Versilia isn’t just about sunbathing on its beautiful beaches or strolling along its lively promenades. This stretch of Tuscany offers a surprising variety of tours that deepen your connection to local life, cuisine, and scenery. Whether you’re eager to learn authentic pasta making, sample world-class wines, or explore iconic villages, Versilia’s tour options combine practicality with genuine experiences. One standout example is the Cesarine pasta and tiramisu class in Viareggio, which offers an intimate look at Italian cooking inside a local home—an experience that’s both delicious and personal.
What we love most about these tours is their diversity: from hands-on cooking to scenic wine tasting and exploring artistic quarries. For instance, the Cinque Terre Small Group Tour from Viareggio offers a way to see Italy’s most colorful coastal villages without the hassle of arranging transport, while the Carrara Marble Tour takes you behind the scenes of Michelangelo’s favorite quarry. Below is a quick overview of the top options, followed by detailed insights to help you pick your ideal adventure.
1. Cesarine: Small group Pasta and Tiramisu class in Viareggio
At number 1 we have this highly-rated small-group pasta and tiramisu class. For about $156, you get three hours of hands-on cooking in a local Viareggio home, learning how to make two different pasta dishes and the iconic tiramisu. The guide is a local cook, sharing authentic tips and recipes, and the small group format ensures plenty of personal attention. Guests rave about the warmth of the hosts, calling it “the best part of their trip,” and note how they left with not just new skills but also new friends. This tour is perfect for food lovers who want an authentic, intimate experience and to bring home a piece of Italy’s culinary soul. The meal, including drinks, is a delightful reward.
Bottom Line: A top choice for those eager to learn authentic Italian recipes directly from locals in a personal setting.
2. Lucca – Wine tasting at Tenuta Mareli
For $34.39, the wine tasting at Tenuta Mareli offers a laid-back yet informative experience on the Lucca hills. Over 1.5 hours, you’ll tour a biodynamic vineyard, tasting four organic wines alongside local oils, honey, and cheeses. The host, Francesca, shares her family’s philosophy on natural winemaking, making this more than just a tasting—it’s a glimpse into the region’s sustainable wine culture. Guests mention how Francesca’s storytelling and the delicious food made the experience memorable. This tour suits wine enthusiasts looking for a relaxed, authentic experience that combines education with tasting results.
Bottom Line: An excellent value and authentic introduction to Tuscany’s organic wine scene, perfect for casual wine lovers.
3. Lunch or dinner and cooking demo at a local home in Viareggio
Priced at $98.30, this cooking demo in Viareggio offers an intimate 2.5-hour experience inside a local’s home. You’ll watch as your host prepares a four-course meal—featuring authentic family recipes—then enjoy the fruits of your labor with wine and conversation. The small group size allows for plenty of interaction and questions, making it ideal for those who want more than just a demonstration. Guests rave about how welcoming they felt and how delicious the food was. It’s perfect for travelers who want to get a genuine taste of Italian hospitality and learn practical cooking skills.
Bottom Line: A hands-on way to enjoy authentic Tuscan cuisine and culture within a friendly, private setting.
4. Siena, San Gimignano and Chianti Wine Small Group from Viareggio
For around $191, this full-day small-group tour takes you through Tuscany’s iconic towns and vineyards. Starting in San Gimignano, known for its medieval towers and gelato, you get free time to explore. Then, a guided visit to a renowned Chianti estate includes tastings of Vernaccia and Chianti DOCG, paired with local delicacies. In Siena, you’ll walk along medieval streets and finish with a tasting of traditional Tuscan food. The tour balances sightseeing with wine experiences, with comfortable transportation included. Guests highlight the guide’s passion and detailed insights, making it more than just a standard day trip.
Bottom Line: Ideal for history and wine enthusiasts who want an in-depth, relaxed day exploring Tuscany’s best-loved towns.
5. Cinque Terre Small Group Tour from Viareggio-Forte dei Marmi
At $188.71, this Cinque Terre tour is a must for coastal scenery lovers. Traveling by minivan and either train or boat, you visit the colorful villages of Manarola, Riomaggiore, Vernazza, and Monterosso. The itinerary offers flexibility to explore at your own pace—whether you want to photograph the picturesque streets, indulge in gelato, or swim in the sea. Guests praise the driver and guide’s knowledge, and many say it’s the best way to see these iconic villages without the hassle of planning. A great option for those short on time but wanting a comprehensive taste of Italy’s coast.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers eager to see the Cinque Terre comfortably and flexibly, especially if transportation logistics are a concern.
