When we first started exploring options for a trip to Italy we were looking for an opportunity to join others in a small group tour setting, base out of a central location, and engage the culture more fully than if we simply skipped from one tourist destination to the next. I couldn't tell you exactly how we came across Tasting Tuscany in our search but the tour descriptions matched exactly what we were looking for. We only hoped that the execution matched the descriptions in the on line materials. We were excited that the Cooking in Chianti tour had openings that matched our desired tour dates.
What we experienced on our tour checked all the boxes that we were searching for but also provided for a lot of other enjoyable relationships and opportunities that we weren't expecting. It was great that our tour group was only six people. That allowed us to build closer relationships within the group and with the tour guides than might have been possible otherwise. The four sisters from Iowa that we toured with made us feel like additions to the family and were a tremendous amount of fun. Debora and Susi were terrific tour guides but became more like friends leading us on an adventure. Marc and Silvia helped us navigate the first hectic days in Florence and provided a great overview of the amazing sites within the city.
The tour destinations and activities were well curated and planned to keep us active without being overwhelming. They were opportunities to engage with locals who were passionate about their culture, their work and, best of all, their food and wine. All of the chefs we spent time with were engaging and helpful. They seemed to genuinely enjoy their time with us. We had a good mixture of city tours and shopping, cooking classes, and free time. Growing up on a farm, and also loving pizza, the stop at Podere il Casale was a highlight for me. In Florence, the Medici Chapel was the most most magnificent building I've ever experienced.
My wife and I both highly recommend the Cooking in Chianti tour, and I expect that the other tours operated by Tasting Tuscany are equally well thought out and executed. If you take a tour out of Florence, we recommend adding a couple of days either before or after the official tour to take in any additional sites in the city that aren't included in the tour. If you do so, go on line to the official sites and purchase tickets in advance so you don't have to stand in long lines. We enjoyed our time at the Pitti Palace museum and gardens, and at the Uffizi...
Read more🌟 Exceptional Wine and Food Tour in Tuscany - A Must-Experience! 🌟
I recently had the pleasure of experiencing a wine and food tour in Tuscany that completely surpassed my expectations. From start to finish, the tour was nothing short of extraordinary.
The journey through the picturesque Tuscan vineyards and charming villages was breathtaking. Our guide Marc was knowledgeable, engaging, and truly passionate about the region's rich history and traditions.
But what truly set this tour apart was the food. Each meal was a culinary masterpiece, showcasing the best of Tuscan cuisine. Every bite was a delightful explosion of flavors, made from the freshest local ingredients. The wine pairings were equally impressive, perfectly complementing each dish and adding to the overall experience.
Every detail of the tour was meticulously planned and executed, making it a seamless and unforgettable adventure. I can't recommend this tour highly enough for anyone looking to indulge in the finest food and wine that Tuscany has to offer. It was an unforgettable experience that I will cherish forever.
The accommodations were one-of-a-kind, including a fantastic old abbey and a medieval castle. Staying in these unique and historic locations added an extra layer of charm and authenticity to the experience, making it even...
Read moreSo little in life beats expectations, Tasting Tuscany goes beyond expectations on all fronts!
Their outstanding service starts before you even leave for Italy with informative updates, travel suggestions, even information on the cheeses and wines you will encounter. Just incredible.
The accommodations, meals and wines are world class. An art hotel in Florence, a castle in a vineyard in Chianti and a palazzo on the canal in Venice. Heavenly beds and bathrooms! All accommodations were filled with knowledgeable staff ready to help with any question or need.
The touring is perfect - a mix of art, history, culture along with wine tastings, exhibitions of perfume, leather and glass making. It always seemed to be just the right amount of touring then onto an amazing meal!
As with most things in life, it’s the people who make travel special. Being in a small group (ours was 8) allows plenty of opportunity for personal attention and getting to know your fellow travelers. Marc and his staff are knowledgeable, professional, accommodating and fun. In addition to the fantastic tours , museums and historic sights, they build in time for stops at small cafes to taste aperitifs, appetizers and gelato!
This trip truly was a...
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