tuscany culinary tours

Have you dreamed of visiting Italy on our cooking vacations in Tuscany?

Whether you want a Tuscany food and wine tour featuring the rolling vineyards of Chianti or the beautiful city of Florence, our cooking holidays in Tuscany mean hands-on cooking classes, visits to local markets, wine tastings, and much more. Our culinary tours in Tuscany have been recommended in numerous TV and print media features, but the true test of their excellence is in the glowing reviews from the culinary travelers who have taken our food tours in Tuscany. Journey with us to Italy on a culinary vacation in Tuscany and experience the trip of a lifetime!

Top Tuscany Cooking Vacations & Food Tours in 2024

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TRIP LENGTH

PRICE RANGE

Chianti Wine Tour to the Finest of Tuscany's Vineyards

6 Nights Starting At $5,975

Authentic Tuscan Cooking in the Val d’Orcia Valley

5 or 6 Nights Starting At $4,850

Cooking Under the Tuscan Sun: Best Food & Wine Tours in Cortona 2024

3 or 6 Nights Starting At $2,175

Luxury Chianti Cooking Vacations in Tuscan Villa 2024

7 Nights Starting At $5,490

Luxury Lucca Villa Cooking Vacations & Food Tours

7 Nights Starting At $4,500

Tuscan Splendor - Luxury Cooking Vacations in Tuscany

4 or 6 Nights Starting At $2,990

Tuscany Wine Tasting Tour on The Western Coast: Truly Tuscany

5 Nights Starting At $4,180

Tuscany Cooking Vacations at Torre del Tartufo, Casa Ombuto & Villa Bellorcia

3 or 7 Nights Starting At $2,750

Best Food Tour in Florence, Italy 2024: Florence For The Food Lover

5 Nights Starting At $3,675

Discover Our Best Food and Wine Tours in Tuscany, Italy

Experience authentic Italy on our Tuscany cooking vacations and learn the epitome of Tuscan regional cuisine. Explore such renowned towns as Florence, Siena, Pisa, and San Gimignano, and imbue yourself in the thousands of years of history from the Etruscans to the present day. Partake of fabulous food and wine, and do it all while gazing upon some of the most famed vistas and panoramas, whether of the distant cypress trees and rolling vineyards in the countryside or the majestic cathedrals and towers in the Tuscany cities. These are all yours to enjoy on our Tuscany culinary trip.

The International Kitchen’s Tuscany food & wine tours will let you form new friendships in the kitchen and around the table, while you feast on luscious pastas and soups, meats and cheeses, wonderful produce, and mouth-watering desserts. The traditional Tuscany foods you might taste include ribollita, pappa al pomodoro, crostini, cecina, and cantucci, to name a few of the region’s most famous dishes. And to top it all off, our exquisite gourmet tours in Tuscany are accompanied by an abundance of excellent local wines, which you can explore during winery visits and wine tastings on our Tuscany wine tours. The wooded hills, olive groves, vineyards, and hill towns have long been the destination of travelers; now make them your home during our Tuscany culinary vacations.

Learn More About Our Cooking Tours in Tuscany, Italy

Culinary holidays in Tuscany with The International Kitchen may include:

• Hands-on cooking classes featuring authentic regional cuisine;
• Fabulous meals accompanied by fine Tuscany wines;
• Foodie visits during your Tuscany cooking trip to meet local producers of cheese, cured meats, olive oil, and more;
• Winery visits and wine tastings;
• Market visits to shop for local produce on our Tuscany foodie tours;
• Cultural excursions to see local sites of interest such as medieval hilltowns, famed churches, and ancient ruins;
• Accommodations from authentic farmhouse B&Bs to luxury private villas;
• Transfers and transportation;
• Personalized service by The International Kitchen’s trained and experienced staff of tour planners.

Making homemade pasta with friends during a Tuscany cooking vacation with The International Kitchen.

FAQ About Tuscany Culinary Vacations

What food is tuscany known for, what is tuscany pizza, what is the best season for wine tasting in tuscany, read more about italian food and travel tips.

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BOLGHERI FOOD & WINE TOURS

Bolgheri & castagneto carducci, discover our unique medieval villages, local products, culinary excellence and world-class wines on our tuscan food tours. we’ll walk with you through our charming towns and introduce you to great food specialties while telling you stories about their history and culture. we’ll take you away from the crowds, sharing with you a delicious and memorable experience in two of the best towns in tuscany, join one of our tours.

Discover the enchanting village of Bolgheri. Stroll in its old historical center through narrow alleys with their typical stone and brick houses. Visit its 17th century winery located inside the castle with vaulted brick ceilings storing fine wines. You’ll learn about ancient history and wine culture while tasting traditional recipes from our favorite small restaurants and taverns, sipping amazing Super Tuscan wines and finally indulging in an authentic homemade gelato.

Where:  Bolgheri, Tuscany When : 7 days a week Duration: 4 hours Language spoken: English Cost: Starts from 160 € per person

CASTAGNETO FOOD & DRINK TOURS

Savor your way through the narrow streets and squares of Castagneto Carducci, a small Tuscan village, while learning about the history of this thousand-year-old hilltop hamlet as well as its authentic culinary and wine traditions. We’ll stroll through this unique village, home to the famous Italian poet Carducci, peek into its ancient castle and explore secret passages known only to locals. We’ll pop into specialty shops to meet artisans and taste a variety of delicious authentic food and drinks.

Where:  Castagneto Carducci, Tuscany When : 7 days a week Duration: 4 hours Language spoken: English Cost: Starts from 160 € per person

PRIVATE FOOD & WINE TOURS

Our food-cultural-wine experiences are perfect for celebrating a special day out: corporate team building, networking with clients or a special occasion with your family and friends. We can design a tour just for you!

Where : Bolgheri or Castagneto Carducci, Tuscany When : 7 days a week. Tour can begin at the time that works best for the group. Duration: We can customize your tour length, according to the tour requested. Language spoken: English, French & Italian Cost : Customized private tours are quoted based on the number of people and the chosen tour.

BOLGHERI FOOD & WINE + VINEYARD TOURS

Join us for a complete food & wine experience: start on The Wine Road with a visit to a stunning winery to taste 5 top wines and meet the producers. Continue your tour in Bolgheri to savor traditional Tuscan cuisine, discover its 17th century winery located inside the castle and taste its wines along with locally produced extra-virgin olive oil. We’ll make several stops for delicious food, drinks and a delicious homemade gelato.

Where:  Bolgheri, Tuscany When: 7 days a week Duration: 5 hours Language spoken: English Cost: Starts from 190 € per person

BOLGHERI WINE TOURS

Drink your day with a visit of two of our best wineries. Drive along one of the most scenic country roads, ‘La Strada del Vino,’ The Wine Road en route to the wineries. We’ll tour vineyards and cellars, meet the producers and learn about the prestigious Bolgheri DOC region. We’ll enjoy six superb Bolgheri wines along with some traditional cheese and charcuterie.

Where : Bolgheri, Tuscany When: 7 days a week Duration: 3 hours Language spoken: English Cost: Starts from 150 € per person

Quick Tour Facts

DO YOU ACCOMODATE DIETARY PREFERENCES?  Yes, provide substitutions ONLY for vegetarian diets. We do not provide for gluten-free or other types of food allergy. WHAT IS YOUR CANCELLATION POLICY? You can cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours prior to the tour. We do not accept cancellations by phone, they must be in writing for our mutual records. However, no refunds are granted for cancellations within 24 hours from tour start time as your space is guaranteed at the tour.

DO YOU OFFER PRIVATE TOURS? Yes, we offer private tours with a minimum of 6 and maximum of 30 people. To request a private tour, please CONTACT US

CAN I BRING A CHILD? Children not eating can attend free of charge. You are welcome to bring a baby stroller. Please note we are touring medieval villages and the streets may not be evenly paved. Also, you might have to climb some steps.

DO YOU SEND PARKING INSTRUCTIONS? Yes, once you purchase your ticket, we will send you an email with directions, parking details and meet-up location. In certain places you will be responsible fo paying fo parking of your car.

IS THERE ENOUGH FOOD ON THE TOURS? We’ll do several food stops in each tour and you will be able to taste many different dishes and drinks. Food tour tastings make up a substantial lunch portion. It’s a food tour, you will not go home hungry!

GIFT CARDS To purchase gift cards, please visit the GIFT CARD page.

HOW DO I BUY TICKETS? Tickets can be purchased on line at the BOOK NOW page.

WHAT TYPE OF PAYMENT DO YOU ACCEPT? Payment is online, all major credit cards are accepted. Your credit card will be processed by Eztix that accepts secure online payments.

HOW LONG ARE THE TOURS? All of our tours are between 4 and 5 hours depending on the type of tour and the size of the group.

HOW MUCH WALKING IS INVOLVED? We walk about half a mile or 1 mile at all of our tours. We make plenty of resting stops in between. We walk at a slow pace.

ARE THE TOURS WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE?  As we walk through medieval villages, please email us for further information and we will be happy to assist you.

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Cook In Tuscany

Cook, Eat, Play, Travel

Indulge yourself in the Tuscan lifestyle and discover the region’s passion for food and fun.

Much more than a cooking school, click to learn more about us.

View our beautiful photos of Cook in Tuscany. Click to browse the gallery.

With a love of food and travel, Linda & George found their calling in Tuscany. Click to learn more.

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Can't get enough of Tuscany? A new, different week of fun & adventure.

Nestled in the hills of Val d’Orcia, is your home for the week, LaChiusa.

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A sample of our day to day schedule. Click to learn more.

Culinary Vacation Testimonials

After sharing time in the kitchen with new friends and your new “Nonna,” we get to eat. We will sit around the table on patios, in gardens and sometimes in the kitchen and share the fruits of our labor. We will dine on homemade gnocchi, tagliatelli, bruschetta, herb chicken, stuffed flowers and original to Montefollonico–the thick ribbons of handmade eggless pasta–pici. And of course, no meal is complete in Tuscany without a few good bottles of vino. Did we mention we drink over 32 different wines (and that doesn’t include wine tastings) during the week? We will also travel to neighboring villages and dine at renowned restaurants each day.

After all the food and vino we are ready to play the Tuscan Way. Walk the cobblestone streets of villages, shop at local markets, visit wineries and cheese makers, see historical sights, stop for a cappuccino and locally made pastries and let us treat you to the best gelato in Tuscany. Leave all of your worries to us. We are with you every day–from morning to evening. Let George make you a morning cappuccino and walk the streets with Linda as she shows you all of the great shops and shares the history of the local villages. You are our personal guest. You will learn by being immersed in the relaxing Italian culture as we introduce you to our friends–the local people of Tuscany.