6. Private Market Tour and Cooking Class with Lunch or Dinner in Viareggio
For $218.64, this private market and cooking experience offers personalized insight. You start by exploring the local market, selecting fresh ingredients with your host, then proceed to cook three regional dishes in their home kitchen. Afterward, enjoy your meal with local wine, plus a souvenir apron and shopping bag. Many guests appreciate the tailored attention and the opportunity to ask questions about Tuscan cuisine. This tour suits those wanting a deeper, more customized culinary adventure with a relaxed pace.
Bottom Line: Ideal for foodies seeking a private, interactive experience that combines shopping, cooking, and dining.
7. Private market tour, lunch or dinner and cooking demo in Viareggio
At $160.80, this private market and cooking demo offers an authentic inside look at Italian home cooking. Your host takes you to local shops to pick ingredients, then prepares a four-course meal in their kitchen. The experience is intimate, with just your party and the host, making it perfect for those who want a personalized taste of Tuscan life. Guests note the warmth of the hosts and the delicious, authentic results. It’s a great option for dedicated food lovers wanting a relaxed, in-depth culinary experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a private, hands-on meal with insights into local cooking traditions.
8. Wine tour and lunch in Lucca area
For $604.84, this all-day wine and lunch tour offers a premium experience. Visiting two wineries in Lucca and Montecarlo, you’ll taste a variety of wines, including Sangiovese and Trebbiano, plus French varietals like syrah and cabernet. The tour also includes a walk in Montecarlo’s medieval streets and a light lunch with regional wines. Guests praise the detailed explanations about wine production and the scenic drives. This tour is best suited for serious wine lovers who want to explore multiple estates and enjoy a leisurely day in Tuscany’s wine country.
Bottom Line: A top-tier option for those serious about wine tasting and exploring Tuscany’s vinicultural diversity.
9. Private cooking class with lunch or dinner in Viareggio
This $168.41 private cooking class offers an inside look at three typical Viareggio dishes prepared in your host’s home. It’s designed for small groups, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. Guests mention the experience was memorable, especially for families with a broad age range. The class ends with enjoying the meal with wine, making it a rewarding culinary experience. It’s ideal for travelers looking for an authentic, private culinary adventure.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for small groups wanting tailored instruction and a true taste of local flavors.
$168.41 per person
10. Carrara Marble Tour Small Group from Viareggio
At $167.85, the Carrara Marble Tour offers a fascinating look into the origin of Michelangelo’s marble. Visiting the marble quarries, you’ll learn how the world’s most famous sculptors sourced their stones. The tour includes a visit to Colonnata, where you can taste the famed Lard IGT. It’s perfect for art lovers and those curious about Tuscany’s industrial side. The small-group format allows for an engaging, personal experience, with knowledgeable guides sharing details about the quarrying process and the region’s culinary delicacies.
Bottom Line: An eye-opening, cultural experience for those interested in art, industry, and regional specialties.
11. Half-Day Chianti Wine and Olive Oil Tour from Viareggio
For $160.91, this half-day tour takes you into Chianti’s hills for a laid-back exploration. Visiting Vinci, the birthplace of Leonardo da Vinci, you learn about local wine and olive oil production. You’ll visit a winery for a tasting of four wines paired with regional snacks, including pecorino cheese. Guests enjoy the friendly commentary and picturesque scenery. This tour is suited for those with limited time but wanting a thorough introduction to the Chianti region’s specialties.
Bottom Line: A practical choice for wine and olive oil lovers seeking a relaxed yet comprehensive experience.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Versilia
Different travelers will prioritize different experiences. If you’re passionate about cooking and want a personal touch, the Cesarine pasta class or the private market and cooking experiences are excellent picks. For wine lovers, the Lucca wine tasting or the Chianti tour offer immersive tasting opportunities. Those interested in art and industry should consider the Carrara marble tour, which reveals the region’s sculptural roots. For travelers short on time, the Cinque Terre trip provides a scenic coastal escape, while the full-day Siena and San Gimignano tour combines history and wine.
Practical considerations include your budget, time availability, and specific interests. Be sure to book early—these popular tours fill quickly, especially in summer.
In summary, Versilia offers an impressive variety of tours that cater to food lovers, wine enthusiasts, art fans, and curious explorers alike. From intimate cooking classes to scenic village visits and industrial insights, there’s something for every kind of traveler. For an authentic taste of Tuscany, these tours provide immersive, practical experiences that will enrich your trip and create lasting memories. Whether you’re after a relaxed day or a deep dive into local culture, one of these options will match your style—so don’t hesitate to book early and secure your spot in these memorable adventures.