From City Splendor to Country Charm: Rome & Tuscan Villa Escorted Getaway
Fully Escorted Tour
Experience Italy at its finest with an escorted stay at the historic Villa Casagrande in the heart of Tuscany. Surrounded by rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves, this charming villa becomes your home base as you explore medieval towns, wineries, and cultural treasures. Enjoy cooking classes, wine tastings, guided tours of Florence, Venice, Rome, and more.
Escorted tours offer expert guides who provide deep local insights and worry-free planned itineraries. Enjoy the company of like-minded travelers, visit hidden gems not found on typical tours, and enjoy peace of mind with a travel support system. This is a fully escorted group tour with a maximum of 50 passengers, departures are guaranteed.
What's Included
- Roundtrip, economy-class airfare to Rome (FCO)
- 8 nights' accommodation in Italy, in the following hotels, or similar:
- 1 night in Rome at Hotel Cristoforo Colombo
- 5 nights in Tuscany at Hotel Villa Casagrande
- 2 nights in Rome at Hotel Cristoforo Colombo
- Tours & Tastings
- Visit to Orvieto with 2 hours of free time (en-route from Rome to Tuscany)
- 3-hour walking tour of Florence with local guide
- Visit to a traditional artisan leather outlet in Florence, with demonstration
- Pasta-making class or interactive demonstration at Villa Casagrande
- 2-hour walking tour of Venice with local guide
- 30-minute gondola ride in Venice
- Wine & olive oil tasting with lunch in San Gimignano winery
- Visit to Montepulciano with free time (en-route from Tuscany to Rome)
- 4-hour walking tour of Rome with local guide
- Transportation, Meals & More
- Arrival airport transfer from Rome Airport (FCO) to Rome hotel
- Departure airport transfer from Rome hotel to Rome Airport (FCO)
- Round-trip rail ticket to Florence
- 8 buffet breakfasts, 1 lunch, 3 dinners, 1 pasta lunch or dinner
- Professional English-speaking Tour Escort throughout
- Coach transportation as needed, as per itinerary*
- Headsets to hear guides clearly
Not Included:
- Local city taxes (apx. €2-€8 per person, per night and must be paid directly to hotels in destination)
- Porterage at hotels
- Admission to sights, museums, etc.
- Anything not listed in the inclusions above (additional meals, entrance fees, etc)
- Gratuity (Gratuity for drivers, local tour guides and Tour Director is not included in the package price. Tipping is always a matter of personal discretion; for your convenience, we have provided suggestions below. It is recommended to pay gratuities in local currency whenever possible. On some itineraries, you may have multiple drivers and local guides; we recommend keeping small bills on hand for tipping. Note exceptional circumstances may warrant a higher tip)
- €3 per person for local guides on half-day tours, €5 on full-day tours
- €8 per person per day for drivers
- €8 per person per day for Tour Director
*KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Passengers are asked to limit themselves to one full-size piece of luggage and one carry-on size per person. Vehicle type depends on final group size, Wi-Fi/restrooms on board cannot be guaranteed. If the final group size is under 9 passengers, the tour will be conducted with a van (rather than a coach), English speaking driver and local guide services. This tour is active with several walking tours included; passengers with limited mobility may be more comfortable on one of our vacations that requires less daily walking.
For reasons beyond our control (public events, religious holidays, sporting events or adverse weather conditions), the itinerary may be modified without notice; in this case, we will ensure similar visits and excursions according to the spirit of the tour program.
Great Ways to Explore
Includes stays in both Tuscany and Rome with tours.
Take walking tours of Venice, Florence, and Rome.
Indulge in your own handmade pasta.
Enjoy a stay at the beautiful Villa Casagranda in Tuscany.
Witness the Florentine leather making process.
Discover Italy’s timeless beauty on this 8-night escorted vacation, blending world-class cities, medieval villages, and unforgettable cultural experiences. Begin and end your journey in Rome, where ancient history and modern life collide, with a guided walking tour showcasing the Eternal City’s most iconic landmarks.
