best wine tours from rome

The 5 Best Winery Tours From Rome [2022 Reviews]

While you can always enjoy a glass of wine at your favorite restaurant or pour a glass from a bottle you have at home, there’s nothing quite like tasting the wines made in the various regions of Italy.

Made with the same ancient methods used during the Roman Empire, these wines just might take you back to another place and time. Also see: Wineries and Vineyards From Rome – Travel Guide .

Best Winery Tours From Rome

Quick answer:the 5 best winery & vineyard tours from rome.

• San Gimignano & Siena: Small Group Wine Tour
• Frascati Food & Wine: Full Day Countryside Tour
• Tuscany Taster Tour with Lunch and Wine
• Tuscany Wine Tour from Rome with Private Driver
• Frascati 3-Hour Wine Tasting Tour

Winery & Vineyard Tours From Rome Reviews

#1 san gimignano & siena: small group wine tour.

• Departure Point : Pick-up and Drop Off Service
• Departure Time : 7:00 AM
• Duration : 1 Day (approx.)
• Includes : van transportation, expert escort, wine tasting, light lunch

First up is San Gimignano, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its colorful history as well as its impact on the region’s wine culture. In fact, this area is known for it’s popular Vernaccia white wine, which you will be able to taste along with many others in the wine cellar.

Be sure to take plenty of pictures of the medieval charm that San Gimignano is famous for before heading to the winery to learn more about the process of making wine. Next up is a light lunch at a local restaurant.

Before heading back to Rome through that same beautiful countryside, you’ll stop at Siena. Their public square at the center of the city holds historical significance and is another UNESCO-listed site.

The Piazza del Campo is also where the famous Palio del Siena horse races are held. Enjoy Mangia Tower and the imposing beauty of the Duomo.

For tour prices, transportation and availability:

#2 frascati food & wine: full day countryside tour.

• Departure Point : Hotel Pick-up
• Departure Time : 10:00 AM
• Duration : 6 Hours (approx.)
• Includes : expert guide, car/van transportation, several wine tastings, light lunch, guided tour of Castel Gandolfo

On your way to the area of Castello Romani, your expert guide will share fascinating information about the area, from its history and traditions to the wines that are popular there.

At your first stop, you’ll taste two to three wines, depending on what the producer has available. Learn even more about the ancient techniques they still use today.

Then you’ll head to the second stop where you will enjoy several more wines along with a light lunch. Your guide will take you to Abbazi of San Nilo and tell you the tales, and legends, of the location.

With a guided tour and skip-the-line access to Castel Gandolfo, you’ll see for yourself just how far back the history of this region goes.

The last stop will give you a bird’s eye view of a beautiful volcanic lake as well as the city of Nemi. You won’t want to miss the views, or the photo ops either!

Other Experiences You May Enjoy:

#3 tuscany taster tour with lunch and wine.

• Departure Point : Piazza del Popolo, Rome
• Departure Time : 7:30 AM
• Duration : 13 hours (approx.)
• Includes : round-trip transportation, guided tour of Montepulciano, headset if needed, gourmet lunch, wine tasting, expert English-speaking guide

Your expert guide will take you on a walking tour of Montepulciano. Here, you can even see ruins that pre-date the Roman Empire. Set in the hills, the views all around you are breathtaking.

Sant’Antimo Abbey features beautiful and ornate Medieval architecture, seemingly out of place in a quiet valley. Next up is lunch and you will enjoy 3 traditional courses as well as appropriate wines all inside the wine cellar of a vineyard farmhouse.

The last stop will be Pienza where you will be given ample time for independent exploration. Duck into a few shops to snag some souvenirs for those back home, or even yourself.

Don’t miss out on the Pecorino cheeses made here as well as the bold, smooth balsamic vinegars.

#4 Tuscany Wine Tour from Rome with Private Driver

• Departure Point : Variety available
• Departure Time : 8:30 AM
• Duration : 10 hours
• Includes : Private transportation and tours of the vineyards in Montepulciano, Pienza, and Orvieto

Here you will sip wines from their world famous vineyards and have time to shop and explore the towns.

Your expert guide will take you on a tour through the vineyards first, to tell you about the history of growing grapes here and how it has changed over millennia.

In fact, there have been artifacts unearthed that show grapes were being grown in this area specifically to make wine as far back as the 5 th -century BCE.

You’ll then head into the wine cellar where your guide will tell you about the ancient winemaking techniques still used to today, and how they use them to make the wonderful wines the region is famous for.

Enjoy a taste of several wines, paired with local products such as cheeses and breads.

The Renaissance popes, many of the elite of the Roman Empire, and poets and artists throughout the centuries have enjoyed the wines made here. Shouldn’t you try them too?

#5 Frascati 3-Hour Wine Tasting Tour

• Departure Point : Hotel Pick-Up and Drop Off
• Departure Time : Varies
• Duration : 3 hours (approx.)
• Includes : round trip transportation, Wi-Fi, water, wine tasting, guided tour

The 3 rd -century caverns beneath the vineyard are lined with French oak barrels that are used in the winemaking process. The architecture above ground dates back to the 17 th -century.

Today, the traditional winemaking methods that can be dated to as far back as early Roman days are still in use.

After a guided tour of the vineyards where you will learn more about the grapes used to make wine and what makes them special.

You’ll then head into the wine cellar to taste several wines that have been selected by the master winemaker for your visit.

Not only will you be able to taste the richness of these wines, but you’ll also be offered freshly pressed olive oil to taste. Both the wines and the oils are accompanied by oven-baked bread baked just for your arrival.

Wineries and Vineyards From Rome – Travel Guide

Visitors to Rome can enjoy more than just ancient buildings and history. It is also a great place to dine on fine Italian cuisine and sample world-renowned wines from Frascati and Tuscany. You’ll also want to be aware of accommodations, the expected weather, and even other attractions you may want to visit while visiting Rome.

As you learn more about vacationing in Rome, you may want to plan for a few extra days to truly get the most out of your time in this ancient city. What attractions are you looking forward to the most when you visit Rome? Where do you plan on staying? We’d love to hear about your plans! If you’ve already visited Rome, let us know what you enjoyed the most.

Airports & Entry

When headed to Rome, you’ll most likely land at the Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport . This airport is the largest in Italy. Most foreign tourists, no matter their final destination in Italy, land in Rome. This means the airport is usually very crowded. However, this airport is also fairly easy to navigate.

To visit Italy, you must have a valid passport that has at least six months remaining before expiration. You can stay up to 90 days in the country for business or tourist reasons without a visa so long as your passport is valid.

Planning Tips

Before you start packing your bags, you’ll want to know how to make your trip easier and how to get the most out of your time in Rome. These top 5 planning tips can help you do just that.

Tip #1: Dress Appropriately for Your Wine And Countryside Tour

Touring vineyards isn’t the same as visiting a museum or church, so you’ll want to dress appropriately. A comfortable pair of sandals or shoes is essential. You may need to walk on grass or uneven surfaces, so leave your heels behind. A sunhat and sunglasses will prove invaluable during the heat of summer, and light clothes, like a summer dress, will help you stay cool. And don’t forget your sunscreen.

