Things to do in Pienza, Tuscany: The 7 best experiences

Horseback riding in the hills of the Sienese Chianti is a unique experience that allows you to admire the striking views of Tuscany.

On arrival at the stables you will be greeted by experienced equestrian guides who will hand you the’equipment and safety devices to be able to ride a horse.

Before leaving for the ride you will go to the sand rectangle where the guides will explain the basics of horseback riding.

At this point you will be ready to set off and reach the hills of the Sienese Chianti region, where you can admire unique landscapes and discover more about local products: wine and oil.

There will be no lack of little pearls of history and anecdotes that will make the walk even more enjoyable.

Comfortable clothing with long pants and closed shoes is recommended.

Horseback riding in the Tuscan hills outside Florence.

This horseback ride will offer you the opportunity to explore the beautiful Pelago countryside on horseback, enjoying an experience in contact with nature.

The rides are guided by experienced instructors to whom you can ask questions to learn about the area and discover curiosities about horses and their lives. The horses that will accompany you are docile and well-trained making the experience suitable even for beginners and children from 10 years old.

You will explore scenic trails, cross green hills and admire typical landscapes of the area, immersed in the beauty of Tuscan nature. 

You can choose from several tours:

•    1-hour walk
•    1-hour walk and aperitif on the way back
•    1-hour and 30-minute walk
•    2-hour walk

The equipment for horseback riding will be provided to you by the facility, but appropriate sportswear (long pants and closed shoes) should be your own.

The walk with alpacas in the Florentine Hills is a pleasant experience in the midst of woods and fields on the outskirts of Florence, accompanied by the sweetest alpacas. During the loop trail, about 3 km long, you will learn about all the alpacas you will walk with.

After the walk you can stop on the meadow and enjoy the spectacle of the alpacas in the wild.

We recommend that you wear comfortable clothes and sports or hiking shoes.

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.

Picnic in Radda, in classic Chianti, allows you to spend a relaxing moment surrounded by the Tuscan hills.

You can enjoy unique moments in the company of your loved ones while enjoying locally produced wine accompanied by local schiacciate (flat bread).

The picnic takes place in the garden a you will be provided with towel, pillows and a basket that includes:

•    2 traditional gourmet schiacciate per person (one with Tuscan prosciutto, sun-dried tomato cream and arugula; one with fresh pecorino, acacia honey and Tuscan salami)
•    Cantuccini
•    1 bottle of IGT Toscana red organic wine Granbruno
•    Water
•    Dishware, recyclable cutlery and napkins

At the end of the experience you can also taste the local Vermouth Rosato.

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

Wine tasting with a visit to a historic winery in Rufina, outside Florence, allows you to taste typical Tuscan products.

You can choose from several options.

Standard Tasting

This experience gives you a guided tour of the winery and historic cellar. Afterwards you can taste 3 local wines:

•    Chianti Rufina D.O.C.G.
•    Pomino D.O.C
•    Vinsanto

Tasting with cutting board

After taking a guided tour of the winery and the historic winery and winemaking facility, you can taste 3 wines accompanied by cheese and cured meat samples.

The 3 wines for tasting will be:

•    Chianti Rufina D.O.C.G.
•    Pomino D.O.C.
•    Vinsanto

Tasting with lunch

This experience includes a tour of the historic winery and winemaking cellar, with explanation of the history of the farm.

Following this, there will be a guided tasting of 3 wines, accompanied by a Tuscan charcuterie and cheese board and another typical dish chosen according to seasonality.

In case of food allergies and intolerances it is possible to contact the structure following the reservation.

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.

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 horseback riding tour among the vineyards and tasting in San Gimignano will take place among the unforgettable panoramic views among rustic farmhouses and vineyards in the area.

It is a horseback tour of the estate, nearby vineyards and the forest around San Gimignano (1 hour).

Afterwards there will be a short lecture on wine and vineyards, after which there will be a full wine tasting and then, if selected, lunch outdoors in the garden.

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.

Horseback riding in the hills of the Sienese Chianti is a unique experience that allows you to admire the striking views of Tuscany.

