Things to do in Pienza, Tuscany: The 10 best experiences

Lunch with wine tasting at Cantina Brogioni is a perfect experience to spend a relaxing moment surrounded by the Chianti hills.

After a short walk during which you will be given a description of the winery and the process of extracting extra virgin olive oil, you will visit the winery, where you will learn more about the winemaking process.

Following this, you will be served a three-course lunch paired with 4 local wines:

•    1 first course of pasta al pesto (pine nuts, fresh basil, EVO oil and parmesan cheese), paired with an IGT white wine and a vintage Chianti classico
•    1 second course consisting of bruschetta with local EVO oil, selection of typical Tuscan salumi, 36 month Parmigiano Reggiano and Tuscan pecorino cheese, paired with a Chianti classico riserva and a Supertuscan
•    2 samples of Tuscan pecorino, one with local EVO oil with San Miniato white truffle and the other with cooked must
•    1 dessert consisting of a Greek yogurt mousse sprinkled with a dark cocoa cream with 12% EVO oil

In case of food allergies and intolerances it is possible to contact the facility after booking.

The horseback ride in the Tuscan countryside from Rignano sull'Arno, includes a group tour on horseback at the slowest gait (pace), saddle fitting and field practice before departure are included.

Upon arrival you will be asked to sign insurance forms, followed by a full explanation on the ground, on "riding the horse," and on safety, and then you will set off for the ride that will develop according to the package you choose.

Once you feel comfortable, you will begin the actual walk through the Tuscan hills. During the tour, you will take in the natural beauty of the Tuscan countryside, with its rolling hills and green fields. Your riding instructor will guide you through scenic trails, giving you the opportunity to enjoy breathtaking views of stunning scenery.

If you have chosen to do only the one-and-a-half hour ride, the ride will end at the stables where you can get off the horse and rest.

If, on the other hand, you have chosen to add the tasting (total time about 3 hours), the walk will take place through the countryside among vineyards, olive groves, cultivated fields and farmhouses that characterize the Tuscan landscape. It will then end in the park of the historic villa Torre a Cona. This is followed by a short walk (3 minutes) to reach the entrance of the villa where clients will be met by the villa staff. Here the guided tour to the small museum and cellars of Torre a Cona will begin, where the production processes from vine to bottle will be explained. This will conclude inside the old barn, with a tasting of four of the Villa's production wines accompanied by a plate of local cheeses. At the conclusion you will be taken back to the stables by van. The experience lasts about 3 hours (including about an hour and a half in the saddle).

Either way, horseback riding in the Tuscan hills is an unforgettable experience that will introduce you to the beauty and culture of Tuscany.

Horseback riding in Siena is a unique opportunity for prinipianti to get closer to horseback riding while enjoying a wonderful view of Siena and the Sienese hills.

After cleaning the horse together with the equestrian guide, you will be taught how to mount the horse and how to walk in total peace. You will then have the opportunity to stop at the organic farm for a tasting of typical Tuscan products.

The walk takes about 1 1/2 hours and can be organized as a group or exclusively.

You can walk in the morning or at sunset and the minimum age required to participate is 14 years old.

Wine tasting in Gaiole allows you to enjoy a unique experience in the heart of Chianti Classico.

You will be welcomed by an ancient medieval fortress where you can discover historic wineries and taste wines produced on site.

You can choose from 2 options.

Tasting of 3 wines

If you choose this tasting route, you can take a guided tour of the wineries followed by the tasting of:

•    Extra Virgin d’olive oil DOP Chianti Classico
•    "Molino delle Balze" IGT Toscana Bianco (Chardonnay)
•    "Chianti Classico" DOCG (Sangiovese)
•    “Poggio a' Frati” - Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG (Sangiovese)

Tasting of 4 wines

This option includes a guided tour of the wineries and tasting of the following products:

•    Extra Virgin d’olive oil DOP Chianti Classico
•    “Poggio ai Frati” - Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG (Sangiovese)
•    “Stielle” Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG (Sangiovese)
•    "Buriano” IGT Toscana (Cabernet Sauvignon)
•    “Pratola” IGT Toscana (Colorino)

Tasting wines and local products at the Brogioni Winery in Chianti provides you with a relaxing experience on a Tuscan estate.

This experience will begin with a short walk where you will be given a description of the winery and the process of extracting extra virgin olive oil will be explained.

Following that, you will visit the winery, where the winemaking process will be described.

