Under the Tuscan Sun Tour from Rome-Cortona & Montepulciano 1 day

Discover Tuscany’s Charm in a Day with the Under the Tuscan Sun Tour from Rome

If you’re craving a taste of Tuscany’s rolling hills, medieval towns, and renowned wines, this day trip from Rome might just be your perfect escape. For around $520 per person, you’ll spend approximately 10 hours exploring two of Tuscany’s most captivating towns—Cortona and Montepulciano—with the added bonus of a private, personalized experience that makes you feel like a local rather than just a tourist. Your journey includes visits to famous film locations from Under the Tuscan Sun, a delightful wine tasting at Contucci Cantine, and plenty of time to soak in the scenic views and authentic atmosphere.

What we really love about this tour is the intimate setting it offers—only your group will participate—plus the chance to stroll through charming medieval streets with expert guidance. The private transportation and Wi-Fi onboard make the entire day smooth and comfortable, allowing you to relax and focus on enjoying the sights.

One small consideration: the day is packed with stops, so if you prefer a more leisurely pace or want longer in each town, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, for those eager to see Tuscany’s highlights in a single day, it’s an excellent choice.

This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate cultural and culinary experiences, love movies—especially Under the Tuscan Sun—and want to explore iconic Italian towns without the hassle of planning logistics themselves.

Key Points

• All-inclusive value: Transportation, parking, tolls, water, and wine tastings are covered, making it hassle-free.
• Personalized experience: Small group or private tour ensures more individual attention.
• Iconic locations: Visit Villa Bramasole and film sites from Under the Tuscan Sun.
• Wine lover’s dream: Tasting at Contucci Cantine offers an authentic taste of Montepulciano’s famous Nobile wine.
• Flexible exploration: Ample time in each town to walk, shop, and take photos.
• Stunning landscapes: Expect beautiful vistas of Tuscany’s rolling hills and medieval architecture.

An In-Depth Look at the Under the Tuscan Sun Tour

This day-long journey from Rome offers a wonderful blend of scenery, history, and flavors—perfect for those who want a condensed taste of Tuscany’s best. By combining guided visits, self-exploration, and tastings, the tour provides a well-rounded experience that appeals to a variety of interests.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Cortona
Your day begins early at 7:30 am with pickup in Rome. About an hour and a half later, you arrive in the medieval town of Cortona, famously featured in the film Under the Tuscan Sun. Expect charming cobblestone streets, quaint cafés, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The main square, bustling with locals and visitors alike, offers a perfect spot to sit with a cappuccino and soak in the relaxed Tuscan vibe. As one reviewer noted, “this was a great tour,” and the highlight was simply wandering through the delightful atmosphere of an old Tuscan village.

Stop 2: Villa Bramasole
Next, you’ll visit the famous villa that served as the film’s centerpiece—Villa Bramasole. Whether you go with your guide or explore on your own, you’ll get a chance for photos and to imagine yourself in Frances Mayes’ story. This spot is a true highlight for film fans and those wanting a picturesque memory of Tuscany’s countryside. It’s a brief stop but rich in character, and you’re encouraged to appreciate its timeless charm.

Stop 3: Montepulciano
After a scenic drive, it’s time for Montepulciano—the town of Nobile di Montepulciano, a celebrated red wine. The town’s main square, Piazza Grande, is lined with Renaissance buildings, including the Duomo and a Town Hall that still bears medieval features. You’ll have about an hour and a half to wander through its winding streets, enjoy the views, and take in the architectural beauty. This town is especially famous for its wine, and as one reviewer puts it, “the town of the famous Nobile di Montepulciano red wine celebrated even by poets,” which we think makes it the perfect spot for wine lovers.

Stop 4: Contucci Cantine
The tour culminates at Contucci Cantine, a historic family winery that invites visitors to sample their Nobile di Montepulciano—free of charge. This wine tasting is a genuine highlight, with many visitors praising the excellent quality of the wines and the welcoming atmosphere. One reviewer happily shared, “the winery is one of the oldest and most appreciated,” reinforcing its reputation for authenticity and tradition. Here, you’ll have about 90 minutes to sip, chat, and appreciate the flavors of Italy’s famous red, making this a true taste of Tuscany’s culinary culture.

