Tour description
Bespoke Wine Region Tour of Italy – Campania & Tuscany
DAY 1 SORRENTO
Today begins your Bespoke Wine Region Tour of Italy, with the first leg in beautiful Campania. On the way to your hotel, our chauffeur will pause at scenic spots along the coastline, where you will be able to stretch your legs and take in the views! Your wonderful 4* hotel is located ideally just above Sorrento’s centre, providing gorgeous views over the gulf of Naples. As your journey here may have been tiring, why not relax at your hotel’s swimming pool or private beach; surrounded by gorgeous gardens. The town’s long standing popularity in tourism stems from its location at the western gateway to the Amalfi Coast.
Sorrento was a compulsory stop on the 19th-century ‘Grand Tour’ of Europe’s elite, and interest in the town was first sparked by the poet Byron, who inspired a long line of holidaying literary geniuses – including Goethe, Dickens and Tolstoy – to sample the Sorrentine air. The romance persists. Wander through Piazza Tasso on any given Sunday and you’ll be exposed to one of Italy’s finer passeggiate (strolls), weaving past palatial hotels, magnificent marquetry shops and simple Campanian restaurants serving gnocchi alla sorrentina finished off with a shot of ice-cold limoncello or bitter dark espresso. This evening you will be dining at your hotel restaurant experiencing delectable local and international specialties, whilst surrounded by breathtaking sea views. Your meal will be accompanied by some great Italian wines to taste the beginning of your Italian food and wine adventure! Salute!
Tour in a nutshell: Chauffeured transportation. Seafood dinner with wines. Overnight in a 4* hotel located perfectly above the center of Sorrento.
DAY 2 AMALFI COAST
Today an exciting full day awaits when our chauffeur takes you to discover the incredible Amalfi Coast! You will be heading along this scenic stretch to visit Positano, Ravello, and Amalfi. It is hard to grasp that pretty little Amalfi, with its sun-filled piazzas and small beach, was once a maritime superpower with a population of more than 70,000. For one thing, it’s not a big place – you can easily walk from one end to the other in about 20 minutes. For another, there are very few historical buildings of note. The explanation is chilling: most of the old city, and its inhabitants, simply slid into the sea during an earthquake in 1343. Despite this, the town exudes history and culture, most notably in its Byzantine-influenced cathedral.
Positano is one of the most glamorous Amalfi destinations, famously known as the gorgeous pastel town built into a steep hill, with breathtaking views of the gulf. Legend tells us that over 1,000 years ago the discovery of a washed-up painting of the Virgin Mary is the subsequent reason which led the locals to build Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta, placing the icon above the main altar. For lunch today you will be dining at a charming hillside restaurant which also offers cooking classes; as the food they create here is excellent. Enjoy a meal a la Campaniese, which has the classic dishes of the area reworked with delicious flair. Our chauffeur will happily stop at the most scenic spots along the way, giving you a chance to capture picture perfect snapshots to treasure for a lifetime. Ravello, a beautiful medieval hilltop village with stunning views, is the perfect place to spend your afternoon strolling through spectacular villas and expansive gardens. The elegant terraces of Villa Rufolo and Cimbrone provide postcard views of the lush gardens and the Mediterranean backdrop, which enchanted for example, Wagner, in whose honor the International Festival of Music takes place each year.
Tour in a nutshell: Chauffeured transportation. Regional standout lunch with wine. Overnight Sorrento.
DAY 3 AVELLINO WINE REGION
Your discovery of Campania continues today, when you are taken on two Campania wine tours, to experience two very different wineries in the highly regarded wine region of Avellino. Dedicated to the preservation of Campania’s most evocative ancient grape varieties, your first stop today is to a high end meticulous wine producer, founded in 1986. What sets this winery apart is the fact that they are true to their local heritage, cultivating native varieties, unlike many other producers who up-root long standing vines. Their innovative use of both traditional methods and new technology creates unique, expressive wines which have received top reviews from some of the world’s most acclaimed wine critics. Accompanied by their passionate wine expert, you will hear more about their history and passion, while tasting their fantastic Aglianico reds and Greco di Tufo whites.
