Montecatini Terme is renowned for its thermal springs and elegant spas, but it’s also a fantastic base for exploring Tuscany’s culinary, wine, and scenic gems. Whether you want to learn how to cook Tuscan dishes in a historic setting or sip wines in rolling vineyards, this town offers a variety of tours to suit almost any traveler. We especially love the Extra Virgin Cooking Classes, where you can shop at a farmers market, learn cooking techniques, and enjoy regional wines—all in an authentic 18th-century setting. Foodies and amateur chefs will find this experience a highlight, thanks to the hands-on approach and delicious results.
For those interested in wine and olive oil, Montecatini offers engaging tours that combine tastings with scenic walks or farm visits. The Olive Oil tour with Tuscan dinner provides a chance to understand how high-quality EVOO is made, taste it like a sommelier, and then savor a family-style Tuscan dinner. Meanwhile, the Wine Experience in a farm vineyard & winery offers a cozy, small-group setting to sample wines and regional delicacies paired with a hearty Tuscan meal.
Beyond food and drink, Montecatini Terme is perfectly located for castle and coastal adventures. Our list includes day trips to Cinque Terre, Siena, Vinci, and Pisa—each offering unique sights and experiences. Whether you prefer an in-depth tour of ancient towns or a scenic bike ride through vineyards, there’s a tour that fits your style. Now, let’s explore each of these fantastic options in detail.
1. Extra Virgin Cooking Classes / Countryside Mill location
Unravel the secrets of Tuscan cuisine with this 5-hour cooking class in Lucca, easily accessible from Montecatini Terme. The experience begins with shopping at a local farmers market, where you select fresh ingredients. Back at an 18th-century palace, your chef will guide you through preparing a 4-course lunch, which you’ll enjoy with regional wines. It’s an interactive, hands-on class suitable for all skill levels, making it perfect for food lovers. Guests consistently praise Giuseppe for his warm, engaging style, with comments like “This was one of our trip’s highlights,” and “Giuseppe made us feel so welcome.” The class is around $191.87 per person, offering excellent value for a full afternoon of culinary discovery and regional tastings. The recipe book and tips you’ll receive mean you’ll leave with skills to recreate these dishes at home.
Bottom line: This experience is ideal for those wanting to learn authentic Tuscan cooking in a historic, charming setting with plenty of tasting and takeaway recipes.
2. Olive Oil tour with Tuscan dinner
At number 2, this 3.5-hour tour offers a delightful immersion into Tuscany’s most famous product—olive oil. You’ll walk through olive groves on the scenic hills and learn from certified producers how high-quality EVOO is made, tasted, and judged. The small stone farmhouse from 1861 provides an intimate backdrop for your experience. After the educational part, you’ll indulge in a delicious dinner featuring dishes prepared with different types of EVOO—an authentic experience that combines education and indulgence. Guests rave about David and his wife’s hospitality, describing the meal as “the best European meal I’ve had.” For just $74.65, this tour balances learning and tasting, perfect for foodies and wine lovers alike.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for those eager to understand olive oil production and tasting, with a bonus Tuscan dinner in a cozy setting.
3. Guided tours of the olive grove with oil tasting
This 2-hour tour provides an in-depth visit to Podere Cavozzoli, a family-managed farm committed to organic, sustainable cultivation. You will see the entire production chain—fields, equipment, and cellar—and participate in a tasting of their top-quality EVOO. Niccolò, the guide, is praised for his humor and knowledge, making the experience engaging and informative. Guests often comment on the clarity of the explanation and the chance to become more aware consumers. The tour costs $54.65 per person and is perfect for those interested in the specifics of oil production and tasting. It’s especially suitable for travelers wanting a shorter, focused experience that combines education with authentic farm visits.
Bottom line: A must for olive oil enthusiasts wanting a family-run farm tour with a quality tasting.