Local Classes Taught By Tuscan Women

If you’re looking for professional chefs, you won’t find them here. Our classes are taught by local Tuscan women; they immerse you in the local culture where you will experience a true Tuscan culinary “occasion” like no other.

We Love Tuscany!

We love Italian food so much we started our own cooking school in Italy! And while we realize not everyone can come to cook with us in Tuscany, we love sharing our life and experiences. 

To learn more about us (Linda and George) and our adventures follow us at Cook, Eat, Play, Travel on FACEBOOK   and INSTAGRAM .

Our NEWSLETTER  is also available so you can keep up with what is happening here in Tuscany and our “other” cooking schools around the world.  

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Cook in Tuscany® (US Registered Trademark) is a US registered business based in, and operating solely from the United States. A division of TTG, LLC, Virginia, USA.

6 Best Tuscany Cooking Vacations 2024: A Taste of Tuscany

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Embark on the adventure of a lifetime with these Tuscany cooking vacations, where foodies, avid travelers, and culture enthusiasts come together to savor the authentic flavors of Italy’s most enchanting region. 

Immerse yourself in the rich culinary heritage of Tuscany as you learn traditional cooking methods from talented local chefs, indulge in mouthwatering regional delicacies, and explore the picturesque countryside dotted with world-renowned wineries. 

As you journey through this beautiful land, you’ll experience the true essence of Italian culture and discover the timeless beauty that has inspired countless artists, writers, and dreamers throughout history. 

Take advantage of the opportunity to create unforgettable memories while honing your cooking skills and awakening your senses in the heart of Tuscany.

Further Reading: 10 Best Italian Cooking Vacations: Buon Appetito

Cooking in Tuscany: 6 Best Cooking Vacations to Try

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Experience the ultimate blend of beauty and flavor on this incredible Tuscany cooking vacation.

Located at the La Mezzaluna Bed and Breakfast, just 4 kilometers from Barga, an enchanting and beautiful medieval village with many tourist attractions.

The cooking vacation includes four days of cooking lessons, with each class lasting 3 to 4 hours, where you will learn to make basic meals and sauces such as ragu, as well as homemade pasta making, ravioli, gnocchi pie, fish dishes, pizza, and a delicious array of desserts.

Indulge in this Tuscany food and wine-tasting journey for an Italian cooking vacation you’ll never forget.

Highlights:

• Visit a local market to buy fresh ingredients.
• Visit a local Tuscan vineyard.
• 4 traditional hands-on cooking classes
• Tours of beautiful local villages
• Excursion to Pisa to visit “Piazza Miracoli” with its cathedrals and leaning tower.
• Live entertainment show

Price From: $1,844

Closest Airport: Pisa International Airport (Galileo Galilei Airport)

Airport Transfers: Yes

Skill Set: Beginner to Intermediate

Further Reading: 10 Best Cooking Classes in Rome for Italian Cuisine Lovers

Join one of the best all-inclusive cooking vacations in the stunning northern region of Tuscany, where you can have fun while learning about Italian cooking techniques and Italian food traditions.

You will take in the local culture while exploring the local markets, where you can stroll through the charming streets of Barga, one of Italy’s most beautiful medieval villages.

Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to indulge in wine tasting and live entertainment while combining it all with cooking lessons.

A perfect location to enjoy one of the gourmet Tuscany Culinary vacations.

• Wine tasting
• Visit local markets
• 2 hands-on cooking classes
• Wine and soft drinks included.
• 2 visits to Barga and Lucca
• 4 nights accommodation
• Daily meals (all the food is included)
• Gluten-free and vegetarian available

Price From: $1,090

Tuscany cooking vacations have become increasingly popular in recent years, but did you know that seafood isn’t typically considered a specialty of the region?

This Tuscany cooking vacation will amaze you with the wide range of seafood dishes using only the freshest ingredients.

Learn to cook spaghetti with clams, ravioli with chickpeas and squid sauce, seafood linguine, and cod-crusted Tuscany style, among many others.

Indulge in the finest wines and uncover the hidden gems of Arezzo, located in the picturesque heartland of Tuscany, midway between Florence and Siena.

• Custom-made, organic menu
• Cooking certificate and recipes book
• 3 hands-on seafood cooking classes
• Wine tour and historical village excursions plus dinner at a local restaurant
• City break excursion plus lunch at a local restaurant
• Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner with drinks
• 5 nights accommodation

Price From: $1,559 (1 Person)

Closest Airport: Perugia Airport (80 kilometers – 1.5 hours) 

Airport Transfers: Yes, at additional cost.

Skill Set: Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced

Indulge in a culinary vacation that will blow your taste buds away! You’ll cook fabulous gourmet dishes with top-quality ingredients like truffles, mushrooms, chestnuts, and honey.

You will experience a breathtaking gastronomic adventure where you’ll explore the historical attractions of the Tiberina Valley and tour the most picturesque locations in Arezzo.

Your guide will give you the background history of every Tuscan location and ample time to take photos.

Don’t miss the chance to create unforgettable memories with this unbeatable experience without breaking the bank!

• Cooking classes
• A truffle hunting expedition
• Experienced chefs and guides in English
• A visit to a Unesco world heritage site
• Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• Train station transfers

Price From: $2,561 (2 persons)

Closest Airport: Florence Airport, Peretola (Amerigo Vespucci Airport)

Airport Transfers: Yes.

Discover the real Tuscany with this 6-day cooking vacation. Immerse yourself in regional culinary traditions and learn how to prepare authentic local cuisine with a contemporary twist using fresh, local ingredients.

The chef’s passion for reviving historic recipes will take you on a journey through Tuscany’s rich culinary history and natural beauty.

Take advantage of this unique and rare opportunity to experience the true essence of Tuscany.

• Welcome aperitif 
• Vineyard visit with a tasting tour
• Cooking classes at Villa Restaurant Point
• Meals with drinks (1 bottle for each meal)
• Excursion to the historical site

Price From: $3,117 (2 persons)

Closest Airport: Perugia airport

Airport Transfers: Yes (additional fee)

Indulge in the pleasures of the classic Tuscany cooking vacation by preparing Tuscan vegetarian cuisine using locally sourced ingredients.

In each cooking class, you will prepare vegetarian meals from the beginning. Enjoy discovering the local area with excursions, including lunch at a local restaurant.

• 3 hands-on Italian cooking classes
• Wine tour and historical village excursion
• Organic ingredients from MangiarDivino’s production
• City excursion with lunch at a local restaurant
• 3 nights accommodation

Price From: $1,003 (1 person)

Closest Airport: Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR)

Tuscany cooking vacations, or cooking holidays, are a unique way to experience the region’s culinary delights. You’ll learn how to prepare traditional Tuscan dishes and explore Italian culture while indulging in wine tastings, excursions, and some of the best food around.

Summary – Tuscany Cooking Vacations

Tuscany cooking vacations are among the best ways to immerse yourself in the fantastic local cuisine and culture. If you are still deciding on the location of your cooking vacation, you might be interested in one of these posts:

• 10 Best Italian Cooking Vacations: Buon Appetito
• 50 Interesting Facts About Italian Food
• Food Travel: My Top 10 Tips for Planning a Food Trip
• 25 Inexpensive Gifts for Wine Lovers

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UPCOMING DATES & PRICES 2024

€‎ 3495 (Euro) per participant

Spring dates April 23-27 May 8-12

Fall dates October 9-13 October 23-27

Price is based on double occupancy. Single occupancy available upon request with additional fee.

Alternative dates may be available upon request. Please contact us if you would like to join us at a different time or coordinate a customized, private tour for your group. 

Registration is now open to claim spots on Spring-Fall 2024 trips, join us!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Who are the small group vacations for.

Our small group tours are for adults who love food and travel and want an intimate, “insider” experience with Italian culture. Every day, we’ll enjoy excursions and meals together as a group but also have some time to relax on your own.

How many people will be on the tour?

This trip will be made up of 4 to 12 participants, plus your hosts, Chicca, Arnaud, Jedd and Michelle. We will also be joined on occasion by some local friends, food and wine producers, and guides.

Should I book a small group tour or custom tour?

• Hoping to travel with just your family or friends rather than strangers?
• Want a different trip length or different dates?
• Have a specific focus you want for your trip?

If you answered YES to any of the above, please contact us about scheduling a custom tour. We’ll work with you to craft an itinerary of experiences you’ll love within your timeframe.

The full team will be available October of 2023. Outside of this time period, Chicca and Arnaud can host groups as well.

What is the tour cost? What does the price include and exclude?

Price per person:

• For 2023 the cost is   €‎ 3495 per participant (double occupancy)

The price includes:

• Planning : All trip logistics, including pre-trip negotiations with all hotels and vendors, onsite coordination, useful information leading up to your trip, etc.
• Personalized service: Daily on-site guidance and support from Chicca, her team, and friends throughout the region.
• Accommodations : 4 nights boutique accommodation overlooking the Mediterranean, based on two people sharing a room.
• Meals :4 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 4 dinners, including 3 meals at fine dining restaurants.
• Transport : Ground transportation, including transfers from Castagneto Carducci-Donoratico train station and hired ground transportation for excursions, are included.
• Activities : Daily excursions to the stunning medieval towns of Volterra, Bolgheri, Populonia, Castagneto, and others. All other activities are included. The order of the excursions may be changed due to the availability of the providers for the different days of the week and to weather conditions

The following expenses are not included in the total trip price:

• Round-trip airfare: this gives you flexibility in using airline reward miles or to extend your trip as you wish. Each guest is responsible for organizing their own airfare and transportation to Castagneto Carducci. We can provide airport transfers for an additional fee, if needed. You will be asked to share flight details at least 8 weeks before the trip commences.
• Proof of travel insurance : is required (covering emergency medical, evacuation, COVID-19, and trip cancellation).
• One dinner on your own : during one of our visits to a small town, you’ll have the opportunity to explore on your own. We’ll provide restaurant recommendations.
• Any COVID-19 tests or vaccines : required for entry into the country.
• Additional wine/beverage purchases: Each meal will be planned with great care and paired with a special selection of Bolgheri wines, defined in a certain amount.  You’re welcome to purchase extra wine or other alcoholic beverages but you will be responsible for the additional cost.
• Any additional activities : you want to book along the way or outside of the coordinated group trip: spa visits, private tours, etc.
• Spending money: there’s a good chance you’ll want to purchase souvenirs or bring back wine or olive oil.
• Additional tips for the Trip Hosts

Custom Tour Price Quotes : Will vary based on your chosen activities, number of days, and level of accommodations. Please email us to request a quote.

Do you offer short 1-day food & wine tours as well?

