tuscany

Tuscany, Center North of Italy

Considered amongst the most beautiful places in the world, Tuscany is one of the most sought-after destinations in Europe, due in part to its paradisiacal landscapes.

Revel in the majestic beauty of Chianti, the gray colored clays of Crete Senesi and the gentle, undulating hills of the Val D’Orcia. The southern coast of Tuscany is characterized by long sandy beaches and natural protected oases, perfect for interludes of relaxation following days of roaming the countryside. Tuscany also boasts some of the most fascinating cities in all of Europe, including Florence, Lucca, Pisa and Siena. As such, it is considered the most popular and highest-profile region to visit in Italy.

FOOD & WINE EXPERIENCES

When it comes to food and wine, no other region of Italy can match the multitude of offerings in Tuscany. With such variety and quality of products, this is the premiere region to go to for wine and food enthusiasts. In terms of wine, Tuscany hosts some of the most revered and renowned appellations including the celebrated Brunello di Montalcino, the noble red of Montepulciano, and the legendary Chianti Classico. It is also home to some of the most precious vintages in the entire world, such as the illustrious ‘Super Tuscans’ of Ornellaia and Sassicaia from Bolgheri… a truly decadent experience for both aspiring wine connoisseurs and the most experienced oenophiles amongst us. For epicurean delights, we encourage you to dig into the Tuscan culture with a visit to Mercato Centrale, the ‘central market’ of Florence, for samplings of the most delicious local, seasonal products with one of our expert gastronomists. Tuscan cuisine lovers should not miss the opportunity to participate in an unforgettable cooking experience with us. We offer a wide range of tailored cookery classes – suitable for beginner to advanced cooks – taking place in luxury villas, private homes or a local agriturismo (a farm featuring local produce). Get to know the secrets of the Cucina Povera (literally translated as ‘the cooking of the poor’ or ‘peasant cooking’) – including some of the simplest yet most delicious cooking techniques in the world.

CULTURAL EXPERIENCES

At Viandando, we are passionate about culture and art. You will feel this passion yourselves when you take a professionally guided tour with us through Florence. Here, you will discover the sensational museums of the Uffizi and Accademia Galleries, Bargello, or Palazzo Pitti. Explore the less known yet stunning Casa Buonarroti and Museum of San Marco. Viandando can also open the doors for a private visit to the famous Vasari Corridor while offering themed itineraries based on Lorenzo de ‘Medici, Dante, Masaccio, Michelangelo, Leonardo Da Vinci and other Tuscan geniuses. Florence is more than just the European  capital of Art, so at Viandando we have crafted a number of additional experiences based on a diverse blend of interests such as Fashion, Beauty and of course … Gelato! We offer  noteworthy tours dedicated to Florentine fashion – including, but certainly not limited to, the Ferragamo Museum and a tour of Lorenzo Villoresi’s studio for customized scents and perfumes. We have also developed an excursion exclusively devoted to the Buontalentian roots of our world famous Gelato (Italia’s version of ice-cream), dedicated to those with a sweet tooth and a passion to satisfy the most hedonistic of cravings! Our expert guides have also created numerous compelling itineraries encompassing the ancient walled city of Siena, famous for its Palio horse race; Arezzo, with its popular Antiques Fair and medieval plaza where the age-old Giostra del Saracino (or the Joust of Saracino) takes place every year; Lucca, with its palatial royal villas; Pisa and the legendary ‘Leaning Tower’; and numerous small, quaint towns such as Pienza, Bagno Vignoni and San Quirico d’Orcia. All of this and more contribute to making Toscana the most sought after destination in Italy.

outdoor EXPERIENCES

When it comes to outdoor activities, Tuscany is the most ideal of Italian destinations. It’s legendary and varied landscapes offer travelers an incredible range of potential experiences. Let us enthrall you as we wander through the eternal hills of Chianti, trek through the Apuan Alps, or hike in the coastal Parks of Maremma and the unspoiled expanse of the Casentino forest. At Viandando, we have tailored a number of diverse and exceptional activities directed at all ages and aspirations. You can cycle in Val d’Orcia or Crete Senesi, enjoy leisurely walks in the Chianti countryside, enjoy a thrilling hot air balloon ride over the verdant Tuscan hills, participate in a truffle hunt in beautiful areas such as Crete Senesi and San Miniato, go horseback riding along coastal Maremma, book a boat trip to any number of beautiful islands in the Tuscan archipelago (including Giglio and Ciannutri and so, so much more.