Finally, you will taste 4 wines accompanied by typical products:

•    1 White IGT or Rosé IGT, paired with samples of bread and typical cold cuts
•    1 Chianti classico d’vintage, paired with bruschetta with local extra virgin olive oil
•    1 Chianti classico riserva, paired with a 36 month parmigiano reggiano
•    1 Supertuscan, paired with Tuscan pecorino cheese

In addition to the wines, it will be possible to taste Tuscan pecorino cheese with EVO oil with white truffle from San Miniato and with cooked must, dark cocoa cream containing 12% of EVO oil, and face, hand and body creams produced on site.

In case of food allergies and intolerances it is possible to contact the facility after booking.

For the Wine Tasting in Colle Val d'Elsa you will have a choice of different packages, which include a visit to the winery:

VISIT TO THE FARM tasting the products of the estate: a walk through the village during which we will tell you about the history of the estate and the agricultural productions. You will visit the winery and the oil mill and then taste the estate's products.

LIGHT LUNCH in the FARM tasting the wines of the Estate: walk in the village during which we will tell you about the agricultural productions, and then have lunch on the veranda with the Sommelier who will guide you in the food/wine pairing.

TAGLIERE AND TASTING with the wines of the Estate: walk in the village during which we will tell you about the agricultural productions. Followed by the tasting of the products such as wine and oil together with the sommelier, accompanied by a nice board of cold cuts, cheeses and crostini, to finish cantucci and vinsanto.

The Argentario catamaran and snorkeling day will begin at 9 a.m. in Porto Santo Stefano, in the province of Grosseto, where you will meet the crew who will accompany you on the catamaran excursion.

The boat ride will take you along the coast of the Monte Argentario promontory, past sandy bays, inlets, cliffs and coves of great natural beauty.

During the trip you will make several stops to snorkel in the most beautiful places, including Cala del Gesso, Cala dell'Olio and Cala Mar Morto. The crew will provide you with all the necessary equipment. You can also relax in the sun and enjoy the open bar with water, soft drinks, red and white wine.

During the first stop you will be offered a selection of local mixed flatbreads prepared with Tuscan olive oil, Taggiasca olives, and the local super with anchovies.

At lunch, the delicious Captain's mixed bruschetta will be offered, which may vary from day to day following the freshness of the products. At the end of the meal, a basket of fresh fruit and coffee will be offered, and in the afternoon there will be a Nutella party for everyone to recharge their energy and keep diving and swimming.

The day will end with the return to Porto Santo Stefano scheduled for 6 p.m. The excursion is confirmed with a minimum of 15 participants.

The Argentario e-bike tour from Porto Santo Stefano, in the province of Grosseto, begins at 10:00 am. There you will meet the guide, who will hand over the mountain bikes and help you get ready for departure (rental is included in the price!).

Once you leave the center of town, you will start climbing the promontory of Monte Argentario, facing hairpin bend after hairpin bend until you reach a paved alley road that will lead you to the Capo d'Uomo tower, located 350 m above sea level.

The last part of the climb will require considerable effort, but the spectacular views of the coast below will repay the effort.

The route will continue through hairpin bends and dirt roads in the direction of Porto Ercole, a town that has been part of Italy's most beautiful villages since 2014. During the lunch break you will stop near Forte Stella, a 16th-century defensive fortification characterized by its distinctive shape.

In the afternoon you will cross the Orbetello Lagoon, which is a WWF oasis and an important habitat for many species of waterfowl, including the wonderful pink flamingos. You will return to Porto Santo Stefano at 3 p.m., having completed a 41-km route that includes quite challenging uphill and downhill sections.

Don't miss a unique opportunity to sail Argentario, Giannutri Island or Giglio Island aboard a boat, enjoying lunch on board and snorkeling in excellent company.

Departing from Porto Santo Stefano, the destination will be chosen according to weather and sea conditions, and during the trip, you will be accompanied by the crew who will guide you through corals, volcanic rocks and gorgonians, telling the story of these picturesque places.

You will enjoy the sunshine and an onboard lunch of pasta, fruit, wine, soft drinks and coffee.

The itinerary will be determined by marine weather conditions, with at least 4 stops for swimming and snorkeling activities. Return is scheduled in the afternoon between 4:30 and 5:30 p.m., with a total excursion duration of about 8 hours.

Two boats are available. The Negis boat carries up to 18 people, while the Gigliola boat carries up to 28 people.

A vintage gozzo excursion along the coast of the Argentario promontory departing from Porto Santo Stefano.

During the navigation, you will skirt the coast and visit some of the Argentario's most beautiful coves, where you can stop for a swim and snorkel in the crystal clear waters.