Transportation and Comfort

Traveling in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi makes the journey comfortable. The private transport, covering parking and tolls, means you won’t have to worry about logistical details. The group size is small, ensuring a more personalized experience—something that many travelers especially appreciate, as one review mentions their guide Alessandro, who “looked after me very well.”

How This Tour Fits Different Travelers

If you’re a fan of the film Under the Tuscan Sun or simply love exploring medieval towns, this tour hits the mark. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the tasting at Contucci Cantine, while those wanting to see iconic movie locations will find the villa visit especially charming. It’s perfect for history buffs, foodies, and photographers alike.

However, be aware that the schedule can be a bit tight. If you prefer unhurried exploration or want to linger longer in each town, this may feel rushed. But if your goal is to tick off several highlights in a day, it offers excellent value.

Authentic Experiences That Stand Out

What truly sets this tour apart are the local guides’ insights and the curated visits to film locations and the renowned vineyards. The reviews consistently praise guides like Alessandro for their attentiveness, which enhances the experience and ensures you get more than just a sightseeing list.

The wine tasting at Contucci Cantine is not just a quick stop; many travelers note the quality of the Nobile wine and the historic setting of the winery itself. This gives you a genuine taste of regional tradition and craftsmanship, making the tasting not just a treat but an educational experience.

The Value Proposition

At roughly $520 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive day in Tuscany—covering transportation, admissions, tastings, and expert guiding. For travelers eager to avoid the hassle of planning their own day trips, it’s a convenient, well-organized way to experience Tuscany’s highlights. The inclusions such as Wi-Fi, private transport, and parking fees enhance comfort and ease, making it a good value for those who want a seamless experience.

While the price may seem high compared to independent travel, remember that it includes curated visits, insider knowledge, and exclusive tastings, which you might otherwise pay more for if attempting to arrange your own day.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who want a guided, all-in-one day trip that combines sightseeing, culture, and wine tasting. It’s perfect for first-time visitors who want to see the most iconic and film-famous parts of Tuscany without the stress of planning.

Likewise, food and wine lovers will appreciate the tasting at Contucci Cantine, while film buffs will enjoy retracing scenes from Under the Tuscan Sun.

If you’re after a leisurely, slow-paced exploration, this might feel a bit rushed, but if you’re looking to maximize your time and see the best of Tuscany in a single day, this tour hits the spot.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 10 hours, starting early at 7:30 am and returning later in the evening.

What is included in the price?
Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, Wi-Fi, parking fees, tolls, bottled water, and a wine tasting at Contucci Cantine are covered.

Do I need to prepare anything in advance?
No special preparations are needed, though wearing comfortable shoes is recommended for walking around towns.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but be aware of the walking involved and the overall schedule.

How much time do we spend in each location?
About 1.5 hours in Cortona, 30 minutes at Villa Bramasole, 1.5 hours in Montepulciano, and 1.5 hours at Contucci Cantine.

Can I see inside the villa from the film?
The stop is mainly to see and photograph the villa’s exterior and soak in the scenery—interior access isn’t typically included.

Is there free time to explore on my own?
Yes, each stop allows some free exploration and photo opportunities.

What if I want to customize my experience?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss your preferences with your guide beforehand.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the tour.

Would I recommend this for solo travelers or couples?
Absolutely—small group or private tours are ideal for both, offering intimacy and personalized attention.

To sum it up, the Under the Tuscan Sun Tour from Rome offers a well-rounded, convenient way to experience Tuscany’s most photogenic towns, authentic wines, and cinematic history—all within a manageable day trip. It’s best suited for those eager for a guided experience that combines scenic beauty, cultural charm, and culinary delights—perfect for first-timers or anyone looking to check off Tuscany’s highlights without the fuss of independent planning. If you value knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and top-quality wine tastings, this tour will leave you with memorable stories and fantastic photos.