Escorted Rome & Tuscan Villa: From City Splendor to Country Charm
Fully Escorted Tour
Enjoy the very best of Italy on this fully guided holiday with a stay at the historic Villa Casagrande, right in the heart of Tuscany. This enchanting villa is set among gentle rolling hills and large grape vineyards, making it the perfect place to start your journeys to old medieval towns, famous wine producers, and important cultural sites. Your trip includes fun activities like hands-on cooking lessons, chances to try local wines, and expert-led visits to iconic cities such as Florence, Venice, and Rome.
Escorted tours offer expert guides who provide deep local insights and worry-free planned itineraries. Enjoy the company of like-minded passengers, visit hidden gems not found on typical tours, and enjoy peace of mind with a travel support system. This is a fully escorted group tour with a maximum of 50 passengers, departures are guaranteed.
What's Included
- Roundtrip, economy-class airfare to Rome (FCO)
- 8 nights' accommodation in Italy, in the following hotels, or similar:
- 1 night in Rome at Hotel Cristoforo Colombo
- 5 nights in Tuscany at Hotel Villa Casagrande
- 2 nights in Rome at Hotel Cristoforo Colombo
- Tours & Tastings
- Visit to Orvieto with 2 hours of free time (en-route from Rome to Tuscany)
- 3-hour walking tour of Florence with local guide
- Visit to a traditional artisan leather outlet in Florence, with demonstration
- Pasta-making class or interactive demonstration at Villa Casagrande
- 2-hour walking tour of Venice with local guide
- 30-minute gondola ride in Venice
- Wine & olive oil tasting with lunch in San Gimignano winery
- Visit to Montepulciano with free time (en-route from Tuscany to Rome)
- 4-hour walking tour of Rome with local guide
- Transportation, Meals & More
- Arrival airport transfer from Rome Airport (FCO) to Rome hotel
- Departure airport transfer from Rome hotel to Rome Airport (FCO)
- Round-trip rail ticket to Florence
- 8 buffet breakfasts, 1 lunch, 3 dinners, 1 pasta lunch or dinner
- Professional English-speaking Tour Escort throughout
- Coach transportation as needed, as per itinerary*
- Headsets to hear guides clearly
Not Included:
- Local city taxes (apx. €2-€8 per person, per night and must be paid directly to hotels in destination)
- Porterage at hotels
- Admission to sights, museums, etc.
- Anything not listed in the inclusions above (additional meals, entrance fees, etc)
- Gratuity (Gratuity for drivers, local tour guides and Tour Director is not included in the package price. Tipping is always a matter of personal discretion; for your convenience, we have provided suggestions below. It is recommended to pay gratuities in local currency whenever possible. On some itineraries, you may have multiple drivers and local guides; we recommend keeping small bills on hand for tipping. Note exceptional circumstances may warrant a higher tip)
- €3 per person for local guides on half-day tours, €5 on full-day tours
- €8 per person per day for drivers
- €8 per person per day for Tour Director
*KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Passengers are asked to limit themselves to one full-size piece of luggage and one carry-on size per person. Vehicle type depends on final group size, Wi-Fi/restrooms on board cannot be guaranteed. If the final group size is under 9 passengers, the tour will be conducted with a van (rather than a coach), English speaking driver and local guide services. This tour is active with several walking tours included; passengers with limited mobility may be more comfortable on one of our holidays that requires less daily walking.
For reasons beyond our control (public events, religious holidays, sporting events or adverse weather conditions), the itinerary may be modified without notice; in this case, we will ensure similar visits and excursions according to the spirit of the tour program.
Great Ways to Explore
Stays in both Tuscany and Rome with guided tours.
Stroll the streets of Venice, Florence, and Rome with walking tours.
Make (and indulge in) your own handmade pasta.
Relax and unwind at the beautiful Villa Casagranda in Tuscany.
Witness the Florentine leather making process.
Uncover the true essence of Italy on this 8-night escorted holiday, expertly combining iconic cities, ancient settlements, and unique cultural activities. Your exciting journey starts and finishes in Rome, where rich, ancient history meets the pace of modern-day life, beginning with a guided stroll through the Eternal City's most famous sights.
