A day trip from Rome that takes you through Italy’s beautiful countryside, visiting Orvieto, Civita di Bagnoregio, and Montepulciano, all in one seamless, private tour. For around $1,180 per person, you’ll enjoy luxury transportation, expert guides, and exclusive access to remarkable sites, making this a fantastic choice for travelers who want to combine culture, history, and wine without the hassle of planning every detail.
What we love most about this experience is how personalized it feels—your own private chauffeur and guide ensure you get a tailored visit to each location. Plus, the wine tastings in Montepulciano and the chance to walk through Civita’s stunning pedestrian bridge are highlights that truly elevate the day.
One possible consideration is the amount of walking involved—most sites, especially Civita di Bagnoregio, require some maneuvering over uneven ground. So, if you have mobility issues or prefer more relaxed sightseeing with minimal walking, this might be a good thing to keep in mind.
This tour suits travelers eager to see some of Italy’s lesser-known gems, enjoy authentic food and wine, and appreciate the stunning landscapes of Tuscany and Umbria without sacrificing comfort or convenience.
Key Points
- Exclusive Private Experience: Personal chauffeur and guide for a tailored, comfortable journey.
- Cultural and Scenic Highlights: Visit iconic sites like Orvieto’s Duomo and Civita di Bagnoregio’s breathtaking views.
- Wine and Food: Tasting session with four wines in Montepulciano plus local cheese and cold cuts.
- Comfort and Convenience: Round-trip luxury transportation simplifies logistics.
- Authentic Locations: Small villages that offer a glimpse into Italy’s history and rural charms.
- Time Management: Well-structured itinerary with ample time to explore each spot and enjoy the scenery.
Exploring Italy’s Countryside in Style and Substance
When we first heard about this private tour from Rome, we were immediately drawn to its promise of visiting three distinctive villages—each with its own story—plus enjoying wine tastings in a town famous for its vino. It’s a compact, carefully curated experience designed for those who want to maximize their time and minimize stress.
The tour kicks off early, with pickup around 7 a.m., ensuring you get a full day without feeling rushed. Traveling in a luxury vehicle with a private chauffeur, we get the comfort and flexibility to customize the stops slightly if needed. The private nature of the tour means you’re not part of a large group, allowing more meaningful conversations and a personalized experience.
Prefer personalized experiences? Here are other private options we've covered in Rome
Visiting Orvieto — A Tufa City with a Story
Our first stop is Orvieto, an ancient city perched atop a volcanic tufa formation. The highlight here is the Duomo di Orvieto, a stunning cathedral famed for its intricate façade and remarkable interior. The guide explains that this city was a significant Etruscan stronghold, with a history that stretches back thousands of years.
Walking through the narrow streets and exploring the caves and tunnels created by the Etruscans adds to the sense of stepping into another era. The admission ticket is included, so you can focus on soaking in the architecture and history. One reviewer raved about the experience, calling their guides “outstanding” and describing the day as “amazing,” highlighting how much they appreciated the expert knowledge shared about sites like the breathtaking cathedral.
Montepulciano — Renaissance Elegance and Wine
The next stop takes us deeper into Tuscany, to the hilltop town of Montepulciano. Here, Piazza Grande serves as the heart of this medieval marvel. The panoramic views of the Val d’Orcia and Val di Chiana valleys are truly magnificent, making this a highlight for anyone who loves landscapes.
In Montepulciano, we visit an ancient wine cellar, where we sample four different wines paired with local cheese and cold cuts. The reviewer comments on the “great tasting wines” and the ability to enjoy delicious local products—something we found to be a delightful way to connect with regional flavors. The guide’s expertise shines through, making the wine tasting educational yet relaxed.
Civita di Bagnoregio — The “Dying City” Reborn
Our final destination is Civita di Bagnoregio, often called “The Dying City” due to erosion threatening its existence. Built on tuff rock, this tiny village is accessible via a pedestrian bridge, which feels like walking into a fairy tale. The views from the bridge are spectacular—cliffs and valleys all around.
This site’s charm is undeniable, and the tour includes a guided visit with free time to explore on your own. The reviews highlight how Civita’s special ambiance—its unique geology and picturesque streets—leave travelers in awe. The entrance ticket is included, and you’ll enjoy walking on uneven terrain, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
The Logistics and What It Means for You
This tour’s 8 to 9 hours may seem long, but the private arrangement makes it feel more like an immersive day rather than a rushed schedule. The round-trip transportation in a luxury vehicle means you’re not worrying about parking, navigation, or driving. Plus, with a private guide by your side, you’ll get tailored insights into each site.
The cost, at around $1,180, reflects the personalized service, private transportation, entrance fees, and tastings—all valuable inclusions that make this a good value compared to piecing together visits on your own, especially considering the convenience and expert guidance.
Keen to taste more of Rome? We've looked into these other food and drink experiences
- Rome: Tuscany & Montepulciano Day Trip with Lunch & Wine Tasting
- Rome Street Food Tour with Local Guide
- Rome: Taste of Testaccio Food and Market Tour with Eating Europe
- Rome: Award Winning Trastevere Small Group Food Tour with Wine
- Rome Food Tour: Unlimited Tastings with Fine Wine & Barolo
- The Roman Food Tour in Trastevere with Free-Flowing Fine Wine
What Travelers Say
From glowing reviews, it’s clear that knowledgeable guides like Rossana, Francisco, and Reno make a difference in how much you enjoy the day. One reviewer said, “Rossana was incredibly informative and accommodating,” which is exactly what you want from a guide—someone who enhances your understanding without overwhelming.
