval ambiance and scenic views make it a favorite among visitors seeking a taste of Tuscan history.

The Abbey of Sant’Antimo: Monastic Peace in a Scenic Setting

The final stop on the tour is the Sant’Antimo Abbey, located just a few kilometers from Montalcino. Surrounded by vintage wheat fields and olive groves, the abbey is believed to have been founded in the IX century by Charlemagne.

The visit lasts approximately one hour, with the opportunity for a quick look inside this Benedictine church. The scenic country road leading to the abbey offers panoramic views of vineyards and countryside, making this a calming end to a busy day.

Afterward, the bus heads back to Florence, concluding the tour with a last toast to the memorable day spent in Tuscany’s countryside.

Montalcino and Val d’Orcia: The Landscape of Your Dreams

Throughout this tour, the landscapes of Val d’Orcia provide breathtaking backdrops for every stop. Expect green, rolling hills, vineyards, and charming hilltop villages.

The drive through the countryside is often praised for its scenic beauty, with multiple reviews highlighting how mesmerizing the views are and how perfect the timing is for photography. The small group size ensures that the experience remains intimate, allowing everyone to appreciate the vast, peaceful landscapes.

The Gourmet Lunch and Wine Tasting Experience

One of the tour’s standout features is the gourmet lunch served inside the Temple of Brunello. The meal includes delicious dishes paired with three glasses of Brunello, allowing guests to indulge in local flavors.

Guests consistently mention how excellent the wine selection is, often describing the wine tasting as the best they experienced in Tuscany. The lunch is described as well-curated and satisfying, especially for those who appreciate pairing food and wine in a scenic setting.

Guides and Overall Experience

Tour guides are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to cater to different languages and needs. Multiple reviews highlight the warm, professional demeanor of guides like Claudia, Mary Angela, and others, who provide interesting stories and useful insights about the towns and region.

The driver, often named Giovanni, receives praise for his safe and efficient driving through narrow, scenic roads. The group size of up to 25 travelers helps maintain a relaxed, personal atmosphere.

Practical Details and Booking Insights

This tour is designed for most travelers, with confirmation received immediately upon booking. The cancellation policy offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility.

Given the average reservation time of 59 days in advance, early booking is recommended, especially during peak seasons. The tour is suitable for those comfortable with walking and a full day of sightseeing, and it is accessible for most travelers.

Final Thoughts on the Lands of Brunello Wine Tour

This full-day guided tour offers a well-rounded experience of Tuscany’s most picturesque towns, historic sites, and world-famous wines. The small group size, expert guides, and all-inclusive package make it an attractive choice for anyone wanting to leave Florence and explore the stunning countryside and cultural gems of Val d’Orcia.

While it does not include a vineyard visit, the wine tasting at the Temple of Brunello and the gourmet lunch are highlights that make the trip worthwhile. The scenic drive, breathtaking views, and authentic towns provide a comprehensive taste of Tuscan charm.

This tour is most ideal for wine lovers, history buffs, and those seeking a relaxed yet enriching day immersed in Tuscany’s natural beauty and cultural richness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include a vineyard visit?
No, the tour does not include a visit to a vineyard, but it offers a wine tasting at the Temple of Brunello in Montalcino.

Is lunch included in the tour?
Yes, a gourmet lunch paired with three glasses of local wine is included inside the Temple of Brunello.

What is the group size?
The tour accommodates up to 25 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

How far in advance should I book?
It is recommended to book about 59 days in advance for better availability, especially during peak seasons.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it involves walking and standing, so it’s best for those able to handle a full day of sightseeing.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours before the start.