A delightful villa in Tuscany is your home for five nights. Stroll through the streets of Florence alongside a local expert, watch a traditional leather-crafting display, and get hands-on with a pasta-making workshop at your villa. Day trips include a visit to San Gimignano for a wine and olive oil tasting with a complimentary lunch, plus an exploration of the hilltop town of Montepulciano before your return to Rome.
Throughout this getaway, you’ll take in the striking Gothic architecture of Orvieto, float along the stunning canals of Venice, and immerse yourself in the authentic flavours, artistry, and history that render Italy so captivating. With guided outings, tastings, and special hands-on activities, this holiday delivers an ideal mix of culture, cuisine, and discovery.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Roundtrip, economy-class airfare to Rome (FCO)
- 8 nights' accommodation in Italy, in the following hotels, or similar:
- 1 night in Rome at Hotel Cristoforo Colombo
- 5 nights in Tuscany at Hotel Villa Casagrande
- 2 nights in Rome at Hotel Cristoforo Colombo
- Tours & Tastings
- Visit to Orvieto with 2 hours of free time (en-route from Rome to Tuscany)
- 3-hour walking tour of Florence with local guide
- Visit to a traditional artisan leather outlet in Florence, with demonstration
- Pasta-making class or interactive demonstration at Villa Casagrande
- 2-hour walking tour of Venice with local guide
- 30-minute gondola ride in Venice
- Wine & olive oil tasting with lunch in San Gimignano winery
- Visit to Montepulciano with free time (en-route from Tuscany to Rome)
- 4-hour walking tour of Rome with local guide
- Transportation, Meals & More
- Arrival airport transfer from Rome Airport (FCO) to Rome hotel
- Departure airport transfer from Rome hotel to Rome Airport (FCO)
- Round-trip rail ticket to Florence
- 8 buffet breakfasts, 1 lunch, 3 dinners, 1 pasta lunch or dinner
- Professional English-speaking Tour Escort throughout
- Coach transportation as needed, as per itinerary*
- Headsets to hear guides clearly
Not Included:
- Local city taxes (apx. €2-€8 per person, per night and must be paid directly to hotels in destination)
- Porterage at hotels
- Admission to sights, museums, etc.
- Anything not listed in the inclusions above (additional meals, entrance fees, etc)
- Gratuity (Gratuity for drivers, local tour guides and Tour Director is not included in the package price. Tipping is always a matter of personal discretion; for your convenience, we have provided suggestions below. It is recommended to pay gratuities in local currency whenever possible. On some itineraries, you may have multiple drivers and local guides; we recommend keeping small bills on hand for tipping. Note exceptional circumstances may warrant a higher tip)
- €3 per person for local guides on half-day tours, €5 on full-day tours
- €8 per person per day for drivers
- €8 per person per day for Tour Director
*KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Passengers are asked to limit themselves to one full-size piece of luggage and one carry-on size per person. Vehicle type depends on final group size, Wi-Fi/restrooms on board cannot be guaranteed. If the final group size is under 9 passengers, the tour will be conducted with a van (rather than a coach), English speaking driver and local guide services. This tour is active with several walking tours included; passengers with limited mobility may be more comfortable on one of our holidays that requires less daily walking.
For reasons beyond our control (public events, religious holidays, sporting events or adverse weather conditions), the itinerary may be modified without notice; in this case, we will ensure similar visits and excursions according to the spirit of the tour program.
Stays in both Tuscany and Rome with guided tours.
Stroll the streets of Venice, Florence, and Rome with walking tours.
Make (and indulge in) your own handmade pasta.
Relax and unwind at the beautiful Villa Casagranda in Tuscany.
Witness the Florentine leather making process.
Uncover the true essence of Italy on this 8-night escorted holiday, expertly combining iconic cities, ancient settlements, and unique cultural activities. Your exciting journey starts and finishes in Rome, where rich, ancient history meets the pace of modern-day life, beginning with a guided stroll through the Eternal City's most famous sights.
