Tasting Tuscany: A Culinary Journey Through Wine Country

Advisor - Alexandra Vigilante Chamberlin
Curated By

Alexandra Vigilante Chamberlin

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  • Tuscany

  • Boutique Travel

  • Couples Travel

  • Food & Wine

  • Italy

  • Vineyard

  • Foodie

  • Sightseeing

Green landscape  from a wooden brown window.
Curator’s statement

This multifaceted region in Italy that has more to offer than just its world-renowned vineyards. Embark on a culinary adventure, as you traverse the stunning Tuscan landscape. Immerse yourself in Tuscan cuisine through a visit to a world-renowned butcher and a curated cooking class. No gastronomic adventure in Tuscany would be complete without experiencing the beautiful Chianti wines along the way. October is an ideal time to visit with less crowds and cooler weather. This itinerary is perfect as a romantic retreat for couples or a lively adventure with friends.

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Where to stay

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Castel Monastero Resort

Old-world hotel in a former 11th-century monastery featuring cozy rooms with sophisticated decor and sitting on four hectares of grounds, overlooking the countryside.

Fora Perks
  • $100 hotel / resort credit.

  • Breakfast daily.

  • Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

COMO Castello Del Nero

Spacious rooms with original 18th century frescoes overlooking the surrounding hills, woods, lawns and lines of Tuscan cypress trees of the Chianti wine region.

Fontelunga Hotel

A successful mix of historic architecture and modern style at this guesthouse between Siena and Florence.

Fora Perks
  • Breakfast daily.

  • Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

  • Food / beverage credit.

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Day 1-2: Florence

A city canal with golden hour sky.

Begin your journey in the vibrant capital of Tuscany, where culinary, artistic and architectural worlds converge. Wander through the historic city center as you stroll past the stunning Duomo and stop for gelato. Enjoy Tuscan cuisine at classic eateries like Trattoria Sostanza or Trattoria Cebu.

Elevate your dining experience at Michelin-starred Santa Elisabetta or Enoteca Pinchiorri. Don’t miss the opportunity to discover Florence’s high-quality leather goods and find your perfect leather jacket at Benheart. Pop by Street Doing Vintage Couture and shop for a one-of-a-kind vintage souvenir.

Day 3: Tuscan countryside

A landscape with trees and mountains.

As you bid farewell to Florence, go off the beaten track and stop for a wine and olive oil tasting at Azienda Agricola Altiero. Then, settle into your home base for the coming days of exploration. Consider unwinding with a spa visit.

Day 4: Panzano

A green vineyard.

Visit this charming town nestled in the heart of the Chianti Region. Have lunch at Antinca Macelleria Cecchini, owned by famed butcher Dario Cecchini. Continue with a stop at Fontodi winery for a lovely afternoon of wine tasting.

Day 5: Siena

Aerial view of city buildings during day time.

Spend a full day exploring this Unesco world heritage site. Meander through the medieval streets, which span from a central square, the Piazza Del Campo. As you stroll, notice the vibrant flags representing the 17 different contrade (or neighborhoods), that compete annually in the Palio di Siena, a horse race held in the central piazza.

Day 6: Badia a Coltibuono

A cute kitchen with brown and white interior.

Learn more about local food and wines with a hands-on cooking class at storied Badia a Coltibuono. Start with a guided tour of the historic villa, once a monastery, and its gardens. Enjoy a delicious lunch featuring the dishes you’ve helped prepare. For the ultimate experience, extend your trip with a brief but intense two-day course.

Day 7: Departure or continued adventure

A wine glass saying Carne Diem.

Return to Florence for your departing flight. Consider another option to extend your trip with a visit to nearby Cinque Terre, a stunning string of five colorful seaside towns or the capital city, Rome.

Need to Know

Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, A Local’s Guide: Discover Dining and More in Chicago.

Advisor - Alexandra Vigilante Chamberlin

Travel Advisor

Alexandra Vigilante Chamberlin

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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Tuscany.