Current as of: September 12, 2026 - 10:27
Signature Italy | Allure of Renaissance Tuscany Trip Notes
- Ways to Travel: Guided Group
- Destination: Italy
- Programmes: Culture
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Activity Level:
2 out of 7 - Easy & Moderate
- Ages: 18+
- Trip Code: LIT
- Carbon Footprint: 65.6kg CO2e
Trip Overview
Savour Tuscany’s elegance through its wines, Renaissance cities, and enduring traditions
The essence of Tuscany unfolds in the Renaissance splendour of Florence and the timeless elegance of Siena, where art, architecture, and history shape every view. From the cobbled streets to soaring domes, these cities tell stories of creativity and culture that echo through the hills. Led by your handpicked Signature Guide, and primarily based in a privately owned medieval village, you’ll journey through a land defined by beauty and craft, where flavours and traditions reflect centuries of refinement. This is the story of Tuscany: revealed in every piazza, every masterpiece, every glass raised in celebration.
Venture to the very heart of each destination on our Signature Collection, where every journey is shaped by our unrivalled local connections and insider expertise. Step beyond the ordinary with private invitations, rare encounters, and experiences few will ever share. So when someone says, “I’ve been there,” you’ll simply smile, knowing you’ve experienced it differently.
Signature Day: Experience our distinctive Signature Day, choosing between immersive optional activities such as a forest walk and bocce game, a Chianti vineyard visit, a heritage tour in Cortona, or a hands-on Tuscan cooking class
Signature Stay: Stay at Castello di Gargonza, a fortified medieval village restored into a characterful countryside retreat
Signature Guide: Let your hand-picked Signature guide lead you to the region’s soul — sharing their home, heritage, and heart
Is This Trip for You?
We have graded this trip Activity Level 2 (Easy & Moderate). For more information on our trip gradings, please visit the Activity Level Guidelines page.
Suitability: Several of the locations we visit, including our Signature Stay, have uneven paving, steps and hills typical of the medieval towns in Tuscany.
Driving times: The longest travel time takes place on Day 7 (two hours). All other transfers are maximum 1hr 45min.
Signature Day: Select from a curated menu of optional experiences to create a day that is personal to you, or choose to slow the pace and enjoy the facilities of your accommodation. Simply prebook your chosen experience at least 60 days before departure through your Signature Collection travel expert.
Duomo Terrace visit in Florence: This activity is not recommended for individuals with cardiovascular or respiratory conditions or those suffering from vertigo or claustrophobia, as the steps are steep and narrow.
Group
When it comes to unlocking a destination, your Signature Guide is the key holder. Hand-selected for their extensive experience and unrivalled local knowledge, they ensure your experience runs effortlessly thanks to their exceptional organisational skills. Our Signature Guides are named on our website, so you can begin your journey with complete confidence and anticipation of the wonders each day will bring.
Adult min age: 18
Min group size: 6
Max group size: 16
Itinerary
Land Only
- Start City: Gargonza, Arezzo
- End City: Florence
Land Only Itinerary
Settle into the rhythms of Tuscany | Welcome reception at 2 Stone Room
After a transfer from Florence, a warm welcome awaits at our Signature Stay, Castello di Gargonza, a privately owned medieval village nestled in the Tuscan countryside. Perched on a quiet hill overlooking the iconic Val di Chiana, it appears almost suspended in time.
Before our welcome reception, join Neri, our host at Castello di Gargonza for an introduction to the village, tracing stone pathways and ascending the 14th-century tower that once sheltered Italian poet Dante.
As dusk softens the courtyard, we gather at 2 Stone Room in the garden for a welcome drink, followed by an intimate dinner.
Accommodation: Castello di Gargonza
Follow flavours and ancient crafts | Hunt for truffles with a family of experts
Signature Experience: Step into the heart of the Tuscan countryside for an authentic truffle-hunting experience with a local family whose passion for the land has been passed through generations. Accompanied by their expertly trained dog, venture into the wooded hills surrounding their home as you learn about Tuscany’s prized truffles, their seasonal varieties and the traditions that have shaped this unique culinary heritage.
The experience concludes at the family’s home, where you’ll gather around the table for a memorable farm-to-table lunch showcasing freshly prepared regional specialities and truffle-inspired dishes. Paired with local wines, it is a celebration of the authentic flavours, traditions and warm hospitality that define rural Tuscany.
We return to our hotel with time to freshen-up and relax before venturing out this evening to the nearby village of Monte San Savino for dinner.
Accommodation: Castello di Gargonza
Peel back Siena’s history and heritage | Enjoy a private lunch in the medieval Torre di Roccabruna
An expert-led walk brings Siena to life, revealing its character in layers, from the curve of Piazza del Campo to the cathedral’s intricate marble.