A delightful villa in Tuscany is your home for five nights. Stroll through the streets of Florence alongside a local expert, watch a traditional leather-crafting display, and get hands-on with a pasta-making workshop at your villa. Day trips include a visit to San Gimignano for a wine and olive oil tasting with a complimentary lunch, plus an exploration of the hilltop town of Montepulciano before your return to Rome.
Throughout this getaway, you’ll take in the striking Gothic architecture of Orvieto, float along the stunning canals of Venice, and immerse yourself in the authentic flavours, artistry, and history that render Italy so captivating. With guided outings, tastings, and special hands-on activities, this holiday delivers an ideal mix of culture, cuisine, and discovery.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Prices From:
Departure Airport:
Departure Month:
Prices From:
Day 1. Welcome to Italy!
After arriving in Rome, you'll be transferred to your designated hotel where you can check in, then have a quick rest for a bit before meeting your tour manager in the evening. You'll have an introduction with your tour guide that includes a short briefing. Afterwards, enjoy a welcome dinner and raise a glass to your first night in Italy.
Transfer from Rome Airport (FCO) to Rome hotel
Check-in - Hotel Cristoforo Colombo
Located close to the GRA and in the bustling EUR district, Hotel Cristoforo Colombo's renovations are complete and ready to impress. The hotel has a large parking area, a seasonal outdoor pool, and well-appointed facilities equipped to meet your every need. The property is a complex comprised of three buildings, all refreshed with marble finishes and bright color schemes. Relax in the hotel's casually elegant bar or enjoy a meal from the restaurant. The professional staff is available around the clock to help with needs such as tour schedules, museum tickets, or even restaurant suggestions.
Day 2. Rome - Orvieto - Tuscany
Enjoy a delicious breakfast before checking out of your hotel and heading towards Tuscany. On the way there, you'll experience your first included tour: a scenic stop in the charming hilltop town of Orvieto.
This afternoon, you'll continue on to Tuscany. Settle in, then meet with your tour manager for a brief orientation and introduction to the charming town of Figline Valdarno.
Check-in - Villa Casagrande
Villa Casagrande is a 4-star hotel located in the heart of historic Figline Valdarno. The hotel features a spa where guests can book services like a massage, or unwind in the sauna. There are two on-site restaurants that serve traditional Tuscan cuisine, along with delicious cocktails and wine. Additionally, there is a small fitness area and an outdoor pool.
Guest rooms are bright and spacious, featuring a private bathroom, free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, a TV, minibar, hairdryer, desk, and an in-room safe.
The front desk and friendly staff are available to assist with guests' needs around the clock.
Figline Valdarno train station is a 15-minute walk from the hotel, and The Mall Firenze is 16-minutes away via car.
Your tour guide will walk you through an exploration of Orvieto, known for its striking cathedral and medieval streets. Afterward, you will have around 2 hours of free time to explore as you see fit, with the help of your tour manager. Perhaps wander the historic center, grab a light lunch, and pause to admire the beautiful views.
Day 3. Tuscany - Florence - Tuscany
After breakfast, stroll with your tour leader to Figline Station (approx. 15 minutes on foot) and catch the train to Florence. Afterwards, you'll take part in a special visit to a traditional artisan leather outlet to watch a brief demonstration.
Later on, explore Florence at your own leisure. Pick up some souvenirs, grab a bite at a local trattoria, or visit world-famous museums such as Accademia or Uffizi. In the evening, head back to the Florence station to catch the train back to Figline.
Let your tour guide walk you through one of Italy's most famous cities, as well as the birthplace of the Renaissance: Florence! After arriving at the station, your guide will meet you and begin the tour, which lasts around three hours. You'll be taken through the heart of the historic center to see stunning pieces of art and architecture, including Piazza della Signoria, the Ponte Vecchio, Brunelleschi's Dome, and more
Day 4. Tuscany
Spend a lovely day at Villa Casagrande, and enjoy the tranquil surroundings of Tuscany at your leisure. Relax with a book by the pool, have a wander through the gardens, or indulge in the stunning countryside views.
Later today, you'll join an authentic pasta-making class at the villa.
A Tip For Your Trip: Pasta Cooking Classes can seat up to 20 people, so the group may be divided between morning and afternoon classes, depending on size of groups. Groups of 20+ will instead partake in an interactive pasta-making demonstration.