Yes, we offer 4-5 hour short food & wine tours in Tuscany where you will experience our medieval villages, culinary excellence, and world-class wines. We’ll walk you through our charming towns, stunning vineyards and introduce you to great food specialties while telling stories about Tuscan history and culture. Here you can learn more about our food & wine tours .

Is airfare included in the cost cost of the trip?

Round-trip airfare is not included. This gives you flexibility in using airline reward miles or to extend your trip as you wish. Each guest is responsible for organizing their own airfare and transportation to Castagneto Carducci. Nearby airports include Rome, Florence, and Pisa. We can provide airport transfers for an additional fee from these three airports, if needed. You will be asked to share flight details at least 8 weeks before the trip commences.

What type of travel insurance is required to participate?

We require that all participants purchase a travel protection plan to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. Travel protection plans should include coverage for Trip Cancellation, Trip Interruption, Emergency Medical and Emergency Evacuation/Repatriation, and COVID-19 risks.

For emergency medical and Covid coverage see: Nomad Insurance by SafetyWing

Is there a payment plan?

You’ll pay for the trip in two payments (initial deposit and final payment):

• 
1st Payment estimated $900: $100 Non-refundable inscription fee + $800 Deposit 2nd Payment: remaining balance

Final payment due 90 days before your trip.

What if I need to cancel my trip? Is there a refund?

This global health crisis has impacted everyone, so we want to make sure your future travel plans are safe, and reassure you that we are committed to supporting our guests in the best way that we can.

As we’ve learned during this past year, what makes sense today may not make sense tomorrow. Please understand that we reserve the right to change these policies due to this very fluid and unpredictable situation.

CANCELATION BY YOU

If you decide you need to cancel your trip, the following refund schedule applies upon written notice of your cancellation:

• Cancelations made on or before 90 days prior to arrival: •Your $100 inscription fee is nonrefundable. •Full refund minus unrecoverable costs.
• Cancelations made 89 days to 60 days prior to arrival: •Your $100 inscription fee is nonrefundable. •You will be reimbursed 50% of what you have paid to date, less the nonrefundable fee.
• Cancelations made 59 days to 30 days prior to arrival: •You will be reimbursed 40% of what you have paid to date, less the nonrefundable fee.
• Cancelations made 29 days prior to arrival: •All payments are nonrefundable.

Cancelations must be received in writing by email to [email protected].

Unrecoverable costs may include credit card fees or any deposits required by our vendors.

You are required to take out trip cancelation insurance . If you leave a tour for any reason after it has commenced, we are not obliged to make any refunds for unused services. If you fail to join a trip, join it after departure, or leave it prior to its completion, no refund will be made.

What if the trip gets canceled or it’s not possible to travel to Italy?

CANCELATION BY US:

If our tours cannot operate due to COVID travel restrictions or other Force Majeure Event, we’ll give you a full refund minus unrecoverable costs. If, after the start of the tour, significant elements of the itinerary cannot be provided as agreed, suitable alternative arrangements will be offered.

To ensure a trip is safe for guests and the local community, we will consider:

• Government safety and travel advice
• COVID-safe requirements and protocols
• Entry and exit requirements for travelers to Italy, including testing and quarantine
• Current medical facility and healthcare availability in Italy
• Flight and airline accessibility in and out of a Tuscany
• Ability for our travelers to get travel insurance protection for, and regularly scheduled, reasonably priced flights to Italy
• Accessibility to everyday services, such as restaurants, public transport, cultural sites, etc.

Due to the ever-changing nature of travel restrictions, we will continue to evaluate the ability to run our tours between one and two months before the scheduled tour dates. This is in order to keep the possibility of traveling viable for any guests who may be in a position to do so. All travelers will be notified of their options at least one month before they are scheduled to depart, to allow them time to make any changes to their current arrangements. However, at times it may be necessary to cancel a trip at late notice should the factors listed above change.

Our tours require a minimum number of participants (6) in order to take place at the stated price, since it takes into account group discounts, shared accommodations and other factors that create cost efficiencies. If a trip does not have enough participants, or if someone unexpectedly cancels, we will contact you with possible options.

In addition, we reserve the right to cancel your spot if we have not received your balance payment within one week of your balance due date.

Trip hosts are not responsible for additional expenses incurred by you in preparing for the trip, including air tickets, gear, medical equipment or travelers insurance. You are strongly advised to take out trip cancellation insurance at the time of booking.

What kind of accommodations are we staying in?

Accommodations will be at a modern, locally-owned boutique hotel within walking distance to Castagneto Carducci village. The family-run hotel/bed and breakfast sits atop a hillside with stunning views of the valley below and the Mediterranean. Daily breakfast will be provided on site.

Each room in the hotel is unique. Rooms will include a private bathroom with hot water. WiFi, heat, and air conditioning will be available. You’ll be able to unpack and make yourself at home in the same room for the duration of the tour.

What are the health and physical requirements to join the trip?

Physical ability: Guests should take personal responsibility to ensure they are physically able and healthy to participate in all group activities, such as:

• walking on uneven surfaces for up to 3 hours over the course of a day,
• climbing up and down up to stairs during excursions,
• riding in and getting on/off buses or vans.

Trip activities are not strenuous, however some days we will be out and about for long periods of time. Accommodations are located in the medieval village which is located on a hill. You will encounter some steep walks uphill as well as many stairs when exploring the town.

Dietary restrictions: Consult with your Trip Hosts to discuss dietary restrictions, or preferences, that would need to be accommodated in order for you to enjoy this experience. We can generally accommodate vegetarian diets, but we cannot accommodate other restrictions (gluten-free, vegan, lactose intolerance).

Prescriptions and medical issues: If you have a condition which may require professional attention, special equipment, or prescriptions during the trip, you must bring and be fully responsible for all necessary items related to your condition. Please consult with us prior to booking to determine if our tour is a good fit for you. Failure to advise us shall release the hosts and all professional personnel from any liability related to such condition or its treatment. We cannot accommodate women past their sixth month of pregnancy. We also cannot accommodate passengers requiring wheelchair assistance, as most features of our trips are not wheelchair-accessible – please contact us directly for more information.

You should consult with a medical doctor to determine if you are healthy and physically able to participate.

COVID requirements: 

• All guests and trip hosts are required to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination before the tour begins, in addition to any requirements that Italy has in place at the time of the tour.
• You will need to bring a COVID-19 vaccination card or photo copy to access venues on the trip.
• Mask use may be required according to the local regulations at the time of the trip.
• We will update you of any changes to health and safety protocols as the trip dates approach.

What kind of food will we be eating?

We will be eating regional Italian dishes and sampling many of the local wines. This will typically include wheat/gluten, dairy, and meat. We’ll dine at several fine restaurants as well as casual cafes and a pizzeria. Breakfast at the hotel tends to include baked goods, eggs, cereal, yogurt, fresh fruit, along with coffee, tea, or fruit juice options.

What will the weather be like?

Temperatures in Spring and Fall are pleasant in Tuscany, averaging 50°-70°F. It can be rainy on occasion, so be prepared with some rain gear. Also consider bringing layers like sweaters and jackets to keep warm.

Have any additional questions about Food and Wine Tours? Don’t hesitate to contact me at [email protected] .

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Secrets of Tuscany Tour

Secrets of tuscany.

Discover the best of Tuscany  with a small group. Indulge in a Food & Wine experience that you'll remember for years to come.

The tour of Tuscany lets you explore the must-see sites with an emphasis on authentic and cultural experience. Stay in a real Tuscan villa, where you would feel as if you stay at friends home, cook tuscan dishes following recipes which passed down by generations, enjoy lunch in the vineyards, visit a cheese farm and discover picturesque towns.

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ACCOMMODATIONS

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Day 1: Group transfer, Dinner There will be a group transfer from Florence train station at 3pm . (If you arrive by flight, There is a shuttle tram from the airport to the train station).

We will drive to the villa in Chianti. You’ll have time to unpack. Later, we’ll gather for a short tour led by a family member that will share the story of the house and the family followed by our first Tuscan Dinner and wine.

Day 2: Breakfast, Chianti, Cheese farm, Winery, Light dinner After breakfast we will depart on evocative journey in the hills of Chianti driving through charming little villages and enjoying spectacular view until we reach a goat cheese farm. You will hear the life story of the owner and then taste Artisan cheeses, honey, olive oil, and wine.

Next, You will discover a tiny but the most charming village. After walking in the picturesque streets, we will visit a winery, where you will have lunch and wine tasting in a spectacular setting.

After lunch we’ll continue to Greve, the unnamed capital of Chianti. You will have some time to explore before going back to the villa.

Light dinner at the villa.

Day 3: Breakfast, Volterra, San Gimignano, Cooking class

After breakfast we’ll drive to Volterra, a medieval walled town, which used to be a key trading center and one of the most important Etruscan cities. Recently Volterra has attracted international attention for its connection to the twilight series of books and movies. Next, we’ll visit San Gimignano known for its striking towers from medieval times. You will have free time for lunch and for exploring the cobblestone streets and craft shops. In the afternoon we will drive back to the villa for a cooking class.

Day 4: Day Trip to Cinque Terre, Dinner at the villa Today we will spend the day exploring the Coast of Tuscany visiting the enchanting “Cinque Terre”. This is a group of five picturesque villages perched high atop the rocky Mediterranean coastline. The only way to access these villages is by train and by a boat but that’s what make it so scenic and special.

Dinner at the villa.

Day 5: Breakfast, Siena, Monteriggioni, Cooking class This morning we’ll make our way to siena, a medieval city that has not changed much in 800 years. We will have a guided walking tour, which after you’ll have free time for lunch, shopping or exploring. In the afternoon we will visit Monteriggioni, a charming walled village before going back to the villa.

In the evening we will have a cooking class. You will get a chance to see a real Italian home, learn how to make fresh pasta and cook Tuscan dishes for dinner.

Day 6: Florence, Dinner

On our last day in Tuscany we will visit Florence, the capital of Tuscany, a city that you’d always want to come back to and one that has best Renaissance art in Europe. Enjoy the street markets, the fashion and the beautiful sites.

Tonight we will have a farewell dinner and celebrate our time in Tuscany.

Day 7: Departure

Transfer from the villa to Florence train station around 09:00 am or contact us for info.

Arrival Details

Florence S.M.N train station

Departure details

Florence S.M.N

The program includes:

• 6 nights accommodation
• All breakfasts
• All Dinners including wine
• 2 lunches including wine
• 2 Hands-on cooking classes
• Winery visit and tasting
• Cheese farm visit and tasting
• Transportation on day trips
• Group Transfer to/from Florence train station S.M.N.