Tip #2: Plan Everything in Advance

There are millions of visitors to Rome and the vineyards of Frascati and Tuscany every year. This means that some of the attractions or tours you are looking forward to may be sold out or closed by the time you arrive. Some of the more personal and exclusive vineyard tours only take 6 people at a time.

If you are traveling to Rome around the time of religious holidays, some attractions may be closed to the public as well as to guided tours. While many guided tours have backup plans in the event a scheduled location is closed unexpectedly, you should research your trip to make sure the places you wish to visit should be open.

Tip #3: Choose A Wine Tour

If you plan on enjoying a visit to Tuscany or a tour of the vineyards, purchasing a guided tour is a good idea. Tours of Tuscany are very popular and may be sold out in advance. With a guided tour, like the ones we’ve reviewed above, you are guaranteed a place. Plus, you will be able to skip the lines at many of the vineyards you visit on your tour.

Tip #4: Only Carry What You Need

Walking around the historical caverns of Santa Benedetta or watching the fascinating process of wine production in a winery, you don’t want to be weighed down by heavy purses, bags, etc. Organize yourself so you can carry your essentials and leave bulky items behind.

You’ll most certainly want a good camera if you visit the unique village of San Gimignano, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with ancient architecture you will remember for a lifetime. In Rome itself, note that large bags, umbrellas, camera tripods, and other large items aren’t allowed within the Vatican Museums and related locations.

Tip #5: If Possible, Visit During May, June Or September

You can enjoy a tour of Tuscany and the vineyards any time of the year. However, the countryside is at its most colorful in May and the start of June, when temperatures hover around 77 o F. On the other hand, the vineyards look especially impressive in September, when the wine villages are preparing for the harvest.

Restaurants & Eating Out

When in Rome, do as the Romans do. Right? There is no better time to follow this rule than when it comes to wining and dining. The world-renowned wines of Frascati and Tuscany served at the better restaurants were produced using the same time-tested techniques used during the time of the Roman Empire.

Eating out in Rome is probably much more affordable than you would’ve thought. Of course, you’ll want to savor a true Italian pizza. The best place for this is La Gatta Mangiona. This casual restaurant is well known for its thin crust pizzas and may very well have been the start of the pizza craze in Rome.

If you’re looking for lighter fare, stop by Il Forno Campo de’ Fiori . The restaurant serves up delicious soups, sandwiches, salads, and light snacks. The bakery next door produces delicious biscuits, pastries, and more. Both the restaurant and the bakery offer take out so you can avoid the long lines.

While there are many places to get your fill of gelato in Rome, the Gelateria del Teatro is one of the most popular. You’ll find all the traditional flavors and occasionally come across an experiment or two. Have you ever tried raspberry and sage gelato?

NOTE : When it comes to leaving a tip at a restaurant, it’s important not to be too generous. Tipping more than 10% is often frowned upon. Also, you’ll rarely have an opportunity to leave a tip when using a debit or credit card. You’ll want to have a few euros on hand for tips as well as small purchases.

Nightlife & Entertainment

The nightlife in Rome is just as mixed as the combination of both ancient and modern seen all over the city. The Antica Enoteca has one of the most extensive wine lists in Rome and offers a rustic and casual atmosphere. This is a great place to try a broad variety of wines from Frascati and Tuscany. If you’re looking for a traditional bar, you’ll want to stop by the American Bar at the Hotel Forum.

When it comes to cocktails, Rome offers ingenuity and imagination. Take the Carbonara Sour at Co.So Cocktail & Social, for example. This delicious cocktail might be a little different, containing black pepper and egg whites along with other ingredients, but is one of their most popular drinks.

If cocktails aren’t your thing and you’d rather sit down with a craft beer, stop by Brasserie 4:20. This small pub is warm and welcoming, and so is their list of craft beers on tap, plus a selection of whiskeys, bourbons, and other fine drinks.

Getting Around

While there is a great public transportation system in place, it’s often easier to get around in Rome by walking. You can get nearly everywhere you need to go by lacing up your tennis shoes and going for a stroll. If you’re going a longer distance, you might want to take a bus. A 100-minute bus ticket is quite affordable, as is the day pass.

Renting a car in Rome isn’t a good idea. Those unfamiliar with the city can have a difficult time maneuvering. If car travel is best, you’ll want to take a taxi. You can only grab a taxi in designated areas. Hailing for a cab outside of these areas is frowned upon. Taxis can be on the expensive side but if you’re going a fair distance and you’d rather not take a bus, a taxi can be quite effective.

Accommodations

When it comes to accommodations in Rome, you’ll see inexpensive hotels and luxury resorts. The cheaper places to stay are often farther away, very small, or offer very few amenities. Most of these hotels aren’t recommended for tourists. There is no shortage of luxury hotels in Rome, however. The G-Rough is located inside a 16 th -century palazzo and epitomizes the history and art that Rome is famous for.

While staying at a luxury resort is ideal, it may not always be feasible. A great mid-range hotel that offers many of the benefits of a luxury resort without the price tag, is the Nerva Boutique Hotel . With just 19 rooms, guests can enjoy modern design, great food, as well as a great location.

July and August are the hottest months in Rome and Tuscany. The average temperature is somewhere around 78°F. For many, the 48°F average temperature in Rome in January is very mild. However, if you want to enjoy Rome or Tuscany with better chances of great weather, you’ll want to visit in the spring or the fall.

Attractions

Rome is full of attractions you can visit around your visits to vineyards and tour of Tuscany. Vatican City is a must for anybody interested in history or religion. The National Roman Museum is family-friendly and houses many interesting artifacts. The Basilica of San Clemente is not just a church, but also an archaeological site. The newer building at the entry level dates back to the 12 th -century while you can head downstairs to the original basilica built in the 4 th -century AD.

If you’d like to see some of the more ancient attractions around Rome, you have several options. The Roman Forum is the location where Romulus made the founding of the city of Rome official. It was once the epicenter of Roman life. Ostia Antica is just 25-minutes away by train. This location was once a thriving center of commerce. Today, you can explore over 100 acres of ancient shops, baths, temples, and even apartment buildings and houses.

The Vineyards of Italy: Both Seen & Felt

A visit to the local vineyards and a tour of Tuscany are musts if you’re planning a vacation to Rome. The colorful countryside, well-preserved ancient villages, and fascinating wineries simply can’t be experienced anywhere else. Whether you choose a short, 3-hour visit to the Frascati region or you opt to spend all day touring Tuscany, it’s guaranteed this is a trip you’ll never forget.

Wine Selection & Quality

Diversity of sights.

We chose the San Gimignano & Siena: Small Group Wine Tour as our Editor's Choice for the best winery or vineyard tour from Rome.

