- Wine Tour Destinations
Enjoy a unique wine tasting trip in stunning vineyards within the Tuscany region!
From historic cities to famous vineyards, here are some of our favourite places to visit in Tuscany:
Created by the Romans, Florence is the capital city of the region. But more than this, Florence is the cradle of the Renaissance with a unique heritage, most of it classified as UNESCO world sites. A City renowned for its art, Florence boasts a wide range of museums that are home to world famous pieces, a plethora of breath-taking palaces, and stunning churches. Under the Medici’s family, the city followed the meaning of its name and blossomed, gaining its artistic and cultural reputation.
Main sights include the Cathedral (also called il Duomo), the Uffizi Gallery, the Ponte Vecchio, the medieval bridge famous for its numerous jewellery stalls, the Galleria dell’Accademia, the Palazzo Pitti, the Basilica di Santa Croce, the Palazzo Vecchio and the Piazzale Michelangelo from where there is a breath-taking panoramic view over Florence, day and night.
A trip to Tuscany is not complete without a visit to the beautiful medieval city that sits at the heart of the Tuscan region, Siena. Although originally founded by the Etruscans and later developed under Roman rule, legend holds that Siena was established by Senius and Aschius, the sons of Remus and nephews of Romulus, the two brothers said to have founded Rome.
Siena’s historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The main square, il Campo, is where the Palio (the famous horse race), takes place twice every summer (as featured in the James Bond film Quantum of Solace). During the race, the different districts of the city compete against each other.
Main sights include the Cathedral, also known as Il Duomo, the Palazzo Pubblico, the Bell Tower, the Basilica di San Domenico and the Sanctuary of Saint Catherine, among others. Siena is renowned for being a city of water, and its many enchanting fountains reflecting this characteristic cannot be missed.
San Gimignano is a charming medieval town located between Florence and Siena. It is famous for its impressive towers which offer charming views over the picturesque Tuscan countryside. There were originally around 70 towers, however today only 14 remain. San Gimignano is a UNESCO World Heritage Site also renowned for its white wine, the Vernaccia di San Gimignano, and its saffron.
Main sights include Piazza della Cisterna, Piazza Duomo, the Collegiata and the Chiostro di Sant’Orso, as well as the town’s 14 surviving towers, including Torre Grossa, the tallest in San Gimignano.
Pienza is a small hidden gem in the heart of the Val d’Orcia valley. Built on a hilltop, the village offers gorgeous views over the surrounding countryside.
Main sights include the Cathedral, decorated with a stunning bell tower and intricate paintings,, the Papal, otherwise known as Piccolomini Palace, with its charming loggia and garden (one of the filming locations of Zeffirelli’s Romeo and Juliet – 1968), the Town Hall, and the beautiful central square. The Romanesque church of Pieve di Corsignano is only a short walk from Pienza and calls to be explored. .
For food lovers, the Pecorino cheese of Pienza is a must-taste!
Montalcino is a charming town with cobbled streets surrounded by medieval walls. Famous for its Brunello wine, Montalcino is a must see. Its fortress, also called the Rocca, was built in 1361. This impressive building offers astonishing views over the quaint surroundings including the exquisite hills of the Maremma.
Overlooking the town’s main square, Piazza del Popolo, the Palazzo dei Priori and its clock tower create a truly beautiful sight.
With its medieval palaces and ancient churches, Montepulciano is a truly beautiful medieval town. The views on the surrounding countryside are fabulous. Its main square, the Piazza Grande, is famous for the barrel racing contest, Bravio delle Botti, which takes place every August.
Main sights include the palazzo comunale and the Sanctuary of San Biagio, just outside of the city, with a lovely view of the Tuscan countryside.
For food lovers, Montepulciano has some unique specialties that will make your trip that much more special. The local wine is the famous Nobile di Montepulciano (not to be missed on your Tuscany wine tasting adventure!).
Pork meat from Cinta Senese pigs is another local specialty. You may also want to try the Pici pasta, a long thick spaghetti often served with a tomato, garlic and meat stew. If you have a large appetite the Bistecca alla Fiorentina (steak) is the dish to try!
If you’re looking to travel to Florence or Siena, take a look at our wine tours based in these cities. It is possible to visit the vineyards of Tuscany from these cities, but you may need to prepare for longer travel times.
All in all an excellent break and I would certainly recommend your tours to others. Many thanks for all your help and the help of your team to get all the arrangements in place. I hope that we will be able to use Grape Escapes again in the future.
Carol- West Sussex, UK
Around half of our trips are completely bespoke. Our expert team would be delighted to discuss your requirements and create your perfect trip.
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