Get ready for a hands-on culinary adventure! Learn to make authentic Tuscan pasta from scratch as the expert chef at Villa Casagrande guides you through every step. From mixing and kneading to shaping the perfect cut, this class is equal parts fun and flavorful. Best of all, you’ll savor your own creation with a glass of local wine—a truly unforgettable Tuscan treat!
Note: this may be an afternoon (lunch) or evening (dinner) class.
Day 5. Tuscany - Venice - Tuscany
Kick off today with an unforgettable Venetian journey! The afternoon is yours to enjoy, so you can have a good wander about on your own. Stop by a canal-side cafe for a proper cup of tea and a bite to eat, or simply explore one of Venice's renowned museums. Then, take the ferry back to Tronchetto and take your transfer for the return journey to Figline Valdarno.
Tonight, indulge in the authentic flavours of Tuscany with a traditional dinner at the Villa Casagrande.
Enjoy a two-hour guided walking tour through Venice’s enchanting cobblestone streets and colorful squares. Admire world-famous landmarks, including St. Mark’s Square with its stunning Basilica, the Doge’s Palace—a symbol of the city’s historic power and prestige. Along the way, your expert guide will share fascinating tales of Venice’s rich history, art, and culture. Venture beyond the main routes to uncover hidden alleyways, traditional artisan workshops, and lively markets that showcase the authentic spirit of the city.
Please note: no admissions are included.
Day 6. Tuscany - San Gimignano - Tuscany
Have a delicious breakfast to set you up for the day! Afterwards, head towards the hilltop UNESCO World Heritage Town of San Gimignano, renowned for its cobbled streets and medieval ambience.
The day is capped off with an included wine and olive oil tasting, complete with a complimentary lunch.
After taking some time to explore like a local, head over to the designated Tuscan winery to be greeted with a guided tasting of local wines. During this wine tasting, you'll also get to savor the flavor of handcrafted extra virgin olive oil and truffle oil, directly from the estate. Following the tastings, enjoy a traditional lunch of regional favorites as a perfect compliment to the winery's vintages.
Day 7. Tuscany - Montepulciano - Rome
Say goodbye to Villa Casagrande this morning as you set off on your journey back to Rome. On the way, you will make a lovely scenic pit stop in Montepulciano.
Check-in - Hotel Cristoforo Colombo
Located close to the GRA and in the bustling EUR district, Hotel Cristoforo Colombo's renovations are complete and ready to impress. The hotel has a large parking area, a seasonal outdoor pool, and well-appointed facilities equipped to meet your every need. The property is a complex comprised of three buildings, all refreshed with marble finishes and bright color schemes. Relax in the hotel's casually elegant bar or enjoy a meal from the restaurant. The professional staff is available around the clock to help with needs such as tour schedules, museum tickets, or even restaurant suggestions.
Enjoy a lovely little stop in Montepulciano, a hilltop town in Southern Tuscany en-route to Rome. Encounter centuries old Renaissance architecture , winding streets, and taste more authentic local wine.
Your tour leader is there to help with any questions you may have regarding the best shops, cafes, eateries, and more.
Day 8. Rome
Today, you'll explore the wonders of Rome with a guided tour. After that, you'll have some extra time to do any last-minute sightseeing you missed earlier.
Tonight, raise a glass to a truly grand holiday with a celebratory final dinner!
Take a fascinating half-day (4 hour) tour of the timeless city of Rome, where you'll discover wonders that date back to the gladiator era. With the help of your English-speaking guide, you'll stop at historic sites, hidden gems, and learn all about the rich insights of the city's imperial past.
Please note: No admissions are included.
Day 9. Depart Italy
Have one last delicious breakfast at the hotel, then check out and enjoy your transfer to Fiumicino airport.
Transfer from Rome hotel to Rome Airport (FCO)
Fly home
Advertised Great Value Holiday prices are per person based on two people travelling together, unless otherwise noted. Advertised Great Value Holidays are based on select departures as noted on the booking calendar above, where available via the Great Value Holidays website and may not represent current prices.
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