The program does not include

• Travel insurance
• Anything not mentioned in the program

TERMS & CONDITIONS

A deposit of $500.00  per person is required at time of booking to guarantee the space on the tour. Balance of the full amount is due 90 days prior the first day of the tour.

CANCELLATION

Your deposit is refundable within the first 30 days of your deposit, so long as you have booked more than 180 days before the start date of the tour. If you book within 180 days of the start date of the tour, your deposit is immediately non-refundable. 90 days or less before the start date of the tour, the tour is non – refundable unless we are able to rebook another participant for the date/tour you are booked on.

90 days or less before the start date of the tour, the tour is non – refundable. 

Food N wine vacations, Inc reserve the right to re-calculate prices due to currency fluctuations. For full terms and conditions refer to  Terms and conditions page.

Your home for the week is a villa that Is owned and operated by the same family for 9 generations. The historical manor house is located in the heart of Chianti surrounded by olive grove and vineyards and  produces its own olive oil and wine.

The Manor house has a typical Italian garden with roses, Lavender, lemon trees and herbs. The pool overlooks the peaceful Tuscan hills. Inside, the original frescoes walls tell the history of the villa and the story of the family: The original kitchen is still being used to serve breakfast, The 15th century dining room with its grand chandelier is used for special dinners, The private chapel and so many historical pieces.

Each of the guests’ bedrooms has a different decor and includes en-suite bathroom/shower. (Only one has a bath)

DATES & PRICES

• May 18 – May 24
• May 26 – June 1
• Sept 3 – Sept 9
• Sept 17 – Sept 23
• Sept 28 – Oct 4
• Oct 13 – Oct 19
• May 4 – May 10
• Aug 31 – Sept 6
• Sept 7 – Sept 13
• Oct 5 – Oct 11

Single supplement: $600.00.

Prices are in USD.

Looking for a Private Group Tour? We can accommodate private groups year round

VIEW PHOTOS OF THE TOUR

TRAVEL INSURANCE

We highly suggest purchasing travel insurance to protect your travel investment. Many travel products are non-refundable.

You can get a quote here

Emergencies happen when you least expect it. Travel protection provides coverage for Trip Cancellation, Trip Interruption, Medical and Dental, Emergency Assistance and Transportation, Baggage, Baggage Delay, Travel Delay and much more. Plus, we offer our exclusive One Call 24-hour Traveler Assistance Service to help you with emergency situations that arise during your trip.

You may also consider ‘Cancel for no reason’. It may seem costly, but if you are deeply concerned about things like Hurricanes, strikes, Coronavirus outbreak, terror attack and such, you should look into that.

For pre existing condition, it’s important to purchase a policy within 10 days of your deposit.

FAQ about Travel Insurance

The best would be flying to Florence, however, if you plan on visiting other parts of Italy you might fly to one city and return from a different one. We provide a complimentary consulting with your pre or post travel plans. Don’t hesitate to ask us.

You may want to compare flights to Rome. From Rome airport you can take a train to Florence.

PRE AND POST IDEAS

Option A: Stay in Florence before or after the tour. You  can stay for one full day. The historic center is walkable, which makes it easy. If you have more time and/or have a special interest, you may want to spend 2 days. There are few world renown museums in Florence.

Option B: Visit Rome. You need about 3 days. (Train ride between Rome and  Florence is 1.5 hours)

Option C: Visit Venice. (Train ride from/to Florence is 2 hours)

Option D: Visit all the above cities or some.

We provide a complimentary consulting with your pre or post travel plans. Don’t hesitate to ask us about logistics and ideas.

walking pace is like walking around town.

You will be walking in cobblestone streets and some uneven roads.

we try to start the days after 09:00 am – 09:15 am. On the day trip to Cinque Terre we try to leave the villa between 08:30 am- 08:45 am.

The itinerary is balanced between activities, sightseeing and leisure time.

What should I wear?

Stay casual and comfortable. Mornings and evening are chilly but during the day it’s warm. Even in full summer, hot days can quickly turn into cool evenings. Be prepared with a light sweater during the summer months, and something a little heavier in spring and fall.

You won’t need to dress up anywhere you go. If you would like to try to blend in with the locals as much as possible, think “smart casual” or “preppy” for men, and “light and stylish” for women. Italians are very fashion conscious, but not formal.

In the summer months, you will most likely want to wear shorts. Make sure they have good pockets. However, always make sure you also have some long pants

Bring flat shoes, as you will be walking in medieval towns with cobblestone streets or farms with unpaved roads.

If you want to dress up for dinner, dress as if you are having dinner with friends.

How many bags can I bring?

We recommend bringing one medium suitcase and another small bag or trolley.

Please check our packing advice.

We advise you to pack light. We also recommend planning what you need based on each day of your travels.

You will need the extra space for souvenirs. You may not think about it now, but believe us; you’d want to take home that tasty olive oil, a bottle of wine that you can’t find at home, local specialties, or ceramics.

On that note, the best advice we can give you is “bubble wrap”. Bring bubble wrap with you. It’s cheaper and more convenient to bring it from the U.S and you will probably never leave home without it.

We highly recommend you use packing cubes for efficient packing and to keep things organized. You can search for videos on YouTube to learn more about it.

Do I need a passport?

Copy of passport

We strongly suggest that you to make a copy of your passport.

Should I bring my cell phone ?

It is a good idea to bring a cell phone. See our tips for communications while on a tour down below.

Do I need converters or transformers?

European power outlets run at 220 volts. You must buy a transformer to avoid shorting out and/or causing permanent damage to your devices. You will need it for cell phones, cameras, tablets, and other US-made electronics.

Tip: If your electronics can be powered by either 120 volt or 220-volt outlets (the device will usually have this listed in the technical specifications in a format like 120/240 volts, meaning the device can be powered from any power outlet around the globe), you will only need a plug adapter. Please note that a plug adapter is not a transformer, and using one with a device not capable of handling 240 volts will cause permanent damage and may even render the device unusable.

We find that a debit/credit card of a credit union bank has low rates for an ATM withdrawal or credit card charges. In addition to credit union banks, here is a list of cards that offer a low or no foreign transaction fee: Capital one no fee hassle card, Chase Sapphire preferred, Chase ink business card, United mileage plus, Barclays arrivals world, Amex platinum card, Capital one venture reward, bank Americard travel reward, Marriott, Southwest, Barclaycard arrival plus, United mileage plus, Citi Hilton honors.

It is also important to let the credit card company or your bank know what country you are traveling to and the exact date

Communications

It is recommended to have a cell phone with you, however, if you plan to bring your smart phone, make sure to turn off mobile data right before you board the plane. If the data is not turned off, your mobile provider may charge you hundreds of dollars for using their services outside the U.S. On certain phones, you may be able to disable data roaming (phones that support this feature will most likely have it turned off by default). This will automatically turn off data outside the U.S.

You may want to check with your cell phone provider what data/voice/ text they offer when you travel to Europe. Things are changing for the better. For example, if you have an unlimited plus plan with AT&T you can pay $10 a day and continue using your phone in Europe as if you were at home.

WhatsApp is a free service that lets users message one another seamlessly between mobile and desktop devices.

WhatsApp is known for its enhanced privacy features, like end-to-end encryption, and its free, web-based international calling. Read on to find out how you can leverage the Facebook-owned messaging giant to make free international calls.

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The ultimate foodie tour of Tuscany

Mar 30, 2016 • 5 min read

Tuscany combines delicious fresh flavours with breathtaking landscapes

If Italy can claim Europe’s most tempting cuisine, Tuscany is both its larder and its inspiration. This sun-drenched, vine-lined region is rich in slices of culinary heaven. Which makes it ripe for self-guided gourmet explorations. We’ve cherry-picked the best food and drink experiences so you can cook up your very own Tuscan foodie road trip.

Hunt for truffles near San Miniato

Throughout the year the medieval hill town of San Miniato between Pisa and Florence  is a fantastic destination for Slow Food fans. Delicious produce to sample includes the tangy local goat's cheese known as  formaggio di capra delle colline di San Miniato,  meltingly tender Chianina beef and platters piled-high with  cinta senese (indigenous Tuscan pork). But come mid-October, the townspeople have just one thing on their minds – white truffles. The truffle hunting season sees skillful locals deploying even more skillful dogs to snuffle and sniff out fragrant knobs of fungus from amid the roots of gnarled oak trees.

Get on the scent yourself on a truffle-hunting trip at Barbialla Nuova , a 500-hectare biodynamic farmstay 20km south of San Miniato. Stride beside the dogs, examine just-dug-out dirt and delight in the thrill of the hunt. Then leave with your very own-found pungent nugget of delight, to be shaved over other locally sourced treats.

Aperitivi and steak in Florence

Head east to food-obsessed Florence where aperitivi (pre-dinner drinks) are akin to a sacrosanct ritual. In fact, the complementary snacks that come with your tipple have become so copious that some smart locals are feasting on them instead of a main meal. The aperitivi scene is thriving and changeable, but spots to sip and graze in style include understated  Le Volpi e l’Uva , hipster  Volume  and plush  Noir .

If you don’t like beef bloody and blue, look away now. As that, really, is the only way to savour Florence’s iconic, chargrilled, T-boned steak: bistecca alla fiorentina . These immense slabs of prime Chianina-breed loin have a legendary status, thanks to a centuries-old tradition and a reputation as a former rebel (beef-on-the-bone was banned temporarily by the European Union in the 2000s). The best place in Florence to eat it? The bustling, shared tables of Trattoria Mario .

Chianti wineries, innovative and ancient

Chianti – the name alone conjures a glass of rich red and a horizon full of vines. Thankfully, the reality echoes the dream, as you’ll discover driving the picturesque Via Chiantigiana south from Florence. Here countless wineries shelter amid rounded hills and people talk solemnly of wine having a soul. No wonder: wine has shaped the region’s heritage, landscape and identity.

But in Chianti, past tradition also meets present innovation. Explore this duality with the Antinori family – they've been wine-making since 1385, but more recently created the uber-high-tech Antinori winery. Guided tours lead into a stunningly sculptural architectural masterpiece, past cutting-edge oenological equipment and dimly lit, barrel-filled rooms. They finish with a tutored tasting of three Antinori wines – often a citrusy Castello della Sala, a chocolatey Peppoli Chianti Classico and the intense, fruity Villa Antinori Chianti Classico Riserva.

Farmhouse cooking lessons near Volterra

Tuscany’s bucolic back-roads wind south past outstanding restaurants delivering dishes piled high with local produce; expect cinghiale (wild boar), fragrant finocchiona (fennel-spiced sausage), sweet oven-baked red onions, modern takes on the rich miniestra di pane (bread and bean soup) and hundreds of types of pecorino (sheep’s milk cheese), ranging from fresh and mild to flavourful and aged; with pecorino di tartufo (cheese infused with black-truffle shavings) perhaps the cream of that crop.