Krysha Thayer

Related articles, the 5 best stonehenge tours from london [2024 reviews], the 5 best wine tours from florence [2024 reviews], the 7 best vatican tours ⛪ [2024 reviews], the 5 best seine river dinner cruises [2024 reviews].

11 Best Rome Winery Tours for 2024

By: Author Girl with the Passport

Posted on Last updated: December 5, 2023

Categories Europe

When people think of wine tours in Italy they often picture strolling through the vineyards of Tuscany , Puglia , or Sicily.

But, the Eternal City is not to be overlooked since some of the best Rome winery tours , many of which will truly astound you.

I mean, I have been to this magical city no less than three times (sometimes for weeks at a time) and am always amazed when I embark on some of the best wine tours in Rome .

Not only are they a ton of fun, but the wine pours are generous, the wines are delicious, and these Rome wine tours will give you the opportunity to explore less touristy parts of the city, like Prati and Trastevere.

Additionally, many of these top Rome winery tours also feature top-quality Roman cuisine. So, booking a wine in Rome means that you’ll get to try divine Roman cuisine like baccalà fritto, supplì, and more.

So, if you want to create a trip to remember then check out this amazing guide to the best Rome wine tours right now.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

Best Rome Winery Tours in Tuscany

#1 🏆 pick for the best wine tour in rome.

If you want to book the best wine tour in Rome then I highly recommend this Rome Food & Wine Tour in Prati with the Roman Food Tour . You make five different stops, get to sample delish local cuisine (the pizza is divine), and even get to taste some of the best wines in the city.

1. From Rome: Tuscany Guided Day Trip with Lunch & Wine Tasting

⭐️ Rating: 4.7/5.0 (1220 Reviews) Price: $108.37 per person Duration: 13 hours 📍 Meeting Point: Piazza del Popolo Operator: City Wonders Ltd. Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

If you’re looking for one of the best Rome wine tours then consider this amazing guided day trip to Tuscany .

After all, this Rome wine tour is perfect if you don’t have time to rent a car in Tuscany or enjoy some of the best wine tours in Tuscany from Florence .

So, leave the hustle and bustle of Rome behind and embark on a journey to the serene Tuscan countryside.

Board a comfy, air-conditioned bus and as you drive through the rolling hills, your expert tour guide will explain all about the rich culture of Tuscany during one of the best wine tours Rome has to offer.

Now, the first stop is the hill town of Montepulciano, where a guided walking tour awaits. Here, you can marvel at an ancient wine cellar and explore ruins that pre-date Rome itself.

Next, head to San Biagio. It’s a 16th-century Renaissance church with a travertine façade that gets bathed in sunlight and features an interior with exquisite decor.

Afterward, a delightful Tuscan lunch awaits. Enjoy a 3-course meal paired with wines from the cellar of a real vineyard farmhouse.

“This excursion through CityWorks was wonderful! Our guide, Enriqua, was amazing – she kept us laughing and entertained the entire trip. She taught us a lot of history about Rome and Tuscany. Our driver, Danilo, was also great – he got us everywhere safely and smoothly. Would definitely recommend this trip to anyone and would certainly recommend Enriqua and Danilo as the guide and driver. Fantastic time all around!!” Richard ( read more details now )

Experience the celebrated Brunello di Montalcino and varieties from the vineyard itself. Buy yourself some Tuscan wine as a souvenir before ending the day in Pienza.

Once there, your tour leader will offer suggestions on what to do. But, you’ll have free time to shop for pecorino cheese, balsamic vinegar, wines, and other local specialties.

You can also roam the streets like a local before returning to Rome after one of the best winery tours from Rome.

Pro Tip: There is no way around it. This is a LONG day since it just takes a while to get from Rome to Florence. So, I wouldn’t plan a ton of stuff for the next day of your Rome itinerary .

You could also relax at one the best hotels in Rome with a Colosseum view afterward.

I also love City Wonders tours in general and have booked many great experiences with them while doing one of the best ghost tours in Rome .

Just avoid this trip on a Monday since many things in Pienza will be closed.

2. Rome: Siena to San Gimignano Tuscan Wine Tour

⭐️ Rating: 4.8/5.0 (14 Reviews) Price: $402.82 per person Duration: 10 hours 📍Meeting Point: Office at Via Del Colosseo 24 Operator: Bravo Tour Operator Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

If you have a bit of extra cash at your disposal then you may want to book this private wine tour from Rome to Siena and San Gimignano .

During one of the best Rome winery tours, your first stop will be in Siena. It’s a remarkably well-preserved medieval city known for its stunning brick buildings.

Wander around the city’s iconic central square, Piazza del Campo since it is renowned for hosting the Palio, an exhilarating, historic horse race unlike any other.

As you explore, indulge in delectable local pastries like Panpepato, Panforte, and Ricciarelli – all of which are best enjoyed with a cup of traditional Italian coffee.

“We had a great day on this tour! It was a scenic drive from Rome, and it was a full day of seeing Sienna and Sam Gimignano, ending with a lovely experience at a winery. There was a large variety of wines and lunch included in the tour price! Recommend to wear comfy footwear as there is a moderate amount of walking.” Anonymous ( read more reviews now )

Continue onwards to San Gimignano, a town with a distinct skyline that has earned it the nickname, ‘The Town of Fine Towers’.

Stroll along the charming medieval streets before ending the day at a local winery. Here, you’ll get the chance to taste local wines and savor regional delicacies with picturesque vineyards in the background.

You’ll even get a tour of the estate and learn about the intricacies of grape cultivation and wine production.

You’ll then sit down to a sumptuous lunch (the lasagna is lovely) at the estate’s restaurant before returning to Rome after one of the best winery tours Rome has to offer.

Pro Tip: The great thing about this tour is that you can depart quite early so that you beat the crowds in Siena and San Gimignano. It makes the experience infinitely more enjoyable.

Also loved the experience at the winery and thought the Chianti was out of this world.

3. From Rome: Private Day Tour of Tuscany

⭐️ Rating: 4.3/5.0 (20 Reviews) Price: $507.91 Duration: 10 hours 📍 Meeting Point: Pick up from your hotel Operator: Eternal City Tours Details : Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

During this incredible private tour of Tuscany from Rome , relax and savor the serene allure of Tuscany.

You’ll start one of the best Rome winery tours with pickup in Rome by way of a comfortable, air-conditioned car/minivan.

By mid-morning, you’ll find yourself in the age-old Etruscan town of Montepulciano. Venture into the city’s underground, where the acclaimed Nobile wine is produced.

Savor the rich flavors of this renowned wine during a tasteful session, surrounded by some of Tuscany’s most picturesque vineyards.

Your private driver will then escort you to a scenic Tuscan vineyard located just outside of town.

Afterwards, your journey continues to Pienza, leaving you with ample time for lunch.