Signature Experience: For lunch, we have a private invitation to dine in the medieval Torre di Roccabruna, once one of Siena’s tallest towers. Our four-course meal is served high above Siena with privileged views across the city and surrounding hills. Dinner is at leisure at Castello di Gargonza.
Accommodation: Castello di Gargonza
Taste your way through Tuscan traditions | Discover Montepulciano
Signature Experience: Travel to the family-run farm of Podere Il Casale, where a guided walk reveals farm life from stable to dairy. Discover the craft behind their celebrated pecorino cheeses and estate wines, followed by a seasonal lunch.
This afternoon, stroll through Montepulciano’s historic centre and end the day in a cantina, where a light dinner is paired with a curated tasting of local wines.
Accommodation: Castello di Gargonza
Signature Day | Follow your curiosity through craft, cuisine, and Tuscan landscapes
Today is your Signature Day, where you can select an authentic, curated experience to connect deeply with Tuscan culture. You could:
- Sip your way through Chianti, visiting a renowned winery for a tasting that uncovers the region’s rich winemaking heritage (lunch included, 9am-3pm). Alternatively, for those wanting a more relaxed start to the day, why not join Castello di Gargonza’s charismatic sommelier for a tasting of three distinctive Tuscan wines? (4pm-5pm)
- Wander through the rewilded woodlands surrounding Castello di Gargonza on a guided nature walk before joining a traditional game of bocce, a cherished local pastime that has brought the village community together for generations (10am-11.30am)
- Stay within Gargonza for a hands-on cooking class, mastering fresh pasta with the castle’s chef before sitting down to lunch (10.30am-1.30pm)
- Explore the timeless streets of Cortona on a guided walking tour, discovering its medieval landmarks, hidden alleyways and sweeping Tuscan vistas before enjoying a prosecco toast and private visit to the historic DelBrenna family showroom, where centuries of local history and traditional jewellery craftsmanship are brought to life (2pm-6pm)
Dinner is at leisure at Castello di Gargonza.
Accommodation: Castello di Gargonza
Savour the Tuscan countryside | Join artisans for a private olive oil tasting in a family estate
Depart Castello di Gargonza this morning and journey towards Florence, stopping en route to discover one of Tuscany’s most celebrated culinary traditions. Immerse yourself in a guided tasting of locally produced extra virgin olive oils, learning about the region’s olive-growing heritage while savouring the distinctive flavours and aromas that make Tuscan olive oil renowned around the world.
Later, we arrive at Plaza Hotel Lucchesi, centrally located in Florence overlooking the river.
Signature Experience: The day ends with a private visit to a restoration lab, which reveals the meticulous work involved in conserving historic tapestries, textiles, and precious objects.
Accommodation: Plaza Hotel Lucchesi
Discover the splendour of Florence | Gaze over the cityscape from the cathedral terraces
Signature Experience: Enjoy privileged access to the roof terraces of Florence Cathedral, guided by an expert who brings the city’s history into focus. From this rarely visited vantage point, the city unfolds in layers — red-tiled rooftops, narrow streets, and the soft rise of surrounding hills — revealing Florence’s enduring dialogue between craft, ambition, and landscape.
We continue on a guided walk through Florence, a city that feels suspended in time, a place where every stone holds a fragment of history and every street tells stories of centuries filled with art and culture.
We break for lunch at leisure and an afternoon to explore the streets and architectural wonder of Florence independently.
Gathering again this evening, we head for our farewell dinner at Angel Rooftop, where the city stretches out below the terrace, step into the streets that shaped the Renaissance, from cathedrals and civic palaces to workshops that nurtured generations of artists.
Accommodation: Plaza Hotel Lucchesi
Say a fond farewell to Florence
After breakfast, take a final moment to breathe in the Renaissance streets and buildings of Florence. Those with later flights may wish to linger over one last coffee or enjoy a slow walk by the river, before transferring to Florence Airport.
This chapter may close, but Italy’s spirit is one that stays with you long after departure.
Alternatively, open a new chapter of discovery by speaking to your Signature Collection travel expert about extending your stay.
Post-trip Extensions
Venice & Florence Hotels
Extend your Italian story a little longer. Whether lingering beside Venice’s lagoon waters or gazing across Florence’s terracotta rooftops, a few extra nights reveal new layers of the journey. Here are a few of our favourite hotels to inspire your stay:
The Gritti Palace: A storied Venetian residence set directly on the Grand Canal, where a 15th-century palazzo now welcomes guests with remarkable care. Rooms feature antique furnishings, Murano glass and works of art that echo the noble past of the building. On the canal-front terrace, watch gondolas drift by as seasonal Venetian dishes are served with elegance.