Dining highlights include elegant  Osteria di Passignano  near Greve in Chianti, classy Ristorante Albergaccio , near Castellina in Chianti, and Panzano in Chianti’s bustling, innovative Dario DOC , with its uber-modern take on Tuscan cuisine.

Next, perfect your cooking skills at the Podere San Lorenzo , a tranquil farmhouse near Volterra. Top home-chef Mariana will guide you through making olive oil, creating pasta and perfecting Tuscan-style desserts and vegetables (picked fresh from the garden). Then sit down with your coursemates to eat your creations in the farms’ converted 12th-century chapel.

Take the Etruscan coastal road of wine and olive oil

Cooking lesson done, continue southwest towards the Etruscan coast, stopping off en route at Bolgheri . This tiny walled medieval town punches way above its culinary weight thanks to the locally produced Super Tuscan Sassicaia. One of Italy’s most highly regarded red wines, you may detect notes of liquorice, cassis and exotic fruits amid its ruby depths. Sample it, plus feasts of fennel-flecked salami, tangy cheese and tomato-topped bruschetta at  Enotica Tognoni . If you’d like to linger, check into the nearby Castello di Bolgheri to chill out in apartments beside olive groves – and get a free tour of their olive oil farm and winery.

Next take La Strada del Vino e dell’Olio ( lastradadelvino.com ), via more hill towns and extraordinary views, to the idyllic island of Elba . Agriturismo Due Palme , an enchanting farm presided over by the equally charming Fabrizio, makes the only olive oil on Elba that has been awarded the prestigious IGP stamp. Taste it for yourself, as you lounge beside your own converted farm workers’ cottage, surrounded by centuries-old olive trees and orange and lemon groves.

Fine wine in Montalcino, Montepulciano and Sorano

Back on the mainland, one of Italy’s premier wine regions beckons. The hills around the walled town of Montalcino produce the mighty Brunello. Check into the sumptuous  Il Palazzo  then sip this hefty, world famous red at inviting Osticcio – perhaps while eating a creamy risotto studded with hazelnuts, red chicory and taleggio cheese.

Next it’s east to another classic Tuscan wine town: Montepulciano whose steep, cobbled streets snake up to age-old wine cellars where vaulted brick walls frame towering barrels, and staff are itching to swap tasting notes. Two of the most evocative are Cantina del Redi  and Cantine Contucci .

End your road trip still further south near Sorano at Sant’Egle , one of Tuscany’s finest organic agriturismi (farmhouses). Along with rustic-chic rooms, an utterly peaceful location and a pint-sized pool, you’ll get engaging cooking instruction on cheese and bread making, and a wealth of time-honoured Tuscan recipes using golden-yoked organic eggs, hand-rolled pasta and field-fresh veg. The best bit? Eating your creations, clustered around a farmhouse kitchen table dotted with bottles, to the sound of laughter, along-side your new-found friends.

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Food & Culinary Tours & Trips in Tuscany

Explore a wide diversity of food & culinary tours through Tuscany. We have 16 adventures that vary from 3 days to 8 days. With the greatest number of departures in June, this is also the most popular time of the year.

16 food & culinary Tuscany tours with 170 positive reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Food & Culinary
• Local Living

Unique 8 days in Tuscany Adventure

This 7 day tour of Tuscany was everything and more than what we hoped for. The villa is beautiful with the most gorgeous view of the valley, the chef is great and the staff super accommodating. Paolo is a great guide and extremely knowledgeable about what seems like everything! I do hope we see him again on our future adventures in Italy. The different towns were interesting and unique in their own ways and the wineries and lunches at the farmhouse were super! Of course, the hot springs were special and definitely worth the visit to Tuscany in of themselves. Overall, we had a romantic and relaxing getaway in this beautiful part of Italy that I think everyone should visit! Mariya and Andrew

Gourmet Tuscany

Excellent choice of locations and selection of food and wine venues. The tour achieves a great balance between guided travelling and personal time and autonomy. Choosing to focus on small, family run businesses not only supports the locals but also brings authenticity to the experiences. Roberto was a caring, knowledgeable tour leader who brought an infectious enthusiasm to each day’s plans. Being able to stay in one setting and have experiences that radiated out from that was excellent. Great value for money.

• Sightseeing
• Wine tasting

Tuscany Absolute

Friendly guide, excellent food, great wine. You will love it!

• €50 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

A Taste of Tuscany - Hilltop Towns and Vineyards

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

The Best Wines of Tuscany in 5 Exclusive Days from Florence

Tuscan Treats

• €150 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Relaxing getaway in Chianti + Florence

• Christmas & New Year

Private Tour - Florence Through Art, Culture, and Culinary Delights

Tuscany: Art, Culture and Treats

Best of Tuscany in 3-days

We seemed to have a lot of little things go wrong during our 3 day tour. The first night at the Farmhouse, the hot water wasn’t working at all and the restaurant was closed for issues. We received a homemade meal in our quarters (salad and pasta) which was tasty, but completely vegetarian (which my husband wasn’t thrilled about). The second morning, there was some confusion about our guide. Once that had been settled, we headed out for our wine tasting. There was also continued confusion during the day, as the first stop (Verrazano) did not have a reservation for us (and kept mentioning during the tour how they had to accommodate our walk-in status) and our last stop tried to charge us for the tasting. Dinner that evening at the Farmhouse was very similar to what we were served the night before, and once again my husband wasn’t extremely thrilled about having the same menu two days in a row. I understand that communication lines get crossed and this is Italy, but I thought at this price point we would haven’t so many issues. Paolo and Matteo both did an absolutely fantastic job as guides and navigators, and the Farmhouse was full of Tuscan charm.

Private Tour - Explore the Essence of Tuscany

Tuscany Gourmet Cooking Tour

Tuscany Private Experience: Food and wine among villages and art

Tuscany Wine Trails

Very good tour. Good value for the money. Loved all the sights and off the beaten path adventures.

What people love about Food & Culinary Tours in Tuscany

I spent 35 days in Italy and this was the best.

Our guide Oreana was the best!!! Enjoyed the flexibility and private functions offered.

Overall it was nice experience, everything was very well organized, hotel had great location, tour guides were wonderful. Cooking class was great experience and our chief David was amazing. My trips to Sienna and wine tasting was interesting too. One complain that trip to Montepulciano was too long and it was extra difficulty to get back to Florence. People at villa were very nice, food was great but nothing to do for 1,5 days. It doesn’t worth to spend almost 2 days there. Then I had to take taxi and train to get back, so it is another day had to spend traveling. Would be nice to have trips back to Florence.

Travel Styles

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Cooking Vacations in Tuscany with TN&M

At Tuscany Now & More, we believe that the best way to learn about any local culture when travelling is through their cuisine. Far beyond mere sustenance, food is a tale of a country's history and culture. 

To give you a feel (and taste) for Italy, we've created an enriching cooking vacation that transforms your villa holiday into a gastronomic adventure . Under the guidance of an in-house chef in some of the finest villas in Italy, you'll immerse yourself in Italian food culture through a series of hands-on cooking classes, food and wine tastings and culture tours . All of this (and more) included in the villa rental price and available exclusively through Tuscany Now & More. 

Gastronomes have the choice of picking one of three programmes: The Art of Pasta Making, Nonna's Traditional Italian Recipes, and Italian Classics for Vegetarians. Each programme is designed to introduce you to Italian ingredients and cooking techniques , leaving you with knowledge of the essential flavours and secrets that transform simple ingredients into mouth-watering Italian classics. You will learn to make some popular Italian dishes like Pappardelle al Ragù, Parmigiana di Melanzane, Pappa al Pomodoro and Tagliatelle ai Porcini, among other recipes. Behind each great recipe lies a great story waiting to be told.

Pick your programme:

The Art of Making Pasta

Learn to make authentic, fresh pasta from scratch and the secret to pairing pasta textures, fillings and sauces.

Nonna's Traditional Italian Recipes

Explore a collection of Italian recipes, traditions and anecdotes passed down through countless generations

Italian Classics for Vegetarians

Learn to make a collection of meat-free, plant-based recipes that stay true to the culinary heritage and cooking traditions of Italy

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PROGRAMS & TOURS

Cooking, castles, countryside & fun, tuscany culinary tour vacation.

We have created a single villa-based vacation to experience both luxurious comfort and convenience. This is a foodie’s dream vacation which combines food, cooking, culture, wine tastings, touring, shopping, picturesque excursions and adventure into an experience of a lifetime! Whether your cooking interests are hands-on with a Michelin Star Chef, observing and learning to make pasta with a local nonna, or simply enjoying delicious Italian food and great wines, we have created an exceptional experience you will love.

All Inclusive (except air) Vacation Itinerary – 8 days/7 nights including lodging in an exclusive and luxurious Tuscan villa, food, wine, excursions, tours, guides, cooking lessons and demonstrations, plus ground transfers. La Cucina Sabina combines food, culture and fun into an experience of a lifetime!

SUNDAY – Cheese Making Lesson, Visit Pienza, Dinner at Farmhouse Restaurant

A day isn’t complete without the food culture of the area, so we have a fun and very interesting hands-on cheese making lesson with lunch at an artisanal cheese dairy. After lunch, we depart for one of the most beautiful hilltop towns in Italy, Pienza. It is perched on a high hilltop allowing unsurpassed views over the Tuscan countryside. We’ll have time for touring, exploration and shopping at the local artisanal shops or wine bars. To complete the Tuscan countryside experience, we’ll head to the hills surrounding Pienza for a local farm for a truly local’s Tuscan experience, a dinner in a farmhouse overlooking the beautiful Tuscan hills.

MONDAY – Bistecca Fiorentina Tour & Tasting, Truffle Hunt and Pici Pasta Making

Tuscany is world famous for their Bistecca (Beef) Fiorentina steaks. We visit one of their best butchers where we learn about the Chianina Beef and what makes it so special, then enjoy a lunch featuring a taste of the succulent Chianina steak and other meats. This is a Farm to Fork Experience! What could be a better pairing than a Truffle Hunt with a local truffle hunter and his dog and a Pici pasta making class in the evening with a local nonna cook at Villa Rocchi?

TUESDAY – Siena Tour, Pastry Tasting, Open Lunch + Free Time 

Enjoy a half-day guided tour of Siena, likely Italy’s loveliest medieval city, where you experience the glory of the Romanesque-Gothic architecture without the crowds of Florence. Along the tour you will see Il Campo, where they run the Palio, the famous horse race through the center of town, along with many of Siena’s other gems. We’ll also stop for a tasting of their renowned pastries. Because of the excellent and abundant ceramic, leather and other artisanal shops, we give you extra time for exploration and lunch on your own. Dinner will be back in Torrita di Siena, at villa Rocchi.

