Valdinievole and Lucca tour with Funicular Ride in Montecatini Alto
(Private Tour departures from: Florence, Pisa)
- 8 Hours
- Easy
- Private
Overview
A Day of Art, History, Wine, and Food – Lucca, Montecatini Alto, and the Nievole Valley 🌿🍷🍝🍇
Join our expert local driver for an unforgettable journey through Tuscany, perfect for art, wine, and food lovers. Immerse yourself in the culture, history, and flavors of this beautiful region with a day dedicated to the charm of Lucca, the medieval town of Montecatini Alto, and a typical Tuscan winery.
Morning: Discover Lucca’s Rich History
Your day begins with a visit to Lucca, a stunning town enclosed within its ancient walls. Known as the birthplace of the famous composer Giacomo Puccini, you can visit the Puccini Museum and explore the town’s fascinating history. From its Roman origins to its medieval beauty, Lucca is a treasure trove of art and culture.
Highlights include:
- Piazza Ovale
- The Cathedral of Lucca
- Guinigi Tower:
Lunch: Fattoria Carmignani – A Traditional Tuscan Experience🌿🍷🍝🍇
Next, we’ll drive to Montecalo di Lucca for a delicious, authentic Tuscan lunch at Fattoria Carmignani. This charming farmhouse winery, managed by Elena and her family, is set in the heart of the Tuscan countryside. Here, you will enjoy a three-course meal paired with five exceptional wines from the winery’s own production, alongside cold cuts, bruschettas, and the finest extra virgin olive oil.
Elena and her family will guide you through the farm, sharing their knowledge of traditional Tuscan farming, wine production, and olive oil making. It’s an experience that captures the essence of Tuscany in every bite and sip.
Afternoon: Montecatini Alto Funicular🚂 and the Tuscan Countryside🌿
After lunch, we’ll head to Montecatini Alto, a charming medieval village reached by the historic funicular (since 1848), offering stunning views of the valley. Once at the top, explore the ancient fortress and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscape. You’ll have time to stroll through the village’s quaint streets and relax in its peaceful atmosphere.
Important Note:
The Funicular to Montecatini Alto operates from one week before Easter until October 31st.
Book your tour today for an unforgettable day of culture, cuisine, and wine in the heart of Tuscany!
What's Included
- Local expert driver - English speaking
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Wine tasting in Winery Farm (3 tastings of Chianti wine, extra vergine olive oil with brischettas)
- Course lunch - 5 wine tastings
- Bottled water
- Funicular Ticket
Please Note
- Pick up at your Hotel or private flat and B&B with confortable Mercedes Minivan or similar. Welcome sign PEK TUSCANY IN LIMO + your name.
- English speaking driver
IMPORTANT: We can also pick up and drop off customers at private addresses, apartments or B & B, without extra charge. It is only necessary to indicate the correct address in the notes.
What To Expect: Itinerary
Stop At: Lucca, the city of ancient Walls🏰 🏛️
Our English-speaking driver will pick you up at your hotel or apartment around 9:00 AM for a scenic drive to Lucca, a charming city steeped in history and art. Known as the birthplace of composer Giacomo Puccini, Lucca offers a fascinating journey through time, from its Roman origins to the Middle Ages, Renaissance, and modern times.
The city is enclosed by its famous Renaissance walls, which are beautifully crowned with trees, creating a peaceful and picturesque atmosphere. You can enjoy leisurely walks or bike rides along the pedestrian-friendly streets within the city, taking in the unique blend of history and modernity.
Top attractions include Piazza Ovale, an oval-shaped square built within the remains of a Roman amphitheater, and the Cathedral of Lucca, an important site with a beautiful interior and rich history. Don’t miss the Guinigi Tower, where you can climb to the top and find a garden with oak trees growing on the roof—offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape.
With 2 hours to explore, you’ll experience the essence of this magical city, filled with history, beauty, and timeless charm.
Stop At: Lunch at Fattoria Carmignani – A Taste of Authentic Tuscan Cuisine 🌿🍷🍝🍇
After a morning of exploring Lucca, enjoy a traditional Tuscan lunch at Fattoria Carmignani, a charming family-run winery located in the picturesque hills of Montecalo di Lucca. Here, you’ll experience the true flavors of Tuscany with a three-course meal made from fresh, local ingredients and prepared in the time-honored way.
Your lunch begins with a selection of bruschettas topped with the finest extra virgin olive oil, and cold cuts, such as prosciutto, salami, and local cheeses, offering the perfect introduction to Tuscan flavors.
For the main course, you’ll enjoy homemade pasta, made with love and care, a staple of traditional Tuscan cuisine. The dish is accompanied by five exceptional wines from the Carmignani family’s vineyard, each carefully chosen to complement the meal and highlight the unique terroir of the region.
After lunch, take a guided tour of the vineyard to learn about the family’s winemaking techniques, from grape harvesting to fermentation. You’ll also discover how the family produces their fine wines, including the secrets behind their traditional winemaking methods.
This experience offers a perfect combination of authentic Tuscan cuisine, local wines, and family traditions, making it an unforgettable part of your day in Tuscany.
Duration: 1,5 hours
Stop At: The Funicular 🚂 Ride to Montecatini Alto – A Scenic Journey to the Past
The funicular ride from Montecatini Terme to Montecatini Alto is a truly unforgettable experience. As you ascend, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the surrounding Nievole Valley, with its rolling hills, lush greenery, and charming villages dotting the landscape. The funicular, a historic transport system dating back to 1848, offers a unique perspective on the valley, slowly climbing up through picturesque terrain, creating a sense of anticipation for what lies ahead.
As you approach Montecatini Alto, the views only get more dramatic, with sweeping panoramas stretching all the way to the distant city of Lucca. The journey offers a glimpse of the peaceful beauty of Tuscany, where nature, history, and tradition blend seamlessly.
Arriving at Montecatini Alto, you’ll find yourself in a medieval village brimming with history. Narrow, cobbled streets wind through the town, lined with quaint shops, cafes, and ancient buildings. The old fortress and Piazza Giusti provide charming spots to explore and relax, offering a true sense of stepping back in time. From here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Nievole Valley, making this tranquil hilltop village a perfect destination to unwind and take in the beauty of Tuscany.
Duration: 1,15 Min.
Return to Florence
After the visit to Montecatini Alto we return to Florence at 5.00 PM
Duration: 45 Min.
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Wheelchair accessible
- Stroller accessible
- Infant seats available
- Most travelers can participate
- This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
Please Note:
Inform us about any food allergies or intollerances you might have in advance during your booking procedure.