Onwards now you are booked in for a delicious, rural, Avellino home cooked meal in a quaint village, en-route to your next winery. Your freshly prepared dishes will be paired with excellent local wines.Next, you are heading to a historical winery dating back to 1647; a contrast to the luxurious modernity of this morning’s cellar. Legend tells us that the original father of this estate escaped the plague of his local town, and moved to Tufo, planting some vines that he had brought with him, giving birth to the famous Greco di Tufo. The winery has continued to use its own nursery to produce vines, keeping the genetic inheritance almost unchanged since its origins. As you learn more about its history and tour the fascinating cellar consisting of caves and tunnels, you will finish with unique tastings, accompanied by excellent local cheeses, salami and bread.
Tour in a nutshell: Chauffeured transportation. Two winery tours with tastings. Authentic lunch with wine. Overnight Sorrento.
DAY 4 CAPRI
Capri, the original chic island of the European jet-set is the destination of your Italian tour today. This ruggedly beautiful Italian island is just 10 kilometers squared, and since the 1950s has been famed for its glitterati. Steep cliffs rise majestically from an impossibly blue sea; elegant villas drip with wisteria and bougainvillea; even the trees seem to be carefully manicured. In spite of its expensive restaurants and museum-quality jewellery shops, Capri is a jewel of the Mediterranean. The island’s two main towns, Capri and Anacapri can get crowded, but it’s always possible to break away from the hustle and bustle by heading away from the main spots. From Capri’s famed Piazzetta, it is just a short stroll to Punta Tragara to view the iconic Faraglioni rocks, for example. Or perhaps head to quieter Anacapri, whose stunning Chiesa San Michele affords unrivalled sea views from Mount Solaro.
The best-known natural site in Capri is the Blue Grotto, a dark cavern where the sea glows an electric blue. We will gladly assist with different ideas on how to spend your time here, depending on your preferences, be it hiking, using the open deck Capri taxis around the island or visiting the most iconic spots to do some shopping for Limoncello, handmade leather sandals or decorative pottery. As always, we will provide many suggestions for your day in your Bespoke Wine Region Tour of Italy Personal Travel Journals. After your fantastic day, the late afternoon ferry will take you back to Sorrento, where you might wish to have some aperitifs or dinner at Piazza Tasso, or the surrounding laneways before strolling back to your hotel.
Tour in a nutshell: Return Capri ferry tickets. Overnight Sorrento.
DAY 5 NAPLES
The vivid and gritty city of Naples greets you this morning on your Bespoke Wine Region Tour of Italy! Our charismatic, local guide will be awaiting you, to take you on a fascinating tour around the historic centre, its buildings slowly falling apart but packed with layers of ancient art. Naples is the oldest constantly inhabited town in Europe, with layers of civilization having created what astounds you today. The centro historico (old town) is not everybody’s cup of tea as it can be quite loud and disheveled, but character, it has! Among the narrow, graffitied streets and run-down palazzi there are some historical jewels waiting to be discovered. Visit serene medieval churches with beautiful frescoed ceilings, incredible sculptures and if you wish, experience Napoli Sotterranea (underground Naples), a labyrinth of ancient, very narrow and dark tunnels, hidden below the city that hold the ruins of 2,500 years of history! It would not be a food and wine tour of Italy without a delicious Neapolitan cuisine lunch. At a beloved and authentic trattoria/restaurant, taste the dishes that have made Naples world famous: spaghetti with clams (spaghetti alla vongole), pizza (pizza originated here), mozzarella di bufala, rum baba, zeppole and sfogliatelle.