4. From Montecatini Terme: Wine Experience in Tuscan Farm
This 4-hour tour takes you into the Tuscan countryside to a working farm where you’ll taste six wines paired with regional products like homemade pasta and local cheeses. Pickup and drop-off are included, making logistics effortless. The experience balances wine tasting with a chance to see the farm’s production of olive oil and other local delicacies. Guests find the setting authentic and intimate, with the chance to enjoy an aperitif among the vineyards at sunset. Priced at around $81.28, it offers good value for a full afternoon exploring Tuscany’s flavors while relaxing in a genuine farm atmosphere.
Bottom line: Perfect for wine lovers who want a relaxed, authentic experience with convenient transportation.
5. Wine Experience in farm vineyard & winery from Montecatini T.
For a more personal encounter, this 4-hour small-group tour caps at six participants, ensuring an intimate experience. You’ll visit a family-owned winery, enjoy aperitivo snacks, and sample a range of local wines and Tuscan specialties like pasta. The guide’s stories and tasting tips make this a memorable afternoon. Reviews highlight the warm hospitality and the quality of the wines and food, with one saying, “This was a terrific experience showcasing Tuscany’s beauty.” At $81.28 per person, this is ideal for travelers wanting a deep dive into local wine and food in an authentic farm setting.
Bottom line: Excellent for those who value small groups and personal attention, combined with authentic wine and meal pairings.
6. The Best of Cinque Terre Small Group Tour from Montecatini Terme
This full-day, 11-hour tour is perfect for travelers who want to see Italy’s colorful coastal villages without the hassle of planning. Traveling in an air-conditioned vehicle, you visit Vernazza, Manarola, and Monterosso, with plenty of walking, shopping, and swimming time. The tour includes boat or train rides along the Ligurian coast, offering stunning views. Reviews praise the seamless organization and the guide’s insights. For $170.81, it’s a great way to experience Cinque Terre’s beauty, especially if you prefer small groups and flexible free time.
Bottom line: Ideal for those seeking a comprehensive day trip to Italy’s iconic seaside villages with minimal stress.
7. Chianti Wine and Vinci half day Small Group Tour from Montecatini Terme
This 4.5-hour tour combines wine tasting and a visit to Vinci, Leonardo da Vinci’s hometown. You’ll explore a renowned Chianti winery, tasting regional wines paired with bruschetta, olive oil, and cheese, then visit Vinci’s birthplace and the Baptistery where Leonardo was baptized. The guide is praised for her enthusiasm and knowledge, making it a well-rounded experience. Reviews mention the importance of this tour as “the most enjoyable” and “full of insights about Italy’s wine and Leonardo.” At $137.62, it’s perfect for travelers with limited time who want a taste of both wine and history.
Bottom line: Great for art and wine enthusiasts wanting a concise, engaging half-day outing.
8. Montecatini Terme cycle and wine tasting visit
This 5-hour guided bike tour offers a leisurely way to explore Tuscany’s scenery. You’ll cycle past fields, woods, and into Montecarlo, a charming medieval hilltop town. Then, you visit a boutique winery for a tour and tasting, with an optional light lunch. The reviews highlight the professional guidance of Massimo and the scenic cycling through vineyards and olive groves. At $201.76, this tour suits active travelers who want to combine physical activity with regional flavors.
Bottom line: Excellent for active travelers eager to see Tuscany by bike with a gourmet touch.
9. Siena, San Gimignano and Chianti Wine Small Group from Montecatini Terme
This 10-hour tour covers three of Tuscany’s most famous towns. You explore San Gimignano’s towers, Siena’s Piazza del Campo, and enjoy Chianti wine tastings at a local winery. The guide provides engaging commentary, and guests love the balance of sightseeing and free time. One reviewer calls the guide “outstanding,” and another appreciates the “perfect itinerary.” For $184.61, it’s a full day of exploration with transport, making it ideal for those who want an all-in-one experience with a knowledgeable guide.
Bottom line: Perfect for history, architecture, and wine lovers wanting a comprehensive day in Tuscany.
10. Chianti, SuperTuscan & San Gimignano – 2 wineries and light lunch
This private 7-hour tour takes you to two wineries and San Gimignano. You’ll walk through vineyards, taste regional wines including SuperTuscan varietals, and enjoy a light lunch with local delicacies. The experience is praised for its personal touch, with guides sharing detailed insights into wine-making. Reviewers highlight the “friendly, knowledgeable” staff and “beautiful views.” At $459.81 per person, it’s best suited for dedicated wine connoisseurs seeking a tailored, luxurious experience.