WEDNESDAY – Brunello Winery Tour in Montalcino, Organic Honey Tasting, Plus Pizza Making

When you say Tuscany, one of your first thoughts is fine Tuscan wines such as Brunello, so we start our tour visiting the family-owned organic Brunello winery I Cipressi, near Montalcino, with tastings (also an organic honey tasting). We then visit the small town of Montalcino for lunch and some free time for shopping and exploration. In the evening, we enjoy a Pizza Making experience at a local restaurant, Ristorante Piccolo, a short walk from the villa.

THURSDAY – Michelin Star Chef Cooking Lesson, Open Time in Cortona

What better place to learn authentic Tuscan cooking than in a hands-on lesson with Michelin-Star Chef Silvia Baracchi, at her renowned Il Falconiere restaurant and resort in Cortona. After the lunch lesson, we head to lovely Cortona’s center, the famous “Under The Tuscan Sun” town, for a visit. There’s a bit of open time for strolling the town before heading back to the Villa. Dinner will be at Villa Rocchi.

FRIDAY – Montepulciano Tour and Gelato Making, Arrivederci Dinner at Antinori Winery

We start the day heading to Montepulciano, one of Tuscany’s most famous wine making areas for a tour of the town first created by the Etruscans 3000 years ago. We’ll enjoy lunch in town as well as an artisanal gelato making lesson. We have time for exploring or shopping before heading back to Villa Rocchi for relaxation and packing before dinner. We have a special Arrivederci dinner planned at the famous Antinori winery and Estate.

The Chianti Masterpiece Siena™

Tuscan cooking tour all inclusive~5 day.

Join Signor Francesco, chef, wine maker and sommelier in his Tuscan kitchen for our deliciously tempting Tuscan cooking & wine weekend program in Chianti, Tuscany. Gently sweeping hills adorned with pristine vineyards and grey-green olive groves, pretty country churches and imposing stone castles provide the backdrop for your cooking school vacation. Take a tour of the property’s winery, visiting the vineyard, tasting wines and learning about the Chianti Classico; enjoy accompanying your dinners with a delicious selection of house reds and whites; and discover the wonderful healing properties of wine and grapes and reserve a wine therapy massage at the Estate’s spa. Signor Francesco also produces extra virgin first-cold pressed Tuscan olive oil at the property.

Chianti Cooking Classes in Tuscany

Chef Francesco’s philosophy is “see, smell and eat it” and each day.  He chooses the best fresh ingredients from the garden and the market for your hands-on cooking classes. The atmosphere in the kitchen is informal, encouraging you to ask questions, roll up your sleeves and get involved. Signor Francesco is a true Tuscan food lover – preparing homemade antipasto, pasta,  risotto –  main courses – and desserts!

Tuscan cuisine is unique and based on the simplicity of raw materials, cooked with skillful craftsmanship. Tuscan history speaks of agriculture and simple living, therefore dishes are based around the use of the ingredients of common people who could not afford luxuries in the kitchen – olive oil replacing lard, vegetables as a base for the soups instead of meat, chestnut flour, and so on.  Everyone will prepare genuine ingredients using ancient culinary traditions and methods, creating delicious Tuscan everything from panzanella, pappa al pomodoro, pici, lasagna, risotto,  roast pork loin, duck, tripe, to  cantuccini  and  tiramisù .

Each class is 2 to 3 hours long.  Following each cooking class, everyone dines together enjoying the foods that were prepared in the class with Signor Francesco’s Tuscan wine included.

Gaiole in Chianti

The village of Gaiole is located approximately 40 km southeast of Florence and 15 km northeast of Siena in the Chianti hills, the most famous region of Tuscany. Gaiole in Chianti, like the whole Chianti region, is famous for its wine, artisan food products, and the unique romantic beauty of its landscapes: beautifully tended vineyards and olive groves, gently rolling hills, restored Medieval villages and farmhouses and characteristic avenues of stately poplar trees. Once a market town on the road from Chianti to Valdarno, Gaiole is still a wonderful place to visit for its wine shops, osterias, and local artisan shops, and perhaps more than any other village, represents the divine Tuscan landscape visitors dream of.

Chianti Accommodations

Imagine a beautifully restored Tuscan villa nestled cozily in the Chianti hillside: this will be your home for the duration of your cooking program. Rooms and suites are marked by distinctive and charming elements; for example, one suite has a bed made completely from antique oak barrels. Floors are made of the traditional terracotta tiles, exposed stones and beams give character to the apartments and furnishings are carefully chosen to reflect the traditional Tuscan style and comfort. Each bedroom has a private bathroom (some equipped with hydromassage), mini bar, TV, air conditioning, some of which boast private living rooms, and others private terraces.

Suites and apartments available for groups and families of different sizes. Please call for more information on accommodation options.

Click for Property Photo Gallery

Itinerary: 5 Days, 4 Nights

Day 1: arrival, check in, chef’s welcome dinner and wine pairing.

• Transfer from Chianti Train Station Montevarchi to the estate.
• Check in, then take time to relax and settle in.
• Welcome Dinner with a full course Chef’s Tasting Menu featuring local fare and wine pairing included.

Day 2: Cooking Class 1 and Gourmet Tuscan Dinner with Wine Pairing

• Breakfast is served.
• Meet in the kitchen for Cooking Class 1. Tie on your aprons for your hands-on cooking class.  You will prepare a three course traditional Tuscan menu.  Following the cooking class, everyone enjoys the food that was prepared in the class with wine included.  
• Relax in the afternoon at the property and enjoy tennis, swimming in the pool, archery, badminton, darts or biking.
• Gourmet Tuscan Dinner with full course menu, aperitivo and wine pairing, included.

Day 3: Cooking Class 2 and Traditional Tuscan Dinner with Wine Pairing

• Time free to relax or walk through the property and hills or relax by the pool.
• Traditional Tuscan dinner, with apertivo and and wine pairing included.

Day 4: Vineyard Tour and Vertical Wine Tour, and Wine Therapy Spa Relax

• Meet your host for a tour of the vineyard set in the hills of Chianti.  Tour the vineyard, learn about producing the grapes,  wine making, bottling.  Following the tour, you will enjoy a Vertical Wine Tasting, included
• Later in the afternoon, enjoy a Wine Therapy Spa Relax, a 50 minutes wine bath in private Jacuzzi.
• Enjoy dinner on your own at the property or suggestions provided nearby restaurant options.

Day 5: Departure

• Check out and transfer from the estate to the Chianti Train Station Montevarchi.

5 Days & 4 Nights

All-inclusive program includes:.

• 5 days, 4 nights accommodations with private bathroom, based on 2 guests.
• Daily Breakfast and maid service included.
• Chef’s Welcome Dinner featuring a full course Tuscan tasting menu with wine produced on the property.
• 2 hands-on cooking classes preparing Tuscan fare.  Following the cooking class, everyone enjoys the food that was prepared in the class with wine included.  
• Traditional Tuscan Dinner with full course menu, apertivo  and and wine pairing included.
• Gourmet Tuscan Dinner full with course menu, aperitivo and wine pairing, included.
• Vineyard tour followed by a Vertical Wine Tasting.
• Arrival and departure transfers from Chianti Train Station Montevarchi to the estate.
• Wine Therapy Spa Relax, a 50 minutes wine bath in private Jacuzzi.
• Cooking Vacations Welcome Bag with chef’s apron, recipes and Prosecco.
• A copy of Lauren’s cookbook, It’s A Dream Place – Stories and Recipes of Food, Love & the Amalfi Coast.

Program Prices:

$1,895 per person, based on 2 guests.

For Single Guests: If you are traveling on your own, please call us for the best group price. We are happy to welcome you into an already scheduled group.  Round trip transfers from Florence can be added on.  Prices vary depending the size of your group.

Check Availability

2024 Dates: This program is available throughout the year. Check in and start your program on any day of the week. Rates are subject to change based on currency exchange. Call for updated rates. Airfare not included. Group transfers for any cooking tour or tours that include transfers, are for the group and are not private. Transfers before, after or to another destination outside of your cooking tour are not included in the program price. If you would like to add on a private transfer or transfers, let us know and we will send you pricing.

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Gourmet Adventure in Italy from Chianti to Val d'Orcia

Discover the joys of the Tuscan table as you learn its secrets on our active Tuscany cooking tour. Celebrate fresh seasonal ingredients prepared with passion, yet minimal manipulation. Slow down and let food be the focal point of the day. And savor this Tuscany culinary walking vacation that nurtures both body and spirit.

• Walk through brimming vineyards and in old-world villages
• Cook and delight in farm-to-table recipes passed down through generations— buon appetito!
• Hike the cypress-lined white roads of southern Tuscany and sip Chianti Classico in the region it originated
• Relish handmade cuisine, from your first plate of pasta to your final bowl-scraping spoonful of tiramisu

Start Arezzo

End Florence

Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.

We recommend flying into and out of Florence's Peretola Airport (FLR) and taking a train to Arezzo.

Please note that trip start and end locations are subject to change and can vary by departure. A Travel Planner, complete with trip details specific to your chosen date, will be sent to you at time of booking or soon after and will be viewable in your Backroads account.

* Start/End locations may vary. Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.

Walk through vineyards, woodland and Renaissance hill towns • Get a taste of the region’s undulating terrain as you trek from Castellina to Vèscine • Homer once called olive oil “liquid gold”—discover why during our exclusive tasting • Explore Panzano, home to numerous fine Chianti wineries • High ridges and peaceful forests lead the way to our lunch spot in the home of a local friend—a one-of-a-kind experience! • Sip Chianti Classico wines and learn the secret to traditional recipes in a cooking class led by an engaging Italian chef • Relax at our beautiful hotel in the heart of the Chianti Valley.

A 13th-century hamlet handsomely restored as a welcoming hotel with unsurpassed views of the Tuscan countryside. (pool)  

From the town of Gaiole, hike from one unbelievable vista to the next, stopping for an alfresco picnic among the grapevines • Cook a home-style Italian meal alongside locals in the cucina of their cooking school • Lounge with a glass of the region's finest  vino by the fireplace at our elegant retreat.

Located in the heart of the Chianti region, this boutique 14th-century manor house features spacious guest rooms with original frescoes. (pool, spa)   

Follow the strade bianche (white roads) of southern Tuscany's Val d'Orcia • Savor local delicacies as we indulge in a sampling of the region’s traditional cuisine • Wander in Renaissance-style Pienza, Pope Pius II's utopian village • Lunch takes place at a working farm complete with a pasta-making demonstration • Say arrivederci to Tuscany with a leisurely hike in the countryside surrounding Bagno Vignoni.