This late afternoon has you visiting the next region of your tour; bucolic Tuscany. Catch the high speed train from Naples to Florence and watch the Italian countryside change as it whizzes from region to region! Your Florentine abode is a 4* boutique hotel set along the edge of the Arno river, a short stroll from the vibrant heart of Florence. This late afternoon our chauffeur will transfer you to Naples train station where you will catch the high speed train to Florence (business, 1st class seats). This evening, after you have checked into your fantastic hotel, why not enjoy the local cuisine just outside your doorstep, as your beautiful hotel is located right at the edge of the picturesque River Arno.
Tour in a nutshell: Chauffeured transportation. Private guide tour of Naples old town. Authentic Neapolitan cuisine lunch. High speed business class train to Florence. Overnight in a 4* palace hotel in Florence.
DAY 6 FLORENCE
Today you have a perfect day to (re) discover the capital of Tuscany, exploring her gems at a leisurely pace. Florence being the cradle of the Renaissance, is one of Europe’s great art cities. With frescoes by Giotto and Ghirlandaio, canvases by Botticelli and Bronzino, and sculptures by Michelangelo and Giambologna, there is so much exquisite art and architecture within its ancient walls that it’s easy to become overwhelmed. But, there is more to handsome Florence than just museums and monuments! It is bursting with quirky shops and quality crafts; a living city with an eclectic cultural life that embraces opera, classical music and contemporary art. The restaurant and nightlife scene is also very much thriving! You might wish to take advantage of Florence’s famous shopping; the options are endless in this vibrant city, from high end designer boutiques to colorful street markets. Our fantastic art and history guide is available, if you fancy a fascinating in-depth private visit to the world famous Duomo Cathedral or/and the Uffizi Gallery, an exquisite way to enjoy the finest Italian art! Hear our guide’s fascinating stories and insights into Dante and the Medici family; as to what makes this city and its history so unique.Florence’s diminutive size means everything is very accessible, with most of the main sights lying within walking distance of one another.
Escaping for some downtime is rather convenient, you may wish to explore the tiny Chianti Rufina wine region and discover some great Sangioveses. Otherwise, there are many other Tuscan medieval towns such as Arezzo, Siena and Lucca. Alternatively, you will have many suggestions for your day in your Bespoke Wine Region Tour of Italy Personal Travel Website and in your printed Personal Travel Journals.
Tour in a nutshell: Free day or optional private guided art tour. Overnight Florence.
DAY 6 LUCCA & MAREMMA
Your Bespoke Wine Region Tour of Italy continues to the Italian medieval city of Lucca, nicknamed the “city of 100 churches”, and famously known for its well-preserved Renaissance walls. You will discover ancient monuments, antique shops, traditional arts and crafts and Italian food shops. The beautiful 4 kilometer 16th century wall is surrounded by an almost park-like setting with benches and trees alongside the broad walkway, a fantastic place to unwind and have a gelato. Perhaps visit the archeological remains under the 12th century church of Reparata and the Duomo di San Martino, the cathedral with a beautiful Romanesque façade. If you enjoy museums then you may wish to visit the National Art Gallery situated in the 17th century Palazzo Mansi, where you will encounter renowned works from Italian artists from the Renaissance period. Why not enjoy a laid-back lunch in Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, where the amphitheatre once stood.
This Italian food and wine adventure continues this afternoon to the lush countryside of the Maremma. On the way you will visit one of Tuscany’s most prestigious wineries. Come with high expectations, as this Super Tuscan icon will mostly likely be one of your favorite winery experiences. Accompanied by their excellent guide, learn about the exceptional vineyards and continue to their impressive barrel room and cellar, where you will be greeted by contemporary wine themed artworks. Your exclusive tour will be finalized with a wine tasting of the current vintages of their mythical Ornellaia reds. Your boutique 4* hotel is an historic, timeless stone dwelling, surrounded by gorgeous gardens amid a stunning backdrop – it is easy to feel right at home and fall in love straight away. This evening a fantastic dinner awaits you at your rural retreat, whose cuisine is served in their romantic restaurant which has a beautiful terrace from where to watch the sun go down.
Tour in a nutshell: Chauffeured transportation. Winery visit with tastings. Dinner with wines. Overnight in a boutique 4* hotel in the Maremma countryside.