Hotel Cipriani, A Belmond Hotel: Across the lagoon on Giudecca Island, this celebrated retreat (pictured above) feels wonderfully removed from the bustle of St Mark’s Square. Gardens, vineyard rows and lagoon views create a sense of space rarely found in Venice. Rooms look across the water towards the city’s domes, while the pool and waterfront restaurant invite long, unhurried afternoons.
Villa San Michele, a Belmond Hotel, Florence: High in the hills above Florence, this former monastery offers a vantage point over the Arno Valley and the city’s Renaissance skyline. Its façade is often attributed to the school of Michelangelo, and the atmosphere remains one of quiet refinement. Terraced gardens frame views towards the Duomo, while Tuscan cuisine is served with care in the loggia restaurant. Here, Florence feels both close and beautifully removed.
This is just a glimpse of what’s possible. Speak to your Signature Collection travel expert, who can guide you through the options and arrange everything for you.
Accommodation
Experience the best of Tuscan hospitality
Every aspect of the Signature Collection is meticulously planned to take you deeper into the destination. That means your accommodation is a refined showcase of local hospitality, whether you’re staying in a pioneering luxury hotel or enjoying privileged access to a characterful stay designed to fully immerse you in the local culture.
Tuscany: Castello di Gargonza (nights 1-5)
Our Signature Stay. Hotel Castello di Gargonza sits within 500 hectares of Tuscan woodland, its restored towers and medieval alleys reflecting centuries of history. Suites pair heritage architecture with secluded courtyards, while gardens and vaulted dining rooms provide ample room to pause. Thoughtful practices, including low-impact lighting and refillable water stations, help preserve the estate’s tranquil setting for generations to come.
Florence: Plaza Hotel Lucchesi (nights 6-7)
Welcoming guests since 1860, Hotel Lucchesi stands beside the Arno River in central Florence. Its rooms combine period-inspired interiors with modern comforts, while the rooftop terrace and seasonal pool look across the city’s terracotta rooftops towards the Duomo. With a history spanning more than 160 years and a setting close to Florence’s historic centre, it makes an elegant base for your time in the city.
- Enhance your stay: Personalise your experience with curated room upgrades and additional nights tailored to your travel plans.
Food & Drink
This journey is designed to deepen your connection to the Tuscany through its food and drink, from organic olive oils and pecorino cheese to Chianti wines, seasonal farm lunches and the hands-on cooking traditions shared in kitchens across the region.
We always endeavour to accommodate dietary requirements and take great care in the preparation of meals. However, as meals are provided by a range of local restaurants, we cannot guarantee the complete absence of cross-contamination. Please inform your Signature Collection travel expert of any allergies or dietary requirements at the time of booking so we can discuss the options available to you.
Where meals are not included, your Signature Guide will be on hand with considered recommendations, whether you choose to dine together or enjoy the evening at your own pace.
Transport
From the moment you land to the moment you depart, all transport is taken care of for you. On this adventure, we use private sedans for airport transfers and a dedicated mini coach for all scheduled excursions. Your Signature Guide coordinates every transfer, ensuring seamless travel throughout your journey.
Weather & Seasonality
Tuscany has a classic Mediterranean climate. Spring and autumn are mild and comfortable for exploring hill towns and countryside. Summer brings warmer days, especially in Florence, while winter is cooler and often crisp. Rainfall is possible year-round, though typically short-lived, with the hills at their greenest in spring and late autumn.
Joining Instructions
As with all adventures in the Signature Collection, we take care of your arrival and departure transfers, allowing you to fully relax and immerse yourself in the local culture.
- Arrival airport: Florence Airport (FLR)
- Your adventure begins with the hotel tour at 5.30pm on Day 1, followed by a welcome reception at our first accommodation.
- Departure airport: Florence Airport (FLR)
- Your adventure concludes after breakfast on the final day.
Complimentary arrival and departure transfers are included between the airport and the tour’s designated start and end hotels on the first and last day of your tour. If you book additional pre-tour or post-tour nights at the designated start or end hotel through Exodus, your complimentary transfer will also be valid for those arrival and departure dates.
Additional charges may apply for transfers on different dates or to and from alternative hotels within the same city. To ensure arrangements can be made, complimentary transfers must be requested through your Signature Collection Travel Expert at least two weeks before your tour departure date.
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.
Location start: Gargonza, Arezzo
Location end: Florence
What To Take
Essential Equipment
There’s no specialist equipment you need for this trip. For more information on what you might need to pack, please see our packing guide.
Practical Info & Visa
Visa
Italy
Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter Italy. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.
Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.
• Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/europe/italy
• Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/italy
• United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/italy/entry-requirements
• USA: www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Italy.html
Please note: it is compulsory to carry ID with you at all times in Italy.
Vaccinations and Health
Italy
There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for tetanus, rabies and tick-borne encephalitis. Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.
Local Time
Italy's time zone: Europe/Rome (UTC +02:00)
Electricity
Italy's electricity:
Plug types C (two round pins, European standard), F (two round pins), and L (three round pins in a row) – 230V, 50Hz
Money
Italy's currency: Euros (EUR)
Extra Expenses & Spending Money
Local taxes: Many Italian cities have introduced a tourist tax for non‐residents. The local administration is in charge of the tax, which is collected by the accommodation provider at check‐in or check‐out. For this trip, please allow approximately €21, depending on the season, for the week.
Tipping
On this adventure, tipping for any local support staff is included and will be taken care of locally by your Signature Guide. Tips for your Signature Guide are not included. We recommend a starting point of €45 to €55 per group member, to be given at the end. This is discretionary and you may wish to tip a different amount, depending on the service you have received.
Sustainability and Impact
As a certified B Corp, we’re on a mission to improve our social and environmental impact across all our adventures.
We do this through our innovative Thriving Nature, Thriving People plan.
This ‘nature positive’ approach is designed to help nature and communities thrive in harmony through practical solutions, such as reducing carbon and waste on our trips, supporting conservation projects through the Exodus Adventure Travels Foundation, and rewilding 100 square metres for every Exodus traveller.
We also weave Signature Legacy moments into your itinerary, so the positive impact of your trip lasts long after your stay. These are moments to remember which help people and nature thrive, ensuring you build a harmonious, positive connection with the places you visit.
On this journey, you can:
- Visit a private restoration lab, gaining rare behind-the-scenes insight into the meticulous conservation of historic tapestries, garments and decorative objects.
- Delve into the world of Tuscan truffles on a family-run estate, joining expert handlers and their trained dogs to uncover the secrets of the hunt and learn how to distinguish authentic truffles from imitation products.
- Join an intimate farm and dairy tour at Podere Il Casale, meeting the animals and learning how pecorino is crafted before a guided tasting.
Important Information
Your Safe Participation
When booking this trip, you should be confident in your ability to participate in all activities described in these Trip Notes. If you have any doubt about your suitability, please call us and ask to speak to one of the experts on this itinerary.
Although our leaders are well trained to deal with different capabilities, if they have any concerns about someone’s ability to safely take part in an activity, or their impact on other people’s enjoyment, we authorise them to take necessary action which, in some circumstances, may involve asking someone to miss that activity.
By booking this trip you agree to our Booking Conditions which clearly state that our leaders have the authority to do this. In these rare instances we will ensure anyone sitting out is safely provided for and offered alternative options where possible. Refunds will not be provided for activities missed and customers may be liable for additional costs incurred.
Seatbelts
All vehicles used by us should be equipped with working seatbelts, except where approved by us based on the vehicle type or journey. Wherever seatbelts are available, we require our customers to use them for their own safety, even where it may not be a legal requirement.
Travel Safety
For additional information please have a look at the travel safety advice page on our website.
How To Book
Speak to our friendly team of experts to plan your adventure:
- Check availability: our website shows real-time availability of our guided group tours, or contact our team by phone, email or live chat.
- Hold a space: You can provisionally hold a space on any guided group tour to give you time to finalise your travel plans.
- Confirm your booking: Payment of a deposit will complete your booking and secure your place on the trip.
After booking
You will receive a confirmation document and invoice, which includes extra information and guidance about your travel arrangements. Our dedicated Customer Operations team will help you with any pre-travel questions or arrangements and can easily add extensions or extra accommodation to your booking. Final Joining Instructions will usually be sent out two to three weeks prior to departure.
Adding transfers to your booking
If you have arranged your own flights and would like to add transfers to your booking, please provide your arrival and departure details to our Customer Operations team around four to six weeks before departure.
- Where complimentary transfers are included, they are available for any flight but can only be added to your booking once we have received your flight schedule.
- Where group arrival and departure transfers are available, these operate at fixed times. You will need to arrive in time to meet the scheduled transfer. If the timings don’t align with your travel plans, our team can arrange private transfers once they receive your flight schedule.
Trip Note validity
Trip notes may be updated after booking; if any updates significantly impact the inclusions or itinerary you will be advised in writing. A link to the most up-to-date Trip Notes will be sent out with your Final Joining Instructions before departure.
The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes, and occasionally it may not be possible to follow the itinerary as planned. In these circumstances we will make the best-possible alternative arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary.