“We were so impressed with our adventure into Tuscany! Mauro was a wonderful guide/driver, providing information and insight into the area, the olive groves, vineyards and history. I would go back in a heartbeat and will definitely use get your guide services. A wonderful experience and an exceptional value!” Anonymous ( read more reviews now )

While you’re here, your guide will provide you with great info on notable sites, including two Renaissance palaces and the stunning Duomo.

So, immerse yourself in Pienza’s rich architectural heritage before marveling at breathtaking views of the vast countryside.

Because Pienza is famed for its high-quality pecorino cheese, visit some local artisanal food stores and sample this delectable product before heading back to Rome.

Best Rome Wine Tours in Rome

4. rome food & wine tour in prati.

⭐️ Rating: 5.0/5.0 (1895 Reviews) Price: $150.27 per person Duration: 4 hours 📍 Meeting Point: Via Cipro, 4 L, 00136 Roma Operator: The Roman Food Tour Details: Read more on Viator Now!

Are there any foodies out there? If so then you’re gonna love one of the best wine tours in Rome that doubles as one of the best food tours in Rome .

See, this food and wine tour through Prati allows you to enjoy Rome like a local with a delightful evening spent walking and eating your way through the charming Prati District.

So, get away from the tourist traps and, with the guidance of a knowledgeable local, meander through Prati’s quaint streets, stopping at gourmet food stores to savor the best of Roman cuisine.

You’ll also meet the artisans behind the food – the local food vendors who generously share their secret recipes and cooking tips.

“Incredible food tour! We ate so much food we could hardly walk by the end – do NOT eat beforehand! Each stop was absolutely delicious. We learned about local Roman food customs and ingredients. The cacio e Pepe at Il Segreto had such explosive flavor, my taste buds were tingling! This tour is well worth the money. Definitely recommend.” Sarah ( read more reviews now )

Yup, this culinary journey is a sensorial feast where you can sample cured meats/cheeses/wine from La Tradizione, insane gelato from Lemongrass Ice Cream, and enjoy the city’s best pizza at Pizzarium.

You can even try Balsamic vinegar aged 30 years and exquisite truffles from La Nicchia Cafe before heading to Il Segreto to feast on fresh pasta and exquisite Barolo wine.

Plus, with group sizes limited to just 13 people, this intimate experience promises personalized attention and a memorable evening.

Just be sure to book in advance to secure your spot on this epicurean adventure through Prati. And if you have extra time, visit some of the best wineries near Rome too.

Pro Tip: DO NOT EAT BEFORE!!! Portions are giant and all the food is delish so you will literally ROLL away. This is also a great way to get to know the local food scene in Rome.

5. Half-Day Food and Wine Tasting Tour in Rome

⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5.0 (100 Reviews) Price: $83.37 per person Duration: 4 hours 📍 Meeting Point: Campo de’ Fiori, 23, 00186 Roma Operator: Nicom Tours Details: Read more on Viator Now!

During one of the best Rome wine tours, enjoy an evening of gastronomic delight that begins in Rome’s bustling Campo de’ Fiori and takes you through Trastevere.

You’ll meet your guide promptly at 5:15 pm and he or she will keep you entertained with tales of Roman history, culinary traditions, and the importance of PGI (protected geographical indication).

Yup, PGI is a true testament to the high quality of Italian food.

Now, tour highlights include an aperitivo of local wine and artisan salami, followed by a visit to a historic cheese shop where PGI cheese is expertly paired with yet more exquisite vino.

“It was a wonderful experience we all really enjoyed this tour ❤️ I will definitely recommend this one for my clients 👌🏾” Cheryl ( read more reviews now )

You’ll then sample a true Roman classic, baccalà fritto (aka delicious, fried salted cod), as well as crispy by-the-slice pizza, and supplì (Roman fried risotto balls).

To assist in the digestion of all these magnificent foods, you’ll take a leisurely stroll to a quaint Trastevere restaurant where you’ll dig into a light dinner.

The meal consists of traditional Roman antipasto and two types of primi dishes that are accompanied by two varieties of wine.

Finally, you’ll head to a local gelateria for a sweet treat before rolling into bed after one of the best wine tours Rome has to offer.

6. Food & Wine Tour by the Vatican City

⭐️ Rating: 5.0/5.0 (146 Reviews) Price: $143.59 per person Duration: 4 hours 📍 Meeting Point: La Nicchia Cafe Operator: The Roman Food Tour Details: Read more on Viator Now!

This award-winning food and wine tour in Rome takes you through Vatican City and into the Roman neighborhoods of Prati and Trionfale.

So, one of the best Rome wine tours starts with a visit to La Nicchia Cafe to experience the tantalizing taste of 30-year-old balsamic vinegar drizzled over Parmigiano Reggiano.

During your one-hour stay here you’ll also enjoy truffles, fresh buffalo mozzarella, and a renowned D.O.C.G Frascati superior wine.

As you continue on your culinary journey, you’ll stop for an hour at Paciotti Salumeria.

It is the oldest gourmet food store in Rome and is a place where you can indulge in the best Italian cheese and cured hams, which are perfectly paired with fine wine.

“This was by far one of my best evenings in Rome. Ashley was incredible, both extremely knowledgeable and personable. We had the best group of people, from the mom and daughter dynamic duo, to the Lebanese power couple, the Uber relaxed couple from San Fran, and the fabulous Aussie on her own like me. The food was just as incredible as the guide and the company. Throughout all my travels, I have never written a review, but this tour was all the things. I highly suggest that anyone visiting Rome take this tour.” Jordana ( read more reviews now )

You’ll then make a slight detour to Ristorante Pizzeria Falcone for 20 minutes before sampling even more pizza at Bonci Pizzarium.

Yeah, they’re known for serving up the #1 pizza in Rome and you’ll be able to spend around 40 minutes here.

Finally, Hostaria Dino e Tony will welcome you with a selection of handmade pasta and tiramisu, that is complimented by even more fine wine.

7. Trastevere at Sunset: Rome Food & Wine Tour

⭐️ Rating: 5.0/5.0 (92 Reviews) P rice: $121.33 per person Duration: 3 hours 📍 Meeting Point: Piazza di San Cosimato Operator: Devour Italy Food Tours Details: Read more on Viator Now!

This Rome wine tour in Trastevere is insane!!! But, I mean that in the best possible way since you’ll enjoy 10+ food tastings and 5/6 drink tastings while visiting five unique bars and restaurants.

So, begin this Trastevere at Sunset: Rome Food & Wine Tour with a visit to Dispensa A Ripa. It’s a quaint local shop nestled in the heart of Trastevere.

Here, you’ll delve into the world of Italian wines and savor a glass of crisp prosecco with traditional prosciutto and fine Italian cheese.

Afterward, make your way to Supplì Roma. This epic spot has been around since 1975 and is reported to have the best supplì in Rome. Yup, that’s a BOLD statement…but one I can’t disagree with.

Next, walk on over to Bar San Calisto and learn about traditional Italian drinks, as you sip on a spritz and listen to captivating tales about Italy’s aperitifs.