DAY 8 VOLTERRA
Today you are setting off to the walled town of Volterra, known for its Etruscan remains. Its fortified walls were built in the 4th century and this charming hilltop town has much to offer in the way of Italian food delights! First you will visit a specialized truffle boutique, whose passionate husband and wife team will offer you delicious tastings. The charismatic couple will explain all about their truffle products, and will also provide you with fascinating information about how their truffles are hunted by the husband, and their truffle-hunting dog, Patto. From truffles they make all kinds of specialties, such as oil, cheese and add it to honey, to salami and even their delicious truffle chocolate! After your fun tasting, explore this enchanting town at your leisure. Perhaps visit the beautiful Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, or, unique to this town, one of Italy’s best preserved Roman Amphitheaters, built in the 1st century.
You will then head to your home for the next two nights, a stunning 18th century villa hotel in the heart of the peaceful Tuscan countryside. Surrounded by panoramic views, amid 6 hectares of parkland, you will surely appreciate a delightful stroll in the gardens as you unwind into country life. After your visit to Volterra, you might like to stop en-route to (re) visit the iconic Tuscan village of San Gimignano, otherwise known as the Medieval Manhattan, for its iconic towers. Why not enjoy a gelato at one of the best gelateria in Italy, whose saffron or rosemary and raspberry flavours are ideal to cleanse the palate. If you have yet to see the majestic town of Siena, it too is well-worth a stop; a venture to the days gone by with its beautiful architecture and Piazza del Campo, being ideal for a refreshing aperitivo.
Tour in a nutshell: Chauffeured transportation. Tuscan truffle tasting. Overnight in a charming villa hotel in the heart of the Tuscan countryside.
DAY 9 CHIANTI CLASSICO
Your Bespoke Wine Region Tour of Italy has you visiting some incredible wineries today. The first is probably the oldest winery in Italy, founded in the 12th century by the Ricasoli family. Centuries later one of their descendants
was responsible for formulating the grape mix of Chianti Classico during the 19th century. Your tour with an in-house expert will take you on a journey of nearly a thousand years to the remarkable ancient castle of the estate, around the grounds, to see the chapel and also to appreciate the great views across the surrounding countryside from the panoramic terrace. You will then head to the impressive, modern winery where you will experience a tasting of several top Chianti Classico wines and enjoy a delicious hearty Tuscan lunch, accompanied with more of their fine Chianti.
This afternoon you will then be visiting another exceptional Chianti Classico winery. This estate shows that the perfect combination of soil and micro-climate, together with exceptional vintners, create the ideal conditions for producing truly excellent wines. You will finalize your visit with a tasting of their quality bottles, which will soon have you acknowledging how tradition and innovation work best hand-in-hand. The rest of your afternoon is free for you to enjoy at your leisure, you may like to stroll the surrounding Tuscan countryside, relax at your hotel’s pool, or if you’re feeling more energetic you could always play a game of tennis!
Optional extension: If you wish to discover more Chianti Classico wines and wineries, why not extend your stay and let us take you on some more winery tours and tastings along the nearby Via Chiantigiana, the famous Chianti wine route.
Tour in a nutshell: Chauffeured transportation. Two Chianti Classico winery visits with tastings. Authentic Tuscan lunch with wine. Overnight Tuscan countryside.
DAY 10 MONTALCINO & PIENZA
Today you are heading further south for an introduction to the prestigious Brunello di Montalcino wine region, one of Italy’s most prized wine regions. You will taste some of the very best Brunello at a medieval castle that presides over a landscape of forests and vineyards near Montalcino, and enjoy a very special wine that takes around 5 years to age before it can become a Brunello. Following, you will then head to a family owned historical winery, beautifully orientated amongst the hills of Montalcino. The climate here creates robust and elegant wines due to the strong sun exposure during the day and strong thermal drop in the evening. Your winery tour includes seeing the property which has been in the family since the eighteenth century, and learning about the quality and care they put into their wine making. For lunch on this fantastic Italian food and wine tour today, you will dine in a lovely farmhouse setting, accompanied with a delicious, typically Tuscan meal.
Tuscany is home to some of Italy’s most scenic vineyards and verdant rolling hills which you will appreciate as you pass through picturesque landscapes on the way to Pienza, stopping en-route for a picture perfect moment to take in the Val d’Orcia views. Pienza is a pretty little hamlet, birthplace of 15th century Pope Pius II, who employed a brilliant architect to rebuild the town following precise philosophical, scientific and rational criteria and include squares, palaces and fortresses with harmonious proportions. Pienza is famed for its unique sheep’s milk cheese, Pecorino di Pienza, which you will be tasting at a wonderful artisan cheese shop.
You will then check-in to your wonderful 18th century villa hotel in the heart of the peaceful Tuscan countryside, on the outskirts of medieval Montepulciano.
Optional Extension: If you are a wine lover, why not add an extra night in Montepulciano, to explore more of our favorite Vino Nobile di Montepulciano and Brunello di Montalcino wineries?
Tour in a nutshell: Chauffeured transportation. Brunello di Montalcino wine tastings. Brunello di Montalcino winery visit followed by a Tuscan lunch with wine tastings. Pienza artisan cheese shop visit and tasting. Overnight in a 4* villa hotel in the Montepulciano countryside.
DAY 11 MONTEPULCIANO
This morning on your Bespoke Wine Region Tour of Italy, you may like to get more acquainted with beautiful wine-proud Montepulciano. The best way to view Montepulciano is by strolling around the elegant Renaissance palaces, ancient churches, charming squares and hidden corners. You will also surely enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside, covered by vineyards producing the famous Nobile! Then our chauffeur will take you to a small Vino Nobile di Montepulciano winery that started in the 1960’s as a weekend activity. Today this estate continues with quality that sets them apart from the rest, making some of the best Vino Nobile as well as two Super Tuscans, both from Sangiovese grapes. As you tour through the vineyards and winery you will learn about their intriguing story, with an exclusive wine tasting to finalize your visit.
Next, you are then heading to the up and coming Montefalco Sagrantino wine region in the heart of peaceful Umbria. This organic winery was acquired in 1882, and has been run by the same family ever since. Throughout your wine tour with them you will learn about Montefalco Sagrantino territory, and the technical aspects of their wine production. Here you will also enjoy a delicious, Umbrian home cooked lunch. Before heading back to Rome you will be stopping by the small, Roman town of Spoleto. This village is known for its fantastic mix of remains from both Roman and medieval times, and there is plenty to discover. Aside from providing a wealth of history, Spoleto is home to important art events. Its historic center has an ingenious forward-thinking concept that means it is a pedestrian hub thanks to its innovative metro system.
Tour in a nutshell: Chauffeured transportation. Vino Nobile di Montepulciano winery visit and tasting. Montefalco Sagrantino winery visit and tasting with an authentic Umbrian lunch. Overnight in a 4* boutique hotel, located in the heart of Rome.
DAY 12 DEPARTURE
Today is the end of your Bespoke Wine Region Tour of Italy and we are sure that you will be taking away some wonderful memories with you!
If you are not ready for the long trip home just yet, then we will be delighted to arrange a tour extension if you are interested. Maybe you would like to extend your stay in Rome? We can happily include extra nights in the “Eternal City” if you wish to stay longer. Or maybe you wish to extend your trip to include other incredible Italian wine region destinations, in which case we will be delighted to assist with our hand-selected hotels.
Tour in a nutshell: Departure day or tour extension.
Tour quotation
Wine Tour of Italy – Campania & Tuscany Quote Request
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Tour in a Nutshell
From the azure Amalfi Coast to ochre Tuscany
Up and coming family run cellars & historical Italian wineries
Best Italian wines & authentic regional food
Chauffeured transportation & guided wine tours
12 days/11 nights, boutique 4* hand-selected hotels
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