The boat is made entirely of wood, and is equipped with a large sundeck and awning. A small snack will be offered on board.

The activity can be booked for a morning or afternoon ride. It is also possible to book the boat in private mode.

Maximum capacity: 7 people.

The quad bike excursion in the countryside between Volterra and San Gimignano è a unique experience that combines adventure, nature and Tuscan culture.

This tour traverses hills, woods and country roads with panoramic views and breathtaking scenery. You will begin the l'excursion with a brief introduction to ATV riding and safety measures.

Following that, the adventure can begin! This type of experience è the ideal for nature lovers looking for an adventure off the beaten path, to discover an authentic and adventurous side of Tuscany that goes beyond the classic tourist routes.

The tours can be one hour or one and a half hours and are suitable for all levels of experience and families even with children, as long as they are over 5 years old.

Lunch with wine tasting at Cantina Brogioni is a perfect experience to spend a relaxing moment surrounded by the Chianti hills.

After a short walk during which you will be given a description of the winery and the process of extracting extra virgin olive oil, you will visit the winery, where you will learn more about the winemaking process.

Following this, you will be served a three-course lunch paired with 4 local wines:

•    1 first course of pasta al pesto (pine nuts, fresh basil, EVO oil and parmesan cheese), paired with an IGT white wine and a vintage Chianti classico
•    1 second course consisting of bruschetta with local EVO oil, selection of typical Tuscan salumi, 36 month Parmigiano Reggiano and Tuscan pecorino cheese, paired with a Chianti classico riserva and a Supertuscan
•    2 samples of Tuscan pecorino, one with local EVO oil with San Miniato white truffle and the other with cooked must
•    1 dessert consisting of a Greek yogurt mousse sprinkled with a dark cocoa cream with 12% EVO oil

In case of food allergies and intolerances it is possible to contact the facility after booking.

The horseback ride in the Tuscan countryside from Rignano sull'Arno, includes a group tour on horseback at the slowest gait (pace), saddle fitting and field practice before departure are included.

Upon arrival you will be asked to sign insurance forms, followed by a full explanation on the ground, on "riding the horse," and on safety, and then you will set off for the ride that will develop according to the package you choose.

Once you feel comfortable, you will begin the actual walk through the Tuscan hills. During the tour, you will take in the natural beauty of the Tuscan countryside, with its rolling hills and green fields. Your riding instructor will guide you through scenic trails, giving you the opportunity to enjoy breathtaking views of stunning scenery.

If you have chosen to do only the one-and-a-half hour ride, the ride will end at the stables where you can get off the horse and rest.

If, on the other hand, you have chosen to add the tasting (total time about 3 hours), the walk will take place through the countryside among vineyards, olive groves, cultivated fields and farmhouses that characterize the Tuscan landscape. It will then end in the park of the historic villa Torre a Cona. This is followed by a short walk (3 minutes) to reach the entrance of the villa where clients will be met by the villa staff. Here the guided tour to the small museum and cellars of Torre a Cona will begin, where the production processes from vine to bottle will be explained. This will conclude inside the old barn, with a tasting of four of the Villa's production wines accompanied by a plate of local cheeses. At the conclusion you will be taken back to the stables by van. The experience lasts about 3 hours (including about an hour and a half in the saddle).

Either way, horseback riding in the Tuscan hills is an unforgettable experience that will introduce you to the beauty and culture of Tuscany.

Wine tasting in Gaiole allows you to enjoy a unique experience in the heart of Chianti Classico.

You will be welcomed by an ancient medieval fortress where you can discover historic wineries and taste wines produced on site.

You can choose from 2 options.

Tasting of 3 wines

If you choose this tasting route, you can take a guided tour of the wineries followed by the tasting of:

•    Extra Virgin d’olive oil DOP Chianti Classico
•    "Molino delle Balze" IGT Toscana Bianco (Chardonnay)
•    "Chianti Classico" DOCG (Sangiovese)
•    “Poggio a' Frati” - Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG (Sangiovese)

Tasting of 4 wines

This option includes a guided tour of the wineries and tasting of the following products:

•    Extra Virgin d’olive oil DOP Chianti Classico
•    “Poggio ai Frati” - Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG (Sangiovese)
•    “Stielle” Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG (Sangiovese)
•    "Buriano” IGT Toscana (Cabernet Sauvignon)
•    “Pratola” IGT Toscana (Colorino)

Enjoy a horseback ride through the typical Tuscan countryside, along the scenic trails that connect Volterra and San Gimignano.