“If there were more stars I would give them. The tour was incredible and our guide Silvia was amazing and made it so much fun and comfortable. She found some local smaller businesses. Very much worth the price with the amount of food and drink you get. I’d definitely do it again.” Sam ( read more reviews now )

Continue to Latteria Trastevere since this enoteca specializes in natural wines and is a great place to sip on a glass of red and white wine – each paired with three types of bruschetta.

After around 40 minutes, walk over to Checco Er Carettiere and eat at one of the most iconic restaurants in Trastevere.

Owned and operated by the same family for over three generations, this place is a true culinary gem where you can sample three types of pasta and two glasses of robust wine.

Finally, end the night on a sweet note at Checco Er Carettiere’s pastry shop with a cup of artisan gelato to culminate your gastronomic journey through Rome.

8. Campo dè Fiori Market and Trevi Fountain Food and Wine Tour in Rome

⭐️ Rating: 5.0/5.0 (57 Reviews) Price: $99.07 per person Duration: 4 hours 📍 Meeting Point: Piazza Farnese Operator: Food Tours of Rome Details : Read more on Viator Now!

This is one of the best Rome wine tours that starts at Campo de’ Fiori at the statue of Giordano Bruno.

Here, you’ll learn about the intriguing life of Giordano Bruno, a famous figure who is deeply rooted in the ethos of Rome.

You’ll then amble around the bustling market, indulging in a tasting of exquisite Italian delicacies that include truffles, pesto, olive pâtés, and balsamic vinegar.

After around two hours, conclude this part of this Rome food and wine tour with a visit to a quaint wine shop and a hearty lunch of local wine, artisanal cheese, and cured meats.

Dig into your meal amidst the ancient ruins of a Roman theater before meandering over to Piazza Navona.

Spend around two hours learning about this square’s history and stand in awe of the majestic Fountain of the Four Rivers.

It is a masterpiece by Bernini that you will enjoy before sampling some of the city’s best Tiramisù.

Stop at a renowned gelateria and enjoy a delightful gelato and the finest coffee in Rome before heading to the Pantheon.

“A great way to spend part pf your day in Rome! Excellent food stops. Lunch was amazing & our guide was wonderful!! Highly recommend..” Stacy ( read more reviews now )

Sadly, you won’t step inside. But, you can stand in awe of this 2000-year-old architectural marvel and learn about its history as a church and a mausoleum for eminent Italians.

Finally, end one of the best wine tours in Rome at the Trevi Fountain. It’s a breathtaking marble masterpiece that symbolizes the power of water.

Try tossing a coin into the basin so that you can guarantee yourself a return trip to Rome – or at least that’s how the old legend goes.

Pro Tip: This is a great tour but it takes you to a lot of top landmarks in Rome. This tour also doesn’t include a ton of wine.

So, if you’re looking to sample a lot of wine, or have already been to Rome, give this Rome wine tour a pass.

9. Half-Day Food and Wine Tasting Tour in Rome

⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5.0 (26 Reviews) Price: $94.61 per person Duration: 4 hours 📍 Meeting Point: La Carbonara Operator: Enjoy Rome Details: Read more on Viator Now!

If you’re short on time but still want to enjoy one of the best wine tours in Rome then book this half-day Food and Wine Tasting Tour in Rome .

See, this epic 4-hour begins with an intro to antipasti as you stroll through the bustling streets of Campo de’Fiori and Trastevere with an expert guide.

So, get ready to taste a rich variety of meats and cheeses that are perfectly paired with wines from the Lazio region.

Next, savor some of Rome’s famous street food like baccalà fritto, supplì, and pizza al taglio.

Don’t worry though because all the food that you will taste is served to you from the most reputable eateries in the city.

“We were a small group of 6 people. It was great to try out so many different starters, so at the main meal we’re almost already full. The food was delicious and with the host we heard many stories and history background, which made the evening a great Italian experience. Thank you very much!” Max ( read more reviews now )

Continue your culinary tour de force with a sit-down dinner at a local trattoria, where you’ll indulge in an array of authentic, simple, dishes that are complimented by even more fabulous Roman wine.

But, of course, no Italian culinary experience would be complete without a taste of authentic Italian gelato.

So, prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable culinary journey that will leave you begging for more after one of the best wine tours in Rome.

10. Gluten-Free Food & Wine Tour of Rome with Local Guide and Sightseeing

⭐️ Rating: 5.0/5.0 (38 Reviews) Price: $210.38 per person Duration: 4 hours 📍 Meeting Point: Piazza Mattei Operator: Food Tours of Rome Details: Read more on Viator Now!

If you or anyone you love is gluten intolerant then check out this Gluten-free food and wine tour in Rome with a local guide .

It’s one of the best Rome winery tours that starts at Piazza Mattei, in front of the charming Turtles Fountain.

You’ll then commence this amazing, 4-hour guided tour which is packed with food, wine, sightseeing, and a whole lot of fun.

As you wander the streets of the Jewish Ghetto, learn about the area’s rich history and taste local delicacies like Roman-style artichokes.

Next, head to Campo de’ Fiori to taste the best gluten-free pizza in the city! You’ll then visit a fantastic Roman winery that dates back to 1946.

Sample the finest cuts of cured meat and a variety of Italian cheeses here, all of which are paired with exquisite local wine.

“We had an amazing time with our tour guide, Greta. She was absolutely amazing and shared a wealth of knowledge, not just about food but also history as well. The GF food was delicious (for all on our tour, not just the GF individual) and the restaurants were all memorable and special. Highly recommend!!” Laura ( read more reviews now )

Dinner is then served amidst the ruins of an ancient Roman theater that was the site of Julius Caesar’s assassination.

Here, you’ll indulge in traditional Roman main courses (all gluten-free) accompanied by wine.

Afterward, continue to Piazza Navona, where you’ll be treated to Tiramisù. You’ll then visit Basilica di Sant’Eustachio and taste authentic Italian coffee like a local.

The tour will then end at Largo Argentina, where you’ll savor authentic Italian ice cream at a family-run business that has been serving up amazing artisanal gelato for generations.

This is easily one of the best Rome wine tours since your expert local guide will take you to places you’d never discover by yourself.

Plus, with extensive gluten-free menus, you’ll experience an array of incredible Italian treats, proving that gluten-free food has never tasted so good!

Bonus Day Trip from Rome (Can Get Wine at Lunch But Not Super Wine Focused)

11. assisi & orvieto day trip from rome.

⭐️ Rating: 4.4/5.0 (320 Reviews) Price: $163.10 per person Duration: 12 hours 📍Meeting Point: GLT Terminal Operator: Green Line Tours Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

If you need a break from the mild insanity that is sometimes Rome then book this Assisi and Orvieto Day Trip from Rome .

It’s one of the best tours from Rome that features a fun trip to Assisi followed by a stop at the quaint hill town of Orvieto in Umbria.

From Rome, you’ll make your way North along the serene Tiber Valley to the quaint town of Orvieto.