Others appreciated the stunning scenery, with comments about the beautiful landscapes and authentic villages. The wine tasting was a highlight, with sumptuous wines served alongside local cheese and cold cuts, turning the experience into a mini-culinary adventure.
Considerations
While most travelers report smooth experiences, it’s worth noting that some walking is involved, especially at Civita di Bagnoregio, which has uneven ground. If mobility is an issue, this is something to consider. Also, the tour is designed to be comprehensive—so be prepared for a full day, but also for the comfort of having everything organized for you.
Who Would Love This Tour?
This experience is best suited for travelers who want a luxurious, hassle-free day focused on Italy’s scenic beauty, history, and wine. It’s perfect for culture enthusiasts, food and wine lovers, and those who want to see less crowded gems without sacrificing comfort.
Travelers who appreciate guided insights and are happy to spend some time on foot will find this tour especially rewarding. It’s ideal for those who don’t mind a long day, as the itinerary is well-paced and thoughtfully planned.
Final Thoughts
This private tour offers a wonderful way to explore Italy’s countryside without the stress of planning logistics yourself. You’ll visit stunning villages, enjoy expert-guided wine tastings, and walk through historically significant sites—all in a comfortable, private setting.
The combination of personalized service, authentic locations, and delicious food and wine makes this an appealing choice for those eager to experience Italy’s rural charm in style. Whether it’s the spectacular views, the historical sites, or the tasting experiences that attract you, this tour delivers a well-rounded, memorable day.
For anyone looking to combine culture, scenery, and gastronomy on a single, seamless journey, this private trip from Rome is hard to beat.
FAQ
How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 8 to 9 hours, allowing ample time to explore each village, enjoy the tastings, and soak in the scenery without feeling rushed.
Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation is provided in a luxury vehicle with a private chauffeur, making the logistics smooth and comfortable.
Are entrance fees included?
Yes, tickets for the Orvieto Cathedral and Civita di Bagnoregio are included, as well as the wine cellar visit and tastings in Montepulciano.
What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially for walking on uneven ground at Civita di Bagnoregio. Dress code for the Duomo requires knees and shoulders to be covered.
Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, guides can sometimes accommodate slight adjustments, but the schedule is designed to maximize your experience across all stops.
Is this suitable for children or travelers with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but some walking on uneven terrain at Civita di Bagnoregio and other sites may pose challenges for those with mobility limitations. Please advise any specific needs when booking.
This tour offers a beautifully balanced mix of history, scenery, and gastronomy—perfect for travelers who want to make the most of a day outside Rome in Italy’s enchanting countryside.
More Food & Drink Experiences in Rome
- Campo dei Fiori Market and Trevi Fountain District Food & Wine Tour in Rome
- Half-Day Minardi Wine and Food Tour in Frascati
- 2 days: Hike the peak, Kayak the lake, visit Castle and best food
- Bagnoregio & Orvieto Day Trip from Rome with Wine Tasting & Lunch
- Amalfi Coast with Wine Tasting – Private Driving Tour from Rome
- Rome: Fountains and Squares with Tasting, Semi-Private Tour
More Tours in Rome
- Private Colosseum Roman, Forum and Palatine Hill Tour
- Colosseum Express Guided Tour and Ancient Rome Admission Included
- From Rome: Tuscany Wine Tour, San Gimignano & Florence
- Private Tour of the Colosseum, Roman forum & Palatine hill with Arena Floor
- Romes Best-Preserved Monument Pantheon: Fast Track & Guided Tour
- Borghese Gallery private tour
More Tour Reviews in Rome
- Private Colosseum Roman, Forum and Palatine Hill Tour
- Colosseum Express Guided Tour and Ancient Rome Admission Included
- From Rome: Tuscany Wine Tour, San Gimignano & Florence
- Private Tour of the Colosseum, Roman forum & Palatine hill with Arena Floor
- Romes Best-Preserved Monument Pantheon: Fast Track & Guided Tour
- Borghese Gallery private tour
More Rome experiences we've covered
- Private Colosseum Roman, Forum and Palatine Hill Tour
- Colosseum Express Guided Tour and Ancient Rome Admission Included
- From Rome: Tuscany Wine Tour, San Gimignano & Florence
- Private Tour of the Colosseum, Roman forum & Palatine hill with Arena Floor
- Romes Best-Preserved Monument Pantheon: Fast Track & Guided Tour
- Borghese Gallery private tour
- Capuchin Crypt Christmas Baroque Concert in Rome
- Discover the Jewish Ghetto of Rome on a Small Group Walking Tour
- Exclusive Private Tour: Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St Peter’s Basilica
- Rome: Colosseum Full Experience Arena & Roman Forum Private tour
- 3-Hour Guided Tour of Splendid Rome by E-Bike
- Campo dei Fiori Market and Trevi Fountain District Food & Wine Tour in Rome