Montepulciano, Montalcino y Cortona

Starting from Florence, the journey takes you to Cortona, one of the most ancient and charming villages in Tuscany. Perched on a hill in the Val di Chiana and made famous by the movie Under the Tuscan Sun, Cortona boasts Etruscan origins, evidenced by the imposing walls surrounding it, which date back to the 4th century BC. The village offers a perfect blend of medieval architecture, authentic atmospheres, and local culture, making it an unmissable destination for those seeking timeless beauty and authenticity. As an exclusive experience, you'll have the privilege of entering the workshop of a master ceramic artisan —a true "cocciaio" (*)— where you'll uncover the secrets of this ancient craft. Discover the traditional production process and witness a live demonstration of hand-painted decoration using the authentic colors that have made these creations so renowned for centuries. The next stop is Montepulciano, a captivating Renaissance town where you will have the opportunity to taste five fine wines including the prestigious Nobile di Montepulciano, while uncovering the secrets of its production in a setting steeped in history. As part of this refined tasting, you will also have the chance to sample also the iconic Brunello di Montalcino, a world-renowned wine that you will later discover in its place of origin.Here, you will enjoy also an exclusive and immersive light lunch experience in one of its historic underground wine cellars (if option selected), a truly unique setting where centuries of tradition meet the excellence of Tuscan winemaking. After this extraordinary experience, you’ll have time to explore the town’s enchanting historic center, famous as the set for films like "New Moon" and the series "Medici: Masters of Florence", featuring Dustin Hoffman and Richard Madden. As you continue toward the Val d'Orcia, you will enter the heart of one of Tuscany’s most scenic areas, where you can admire the iconic landscapes of rolling hills dotted with cypress trees, known worldwide for their ineffable beauty and recognized as a UNESCO heritage site. Along the way to Montalcino, you will spot the settings of famous film "The Gladiator"—a perfect opportunity for taking iconic photos. The final stop is Montalcino, a charming medieval town nestled in the rolling hills of Tuscany, characterized by an evocative 14th-century fortress still intact. Famous for its prestigious wines, Rosso di Montalcino and the world-renowned Brunello that you will have already appreciated in the tasting done in Montepulciano. Montalcino boasts a rich history and breathtaking landscapes. As you explore its small and enchanting historic center, with colorful shops and wine bars overlooking the medieval streets, you’ll be surrounded by ancient stone buildings, picturesque alleyways, and stunning views of the Val d’Orcia, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The tour concludes with a return to Florence in the late afternoon, leaving you with unforgettable memories of breathtaking landscapes and a collection of authentic experiences in art, history, and wine that will carry the flavors and aromas of this unparalleled region with you. (*) if not available, it will be replaced with a visit to authentic artisan shops, with traditional and typical works of the village Please note the order of the visit may change.