Things to do in Pienza, Tuscany: The 8 best experiences

A wine tasting with a visit to the Tenuta degli Dei in Chianti is the perfect opportunity to spend a relaxing time surrounded by the picturesque Tuscan vineyards.

The meeting begins in front of the Church of San Leolino, a three-nave basilica that preserves valuable works of art from the Tuscan artistic tradition.

The tour continues with a visit to the vat cellar, where the vats in which the fermentation of the wines takes place, and the barrique cellar, which houses the fine French oak barrels in which the wine rests until it reaches perfect maturity.

Next, you will reach the Estate, where the tasting will take place. In the dedicated room, you will have the opportunity to taste five wines: a white wine, a rosé, a Chianti Classico and two IGTs, accompanied by a small sampling of local cured meats and cheeses.

You can choose between the tour in Italian and English.

Minors and those not participating in the tasting do not pay and will receive a tasting of local products.

In case of food allergies or intolerances, you can contact the property after booking.

Finally, the estate is pet friendly, welcoming your four-legged friends as well.

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.

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 Picnic takes place near Montepulciano, Val di Chiana and it is possible to choose between two different tours:

Picnic Gourmand (3 hours)

The Picnic Gourmand experience offers a selection of slow food delicacies prepared fresh from the best local ingredients and strictly home made. The menu includes a variety of dishes such as pennette rigate with vegetarian ragout, red potato and cheese pie, organic garden vegetable quiche, and charcuterie sandwich.

In addition, the picnic basket also includes a summer fruit salad and salted butter almonds, Illy espresso or Moka coffee, and natural or sparkling mineral water. To complete the experience, the farm will provide everything needed for the picnic, including picnic basket, crate, blanket, plaid, pillows, tablecloth, food box, ceramic plates, glassware, candles, and stainless steel cutlery.

This picnic experience promises to be a true gourmet experience, with high-quality products and special attention to the presentation of dishes.

The charm of the Tuscan hills and landscapes in the dinotorns of Montepulciano will make the picnic experience even more enjoyable.

Romantic Picnic (3 hours)

The Podere offers a romantic picnic experience that promises to be a unique and memorable experience. The menu chosen includes a selection of fresh, seasonally-related products with a focus on the slow food philosophy.

The picnic basket includes a variety of delicacies, such as mini red potato tortilla, savory zucchini quiche, and tartlet with goat cheese, walnuts, and honey. In addition, there will also be a wide selection of beverages, including rosé or red wine to match the dishes and still or sparkling mineral water.

To complete the romantic experience, the farm will provide everything needed for the picnic, such as blankets, pillows, basket and tableware. In addition, the charm of the place and the wonderful surrounding beauty will create the perfect atmosphere for a sweet romantic break.

Wine tasting and winery tour in the Crete Senesi in Tuscany can be done with 4 different tours to choose from:

Classic tour

This tour includes a visit to the historic Fèlsina winery, where you will be taken on a journey to discover the wines produced by this winery. During the tasting, you will have the opportunity to taste four of their most representative wines, selected to offer you a true sensory experience:

•    Classic Method Brut Sparkling Wine: a sparkling wine produced with the classic method, characterized by a refined effervescence and a dry and harmonious flavor.
•    I Sistri Igt Toscana (100% Chardonnay): a dry white wine produced with the Chardonnay grape variety, with an elegant and complex character.
•    Chianti Classico Docg Berardenga (100% Sangiovese): a red wine produced with the Sangiovese grape variety, typical of the Tuscan region, with an intense and tannic flavor.
•    Chianti Classico Riserva Docg Berardenga (100% Sangiovese): a high quality red wine produced with selected Sangiovese grapes, aged in oak barrels for at least 24 months, which gives it an intense and complex character.

Jeep Tour

This private tour offers an experience that will lead you to discover the vineyards of Fèlsina through a jeep tour on the dirt road. Along the way, you will be accompanied by a specialized guide who will explain the methods of vine cultivation and wine production, while you admire the magnificent Tuscan hills.

The visit will continue at the Rancia estate and vineyard, where you will have the opportunity to learn first-hand about wine production processes and observe the vineyards and winery. Here, you will be offered a tasting of four of Fèlsina's representative wines.

Classic tour and lunch

The classic tour with lunch takes place exactly like the classic tour, but allows you to combine the tasting of 4 wines with a 3-course lunch consisting of farm and local products.

Jeep tour and lunch

The Jeep tour with lunch takes place exactly like the Jeep Tour, but allows you to combine a three-course lunch of farm and local products. In addition, you will also be offered a tasting of four mono-cultivar oils, produced by Fèlsina and selected to offer you a true sensory experience of the Tuscan territory.

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.

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 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.

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 wine tasting with a visit to the Tenuta degli Dei in Chianti is the perfect opportunity to spend a relaxing time surrounded by the picturesque Tuscan vineyards.