This hidden gem, cradled in the heart of Etruria, fascinates with its Etruscan roots and a breathtaking 14th-century cathedral that is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.

You’ll then continue through the Tuscan Hills and visit the birthplace of Italy’s renowned D.O.C. wines including the crisp Orvieto, robust Chianti, and the full-bodied Brunello di Montalcino.

It’s here that you’ll pause to indulge in a delightful lunch, during which you can savor traditional local dishes rich in flavor.

“A spiritual trip, especially Assisi, a city full of serenity and peace blessed by St. Francisc. Orvieto has also a wonderful dome, but unfortunatelly it wss very foggy, so that couldn’t have the whole experience from outside. But interior is very beautiful. Assisi is the peak of the trip!” Adriana ( read more reviews now )

In the early afternoon, visit the picturesque shores of Lake Trasimeno, before reaching Assisi. Nestled at the foot of Mount Subasio, this tranquil town is known as the birthplace of St. Francis.

Walk in the footsteps of this iconic Saint before visiting the Church of St. Claire, St. Francis’ childhood home, and Townhall Square.

As you explore the area around the square, don’t miss the imposing People’s Palace and the ancient Roman Temple dedicated to Minerva.

You’ll then end the day admiring stunning 12th and 14th-century frescoes that nestled inside the Basilica of St. Francis.

Pro Tip: Depending on traffic you SHOULD get dropped off back in Rome at 8:00 pm at the latest.

Best Rome Winery Tours FAQs

Does rome have vineyards.

Yes! Rome has many vineyards since the Rome wine sub-region is bathed in sun. Some of the best include Fattoria La Maliosa, Cantina Costantini, La Veneranda, and Cantine Briziarelli.

How Do I Plan a Wine Tour in Italy?

To plan a wine tour in Italy you’ll want to:

• First, select the wine region you want to visit based on the time of year
• Book Well in Advance
• Make an itinerary filled with the wineries you want to check out
• Avoid visiting more than 3 wineries in a day
• Hire a driver or have a designated driver since drunk driving laws are VERY strict in Italy

What Season is the Best for Wine Tours?

The best season for wine tours in Rome (and Italy in general) is either spring or fall. Not only are crowds minimal but you can see vineyards come to life in the spring and leaves change color in the fall.

Can You Visit Wineries in Italy?

Yes, most wineries in Italy welcome visitors. You can either visit as part of a group tour or rent a car and explore several different wineries on your own. Just check the opening hours before you stop by.

Can You Wear Jeans to a Wine Tour?

Yes, jeans are perfect for a wine tour. However, some high-end wineries may have a dress code in place. Therefore, always check the winery’s website for specific wardrobe requirements before visiting.

That just about wraps up this guide to the best Rome winery tours.

Tell me, did your picks for the best rome wine tours make this list if not then let me know., and if you found this post useful then join our facebook group and email list for even more great travel advice..

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7 best wine tours to take in Rome

By: Author Tiana Thompson

Posted on Last updated: August 5, 2022

Categories Italy

Home » 7 best wine tours to take in Rome

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Planning a visit to the Eternal City and looking for something different to do that includes some of the best wine Italy has to offer?

After you spend all day exploring the Colosseum, the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica, you’re probably going to need a break from the crowds – Why not venture out of Rome for a day and visit some of the region’s best wineries?

Then look no further than a day trip from Rome to a picturesque winery in the Tuscan countryside!

Just a short drive from Rome, you can find some of the best vineyards in Italy . Whether you’re a red wine lover or prefer white, there are dozens of wonderful wineries waiting to be explored.

In this post, you'll find...

Wine tours in Italy are the way to go

From Frascati to Montepulciano, there are plenty of options for wine lovers looking to get out of the city. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not take a day trip from Rome to visit some of the best wineries in Lazio? Just make sure you have a designated driver!

Whether you’re hoping to sip wine in front of the Trevi fountain or explore the vineyards of Tuscany while sampling local cheeses and delicious food, you’ve come to the right place.

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I’ve put together a list of the best wineries near Rome, complete with directions and info on what to expect. So read on, sip away, and enjoy your wine-filled adventure!

Here are my picks for the best wine-tasting tours and winery day trips from Rome .

Take a winery day trip from Rome and spend the day in a nearby wine region

Where’s the best place to taste a local Italian wine? In the vineyards where it’s made, of course! Just a short drive from Rome, you’ll find several world-famous wine regions like Frascati, Orvieto, and Montepulciano.

If you’re looking for a truly memorable experience, consider spending the day in one of these beautiful areas exploring the vineyards, learning about wine production, and, of course, doing some tasting.

Here are four of the best wine regions to visit on a day trip from Rome:

Montepulciano

Each of these wine regions offers something unique and special, from the rolling hills of Tuscany to the picturesque lakes of Veneto. No matter which region you choose to visit, you’re sure to enjoy some delicious wines and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Top 4 Italian wine regions near Rome for a winery day trip

Just 30 minutes from Rome, the town of Frascati is home to several family-run wineries with centuries of experience in producing some of Italy’s best white wines.

A visit to one of these wineries is the perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of Rome for a few hours. Learn about the history of the winery and how the wine is made, then enjoy a guided tasting of their most popular wines.

If you’re looking to explore more of central Italy, Orvieto is a great option. This picturesque town is located in the Umbria region, about 1.5 hours from Rome.

The wineries here produce some of the best white wines in the country, made from a local grape variety called Grechetto. Most wineries offer guided tours and tastings, so you can learn all about the wine-making process while sampling some of the delicious Orvietan wines.

If you’re craving a red wine, head to the town of Montepulciano, located in the beautiful Tuscany region. Just over 2 hours from Rome, this is one of Italy’s most popular wine regions.

The area is best known for its red wines, made from a grape variety called Sangiovese. During your visit, you’ll have the chance to tour the vineyards, learn about the wine-making process, and taste some of the delicious Montepulciano wines.

Make sure to save some time to explore the town of Montepulciano as well. With its medieval streets and Renaissance architecture, it’s one of the most beautiful towns in Italy.

No list of Italian wine regions would be complete without Tuscany. This world-famous region is home to some of the most popular wines in the world, including Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.

Tuscany is also one of the most beautiful regions in Italy, with its rolling hills, cypress trees, and picturesque villages. A visit to this region is a must for any wine lover.

During your stay, make sure to tour some of the famous wineries, stroll through the vineyards, and enjoy a leisurely lunch in one of the charming towns.

Taste local wines on a wine tasting tour in Rome

Wine lovers rejoice – there are plenty of ways to enjoy Italy’s finest wines without even leaving Rome! From wine tours to cheese and wine tastings, small personalized tours to large group wine tastings – there’s something for all wine lovers in Rome!

If you’re short on time or not interested in driving out of Rome, there are plenty of companies that offer wine-tasting tours from the city. You’ll get a taste of some of the best wines Italy has to offer, without having to leave Rome.

