easy
6–8 hours
Suitable for most fitness levels—mainly involves light walking and standing during tastings.
Discover the authentic tastes of northern Italy with Under The Tuscan Sun Tours’ private VIP food experience near Florence. From Parmigiano Reggiano to aged balsamic vinegar, taste centuries-old traditions on a uniquely immersive day trip.
Set in the heart of Florence, Italy—renowned for its Renaissance art, centuries-old architecture, and vibrant street life—Under The Tuscan Sun Tours offers an immersive, private culinary journey into the deep-rooted food traditions of the Emilia-Romagna region. While Florence is famous for its own Tuscan flavors, this one-day VIP experience ventures beyond the city to indulge in some of Italy’s most iconic gastronomic treasures like Parmigiano Reggiano, balsamic vinegar, and prosciutto.
This private VIP food experience is designed for travelers who want more than a surface-level tasting; it uncovers the authentic craft behind world-famous ingredients. Guests start with hands-on visits to artisanal cheese dairies where the painstaking method of creating Parmigiano Reggiano unfolds amid aging cellars and rustic farm landscapes. This isn’t just about tasting; it’s about witnessing tradition in motion, from the cows’ diet to the care in curd aging.
Following cheese comes the revered balsamic vinegar—discovered at a vinegar producer’s cellar—where guests savor vinegars aged decades. The complex sweet-tart notes tell a story of time, wood casks, and regional terroir that no supermarket bottle can capture. Next is prosciutto tasting, a delicate balance of salt cure and air aging imparting unmistakable flavor.
The day culminates in a hearty Italian lunch, a convivial moment savoring everything learned and tasted, showcasing local ingredients paired thoughtfully by experts. Under The Tuscan Sun Tours bridges Florence’s rich urban heritage with rural food cultures, making it a unique gateway for food lovers and cultural travelers alike. The VIP nature ensures personalized attention, a small group or solo experience, hands-on learning, and a pace tuned to savor every moment.
For food-centric travelers seeking an authentic connection to Italy’s culinary soul, this tour delivers a hands-on, sensory-rich adventure, tightly woven into the landscape and legacy of northern Italy’s gastronomic heartland.
This VIP experience is limited to small groups or private bookings—reserve weeks ahead to secure your spot.
Expect moderate walking on uneven surfaces around farms and cellars; sturdy footwear improves comfort.
Cellars and aging rooms can be cool even in summer, layering helps you stay comfortable during tastings.
Tours often start or end outside Florence—arrange transport ahead if not included and prepare for rural roads.
The Emilia-Romagna region’s culinary heritage dates back centuries, with traditional cheese and cured meat production linked to local noble estates and farming communities.
Many producers emphasize sustainable, small-batch methods that honor local biodiversity and minimize environmental impact.
Necessary for uneven terrain around farms and cellar visits.
Cellars are cool year-round; layers help maintain comfort.
Stay hydrated during warmer days, especially if walking between stops.
summer specific
Handy for carrying essentials and any small purchases from producers.