Bottom line: For those wanting an in-depth, exclusive wine tour with scenic views, this is a top pick.
11. Cinque Terre Semi-Private Day Tour from Montecatini Terme
This 10.5-hour tour offers a relaxed way to visit Cinque Terre, with a very small group. You travel by train and boat, exploring Riomaggiore, Vernazza, and Manarola. The guide ensures personalized attention, and travelers love the flexibility to swim, shop, or relax. One reviewer mentions, “The guide was so nice and took care of us,” emphasizing the intimate nature. For $148.35 per person, it’s an excellent way to experience the colorful villages without the crowds.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting a flexible, intimate visit to Cinque Terre’s most picturesque villages.
12. Other towns: Private Tour Cinque Terre and leaning tower of Pisa
This private 9-hour trip combines Cinque Terre’s villages with a stop at Pisa’s Leaning Tower. You start in Manarola, enjoy a boat ride to Vernazza, then explore Corniglia, and finish with a visit to Pisa. Guests love the flexibility and personalized attention, with one reviewer calling the guide “prompt and very knowledgeable.” At $399.10, this tour suits travelers who want a private, tailored experience covering Italy’s iconic sights.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers seeking exclusivity and a customized itinerary covering Cinque Terre and Pisa.
13. Hiking in da Vinci’s Land in Tuscany
This 3-hour hike offers a peaceful walk through Vinci’s landscapes, focusing on the scenery that inspired Leonardo da Vinci. While only one review is available, it highlights the beauty of the trails and the chance to connect with nature. It’s ideal for active travelers who want an easy, scenic walk with a cultural twist.
Bottom line: Excellent for those wanting a short, scenic hike combined with Leonardo’s hometown.
14. Leonardo da Vinci’s path
This 6-hour tour offers an immersive experience following Leonardo’s footsteps. You visit Vinci’s birthplace, explore vineyards and cellars, and enjoy a personal lunch overlooking the Chianti hills. The guide enhances the trip with stories about Leonardo’s life and work. Reviewers praise the “beautiful views” and “exclusive access to historic sites.” At $69.79, it’s a comprehensive option for art lovers and history buffs.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers eager to combine art, history, and scenic Tuscan landscapes.
15. Montecatini Private Day Trip To Chianti & San Gimignano
This private 9-hour tour provides a personalized way to explore Chianti and San Gimignano. Your driver takes you through vineyards and olive groves, with stops in Greve and Badia a Passignano. You’ll have time to explore San Gimignano’s medieval streets and enjoy a scenic lunch (own expense). Guests appreciate the flexibility and private guidance. For $1,031.16 for up to 7 people, it’s a cost-effective way for groups to customize their Tuscan experience.
Bottom line: Best suited for groups or travelers seeking ultimate flexibility and privacy.
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
When selecting your ideal tour in Montecatini Terme, consider your interests, budget, and physical activity level. For food lovers, the Extra Virgin Cooking Classes provide hands-on cooking with regional flavors, while wine fans may prefer the small-group winery experience. For scenic exploration, the Cinque Terre full-day offers a comprehensive coastal experience, and the private Chianti and San Gimignano tour suits larger groups or those seeking exclusive access.
If you prefer active adventures, the bike & wine tour combines physical activity with regional tastings. For art and history lovers, the Leonardo da Vinci tours offer a cultural journey through Vinci’s hometown. Booking early is wise, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and avoid disappointment.
In summary, Montecatini Terme is a fantastic hub for exploring Tuscany with a variety of tours tailored to different interests and activity levels. Whether you’re into cooking, wine, scenic coastlines, or art, you’ll find an experience that enriches your trip. We recommend considering your travel style—active, relaxed, foodie, or cultural—and choosing accordingly. For a deeper dive into the region’s flavors and sights, booking ahead will ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable experiences.
