City Splendor Country Charm
Discover Rome and live like a local in a Tuscan Villa - 9 Days
ROME – FLorence - Tuscany - Rome
Live like a local in the heart of Tuscany with an exclusive escorted stay at Villa Casagrande—a historic villa where authentic Italian life unfolds with comfort, charm, and timeless style. Surrounded by rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves, this curated experience invites you to slow down, settle in, and savor Tuscany the way it’s meant to be enjoyed. From the moment you arrive, Villa Casagrande feels like home. Sip your morning espresso in the courtyard, wander through the villa’s serene gardens, and end each day with a glass of wine overlooking the hills. Your journey blends relaxation with discovery: guided excursions to medieval towns, artisan markets, wineries, and cultural treasures—always returning “home” to the villa’s warmth at the end of the day. Whether you’re learning to cook with fresh local ingredients, sharing stories over a long-table dinner, or uncovering hidden gems known only to locals, this experience goes far beyond traditional sightseeing. At Villa Casagrande, you don’t just visit Tuscany—you become part of it. Tuscany is more than a destination—it’s a feeling. From the historic elegance of Villa Casagrande to the art-filled streets of Florence and the medieval towers of San Gimignano, every step unveils a story shaped by beauty, history, and tradition. Wander through vineyards, sample world-class wines, and immerse yourself in authentic Italian life through hands-on cooking experiences, cultural encounters, and breathtaking landscapes. This journey is designed not just to show you Tuscany, but to let you live it—slowly, deeply, and wholeheartedly.
itinerary & prices
Day 1: Arrival in Rome | D
Welcome to Rome, the Eternal City! Upon arrival at Fiumicino Airport, meet your transfer and proceed to your hotel. Check in and enjoy free time to rest or explore at your own pace. In the evening, meet your Tour Manager in the hotel lobby for a welcome introduction and program briefing, followed by a welcome dinner at the hotel. Hotel Cristoforo Colombo**** OR SIMILAR
Day 2: Rome → Tuscany with Stop in Orvieto | B
After breakfast, check out and depart Rome toward Tuscany. Along the way, stop in Orvieto, a beautiful hilltop town known for its striking cathedral and medieval charm (approx. 2 hours from Rome). Enjoy about 2 hours of free time to explore, shop, or enjoy lunch on your own, accompanied by your Tour Manager. Continue to Hotel Villa Casagrande (approx. 2 hours). After check-in and time to settle in, meet your Tour Manager for an introduction to the charming town of Figline Valdarno. Evening at leisure to relax and enjoy your first taste of Tuscan life. Hotel Villa Casagrande
Day 3: Full-Day Florence by Rail | B
After breakfast, walk with your Tour Leader to Figline Station (15 minutes) for your regional train to Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance. Upon arrival, meet your local guide for a 3-hour guided walking tour of Florence’s historic center, including:
Brunelleschi’s Dome (external)
Piazza della Signoria
Palazzo Vecchio
Ponte Vecchio
Giotto’s Bell Tower (external)
Next, enjoy a special visit to a traditional artisan leather workshop, including a short demonstration of Florence’s famed leatherworking techniques. The rest of the day is free to explore Florence at your leisure—dine at a trattoria, shop for handmade goods, or visit iconic museums such as the Uffizi or Accademia (no admissions included). Return by train to Figline in the late afternoon. Hotel Villa Casagrande
Must-See Highlights
Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore & Baptistery
Marvel at the Cathedral’s iconic dome and the Baptistery’s famed bronze “Gates of Paradise.” (External visit)
Piazza della Signoria & Palazzo Vecchio
Walk through one of Florence’s most historic squares, home to centuries of political and artistic heritage.