Settle in for five nights at a charming villa in Tuscany, your base for exploring the rolling countryside, vineyards, and Renaissance treasures. Wander the streets of Florence with a local guide, enjoy a leather-making demonstration, and take part in a pasta-making class or interactive culinary experience at your villa. Visit San Gimignano for a wine and olive oil tasting paired with lunch, and explore the hilltop town of Montepulciano before returning to Rome.
Along the way, marvel at the Gothic architecture of Orvieto, drift through the canals of Venice on a gondola ride, and soak in the flavors, artistry, and history that make Italy so enchanting. With guided tours, tastings, and unique hands-on experiences, this journey promises the perfect balance of culture, cuisine, and discovery.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Roundtrip, economy-class airfare to Rome (FCO)
- 8 nights' accommodation in Italy, in the following hotels, or similar:
- 1 night in Rome at Hotel Cristoforo Colombo
- 5 nights in Tuscany at Hotel Villa Casagrande
- 2 nights in Rome at Hotel Cristoforo Colombo
- Tours & Tastings
- Visit to Orvieto with 2 hours of free time (en-route from Rome to Tuscany)
- 3-hour walking tour of Florence with local guide
- Visit to a traditional artisan leather outlet in Florence, with demonstration
- Pasta-making class or interactive demonstration at Villa Casagrande
- 2-hour walking tour of Venice with local guide
- 30-minute gondola ride in Venice
- Wine & olive oil tasting with lunch in San Gimignano winery
- Visit to Montepulciano with free time (en-route from Tuscany to Rome)
- 4-hour walking tour of Rome with local guide
- Transportation, Meals & More
- Arrival airport transfer from Rome Airport (FCO) to Rome hotel
- Departure airport transfer from Rome hotel to Rome Airport (FCO)
- Round-trip rail ticket to Florence
- 8 buffet breakfasts, 1 lunch, 3 dinners, 1 pasta lunch or dinner
- Professional English-speaking Tour Escort throughout
- Coach transportation as needed, as per itinerary*
- Headsets to hear guides clearly
Not Included:
- Local city taxes (apx. €2-€8 per person, per night and must be paid directly to hotels in destination)
- Porterage at hotels
- Admission to sights, museums, etc.
- Anything not listed in the inclusions above (additional meals, entrance fees, etc)
- Gratuity (Gratuity for drivers, local tour guides and Tour Director is not included in the package price. Tipping is always a matter of personal discretion; for your convenience, we have provided suggestions below. It is recommended to pay gratuities in local currency whenever possible. On some itineraries, you may have multiple drivers and local guides; we recommend keeping small bills on hand for tipping. Note exceptional circumstances may warrant a higher tip)
- €3 per person for local guides on half-day tours, €5 on full-day tours
- €8 per person per day for drivers
- €8 per person per day for Tour Director
*KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Passengers are asked to limit themselves to one full-size piece of luggage and one carry-on size per person. Vehicle type depends on final group size, Wi-Fi/restrooms on board cannot be guaranteed. If the final group size is under 9 passengers, the tour will be conducted with a van (rather than a coach), English speaking driver and local guide services. This tour is active with several walking tours included; passengers with limited mobility may be more comfortable on one of our vacations that requires less daily walking.
For reasons beyond our control (public events, religious holidays, sporting events or adverse weather conditions), the itinerary may be modified without notice; in this case, we will ensure similar visits and excursions according to the spirit of the tour program.
Includes stays in both Tuscany and Rome with tours.
Take walking tours of Venice, Florence, and Rome.
Indulge in your own handmade pasta.
Enjoy a stay at the beautiful Villa Casagranda in Tuscany.
Witness the Florentine leather making process.
Discover Italy’s timeless beauty on this 8-night escorted vacation, blending world-class cities, medieval villages, and unforgettable cultural experiences. Begin and end your journey in Rome, where ancient history and modern life collide, with a guided walking tour showcasing the Eternal City’s most iconic landmarks.
Settle in for five nights at a charming villa in Tuscany, your base for exploring the rolling countryside, vineyards, and Renaissance treasures. Wander the streets of Florence with a local guide, enjoy a leather-making demonstration, and take part in a pasta-making class or interactive culinary experience at your villa. Visit San Gimignano for a wine and olive oil tasting paired with lunch, and explore the hilltop town of Montepulciano before returning to Rome.
Along the way, marvel at the Gothic architecture of Orvieto, drift through the canals of Venice on a gondola ride, and soak in the flavors, artistry, and history that make Italy so enchanting. With guided tours, tastings, and unique hands-on experiences, this journey promises the perfect balance of culture, cuisine, and discovery.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Prices From:
Departure Airport:
Departure Month:
Prices From:
Day 1. Welcome to Italy!
After arriving in Rome, you'll be transferred to your designated hotel where you can check-in, then relax for a few hours before meeting with your tour manager in the evening. You'll have an introduction with the tour guide that includes a short briefing. Afterwards, enjoy a welcome dinner and toast to your first night in Italy.
Transfer from Rome Airport (FCO) to Rome hotel
Check-in - Hotel Cristoforo Colombo
Located close to the GRA and in the bustling EUR district, Hotel Cristoforo Colombo's renovations are complete and ready to impress. The hotel has a large parking area, a seasonal outdoor pool, and well-appointed facilities equipped to meet your every need. The property is a complex comprised of three buildings, all refreshed with marble finishes and bright color schemes. Relax in the hotel's casually elegant bar or enjoy a meal from the restaurant. The professional staff is available around the clock to help with needs such as tour schedules, museum tickets, or even restaurant suggestions.
Day 2. Rome - Orvieto - Tuscany
Enjoy breakfast before checking out from your hotel and heading towards Tuscany. On the way over, you'll enjoy your first included tour: a scenic stop in the charming hilltop town of Orvieto.
In the afternoon, you'll continue on to Tuscany to check-in at the Hotel Villa Casagrande. Settle-in, then meet with your tour manager for a brief orientation and introduction to the charming town of Figline Valdarno.
Your tour guide will walk you through an exploration of Orvieto, known for its striking cathedral and medieval streets. Afterward, you will have around 2 hours of free time to explore as you see fit, with the help of your tour manager. Perhaps wander the historic center, grab a light lunch, and pause to admire the beautiful views.
Check-in - Villa Casagrande
Villa Casagrande is a 4-star hotel located in the heart of historic Figline Valdarno. The hotel features a spa where guests can book services like a massage, or unwind in the sauna. There are two on-site restaurants that serve traditional Tuscan cuisine, along with delicious cocktails and wine. Additionally, there is a small fitness area and an outdoor pool.
Guest rooms are bright and spacious, featuring a private bathroom, free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, a TV, minibar, hairdryer, desk, and an in-room safe.
The front desk and friendly staff are available to assist with guests' needs around the clock.
Figline Valdarno train station is a 15-minute walk from the hotel, and The Mall Firenze is 16-minutes away via car.
Day 3. Tuscany - Florence - Tuscany
Have breakfast, then walk with your tour leader to Figline Station (appx. 15 minute walk) to board the regional train to Florence. Later, you'll join in on a special visit to a traditional artisan leather outlet to witness a brief demonstration.
Afterwards, you can explore Florence at your own pace. Take this as your opportunity to shop for souvenirs, dine at a local trattoria, or visit world famous museums such as Accademia or Uffizi. In the evening, head back to the Florence station to take the train back to Figline.
Enjoy a 3-hour guided tour of the city to know the most fascinating places of Florence including access to the Accademia Gallery.
This walking tour will show the most fascinating and interesting places of Florence: Repubblica Square, the Cathedral with Brunelleschi’s Dome (exterior), the Baptistery with its famous Gates of Paradise (exterior), Signoria Square with its Palazzo Vecchio (exterior) and Loggia dei Lanzi. After visit the famous Accademia Gallery. In the Accademia Gallery you can admire the best- known statue in the world, the imposing David by Michelangelo, a sculpture of absolute beauty, icon of the renaissance model. Inside the Accademia Gallery you can admire other important works by this famous artist such as “I Prigioni”, “San Matteo” and “Pietà di Palestrina”.
INCLUDES
PROFESSIONAL GUIDE
ACCADEMIA GALLERY ENTRANCE TICKETS*
Day 4. Tuscany
Spend a lazy day at Villa Casagrande, enjoying the peaceful surroundings of Tuscany on your own. Lounge by the pool, wander through the gardens, or simply take in the breathtaking countryside views. Later, join an authentic pasta-making class at the villa.
A Tip For Your Trip: Pasta Cooking Classes can seat up to 20 people, so the group may be divided between morning and afternoon classes, depending on size of groups. Groups of 20+ will instead partake in an interactive pasta-making demonstration.
Get ready for a hands-on culinary adventure! Learn to make authentic Tuscan pasta from scratch as the expert chef at Villa Casagrande guides you through every step. From mixing and kneading to shaping the perfect cut, this class is equal parts fun and flavorful. Best of all, you’ll savor your own creation with a glass of local wine—a truly unforgettable Tuscan treat!
Note: this may be an afternoon (lunch) or evening (dinner) class.
Day 5. Tuscany - Venice - Tuscany
Begin today with an unforgettable Venetian journey! Your driver will collect you from the villa and take you to the Tronchetto area in Venice. From there, board a ferry to Cornoldi dock.
The afternoon is free for you to wander around on your own, perhaps savor a bite at a canal-side café or explore one of Venice’s renowned museums. Later, take the ferry back to Tronchetto and meet your transfer for the return journey to Figline Valdarno.
This evening, delight in the true taste of Tuscany with a traditional dinner at the elegant Villa Casagrande.
Enjoy a two-hour guided walking tour through Venice’s enchanting cobblestone streets and colorful squares. Admire world-famous landmarks, including St. Mark’s Square with its stunning Basilica, the Doge’s Palace—a symbol of the city’s historic power and prestige. Along the way, your expert guide will share fascinating tales of Venice’s rich history, art, and culture. Venture beyond the main routes to uncover hidden alleyways, traditional artisan workshops, and lively markets that showcase the authentic spirit of the city.
Please note: no admissions are included.
Day 6. Tuscany - San Gimignano - Tuscany
Enjoy a big breakfast to fuel you for your day! Once you're ready, make your way to the hilltop UNESCO World Heritage Town of Sam Gimignano, known for its cobblestone streets and medieval vibes.
Walk around the town and learn about its history with the help of your tour guide, making stops at charming shops and cafes. Today, you'll also enjoy your included wine & olive oil tasting with an included lunch.
After taking some time to explore like a local, head over to the designated Tuscan winery to be greeted with a guided tasting of local wines. During this wine tasting, you'll also get to savor the flavor of handcrafted extra virgin olive oil and truffle oil, directly from the estate. Following the tastings, enjoy a traditional lunch of regional favorites as a perfect compliment to the winery's vintages.
Day 7. Tuscany - Montepulciano - Rome
This morning, bid farewell to Hotel Villa Casagrande as you journey back to Rome. En route, enjoy a scenic stop in Montepulciano.
Enjoy a lovely little stop in Montepulciano, a hilltop town in Southern Tuscany en-route to Rome. Encounter centuries old Renaissance architecture , winding streets, and taste more authentic local wine.
Your tour leader is there to help with any questions you may have regarding the best shops, cafes, eateries, and more.
Check-in - Hotel Cristoforo Colombo
Located close to the GRA and in the bustling EUR district, Hotel Cristoforo Colombo's renovations are complete and ready to impress. The hotel has a large parking area, a seasonal outdoor pool, and well-appointed facilities equipped to meet your every need. The property is a complex comprised of three buildings, all refreshed with marble finishes and bright color schemes. Relax in the hotel's casually elegant bar or enjoy a meal from the restaurant. The professional staff is available around the clock to help with needs such as tour schedules, museum tickets, or even restaurant suggestions.
Day 8. Rome
Today, you'll enjoy a guided tour of Rome. Take some extra time to finish any exploring you didn't do earlier, then toast to the end of a grand vacation with a celebratory dinner.
Take a fascinating half-day (4 hour) tour of the timeless city of Rome, where you'll discover wonders that date back to the gladiator era. With the help of your English-speaking guide, you'll stop at historic sites, hidden gems, and learn all about the rich insights of the city's imperial past.
Please note: No admissions are included.
Day 9. Depart Italy
Indulge in one last breakfast at the hotel, then check out and enjoy your transfer to Fiumicino airport.
Transfer from Rome hotel to Rome Airport (FCO)
Fly home
We have selected the most economical flight schedule for you. Please note that shorter and more convenient flight options may be available at an additional cost.
Advertised vacation package prices are per person based on two people traveling together, unless otherwise noted. Advertised package rates are based on select departures as noted on the booking calendar above, were available via the Great Value Vacations website and may not represent current prices.
Vacation packages include round-trip economy class airfare on valid international carriers as noted in specific package inclusions and as indicated on booking engine calendar, which may also include code share flight agreements between carriers as indicated during the booking process. Carriers may vary based on city of origin.
Air fares are based on a 14-day advance purchase and include round-trip economy class airfare, including carrier and government-imposed taxes and fees, and the September 11th Security Fee of $5.60 per enplanement originating at a U.S. airport. Fluctuations in exchange rates may affect some taxes or fees. Other departure dates and origins are available at slightly higher rates. Fares apply to North American originating passengers only, and are not eligible for accrual of frequent flyer points/mileage. Seats are limited and fares may not be available on all flights. Child/infant discounts are not available, and stopovers are not permitted. Advance seat selection is controlled by the carrier(s), and may not be available on all flights. Baggage fees may apply; please check with carrier for specific policies.
Vacation packages are subject to availability, are capacity controlled, may not be available on every date or on all flights, and may be restricted to certain hotel room and car categories. Higher rates may also be available throughout travel period. Full payment is required at the time of reservation. Rates cannot be combined with any other discount/promotion, and are valid for new bookings only. Offers may be changed or withdrawn at any time without notice. Website contains special pricing that is exclusively for Internet sale only. Bookings made through our call center may incur a concierge fee of up to $25 per person.
Escorted vacation packages are per person based on two travelers (unless otherwise specified), and typically include hotel accommodations; transportation with professional driver/guide; sightseeing as listed, some meals, local taxes, hotel service charges and porterage of one (1) suitcase per person, due to limited capacity on motor coaches. Space is limited and prices may be restricted to certain travel dates, length of stay or room type. Driver and guide gratuities are not included, and are at the discretion of the traveler. Terms and conditions apply. Minimum child ages and handicapped traveler restrictions may apply on escorted tours; please call for details.
Promo Code Offer Details: All promotions are subject to availability, valid for new bookings only, cannot be combined with any other promotion, discount, voucher or any other offers, and are not redeemable for cash. Offers are available for phone bookings via our reservation agents as well as online. This promo code can be input online on the payment screen. The call center is open Monday through Friday 9AM – 9PM ET, Saturdays 10AM – 6PM ET. Discounts will apply only once per passenger and are not valid for airfare only, or any other products or services. If a flight reservation is changed or cancelled, the original fare basis rules apply (plus any increase in fare). Additional restrictions may apply.
Cancellations/Changes: Rates are non-refundable. Substantial restrictions apply for cancellation/change, and depend upon the package type. Trip protection is recommended.
Call 1-800-896-4600 or go to /travel/terms-and-conditions for full details on change/cancellation policy.