The meeting begins in front of the Church of San Leolino, a three-nave basilica that preserves valuable works of art from the Tuscan artistic tradition.

The tour continues with a visit to the vat cellar, where the vats in which the fermentation of the wines takes place, and the barrique cellar, which houses the fine French oak barrels in which the wine rests until it reaches perfect maturity.

Next, you will reach the Estate, where the tasting will take place. In the dedicated room, you will have the opportunity to taste five wines: a white wine, a rosé, a Chianti Classico and two IGTs, accompanied by a small sampling of local cured meats and cheeses.

You can choose between the tour in Italian and English.

Minors and those not participating in the tasting do not pay and will receive a tasting of local products.

In case of food allergies or intolerances, you can contact the property after booking.

Finally, the estate is pet friendly, welcoming your four-legged friends as well.

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.

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 of four locally produced wines accompanied by typical Tuscan products in San Gimignano.

Program

The experience will begin with guests gathering at the winery, where dedicated staff will welcome you.

After a brief introduction about the family history and presentation of the winery, you will begin the tasting of 4 wines that will be accompanied by typical Tuscan pecorino cheese and bruschetta.

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.

Tasting of artisanal chocolate and liqueurs with a guided tour of the workshop, outside Prato and less than an hour from Florence.

After a brief introduction to the Roberto Catinari chocolate factory and its artisanal tradition, you will be guided on a journey to discover the raw ingredients, the production techniques, and the various cocoa varieties.

During the experience, you will taste chocolates from different origins, exploring aromas, intensities and pairings with Tuscan wines and liqueurs such as Vin Santo or Rum.

Finally, you will have the opportunity to create your own personalized chocolate bar, with handmade decorations or lettering, to enjoy on the spot or take with you as a sweet souvenir.

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:

.

•    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.

Horseback riding by the sea in Maremma departing from Marina di Grosseto, perfect for an alternative day out as a couple or with friends.

The experience begins at the stables where you will be assigned horses and provided with the equipment to ride a horse.

Once you leave, the hike lasts about 2 hours through the Tombolo Pine Forest, San Leopoldo Canal, backdune area, dunes and beach. 

The alpaca walk in the Tuscan Maremma, Val d'Orcia, is designed to give an unforgettable experience of contact with nature and animals.

The walk with alpacas is about 2.5 km long and takes place between a very short stretch of country road and then enters paths through fields, vineyards, grove until you reach the bank of the Ombrone River.

The route of the alpaca walk may vary depending on weather conditions (so as to avoid excessive mud), hunting season or excessive heat preferring shadier stretches.

The approximate duration of the walk is about 1.5 hours but obviously depends on how the animals are prepared on that day, the ability of the participants to "lead" them, and other variables such as the state of the trails.

During the alpaca walk there are stops for a total of about 10 minutes during which you can interact with the alpacas, feed them, take photos and videos.

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.

The half-day boat trip to Cala Violina departing from Scarlino is a perfect tour to explore the famous Maremma cove.

You can choose from 3 different tours.

Morning

The morning tour starts at the port of Scarlino at 9:30 am. The first stop will be Cala Violina. Here it will be possible to have a breakfast consisting of typical Tuscan products. It will then continue to Cala Martina and Cala Civetta. This tour is suitable for people of all ages, especially children, thanks to the always calm waters that offer maximum serenity and safety.

Afternoon

The afternoon tour starts at the port of Scarlino at 4 pm. The first stop will be Cala Violina, where you will anchor for a swim stop. Next, you will visit the other coves along the park's stretch of coastline, including Cala Martina and Cala Civetta. You will be offered an aperitif composed exclusively of Tuscan products: a quality white wine, excellent cold cuts, focaccia and fresh fruit. Especially in the afternoon, the itinerary may change depending on sea weather conditions.

Sunset

The sunset tour starts at the port of Scarlino at 6 pm. The first stop will be Cala Violina, where you will anchor around 18:00 for a swim stop. You will then proceed to the other coves, including Cala Martina and Cala Civetta. Finally, you will be offered an aperitif consisting of typical Tuscan products to enjoy during the sunset.

The sunset tour lasts three hours, while the morning tour and the afternoon tour last four hours.

During this horseback ride from Suvereto you can explore the territory of the Tuscan Maremma in two types of excursions.

Adults only (ages 14 and up)

The horseback ride through vineyards and olive groves will take you through the famous "wine and oil road".

This 2-hour hike is available only for adults and teens (ages 14 and up).

With children (ages 9 to 13)

The horseback ride in the nature of the Tuscan countryside will take place within a private estate of about 80 hectares. Part of the ride will pass through olive groves and vineyards and skirt a lake with a pine forest.

This 1-hour hike is available only if at least one child between the ages of 9 and 13 is present.

Both trails are easy to ride, but very scenic. The horses are very docile and well-trained, so they allow even beginners to enjoy the ride.