These tours typically last 4-5 hours and include transportation to and from the winery, a guided tour of the vineyards, and a wine tasting. Most tours also include a light lunch or snacks, so you can enjoy some local food while you sip on your wine.

3 popular wine tours in Rome

Some of the most popular wine tours in Rome include:

The Colosseum cheese and wine tour

Enjoy Italian cheese and local wines on this wine tasting tour in Rome ! You’ll visit a wine bar near the Colosseum, in one of the most historic corners of Rome. Sip red and white wine and snack on cheese as you enjoy the views of Rome.

This tour includes a 1-hour cheese and wine tasting experience at a family-owned bar in the city center. Learn interesting facts about Italian wine from a local guide and munch on cheese and cured meats while you sample 6 different types of wine.

This short wine tasting experience is great for those who want to enjoy a glass or two of wine without having to commit to a full-day tour.

Half-day food and wine tasting tour

Rome is a food lover’s paradise, and there’s no better way to experience the city’s incredible cuisine than on a guided food tour.

On this four-hour walking food tour , you’ll explore Rome’s historic center and the lively neighborhood of Trastevere, sampling delicious dishes at some of the city’s best eateries along the way. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll visit some of Rome’s most iconic food markets, sample delicious local delicacies, and wash it all down with some of the best wine the region has to offer. And what’s more, you’ll finish your tour with some refreshing gelato – the perfect way to end a perfect evening.

From succulent salami and artisan cheese to fresh pizza and gelato, this tour is sure to satisfy your appetite!

Whether you’re a dedicated foodie or just looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll around Rome’s beautiful streets, this wine-tasting tour is the ideal way to experience the city.

Private dinner and wine pairing near The Pantheon

Wine and dine in a private wine cellar near the famous Pantheon monument on this exclusive dinner experience . Enjoy an aperitivo in the cellar of a family-owned wine bar, followed by an indulgent Italian dinner, dessert, and wine pairings.

This small-group tour is limited to 10 people at a time, so you can ensure an intimate and personalized experience. You’ll have the opportunity to chat with the sommelier about the wines you’re tasting and learn all about Italian wine culture. The knowledgeable staff can also recommend the perfect wine to pair with your dinner, and give you tips on how to choose which wines to pair with which foods.

After dinner, you’ll have the option to purchase any of the wines you’ve tried during the evening. Then you’ll walk through the historic streets of Rome back to your hotel, feeling satisfied and full from an evening of good food and wine!

Get outside of the city on a winery day trip from Rome

If you’re feeling adventurous and want to taste some local wines produced in the Italian wine regions just a short train ride from Rome, there are a few wine tours in the nearby cities that offer both a half-day or a full-day wine tour.

Here are my top 4 picks for winery tours near Rome.

Tuscany countryside winery day trip from Rome

See the captivating Val d’Orcia wine region on this full-day wine tasting tour of the Tuscany countryside . On this tour, you’ll spend the day visiting the wine towns of Montefollonico and Montepulciano, where you’ll enjoy stunning views of the Tuscan landscape.

You’ll also get to tour a winery, learn about the wine-making process, and taste some of the local wines. This tour also includes a traditional Italian three-course lunch on a Tuscan farm, complete with some of the region’s finest wines.

This tour is a great option for those who want to experience the best of Tuscany without having to drive. Tickets for this tour start at $139 and include round-trip transportation from Rome in an air-conditioned van, a professional and knowledgable guide, a three-course lunch and wine pairings, and dedicated audio headsets during the tour.

Food & wine tasting in a medieval winery

This 4-hour wine tour of the Italian countryside town of Lazio will take you back in time as you explore a historic wine estate that dates back to the 14th century.

On this tour, you’ll learn about the history of the winery and how the wines are produced. You’ll visit a traditional wine cellar in the medieval town of Borgo, and get to sample some of the local wines, as well as a selection of traditional Italian cured meats, cheeses, and bread.

This tour is a great option for those who are looking for a shorter tour and want to learn about the history of Italian wine-making and taste some of the local flavors. Tickets for this tour start at $75 and include round-trip transportation from Rome, an expert guide, wine tastings, and traditional Italian snacks.

You’ll also have the opportunity to buy some locally-made wines and olive oil to take home with you, so be sure to bring some extra cash.

This winery day trip from Rome to Lazio is the perfect mini getaway!

Frascati Vineyard Winery day trip from Rome

This half-day winery tour from Rome to Frascati is the perfect way to escape the city and explore the beautiful Roman countryside.

On this tour, you’ll visit a local vineyard and 300-year-old winery, where you’ll learn about the art and history of wine-making. You’ll also get to sample some of the local wines, learn about ancient Roman culture and modern Italy, as well as enjoy a traditional Italian lunch.

This tour is a great option for those who want a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a few hours to learn about the wine-making process and taste some of the local flavors in the Italian countryside.

Note: This 3-hour tour includes round-trip transportation from Rome. You will have the option to choose between a morning excursion or an afternoon excursion when booking!

Siena and San Gimignano: Tuscany wine tour from Rome

This full-day wine tour of Tuscany from Rome will take you to the picturesque towns of Siena and San Gimignano, where you’ll enjoy stunning views of the Tuscan countryside.

Spend the day soaking up the atmosphere of the city while on a walking tour of the medieval town of Siena, then enjoy a traditional Italian lunch. After lunch, visit a local winery in the famous Chianti region for a tour and wine tasting, followed by a stop in the hilltop town of San Gimignano to explore its medieval streets and towers.

This tour is the perfect way to experience the best of Tuscany without having to drive! Those looking to really immerse themselves in the local culture and learn about the wine-making process will enjoy this tour.

Note : This 8-hour tour includes pick-up and drop-off from select hotels in Rome. Please choose your hotel when booking.

Whether you decide to take a winery day trip from Rome to one of the nearby wine regions or spend a day drinking wine around the city, Rome has something for everyone. With its rich history and abundance of culture, there is no shortage of things to do – or wine to drink – in Rome!

If you’re planning a wine tour from Rome, be sure to book your tickets in advance and pack your comfiest shoes – you’ll want to be able to walk around and explore the vineyards to your heart’s content!

And, of course, don’t forget to bring your camera to capture all of the beautiful sights.

Hi, I’m Tiana – founder of and author here at Where Tiana Travels. I’m a 20-something with a love for all things travel, photography, and food. I have been living abroad for the past 5 years and solo traveling the globe in my free time. I created this blog to share my travel stories and inspire other women to go out and see the world. Read more about me here!

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Rome Wine Tasting & Wine Tours: 13 BEST Experiences

By: Author Stefania Guglielmi

Posted on Last updated: October 7, 2023

Categories Europe , Italy

Wine lover in Rome? Then you can’t leave the city without checking out these phenomenal Rome Wine Tasting & Wine Tours! I’ve compiled a list of the best experiences for you to choose from.

We all know that wine is much more than just a beverage in Italy, and while Rome is not a city particularly known for this sacred drink, it does it justice. 