This elegant boutique hotel features a beautiful garden, a fantastic bar and pools fed by underground thermal springs. (pool, spa)

Our trips range in activity levels from leisurely (1) to avid (5) with plenty of options in between. Several routes are offered each day so you can choose your perfect amount of activity. Learn more

*Includes shuttle

• Activity Level

What's Included

• All breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners
• Expertise and services of our experienced Trip Leaders
• Snacks and beverages between meals
• Additional guides and experts from the region on many trips
• Van shuttles to support a variety of route options
• Comprehensive Travel Planner with detailed pre-trip information
• Private guided tours at museums, historic sites, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the Travel Planner
• All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
• Special events, including wine tastings and other select attractions as mentioned in the Travel Planner
• On biking and multi-adventure trips, use of fully equipped Backroads titanium bike plus helmet and accessories
• Trailercycles, carriers, and kid-sized helmets for Family Trips
• Equipment and experienced guides for kayaking, rafting, snorkeling, sailing and canoeing as described
• Park and other entry fees
• Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the Travel Planner
• Select coach transfers
• Baggage transfers and porterage

Not Included: Leader gratuities, transportation to and from your Backroads trip start & end locations, and on-your-own meals & activities.

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Best Tuscany Wine Tours

W hen we think of Italy’s food, there are a few things that come immediately to mind. Fresh pasta, hand-made and served al dente …  the sun-dried tomatoes and delicious cheese… there’s fresh herbs and cured meat… and of course, there’s wine! Because what Italian meal would be complete without a helping of red wine ?

Producer of some of Italy’s best wines, Tuscany  is also one of the world’s best wine regions. It is a place that grows the important Sangiovese grapes. They are primarily used for such wines as Brunello di Montalcino, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, and Chianti.

When you’re in Tuscany , your experience would not be complete without getting to know some of the wineries more intimately. Hence, this list of the best Tuscan wine tours that allow you to indulge in the taste and culture of the Italian regions!

Siena Wine Tours : Chianti and San Gimignano 5-Hour Tour

Siena is second only to Florence when it comes to tourism in the Tuscan region, what with its extensive collection of art, history, and architecture. It’s also from here where you could strike out to the Chianti vineyards and the magnificent landscapes that surround them. In this wine tour, your guide will lead you beyond the beaten path and onto the place where the ruby fragrance of Chianti wine is born.

Your tastebuds will enjoy this product in one of the best cellars of the area, complete with a platter of cheeses, bruschetta, salami and meats — perfect companions for this drink.

After enjoying the sights, sounds, and tastes of the Chianti countryside, the tour will lead you to the UNESCO World Heritage Site that is San Gimignano. This medieval town has perhaps one of the first tower-lined skylines in the world, long before the skyscrapers of the modern day.

It is also home to the famous Vernaccia di San Gimignano wine, which you will also taste. The experience goes perfectly with a tour that spans the whole of the town, with its many squares, churches, alleys, and more.

Book Siena wine tours here .

Florence Wine Tours: Small Group Wine Tasting Tour to Tuscany

The attraction-dense Florence is also a great starting point for a wine tour! Take your time to walk around this treasure-laden city on your own. Then join your guide and a small group as you travel to the historic Chianti Classico area.

There’s just something special in this part of the world that produces some of the best wines known to man. It’s more than the beautiful sights. You will learn more about the secrets of the earth as your first stop, a wine estate, tours you around the wine’s production process.

This particular estate has three special wines for you to sample, together with some fresh olive oil. A second wine estate tour allows you to compare and contrast not just the taste but also the production methods of the various wines. As a plus, you’ll get a firsthand experience of just how well the wines pair with famous local meats such as ham, salami, bruschetta, and more!

Book this wine tour Tuscany here .

Poggibonsi: 4-Course Cooking Class with Wine Tasting

A good wine is best savored with a good meal, and fortunately Italy is all about both. This tour takes place within the picturesque confines of San Gimignano . It is a bottega that is as authentic an Italian kitchen as you can get.

After taking your own time to absorb the town’s treasures, a chef will give you and expert-level cooking class. Feel like an expert yourself as you make some of Tuscany’s classic kitchen specialties, such as pasta, chicken stew, and some dessert.

Join 14 other students as you master the traditions and techniques of the Tuscan kitchen. After this, take time to appreciate how well your meal pairs with a few fine glasses of local wine.

Don’t worry — a bit later on you’d be able to go on a proper local wine tasting session where you’ll learn to appreciate the finer flavors of the red nectar. Other wine tours shift your focus to the sights around you. But this one focuses on the stimulation of your palate.

Book this Poggibonsi wine tour here .

San Gimignano: Vineyard Walk and Lunch with Wine Tasting

Lately, vineyards are no longer simply revered places that produce wine grapes. They have also been turned into aesthetic marvels, especially with the introduction of “spiral vineyards” — grape vines arranged in a spiral pattern, with a vantage point at the center from which to view the marvel.

Visit one such spiral vineyard in this tour, owned by the Giachi family. Here you’ll learn not just about the vines but also about the history and context of almost every structure in sight. Of course, you will also get ataste and context of the estate’s wines. You’ll be able to trace their interesting history.

The tour is capped with a sumptuous Italian lunch, with such Tuscan food as Truffle lasagna, Tuscan ribollita, cantuccini, and more.

Book the San Gimignano wine tour here .

Montalcino, Pienza, and Montepulciano Food Tour from Siena

It says food tour on the label, but the real highlights here are the wine cellars you would be visiting. There’s one in Montalcino, which on its own is famous for its IG-worthy rolling hills and fresh produce. Its streets and fortress are typical of the Tuscan region, and its wines are as excellent.

The Pienza leg of the tour explores the area’s architectural treasures, especially the Val d’Orcia whose lanes overlook beautiful landscapes. The last leg, at Montepulciano, explores the stately buildings hand-in-hand with the area’s own ancient wine-making tradition. Finally, a bus drives you back down to Siena. Your exploration of the finer points of wine and history may continue there.

This is just a small cross-section of what Tuscany has to offer in terms of wine and all the fun that surrounds it. Wine production and wine-tasting is as much an art as is the region’s paintings and architecture. It is as much a product of nature as the unrivaled landscape that makes Tuscany such a draw for tourists the world over.

Book this multi-town Tuscany wine tasting tour here .

Of course, since the place is such a draw. You’ll want to have a way to avoid the crowds and jump the lines. This is why pre-booking, especially with a reputable tour company as Get Your Guide, is highly recommended!

Best Tuscany Wine Tours was written and photographed by Karla Ramos

Best Tuscany Wine Tours – Pin for Later

Cooking Vacations & Culinary Tours in Italy, Portugal & Croatia

Culinary Vacations with the best hands-on cooking classes & cultural tours in Italy, Portugal & Croatia. Culinary Tours in Tuscany , The Amalfi Coast , Sicily Portugal and more. Learn to cook traditional Italian recipes with local Nonnas, famous chefs, pastry artisans & pizza masters. Our Italian culinary holidays are all inclusive, authentic, and include market, vineyard & cultural tours and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Make wine in Tuscany’s vineyards, go truffle hunting in Umbria, make limoncello on the Amalfi Coast, Cannoli in Sicily, Tortellini in Bologna, experience "local" Croatia, and exclusive Portuguese dishes in Portugal. You are Family in our Italian, Portuguese and Croatian Kitchens, and share our love for cooking and family on our culinary vacations in Italy , as well as our culinary vacations in Portugal and our experiential vacations in Croatia .

Featured Vacations:

• Portugal – Family, Culture, Wine & Cooking

A week of true cultural immersion & local traditions with the wonderful people of Portugal. Discover Port wines in Porto, explore the Douro Valley UNESCO World Heritage Site, breathtaking towns, & cook local dishes.

• 3 Cooking Classes
• All Inclusive
• Learn More...

• Culinary Treasures of Bologna, Venice, Michelin Stars & Exotic Cars

Bologna, Venice, Cooking Classes, Winery, Parmesan Cheese, Prosciutto Factory. Ferrari Museum, Lamborghini Factory, Traditional Balsamic & More!

• 4 Cooking Classes

• Wine & Cooking in the Heart of Chianti and Florence, Tuscany

Tuscany Cooking Vacation with Wineries, Florence, Siena, Museums, Cortona, Sightseeing & Private BBQ!

Wine, Cooking and Castles in Barolo & Roero

A week of cultural immersion and local experiences amidst the backdrop of one of the most pristine wine areas in all of Italy.

All of Our Culinary Vacations

• Wine & Cooking Under the Tuscan & Umbrian Sun
• Cooking in Paradise on the Amalfi Coast
• Cooking & Adventure on the Islands of Sicily
• Sicily, The Motherland - Wine, Cooking, Culture & Adventure
• Wine, Cooking, Truffles & Chocolate: A Foodie's Paradise in Umbria and Tuscany
• Wine, Cooking, & The Olive Oil Harvest - Soriano
• Cities Lost in Time on the Road Less Traveled
• Medieval Chestnut Festival & Wine Harvest Season
• Authentic Croatia Revealed

Our Culinary Vacations in Italy, Portugal & Croatia

We promise you will fall in love with each of our all-inclusive italy cooking vacations , as well as our culinary vacations in Portugal and our immersive vacations in Croatia . They about much more than just sightseeing, food, and cooking. We create an experience of a lifetime, immersing you into the culture while giving you the sense of having found your home away from home. You will truly feel like family with us. We don’t do the traditional tour thing. When we cook, we are a group of friends doing hands on cooking classes based on traditional Italian family recipes. When we are on excursions, we are a group of friends exploring the beautiful hamlets and countryside together. It is a unique experience like none other, and time again our guests tell us it was the best vacation they had ever taken , and we had completely changed the way they will travel forever. Have a look at our hundreds of Italy Cooking Vacations reviews , and learn more about our:

• Tuscany Cooking Vacations
• Amalfi Coast Cooking Vacations
• Sicily Cooking Vacations
• Portugal Vacations
• Croatia Vacations
• Other Italy Cooking Vacations

A Truly Authentic Family Experience

It starts with location. There is nothing quite like small town hospitality when you get away from the areas infected with mass tourism. The people are warm and welcoming, and the more you eat their food and drink their wine, the more they fill with joy. That sense of Italian hospitality is our number one priority with every guest on our culinary holidays. Our goal with each guest is not to simply show you the sights and offer culinary experiences. It is to bring you into our family . Everything we do revolves around that premise. It is all so relaxed and fun. Our guests quickly find that we don’t treat them like customers. We treat them like visiting relatives (The kind we enjoy having, that is!). Of course, this sounds like marketing mumbo jumbo, but it simply isn’t. It is one of the reasons our guests so regularly tell us we far exceeded their expectations .

