Tuscany is renowned for its rolling landscapes, charming villages, and rich cultural treasures, but it’s also a fantastic place to experience unique guided tours that bring out the region’s best. Whether you’re looking to relax with a boat ride along the coast, explore spiritual sites linked to St. Francis, or indulge in handcrafted chocolate, Tuscany offers options for every interest. We especially love the private boat excursion for its seamless blend of sun, sea, and personalized experience, and the artisan chocolate tour for its delicious insights into Tuscany’s sweet side. These activities not only showcase the region’s natural beauty and craftsmanship but also provide memorable moments that go beyond typical sightseeing.
If you’re trying to decide which tour suits your style, this guide will help you compare the options. From a relaxing day on the water to culture and chocolate tasting, there’s something here for every kind of traveler.
Quick Overview
Our list of the best tours in Tuscany includes a mix of outdoor adventures, cultural visits, and foodie experiences. You’ll find a private boat excursion that explores the scenic beaches of the Maremma coast, a private day trip to the Sanctuary of La Verna—a spiritual highlight tied to St. Francis—and a guided chocolate factory tour showcasing Tuscany’s artisan sweets. Each offers a different way to enjoy Tuscany’s diverse charms, with detailed insights into what makes each one special. Ready to see which fits your plans? Let’s dive into each experience.
1. Private Boat Excursion with Lunch or Aperitif to the Calette di Scarlino
A private boat trip along Tuscany’s coast promises a day of sun, salt, and secluded beaches. This excursion aboard a classic Tuscan gozzo boat is tailored for your preferences—whether that’s swimming, relaxing, or enjoying a sunset aperitif. The highlight is visiting the beautiful beaches of Cala Violina, Cala Martina, and Cala Civette, each offering clear waters and scenic surroundings. Cala Violina, in particular, is famed for its fine, sandy bottom and shallow waters, perfect for a swim just meters from the boat. Cala Martina’s wild beauty is ideal for snorkeling, while Cala Civette provides a peaceful spot with lush pine trees behind it.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility: the program changes based on sea conditions and your interests. Many reviews praise the captain’s friendly demeanor and the relaxed vibe—one even called it “a nice experience with super nice captain.” The price of around $107 per person for 4-8 hours is surprisingly good considering the exclusivity and personalized service. This tour suits travelers seeking an intimate, flexible day on the water, especially if they want to escape crowds and enjoy authentic seaside scenery.
Bottom line: If you love being on the water, swimming in crystal-clear coves, and having a tailored experience, this private boat trip delivers a memorable day on the Tuscan coast.
2. Tuscany: Sanctuary of La Verna Day Tour Private Tour
This day trip takes you to the Sanctuary of La Verna, a powerful spiritual site linked to St. Francis of Assisi. The tour includes private transportation from your hotel or agriturismo and a leisurely visit to the monumental forest and the historic monastery complex. La Verna is an important symbol of Franciscan life, with its rugged scenery and peaceful atmosphere offering a contemplative escape from Tuscany’s busy towns. The site is famous for its connection to St. Francis’ visions and the stigmata, making it a must-see for those interested in religious history or seeking spiritual renewal.
The tour also visits the Birthplace Museum of Michelangelo Buonarroti, adding an artistic twist to the day. The flexibility of this private tour means you can spend as much time as you like, often about 5 hours, exploring the site at your own pace. Many reviewers highlight the peacefulness of La Verna and the fact that they could enjoy the site for an extended period. Priced for a private experience, it’s especially suitable for travelers who want a mix of spiritual reflection, history, and the stunning natural landscape of Tuscany.
Bottom line: For those interested in religious history, art, and tranquil mountain scenery, this private tour offers a meaningful, customizable experience that captures Tuscany’s spiritual side.
3. Guided tour of the Artisan Chocolate Factory in Tuscany
Chocolate lovers will find this artisan chocolate factory tour in Tuscany irresistible. Located in the Val di Nievole, a true “Chocolate Valley,” this experience showcases the Bean-to-Bar process, where cocoa is transformed entirely on-site—from raw bean to finished chocolate. The factory, Tuscani Cioccolato, imports high-quality cocoa from Nicaragua’s La Dalia and Matiguas regions and produces small batches of handcrafted chocolate.
During the tour, you’ll learn about the meticulous process of making artisan chocolate, taste various products at different stages, and meet the chocolatiers behind the magic. The guide, Gianluca, is praised for his engaging explanations, and visitors love the chance to ask questions and sample the chocolates. The 1.5-hour experience costs about $100, making it a sweet, affordable adventure for those wanting a tasty insight into Tuscany’s confectionery craftsmanship.
This tour is ideal if you’re interested in culinary traditions, artisan craftsmanship, and want a fun, delicious activity. Reviewers highlight how informative and enjoyable the experience is, with one saying, “It’s amazing what goes into the process to create artisan chocolate.” Plus, you can purchase your favorites directly at the end, supporting local artisans.
Bottom line: Perfect for foodies and families, this chocolate factory tour offers a flavorful taste of Tuscany’s sweet side and behind-the-scenes craftsmanship.
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your interests and how much time you have. If you’re after a relaxing, scenic day on the water, the private boat excursion (see details here) provides a personalized, flexible experience. For those craving a deeper connection to Tuscany’s spiritual roots and history, the Sanctuary of La Verna (more info here) offers a peaceful, cultural journey. Food enthusiasts should not miss the artisan chocolate tour (details here), which combines education, tasting, and fun.
Think about your travel style—do you prefer outdoor adventures, cultural sites, or culinary experiences? Budget can also play a role: the boat trip offers a full-day experience at about $107 per person, while the chocolate tour costs around $100 for a shorter visit. The La Verna tour is highly customizable and best suited for those interested in a spiritual or artistic immersion.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred times and ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
Tuscany offers a range of tours that cater to different interests, whether you want to relax on the coast, explore spiritual sites, or indulge in artisan chocolates. The private boat excursion stands out for its personalized coastal experience and beautiful beaches, while the Sanctuary of La Verna provides a meaningful cultural visit. For food lovers, the chocolate factory promises a delicious and educational break.
If you’re planning your trip, consider what kind of experience will leave you with a true memory of Tuscany. Booking these tours early, especially in high season, guarantees a smoother, more enjoyable trip. Whatever you choose, each of these experiences promises a genuine taste of Tuscany’s diverse charm.