This experience is suitable for everyone, even those who are approaching the world of horseback riding for the first time. As far as horseback riding is concerned, children, from 14 years of age, can also participate.

You will be accompanied by experienced instructors and docile, trained horses. Suitable sportswear with long pants and closed shoes is required.

When booking, you can choose from several options.

1-hour ride in the hills (from 14 years of age)

This horseback ride in the hills between Volterra and San Gimignano allows you to admire unique views. It is suitable for all levels of experience in the saddle, for experts and novices.

1½-hour ride in the hills (from 14 years of age)

The 1½-hour walk will take you discovering the hills between Volterra and San Gimignano. This activity is suitable for all levels of experience in the saddle, for the more experienced and for novices.

Sunset ride with aperitif (from 14 years of age)

From May to October, there è the possibility of a horseback ride at sunset: a unique way to admire the Tuscan countryside in one of the most fascinating moments of the day.

As the sun sets, the hills are tinged with a warm golden light, creating an evocative and unforgettable atmosphere.

At the end of the hike, you can enjoy a refreshing drink surrounded by nature.

For children

An activity tailored for little ones, offering a gentle and guided first approach to the world of horseback riding.

Accompanied by a qualified instructor, children will participate in a small, hand-led ride that will help them become familiar with the horse in a safe and welcoming environment.

The experience also includes a grooming session, during which young participants will learn the basics of horse care, developing trust, respect and an authentic bond with the animal.

Tasting wines and local products at the Brogioni Winery in Chianti provides you with a relaxing experience on a Tuscan estate.

This experience will begin with a short walk where you will be given a description of the winery and the process of extracting extra virgin olive oil will be explained.

Following that, you will visit the winery, where the winemaking process will be described.

Finally, you will taste 4 wines accompanied by typical products:

•    1 White IGT or Rosé IGT, paired with samples of bread and typical cold cuts
•    1 Chianti classico d’vintage, paired with bruschetta with local extra virgin olive oil
•    1 Chianti classico riserva, paired with a 36 month parmigiano reggiano
•    1 Supertuscan, paired with Tuscan pecorino cheese

In addition to the wines, it will be possible to taste Tuscan pecorino cheese with EVO oil with white truffle from San Miniato and with cooked must, dark cocoa cream containing 12% of EVO oil, and face, hand and body creams produced on site.

In case of food allergies and intolerances it is possible to contact the facility after booking.

The Argentario catamaran and snorkeling day will begin at 9 a.m. in Porto Santo Stefano, in the province of Grosseto, where you will meet the crew who will accompany you on the catamaran excursion.

The boat ride will take you along the coast of the Monte Argentario promontory, past sandy bays, inlets, cliffs and coves of great natural beauty.

During the trip you will make several stops to snorkel in the most beautiful places, including Cala del Gesso, Cala dell'Olio and Cala Mar Morto. The crew will provide you with all the necessary equipment. You can also relax in the sun and enjoy the open bar with water, soft drinks, red and white wine.

During the first stop you will be offered a selection of local mixed flatbreads prepared with Tuscan olive oil, Taggiasca olives, and the local super with anchovies.

At lunch, the delicious Captain's mixed bruschetta will be offered, which may vary from day to day following the freshness of the products. At the end of the meal, a basket of fresh fruit and coffee will be offered, and in the afternoon there will be a Nutella party for everyone to recharge their energy and keep diving and swimming.

The day will end with the return to Porto Santo Stefano scheduled for 6 p.m. The excursion is confirmed with a minimum of 15 participants.

Embark on a comfortable motorboat and visit Giglio Island, Giannutri, and the most secluded coves and islets of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Departing from Castiglione della Pescaia, the tour will last approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes and will be structured as follows:

Giglio and Giannutri

•    Boarding begins at 8:00 a.m.; at 8:30 a.m. we set sail! (Check-in by 8:10 a.m.)
•    Cruise along the Maremma coast and the Uccellina Nature Reserve to Talamone, then along the northern coast of the Argentario.
•    Shortly before 11:00 a.m., disembarkation at Giglio. You can explore on your own or with Toscana Trekking guides; book tours with them during the cruise
•    At approximately 2:00 p.m., we set sail for Giannutri.
•    Around 2:45 p.m., we arrive at Giannutri, where you can take part in additional guided tours or enjoy swimming.
•    At 4:00 p.m., we set sail from Giannutri to return to Castiglione (7:30 p.m.), after a brief technical stop at Giglio.

The tour itinerary may vary depending on weather conditions and the skipper’s decisions.