"Be" The View

Small & Intimate Groups

All-Inclusive Vacations

The CDV Difference

Truly exclusive experiences.

Experiences you could never have on your own or with any other tour company...

Most of our vacations are all-inclusive. We take care of everything except gifts you bring home...

Local Living & Boutique Hotels

We choose truly special and small locations that reflect the local living wherever we go...

Truly Unique Locations

Get to know the real Italy, Portugal & Croatia as you visit the places that excite the locals, as well as bucket list destinations...

Small Groups

Nobody wants to feel like cattle, and we want to know you! So our average group size is 16 to 18 guests...

No Shop-Steering

We will never "steer" you into tourist traps that give tour company incentives or kickbacks...

Live the Local Life

All personal with true local culture at the center of it all. A true sense of family and belonging...

Farm to Table Food

Experience Italian & Portuguese Food by Local Standards, where restaurants have their own farms...

No Surprise "Options"

Everything is included in our up-front pricing. When you are with us, we have nothing to sell you...

Guest Reviews & Testimonials

Letters & Reviews From Our Guests...

   We ate the the meals we had prepared on the terrace, lingering over the table for hours--laughing, talking and singing   

   From the time you book your trip until your departure, CDV gives you all the information you could possibly need, followed through with great organization and friendly people.   

   I loved every single thing about this wonderful trip. The food... the excursions... the wine... but the very best was the people!   

   This is my first CDV vacation and I loved it. You did a great job.   

   Our first trip to Italy will always have a special place in our hearts thanks to you,   

   Thank you all for the most amazing vacation ever.   

   I am not sure I will be able to go back to my "regular" life without reliving this experience everyday   

   If you don't have a good time immersed in the Italian culture with the locals they gather around you and the new friends you'll make - it is your fault.   

   The selection of wineries & olive grove in small towns provides an experience of Italian culture.   

   I will never forget all the love and fun !!   

   I will bring a bit of Italy to my home in Montreal   

   Magical, memorable, unforgettable!   

   If your impression of Sicily is all about gangsters and "swimming with the fishes", you need to check out CDV's Sicily adventure.   

   We especially loved sitting in the square listening to music,   

   The visits with local businesses and families were highlights   

since we started the dream

have become family

served to happy tummies

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Sober Travelers Find Something to Savor in Wine Country

Mocktail trails, olive oil tours and elevated dining experiences are among the many ways the renowned wine-producing areas of Sonoma, Mendoza and Tuscany are appealing to sober or sober-curious travelers.

By Christine Chitnis

Amy Snook knows more about wine than your average traveler. Originally from California, she now lives in the Douro Valley of Portugal, her partner works in the wine industry, and she has visited 47 countries, many of which have celebrated viticulture. But seven years ago, on a trip to Mendoza, a winemaking region in the foothills of Argentina’s Andes Mountains, she opted to abstain from drinking alcohol, a decision she would repeat in future travels.

“It’s such a long flight to Argentina, and I was only there for 10 days,” said Ms. Snook, 34, a publishing professional. “I’m aware of how alcohol affects me, and I chose to prioritize feeling amazing every day of the trip over dealing with a hangover.”

During her visit, Ms. Snook bicycled between vineyards, reveled in breathtaking scenery, relaxed with spa treatments and engaged with sommeliers and winemakers, coming away with a new appreciation for sustainable and regenerative agriculture.

“The obvious question when you tell someone that you aren’t drinking is, ‘Out of all the places you could go, why travel to wine country?’” she said. “But to me, it makes perfect sense because these regions offer all the perks of luxury travel — wellness amenities, beautiful landscapes and fine dining.”

With 41 percent of Americans seeking to reduce their alcohol intake, according to a consumer-sentiment study released in January by NCSolutions, Ms. Snook’s experience is part of a larger trend: the rise of sober-curious or mindful drinking. While sober travel is hardly a new concept, its popularity is surging to new heights — particularly among younger generations — and forcing a reckoning in the wine industry. The 2024 State of the U.S. Wine Industry report , an annual forecast of market conditions and trends written by the wine-business analyst Rob McMillan, found that 52 percent of consumers ages 21 to 34 believe that consuming alcohol, even in moderation, is bad for your health.

This trend is reshaping travel to world-class wine destinations like Sonoma County, in California, as well as Mendoza and Tuscany. Blessed with temperate climates, extended growing seasons, fertile soils, rich histories and breathtaking vistas, these renowned wine locales are expanding their offerings to attract drinkers and nondrinkers.

Here are some of the restaurants, tour groups and wineries in those regions that are reinventing the travel experience to be more inclusive of the sober-curious.

Dining in Sonoma

If wine is a true expression of the land, embodying the unique characteristics of its soil, weather and the meticulous craftsmanship of those who cultivate it, can you still forge that connection without drinking?

At Cyrus , a Michelin-starred fine dining destination in Geyserville , Calif., the answer is a resounding yes. Sonoma County, double the size of neighboring Napa, made conscious decisions to protect and diversify its land use, ensuring grapes as well as agricultural crops were grown. Douglas Keane, Cyrus’s owner and chef, highlights the local harvest by working with small farms and purveyors to source his ingredients. Crosnes — a Chinese artichoke — from Alexander Valley Vineyards gardens, yuzu and finger limes from the citrus grower David Levine, and cheesefrom Andante Dairy have all ended up on Cyrus’s menu.

Also on the menu: Kally , an alcohol-free wine alternative produced with housemade organic verjuice and sourced from Northern California. Served at more than 15 other Michelin-starred restaurants, Kally’s bottles include Early Chardonnay, which is crisp, bright and changes flavor and aroma as it moves across the palate, similar to a fine wine. A tart, vibrant Golden Sparkler has notes of jasmine and citrus, and a floral, fruity Rosé Sparkler offers hints of strawberry and hibiscus.

“Chefs and sommeliers are interested in having precise nonalcoholic pairings. Their food was created to be prepared with sophisticated drinks, not just sparkling water,” said Scott Mitic, who created the beverage along with his wife, Katie.

Customers, too, appreciate having a choice, he said, noting that many of Kally’s most loyal drinkers are wine enthusiasts. “This is not an abstinence movement; it is a moderation movement.”

Cyrus Schultz, the wine director and sommelier at Cyrus, aims to create drinks that make sober guests feel just as special, if not more, than those indulging in traditional wine pairings. His nonalcoholic creations include the Rosé Champagne, an effervescent blend of coconut, white sesame, cherry blossom and lime, and the Apple Martini, a sweet, herbaceous concoction of pink lady apple, fennel and mint olive oil.

“The intention is never to mimic alcohol products, but to construct the pairings similarly to how a chef looks at a menu — different textures, temperatures and flavor profiles,” Mr. Schultz said.

These efforts are not limited to one restaurant. Chris Vomvolakis, senior manager of consumer public relations at Sonoma County Tourism , said bars, restaurants and wineries across the region are recognizing that it’s not all about wine.

The town of Healdsburg recently created the Mocktail Trail , with eight participating restaurants, and Meadowcroft Wines in the town of Sonoma curated a flight of original zero-proof cocktails. David Messerli, Meadowcroft’s marketing and strategy director, said the winery encourages guests “to discern aromas, flavors and nuances, much like they would with wine.”

“For those opting out of alcohol, we felt there was more we could do,” he said. “People have various reasons for abstaining from alcohol, and no one should feel excluded because of it.”

Women-led luxury in Mendoza

Mendoza, renowned for its malbec wines and stunning Andean landscapes, is no stranger to luxury accouterments, but sober guests? That is a newer phenomenon. “We have definitely noticed an increase in guests seeking nonalcoholic travel options in recent years,” said Victoria Stiles, sales manager at Cavas Wine Lodge , a luxury 18-room hotel set amid a 55-acre vineyard.

At Cavas, wine may be the main attraction, but guests can book spa treatments using vine and grape-seed extracts, join yoga sessions on the private terrace overlooking the Andes and vineyards, and take full-day hiking excursions to Aconcagua Provincial Park, a rugged, mountainous destination that is home to Mount Aconcagua, South America’s highest peak.

Wild Terrains , a certified B-Corp travel company specializing in experiences for women, has planned three days of a 10-day Argentina tour to be sober-inclusive in Mendoza. Built around women-owned businesses, stops include boutique lodging at Entre Cielos , horseback riding in the Andean foothills, home-cooked asado at Estancia Los Chulengos and a private dining experience at Michelin-starred Zonda Cocina de Paisaje . The meal offers special mocktail pairings with distinct flavors like lemon verbena, beets and burro, an herb used to make digestive teas and infusions.

“In Mendoza, our trip centers on talented female winemakers who are pushing boundaries in a historically male-dominated industry,” said Lauren Bates, founder of Wild Terrains. “While these experiences include wine tastings, we want sober travelers to feel intentionally included even if they are skipping the wine tasting.”

Sofia Pescarmona, owner of the Bodega Lagarde vineyard and Zonda Cocina de Paisaje, said that while the restaurant experience aims to showcase their wine, nondrinkers will also appreciate it.

“We truly believe we can offer an elevated experience for those who don’t drink wine by highlighting other seasonal produce grown on our property,” she said.

Tasting olive oil in Tuscany

Wine tastings epitomize indulgence, especially immersed in the heart of Tuscany, when visitors can savor glass after glass of Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. Salvatore Ferragamo Jr., chief executive of the Il Borro wine estate and grandson of the fashion house’s founder, encourages guests to find other ways to indulge.

“The olive harvests in the autumn produce the region’s spicy, piquant ‘green gold,’” said Mr. Ferragamo.

Il Borro, in Tuscany’s Valdarno, is a meticulously restored medieval village that includes 58 suites, three vacation villas, two restaurants, stables, working vineyards and olive groves. Olive oil production began in 1996, following the recovery of varieties like Frantoio, Moraiolo and Leccino that had long been neglected. Now, after touring some 80 acres of organic groves, guests can engage in a tasting experience of two distinct oils, one full-bodied with floral, fruity and grassy aromas, the other robust, peppery and dark.

Another option, Tuscan Organic Tours , offers immersive daylong experiences that delve into wine and oil but also other rich agricultural offerings. Delicious tours with private transportation highlight tastes and flavors that include Pecorino di Pienza, one of the most renowned Italian cheeses, saffron and fresh pastas. The tours include visits to organic farms, lunches, tastings, and opportunities to participate in cheese-making and saffron harvesting.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .