Private tour from Florence to Cortona and Arezzo

Exploring Tuscany Beyond Florence: A Look at the Private Tour to Cortona and Arezzo

If you’re visiting Florence and want to escape the crowds for a day, a private tour to Cortona and Arezzo might be just what you need. This nine-hour adventure promises a comfortable, all-in-one experience, with your own driver taking you through two charming Tuscan towns most travelers overlook. We’ve looked into this tour to help you decide if it fits your travel style.

What we like about it? First, the personalized nature of a private ride means you can go at your own pace and spend more time exploring what interests you. Second, the tour offers the chance to see famous filming locations for movies like Under the Tuscan Sun and Life is Beautiful, adding a fun layer of context to your visit.

However, a notable consideration is that the driver isn’t a guide. If you’re expecting someone to narrate every detail, you might find yourself doing a lot of the exploring solo. Plus, the price per person is around $377, which is an investment, but one that could be justified for the comfort and flexibility it offers.

This tour seems best suited for travelers who want to explore Tuscany comfortably without dealing with public transportation or large group tours. It’s ideal for those who value a relaxed pace, personalized attention, and a chance to see some lesser-known spots.

Key Points

• Private experience allows more flexibility and personal attention.
• Two authentic Tuscan towns—Cortona and Arezzo—are featured, offering a break from the usual tourist spots.
• Transport is included, making logistics simple.
• The tour includes famous film locations, adding an interesting twist.
• It’s approximately 9 hours long, giving ample time to explore without rushing.
• Cost per person is around $377, which reflects comfort and convenience, not budget travel.

What to Expect from the Tour

This private tour is designed to give you an efficient yet relaxed day out of Florence, focusing on two towns packed with history and charm. The experience begins early, with a pickup from your hotel around 8:30 am, and runs for roughly nine hours, ending with a drop-off back at your accommodation.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Piazza Grande (Arezzo) – 2 hours

Your first stop is Piazza Grande in Arezzo, a central hub on a hilltop that offers sweeping views of the Tuscan countryside. This square is a visual delight, lined with medieval buildings, and is the heart of the town’s history and activity. We loved the way this spot combines scenic views with a sense of stepping back in time.

Here, you can stroll around, admire the architecture, and soak in the atmosphere. Since this part is admission-free, you’ll have the freedom to explore at your own pace, which is a big plus. The review from James_W highlights how much he appreciated the guide Massimo’s role in making the trip memorable, even if you’re just exploring on your own.

Stop 2: Duomo di Cortona – 2 hours

Next, your driver takes you to Cortona, a picture-perfect hill town. The highlight here is the Duomo di Cortona, a stunning church with a history that spans centuries. This spot is also famous for being a filming location in Under the Tuscan Sun, which makes it appealing if you’re a movie buff.

During your time here, you’ll see the church and surrounding neighborhoods, which offer fantastic views of the countryside. The visit is again free, so you can choose to explore the town’s narrow streets, shops, or just enjoy the scenery.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Your package covers hotel pickup and drop-off as well as an English-speaking driver, making transportation one less thing to worry about. The small, private group ensures a more intimate experience, unlike large bus tours that can feel rushed or impersonal.

The main thing not included is lunch, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to eat during your free time in each town.

The Experience from Past Travelers

One reviewer, James_W, raved about the guide Massimo, who made the trip stand out with his knowledge and friendliness. The comment “He made our trip and made our day” suggests that the guiding aspect—though not official—can greatly enhance your visit.

On the other hand, Laura_B expressed disappointment, noting that the description implies a guide would accompany the tour but clarifies that it’s really just a driver. She felt the write-up could be clearer about this, which is worth considering if you’re expecting guided commentary throughout.

The Value of the Tour

At nearly $377 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest option available, but it does offer significant convenience. The private transport means you avoid the hassle of public transit or driving yourself, and you get to set your own pace.

If you’re someone who values comfort, personalized attention, and the chance to see locations that aren’t on typical tourist itineraries, the price might be justified. Plus, with the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, you can plan with some peace of mind.

The Practical Side: Transportation, Timing, and Comfort

The round-trip private transportation ensures a smooth ride between Florence, Arezzo, and Cortona. The timing starts early at 8:30 am, giving you a full day to enjoy the towns without feeling rushed. The moderate physical fitness requirement means you should be comfortable walking around uneven, sometimes hilly, streets in these historic towns.

Comfortable shoes are recommended because exploring these towns often involves a bit of walking on cobblestones and inclined streets. Since only your group participates, you won’t be caught in a large crowd, which is a big plus for those who prefer a more relaxed sightseeing experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour works especially well if you enjoy personalized experiences and want to avoid the crowds. It’s ideal for couples or small groups looking for a relaxed, scenic day out, especially if you’re interested in film locations and architecture.

However, if you’re expecting a fully guided tour with detailed narration, you might be disappointed. Remember, the driver isn’t a guide, so you’ll be doing your own exploring while he waits in each spot.

Final Thoughts

For travelers seeking a comfortable, private day trip that takes you off the beaten path, this Florence to Cortona and Arezzo tour offers an appealing option. It’s best suited for those who appreciate flexibility, scenic views, and a quieter way to experience Tuscany’s charming towns. The inclusion of film locations adds a dash of fun, especially if you’re into movies.

While the price might seem steep for some, the convenience and personal attention could make it worthwhile—especially if you want to see these particular towns without the hassle of navigating on your own. Be prepared for some independence during your explorations, and bring along your curiosity and good walking shoes.

FAQ

Is this a guided tour?
No, the tour offers a driver who is not a certified guide. You’ll have a private vehicle and driver, but guiding commentary is limited, so you’ll explore the towns mostly on your own.

What is included in the price?
Your package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, and an English-speaking driver. It does not include lunch, so plan accordingly.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience is around 9 hours, starting at 8:30 am and ending with drop-off back at your hotel.

Are the attractions inside the towns ticketed?
No, both Piazza Grande in Arezzo and Duomo di Cortona are admission-free.

Can I customize the schedule or stops?
Since this is a private tour, you may have some flexibility, but it’s best to check with the provider beforehand.

Is it suitable for children or families?
The physical activity involved (walking on uneven streets) suggests moderate fitness is necessary. It isn’t specifically geared toward children, but older kids who enjoy sightseeing should be fine.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are essential, and bringing water or snacks is a good idea, since lunch isn’t included.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked about 25 days ahead, so it’s wise to plan early, especially in peak season.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start, which offers some peace of mind if your plans change.

Overall, if you’re after a relaxed, private way to see two of Tuscany’s lesser-known gems with some movie magic sprinkled in, this tour might be just the ticket. Just keep in mind it’s more about the flexibility and scenery than a guided historical deep dive.