Cash payment is required for the municipal landing fee for theIsland of Giglio of 3.00€ per person and the entry ticket to the island of Giannutri of 2.50€ per person before departure.

The Giglio Island Tour by boat from Giglio Porto offers a choice of 4 different tours. 

Tour Classic 

The Classic tour starts from the port of Giglio Island. Along the way, you will make 3 or 4 bathroom stops. During the tour, you will be offered a delicious aperitif on board.

Tour Luxury 

The Luxury tour starts from the port of Giglio Island. This mini-cruise takes place aboard one of the luxury boats that offer maximum comfort. During the tour, you will make 3 or 4 bathroom stops and enjoy the crystal clear sea.

The most exclusive part of this tour will be the arrival at the Caldane Beach, which è can only be reached by sea. Here you will find umbrellas and sunbeds reserved just for you, included in the price, and you can refresh yourself with delicious drinks. This tour also includes lunch.

At the end of the tour, you can return to Giglio Porto with our Shuttle Boat, choosing the time you prefer.

Half Day - Private

The half-day private tour starts from Giglio Island port at the agreed time. During the tour you can make 3 or 4 bathroom stops. Along the way, you will enjoy a delicious aperitif on board.

Finally, you will arrive at the Caldane Beach, the most exclusive beach on the island, reachable only by sea. Here, umbrellas, reserved sunbeds and refreshments await you. This tour does not include lunch on board.

At the end of the tour you can return to Giglio Porto with our Shuttle Boat, choosing your own return time.

Full Day - Private

The full-day private tour starts from Giglio Island port at the agreed time. During the tour you will have the opportunity to choose your stops, explore the island's most fascinating coves and swim. During the day, you will be delighted with an aperitif on board and have the opportunity to enjoy lunch, included in the price. Finally, you will return to Giglio Porto, with a maximum return time of 6:30 p.m.

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All boats are equipped with sundecks and awnings. Snorkeling equipment will be available on the boat, so you can explore the wonderful underwater world.

Daily boat trip with snorkeling from Argentario to Giannutri Island with lunch on board, departing from Porto Ercole. During the sea outings, a guide will accompany you to show you the seabed.

The boat trip will depart from Porto Ercole and usually reach Giannutri Island. Due to weather/sea conditions you could also opt for the coast of’Argentario or the’Island of Giglio.

The various snorkeling stops will take place within the beautiful coves and bays that characterize the area, to give everyone a chance to admire the various organisms that inhabit the first meters of water.

During the snorkeling activities, all the necessary equipment will be provided (Mask-Fins-tube and for those who need it, life jacket) and a guide will be present to accompany the excursion and provide all the information regarding the flora and fauna of the sites that will be visited.

The excursions will be conducted aboard a boat equipped with a bathroom, hot shower, kitchen, large sundeck  and shaded areas.

On the boat will be served: breakfast, snacks, lunch and drinks throughout the day. 

The quad bike excursion in the Tuscan Maremma and aperitif will allow you to visit picturesque landscapes, admire breathtaking views, learn about local scents and guster Maremma snacks.

For this quad bike tour you have the possibility to choose the route of 1 hour or 2 1/2 hours.

The 2-hour one also includes a barbecue in the woods with grilled sausages, cheese and local wine.

Alternatively è you can choose a visit to the "La Pierotta" winery, where participants can taste some of the fine wines produced by the winery, accompanied by an aperitif of local products.

Remember to bring with you:

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•    Trekking shoes
•    Bandana or scarf in summer (can be purchased locally)
•    Gloves in winter
•    K-way in winter and mid-season (can be purchased locally)

The ATV rental è is suitable for people of all skill levels and guarantees a fun and adventurous experience. It takes place in the Bandite di Scarlino area, where participants will have the opportunity to admire beautiful landscapes and discover unusual places.

During the hike, there will be some technical parts, fords and fun climbs, but nothing too challenging. In addition, participants will have the opportunity to enjoy the local scents.

This experience è an excellent opportunity to discover the culture and traditions of Maremma and to taste some of the best wines and products of the area.

For all Fridays in the fall and winter months, è a minimum of two quads is required for reservations.

The sunset boat ride at Giglio Island is a romantic experience lasting about two hours.

The boat ride is scheduled to depart from Giglio Porto around 6:30/19:00 pm. You will sail until you reach the Campese Gulf or the surrounding coves, where you will stop to enjoy a sunset aperitif.

The aperitif consists of delicious fish crudités and crostini, accompanied by a prosecco, spritz or beer.

Return to the port of Giglio Island is scheduled at approximately 9:00 pm.