Day 4: Day at Leisure + Pasta Class | B, D
Enjoy a relaxing day at Villa Casagrande—unwind in the gardens, visit the spa, or stroll through Figline Valdarno. Later, join your hands-on Pasta Cooking Class at the villa (morning or afternoon depending on group size). Roll up your sleeves and learn how to craft authentic Tuscan pasta from scratch with the guidance of an expert chef. Enjoy your homemade creation paired with local wine—a fun and delicious highlight of your stay! Hotel Villa Casagrande
Day 5: Full-Day Excursion to Venice | B, D
This morning, depart for your unforgettable Venetian adventure! Your driver will bring you to Tronchetto, where you’ll board a ferry to St. Mark’s area. Meet your private guide for a 2-hour walking tour including:
St. Mark’s Square
St. Mark’s Basilica (external)
Doge’s Palace (external)
Bridge of Sighs
Artisan shops and hidden alleys
Then enjoy a classic 30-minute gondola ride, gliding through Venice’s iconic canals. Free time for lunch or exploration before returning by ferry to Tronchetto and transferring back to Figline Valdarno. This evening, enjoy a traditional Tuscan dinner at Villa Casagrande. Hotel Villa Casagrande
Day 6: San Gimignano + Olive Oil & Wine Tasting with Lunch | B, L
After breakfast, depart for the UNESCO World Heritage town of San Gimignano, famous for its medieval towers and panoramic views. Enjoy free time to explore the shops, cafes, and cobblestone streets—and don’t miss the award-winning gelato! Then continue to a Tuscan winery for:
Guided wine tasting
Olive oil & truffle oil sampling
A regional lunch paired with estate wines
Return to Villa Casagrande in the afternoon.
What to Expect
San Gimignano Exploration
Wander through its medieval streets and admire its iconic skyline of towers.
Olive Oil & Wine Tasting
Learn to distinguish premium extra virgin olive oils and enjoy the flavors of local wines.
Tuscan Cuisine
Savor a delicious estate-grown lunch, surrounded by vineyards and rolling hills.
Hotel Villa Casagrande
Day 7: Tuscany → Rome with Stop in Montepulciano | B
Check out and begin your journey back to Rome. Along the way, stop in Montepulciano, renowned for its Renaissance architecture and world-famous wines. Enjoy free time for lunch, shopping, and exploration with guidance from your Tour Manager. Continue to Rome (approx. 2.5 hours) and check into your hotel. Evening at leisure. Hotel Cristoforo Colombo**** OR SIMILAR
Day 8: Half-Day Ancient Rome Tour | B, D
Today, explore the wonders of Ancient Rome with your private guide during a 4-hour walking tour (no admissions included). Visit iconic historic sites and learn the stories that shaped the Roman Empire. Tonight, enjoy a special farewell dinner at the hotel—a perfect way to celebrate your unforgettable Italian journey. Hotel Cristoforo Colombo**** OR SIMILAR
Day 9: Flight Home | B
After breakfast, check out and transfer to Fiumicino Airport for your flight home. Take with you memories of rolling hills, world-class wines, medieval towns, and the warm hospitality that makes Italy truly unforgettable. Arrivederci—Italy will be waiting for you next time!
INCLUSIONS
8 nights accommodation, with Daily buffet breakfasts
1 Professional English-speaking Tour Escort throughout the tour
Guided tour in Venice with Gondola ride
Guided tour in Florence
1 Pasta Making Class at Villa Casagrande with Dinner
1 Wine & Oil tasting with lunch in San Gimignano winery
Guided tour in Rome
2 dinners at Rome Hotel,
1 dinner at Villa Casagrande
Drinks (½ water; ¼ wine)
Headsets
Transfer in/out from Rome Daily
Transportation for tours as per itinerary
Note- The pick-up / drop-of times will be subject to confirmation by the local assistant
EXCLUSIONS
City Tax
Porterage in/out Hotel
Airfares
Gratuities to the Tour Leader/ Local Guides/ Drivers
Personal expenses
Transfer In/Out
Entrance tickets for museums / sites
Everything not clearly specified in the itinerary