On arrival at the stables you will be greeted by experienced equestrian guides who will hand you the’equipment and safety devices to be able to ride a horse.

Before leaving for the ride you will go to the sand rectangle where the guides will explain the basics of horseback riding.

At this point you will be ready to set off and reach the hills of the Sienese Chianti region, where you can admire unique landscapes and discover more about local products: wine and oil.

There will be no lack of little pearls of history and anecdotes that will make the walk even more enjoyable.

Comfortable clothing with long pants and closed shoes is recommended.

Horseback riding in the Tuscan hills outside Florence.

This horseback ride will offer you the opportunity to explore the beautiful Pelago countryside on horseback, enjoying an experience in contact with nature.

The rides are guided by experienced instructors to whom you can ask questions to learn about the area and discover curiosities about horses and their lives. The horses that will accompany you are docile and well-trained making the experience suitable even for beginners and children from 10 years old.

You will explore scenic trails, cross green hills and admire typical landscapes of the area, immersed in the beauty of Tuscan nature. 

You can choose from several tours:

•    1-hour walk
•    1-hour walk and aperitif on the way back
•    1-hour and 30-minute walk
•    2-hour walk

The equipment for horseback riding will be provided to you by the facility, but appropriate sportswear (long pants and closed shoes) should be your own.

Horseback riding in San Gimignano is a pleasant experience among the beautiful views of San Gimignano, in the hills just outside the town.

The walk starts in the morning or afternoon. During the trek you will have the opportunity to love getting to know the horse thanks to the guides who will accompany you during the tour.

The horseback ride lasts 1h. You will take a pleasant horseback ride among the beautiful views of San Gimignano, where you will have the opportunity to love getting to know the horse thanks to the guides who will accompany you during the tour.

You will be provided with all horse riding equipment, including helmet (mandatory). Recommended clothing includes long pants and closed shoes.

The walk with alpacas in the Florentine Hills is a pleasant experience in the midst of woods and fields on the outskirts of Florence, accompanied by the sweetest alpacas. During the loop trail, about 3 km long, you will learn about all the alpacas you will walk with.

After the walk you can stop on the meadow and enjoy the spectacle of the alpacas in the wild.

We recommend that you wear comfortable clothes and sports or hiking shoes.

Bark in a comfortable motorboat and visit Giglio Island, Giannutri and the most hidden coves and islets of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Leaving from Castiglione della Pescaia, the tour will last about 8 hours and 30 minutes and will be structured as it follows:

Giglio and Giannutri

•    Embarkation starting at 8 a.m.; at 8:30 a.m. we set sail! (check in by 8.10 am)
•    Sailing along the coast of Maremma and Parco dell’Uccellina to Talamone and afterwards along the north coast dell’Argentario.
•    Just before 11 a.m. disembarking at Giglio. You will be able to visit at liberty or with Toscana Trekking guides, booking visits with them during navigation
•    At approximately 2 p.m. we set sail for Giannutri.
•    At about 2.45 pm arrival in Giannutri, where it will be possible to take more guided tours or engage in bathing.
•    At 4 p.m. we set sail from Giannutri to return to Castiglione (7:30 p.m.), after a brief technical stop at Giglio.

The tour stops may vary depending on weather conditions and skipper's decisions.

It is required to pay in cash, before departure, the Municipal Disembarkation Fee for Giglio Island of 3.00€ per person and the Giannutri Island Access Fee of 2.50€ per person.

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 Maremma Seashore Horseback Ride is an adventurous and exciting experience in the pine forest and on the beach departing from Marina di Grosseto.  

There are two modes for the walk:

•    1-HOUR WALK IN THE PINETA - Excursion where you explore the Tombolo Pine Forest, San Leopoldo Canal, the backdunal area, the dunes. The horseback excursion will be carried out at the pace, and it is therefore also suitable for beginners. Each walk will always be attended by one guide for every 2 people. This walk is not available in summer.  
•    Private 2-hour Walk BY THE SEA (available year-round) – Souvenir Walk tailored for couples or friends. Excursion to the Tombolo Pine Forest, San Leopoldo Canal, backdune area, dunes and beach. 

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.

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 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.