Montecatini Terme is more than just a spa town—it’s a fantastic hub for exploring Tuscany’s rich culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine. What makes it especially appealing for tours is its strategic location, putting you within easy reach of vineyards, medieval towns, and coastlines. For example, the Extra Virgin Cooking Classes in Lucca offer a hands-on way to learn about Tuscan food, shop at farmers markets, and enjoy a homemade 4-course lunch with regional wines – all in an 18th-century setting. Such immersive experiences are perfect for travelers who want more than just sightseeing; they want to taste, touch, and smell Tuscany.
If you’re looking for true regional depth, the Olive Oil tours give you insight into the production of high-quality EVOO, often paired with tastings and local dinners. Or if your time is limited, a full-day trip to Cinque Terre reveals Italy’s iconic seaside villages in a single, well-organized day. These tours combine comfort and authenticity, making Montecatini Terme a prime starting point for memorable Tuscan adventures.
1. Extra Virgin Cooking Classes / Countryside Mill location
At number 1 on our list, this 5-hour Tuscan cooking class in Lucca is a standout for anyone eager to master regional cuisine. You’ll start with a visit to a local market, sourcing fresh ingredients, then head to an 18th-century palace where your chef Giuseppe guides you through preparing a 4-course lunch. Afterwards, enjoy your homemade dishes paired with regional wines, all in a beautiful, historic setting. This tour is rated a perfect 5/5 with 141 reviews, emphasizing its engaging, welcoming atmosphere.
What makes this experience special is Giuseppe’s relaxed, personable style and the chance to learn practical tips you’ll actually use at home. It’s suitable for all skill levels, and the focus on regional delicacies like cheeses, honey, and olive oil adds a true Tuscan flavor. Guests report this as a highlight of their trip, praising the blend of education, delicious food, and authentic ambiance.
Bottom Line: Ideal for food lovers who want a hands-on, intimate experience and to bring home real Italian recipes.
2. Olive Oil tour with Tuscan dinner
This 3.5-hour tour is a perfect introduction to Tuscany’s olive oil heritage. Certified guides walk you through the olive grove, explaining how high-quality EVOO is produced, and teach you to taste it like a sommelier. The experience culminates in a dinner at a family-managed stone farmhouse from 1861, where you’ll sample dishes prepared with different kinds of EVOO.
Guests rave about the authenticity and intimacy of this experience, with reviews highlighting the warmth of the hosts and the educational aspect. For just over $74, you get a blend of learning and tasting—plus a genuine Tuscan dinner—making it excellent value. The small-group format ensures personalized attention, and many say it’s one of the best meals they’ve had in Europe.
Bottom Line: Perfect for olive oil enthusiasts and those wanting a relaxing, taste-focused evening immersed in local traditions.
3. Guided tours of the olive grove with oil tasting
This 2-hour tour offers a deep dive into the art of olive oil making at family-run Podere Cavozzoli. You’ll explore the farm, learn about organic farming practices, and see the production process firsthand. The highlight is a guided tasting of their top-quality EVOO, giving you the skills to identify good oil and appreciate its nuances.
Rated 5/5 by 60 reviews, visitors appreciate Niccolò’s expert guidance and humor. The experience not only educates but also elevates your appreciation for this essential Tuscan product. It’s an excellent choice if you’re curious about agricultural sustainability and want a straightforward yet enriching tasting.
Bottom Line: A highly rated, compact visit for those eager to understand and taste premium olive oil.
4. Wine Experience in farm vineyard & winery from Montecatini T.
At number 4, this 4-hour farm and winery tour combines scenic vineyard walks with tastings of local wines and delicious Tuscan dishes. You’ll meet your host, enjoy aperitivo snacks, and then sit down to a hearty meal paired with regional wines. The tour’s small group size (max six people) means an intimate, tailored experience.
Rated 5/5, guests love the authentic atmosphere and the chance to explore the countryside in a relaxed way. The inclusion of a generous lunch or dinner with local wines makes this experience particularly good value. It’s ideal for wine lovers who want to see the vineyards, learn about wine production, and enjoy a full meal with expert guidance.
Bottom Line: A superb choice for wine aficionados seeking a personal, immersive Tuscan experience.
5. The Best of Cinque Terre Small Group Tour from Montecatini Terme
Spending 11 hours exploring Cinque Terre, this small group tour is perfect for those wanting hassle-free access to Italy’s most iconic seaside villages. Departing from Montecatini, you’ll travel comfortably by vehicle, then explore Vernazza, Manarola, and Monterosso by bus, train, and boat—tickets included.
Rated 5/5, travelers rave about the well-organized itinerary, the scenic boat rides (weather permitting), and the charming villages. You’ll have time for shopping, swimming, and enjoying the local cuisine, making this a full, satisfying day. The moderate price reflects the comprehensive experience, including transportation and guided insights.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want to see the best of Cinque Terre without the stress of planning or navigating.
6. Chianti Wine and Vinci half day Small Group Tour from Montecatini Terme
This 4.5-hour tour is a quick, rich dive into Tuscany’s Chianti region. You’ll visit a renowned winery, sample Chianti wines, and enjoy local delicacies like bruschetta and pecorino cheese. Then, you’ll explore Vinci, Leonardo da Vinci’s birthplace, with a focus on his life and innovations.
Rated 5/5, guests praise the knowledgeable guides and the mixture of wine tasting and cultural exploration. The tour’s efficient schedule makes it perfect for those who want a taste of Tuscany’s viticulture and history without a full day commitment.
Bottom Line: Great for wine lovers and history enthusiasts short on time but wanting depth.
