Discover the Magic of Tuscany: A Relaxing Way to Explore Italy
If you're dreaming of rolling vineyards, medieval towns, and mouthwatering cuisine, Tuscany is likely at the top of your list. But instead of packing your itinerary with city-hopping and rushed sightseeing, consider a more relaxing alternative—slow travel through the heart of Italy with a base in Montecatini Terme. Thanks to AAA and CIE Tours, you can enjoy an immersive Tuscan experience with all the beauty and none of the burnout.
Why Montecatini Terme Is the Perfect Base
Nestled between Florence and Pisa, Montecatini Terme is a picturesque spa town known for its healing thermal waters and elegant Belle Époque architecture. As the hub for this unforgettable CIE Tour, it offers travelers a charming home base with all the comforts of a single-hotel stay—no constant unpacking and no daily check-ins and check-outs.
This slow travel approach allows you to truly settle in, savor each moment, and explore Tuscany’s treasures at a comfortable pace.
Daily Day Trips, Rich with Culture and History
Each day brings a new adventure—all within a short drive or train ride from Montecatini.
Pisa & Lucca: Start with a classic photo at the Leaning Tower, then wander the cobbled streets and ancient walls of Lucca, a city that invites you to slow down and soak in its charm.
Florence: Dive into the birthplace of the Renaissance with a guided walking tour. Marvel at Michelangelo’s David, explore the grandeur of the Duomo, and absorb the artistry that permeates every corner of this timeless city.
Cinque Terre: These five colorful fishing villages perched on the cliffs of the Italian Riviera are straight out of a postcard. Travel by train between towns and enjoy free time to explore at your leisure.
Siena & San Gimignano: Walk through history in Siena’s medieval streets, and admire the iconic towers of San Gimignano, known as “the medieval Manhattan.”
Truffle Hunting in San Miniato: For an unforgettable local experience, join a truffle expert and his dog on a real-life treasure hunt. Follow it up with a truffle-infused lunch that will redefine "farm-to-table."
A Culinary Love Letter to Tuscany
No Tuscan tour is complete without the food, and this one delivers in the most delicious way.
Guests enjoy:
A home-cooked traditional Tuscan dinner at Fattoria il Poggio, a working farm with vineyards and olive groves.
A wine tasting and gourmet meal at Castello di Verrazzano, a historic Chianti vineyard.
Visits to local gelaterias, cafes, and restaurants where every meal feels like an event.
Each dining experience highlights the simplicity, freshness, and bold flavors that define Tuscan cuisine.
Why This Kind of Travel Works
This tour is perfect for travelers who crave culture, comfort, and connection. By staying in one hotel and traveling outward each day, you:
Reduce travel fatigue and stress.
Gain deeper local insight into one region.
Enjoy a more immersive experience, connecting with local traditions and people.
Let AAA Make it Easy
Planning a trip like this might seem daunting, but with AAA and CIE Tours, everything is expertly arranged—from hotel stays to transportation to guided tours. Plus, AAA members enjoy exclusive savings like $40 off per person on guided tours.
So if you're ready to travel at a slower pace and savor every sight, sound, and bite of Tuscany, this tour might just be your perfect Italian escape. If you’re ready to book your Tuscan adventure, contact your AAA Travel Advisor today!