7. Cinque Terre and Pisa Private tour from Montecatini Terme
For a private 9-hour experience, this tour offers the flexibility to visit both Cinque Terre’s villages and the Leaning Tower of Pisa. With a dedicated guide and driver, you’ll explore Vernazza and Monterosso by boat or train, then head to Pisa for the iconic tower.
Rated 5/5, travelers appreciate the personalized service and the ease of combining these two highlights in one day. The private format allows for tailored stops and more in-depth exploration, ideal for travelers who value comfort and custom experiences.
Bottom Line: Perfect for couples or small groups seeking a flexible, private adventure combining coast and city.
8. Montecatini Terme cycle and wine tasting visit
This 5-hour guided bike tour takes you through the Tuscan countryside, stopping in Montecarlo, a medieval hilltop town, and visiting a local winery. You’ll pedal past fields, vineyards, and olive groves, with a stop for wine tasting and a light lunch (own expense).
Rated 5/5, lovers of active travel praise the knowledgeable guide and the opportunity to see Tuscany off the beaten path. The e-bike capability makes it accessible for various fitness levels, and the scenic stops provide a true taste of rural Tuscany.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for active travelers wanting an authentic, scenic wine and countryside experience.
9. Siena, San Gimignano and Chianti Wine Small Group from Montecatini Terme
This 10-hour tour combines three of Tuscany’s most loved towns: San Gimignano, Siena, and Chianti. You’ll explore San Gimignano’s medieval towers, learn about Siena’s Palio at Piazza del Campo, and visit a Chianti wine estate for tastings.
Rated 4.5/5, travelers highlight the well-paced day and the knowledgeable guide. The free time at each town allows meaningful exploration. It’s a comprehensive way to experience Tuscany’s cultural and culinary highlights in one day.
Bottom Line: Ideal for history and wine lovers who want an all-in-one day trip with expert guidance.
10. Chianti, SuperTuscan & San Gimignano – 2 wineries and light lunch
For around $460, this private tour offers a full day exploring San Gimignano and visiting two boutique wineries. You’ll walk through vineyards, learn about wine making, and taste SuperTuscan and Vernaccia wines along with a light lunch.
Rated 5/5, guests value the personalized attention, the intimate visits, and the stunning views. It’s best suited for discerning wine enthusiasts willing to indulge in a more exclusive experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for couples or small groups seeking a premium, private Tuscany wine day.
11. Cinque Terre Semi-Private Day Tour from Montecatini Terme
This 10.5-hour semi-private tour is tailored for those who want a smaller group experience. You’ll enjoy train and boat rides, exploring Riomaggiore, Vernazza, and Monterosso, with plenty of free time to wander or relax.
Rated 4.5/5, travelers mention the excellent organization and the relaxed pace. The small group ensures more personal interaction and better access to the villages’ best spots.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who prefer a more relaxed, intimate day at Cinque Terre.
12. Other towns: Private Tour Cinque Terre and leaning tower of Pisa
This private 9-hour tour adds a personal touch by combining Cinque Terre’s villages with a visit to Pisa’s Leaning Tower. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a customized experience with flexible stops.
Rated 5/5, reviews highlight the attentive guide and the convenience of a private tour. The boat ride in Cinque Terre and a quick city visit balance scenic beauty with cultural sights.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want a tailored, private day exploring coast and city highlights.
13. PRIVATE TOUR: oil production, Leonardo’s house, tasting
This private 7-hour experience focuses on oil production and Leonardo da Vinci’s birthplace. You’ll participate in olive harvest activities, learn about cold-pressed olive oil, and taste wines in a scenic setting—perfect for independent-minded travelers.
Rated 5/5, the small group size and authentic activities make it stand out as a deeply personal experience away from crowds.
Bottom Line: Best for those interested in traditional olive oil and Leonardo’s roots, with an emphasis on authentic production.
14. Leonardo da Vinci’s path
This 6-hour tour is a walk through Vinci’s landscapes, including visits to his birthplace, vineyards, and the Fattoria di Faltognano. You’ll enjoy a scenic hike, visit the museums, and conclude with a packed lunch overlooking the Chianti hills.
Rated 5/5, it offers a personalized, leisurely journey for lovers of art, innovation, and Tuscan scenery.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want to connect with Leonardo’s world on foot, with scenic views and cultural depth.
$69.79 per person
15. Montecatini Private Day Trip To Chianti & San Gimignano
This private 9-hour tour features a driver-guided journey through Chianti, including stops at Greve, Badia a Passignano, and San Gimignano. It offers flexibility and comfort, with time to explore each location at your pace.
Rated 5/5, reviews emphasize the ease of private transport, personalized service, and scenic stops perfect for photography.
Bottom Line: Best for small groups or couples wanting a personalized, relaxed exploration of Tuscany’s highlights.
$1,031.16 per group (up to 7)
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. For example, if you’re passionate about cooking, the Extra Virgin Cooking Classes offers an immersive experience. If your goal is to see the coast, the Cinque Terre full-day provides stunning scenery and charming villages. For wine lovers, the Chianti Wine & Vinci tour combines tasting with cultural exploration.
Think about your physical fitness—active options like cycling or hiking tours require some stamina, while private tours are more relaxed and flexible. Booking early is advised, especially for popular experiences such as the Cinque Terre or private Pisa tours.
Final Thoughts
Montecatini Terme is a fantastic base for exploring Tuscany’s culinary, historical, and scenic treasures. Whether you’re a foodie craving Tuscan cooking classes, a wine enthusiast eager to visit Chianti vineyards, or a coast lover wanting to visit Cinque Terre, there’s a tour to match your interests. To make the most of your trip, book early, especially for popular small-group or private experiences. With these options, you’ll find a memorable way to experience the best of Tuscany right from Montecatini Terme.