Rome’s surrounding regions, such as Lazio and Tuscany, are some of the most celebrated wine-producing areas in the country , and the city boasts countless enotecas and bars showcasing the best national products, from crisp whites to bubbly Prosecco and bold reds. If you’re planning to stay at least 3 days in Rome (or more, or less really) – wine tasting ought to find its spot in it!

After selecting your favorite experience from this comprehensive Rome wine tasting & wine tours list , you’ll get to journey through Italy’s best wine varieties and focus on learning more about its production, treating yourself to a dine and wine evening, or heading out of the city for a vineyard visit. The choice is yours!  

Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or curious to try new things, these tours promise an unforgettable and educational adventure . So, grab a glass, and let’s toast to the joys of wine in Rome!

👉 Why trust my suggestions? I was born in Bologna and traveled extensively throughout Italy. Leveraging a decade of experience in the travel industry, I’ve identified the wine tours & wine tasting experiences in Rome that truly capture the spirit and flavor of the region. It’s not just about the wine; it’s about ensuring you experience the ambiance, tradition, and essence of Italy with every glass.

I usually use Viator , Get Your Guide , and Walks to book activities around the world. I especially recommend them for their fantastic cancellation policy, which allows you to cancel most tours up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. 

Table of Contents

The BEST Wine Tasting in Rome

▶️ Discover the essence of Italian wines right in the heart of Rome with this Shades of Italian Terroir – A Tasting of Minimal Intervention Wines . You’ll join a sommelier in a private tasting room to sample six handpicked, organic, and low-intervention wines, each of which has its own terroir and characteristics. 

Learn about the grape varieties and production methods of each from your expert guide, who’ll be delighted to introduce you to sustainable farming and winemaking, teach you about the adequate food pairings for each glass, and discuss all things wine with you. Printed materials will be provided to help you breeze through the tasting session

📝 This Wine tasting in Rome includes : A guided wine tasting session, six wines, food pairings, and printed learning materials. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ Indulge in the ultimate culinary experience with this Rome: Wine & Food Paring Dinner with Sommelier near the Pantheon . Start the evening with a classic Italian aperitivo in a historic private cellar, with a feast of Prosecco paired with cured meats and regional cheeses. 

Once you’ve stimulated your appetite, sit down at an elegant family-run restaurant for a scrumptious 3-course dinner, featuring a pasta dish, a meat or vegetarian main course, and dessert. Each course will be perfectly paired with Italian wines to enhance the flavors – both of the meal and the wines. 

The evening ends with a stroll outside the beautifully-lit Pantheon – quite the romantic experience!

📝 This tour includes : Guided wine tasting, and a 3-course dinner. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ Immerse yourself in 17th-century Rome during this 2-Hour Caravaggio Art and Wine Experience . Held in a splendid location near Navona Square, in the area where the artist used to live,  you’ll listen to tales about Carravaggio’s life and art while sipping on a glass of wine and admiring reproduced copies of his artwork. Optionally, you can enjoy private access to witness an original Caravaggio painting in a secret location. 

You’ll then indulge in a delectable tasting of regional wines conducted by a sommelier, who’ll help you hone your wine-tasting skills and not only discover new flavors but learn how to tell them apart. The wines will be paired with delicious appetizers. 

📝 This tour includes : A guided wine tasting, appetizers, a Caravaggio map, and an introduction to his life and work. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

The BEST Frascati Wine Tours from Rome

▶️ Escape the Roman hustle for a delightful Roman Countryside Food & Wine Tasting in a Medieval Winery . Discover the secrets of winemaking as you tour a traditional wine cellar nestled in Borgo village. 

After learning about the production of regional wine and discovering the fascinating history of the cellar, where two mammoth tusks were found in the 1930s, you’ll be treated to a guided wine tasting. An expert sommelier guide will reveal the nuances of three Italian wines, perfectly paired with a delectable Roman-style lunch in a local restaurant. 

Before leaving you’ll have the opportunity to purchase your favorite wines or olive oil to take home. 

📝 This tour includes : Roundtrip transportation, a wine cellar tour, wine tasting, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️Savor the flavors of the Italian Countryside on this exciting Pasta Making with Wine Tasting and Dinner in Frascati . Begin by visiting a charming family-run winery, where you’ll sample exquisite DOCG red and IGT white wines, immersing in the local winemaking heritage. 

Then, put on your apron and become a chef for a day during a hands-on pasta-making session led by a skilled chef. Dive into the secrets of making fresh pasta from scratch, choosing your favorite recipe, and cap off the trip with a scrumptious homemade dinner (your pasta!) and more wine.

📝 This tour includes : Roundtrip transportation, a cellar tour, a pasta-making class, wine tasting, and dinner with wine pairings. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ Get ready for a flavor-packed adventure with this Frascati Wine Road from Rome: Tasting & Lunch . You’ll have to catch the train from Rome to Frascati and meet your guide at the city’s train station, from where you’ll embark on a culinary adventure through the city’s rich food culture, indulging in regional delights along the way. 

You’ll get to sample fresh biscotti and porchetta, and relish a jug of wine from the area’s oldest tavern, before paying a visit to a historic family vineyard. There you’ll tour the different stations and learn about the winemaking process, besides sampling delicious local wines, bread, and olive oil. 

Finish your tour at a local trattoria for a full lunch, and make the most of your free time to explore Frascati at your own pace and do some wine shopping. 

📝 This wine tasting near Rome includes : All food and wine tastings, a vineyard visit, a guide, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Private Rome Wine Tours

▶️ Discover the tranquility of the Roman countryside with this Wine Tasting in Frascati Tour from Rome . Enjoy a comfortable ride to a 300-year-old winery, where you’ll have the opportunity to delve into the history and techniques of winemaking, a crucial part of ancient – and modern – Roman culture. 

An expert will guide you through vineyards and cellars as you soak in the picturesque scenery that surrounds you, and then indulge your senses with the finest local wines during a very informative tasting. Choose between a morning or afternoon tour, whatever fits better on your schedule!

📝 This Rome wine tour includes : Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a local guide, a winery visit, water, and wine tasting. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ Ready for a wine-filled day? Check out this Frascati Wine Region Tour with Wine Tasting from Rome to immerse yourself in the world of vines and grapes. You’ll visit a 300-year-old winery nestled in the hills that’s been family-owned and run since the 18th century. 

Tour the vineyards and cellars, and learn about the evolution of wine culture and its making process from your knowledgeable guide. You’ll then be treated to a guided wine tasting of carefully selected wines, paired with freshly pressed olive oil, bread, and other delicacies. 

This tour promises a perfect blend of history, scenery, and the finest Italian wines.

📝 This wine tasting tour from Rome includes : Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a local guide, wine tastings, water, and snacks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Hungry? Best Food and Wine Tours in Rome

▶️ Embark on a sensory journey through Rome’s most vibrant neighborhood on this Trastevere at Sunset: Rome Food & Wine Tour . Also known as a foodie’s paradise, Travestere buzzes with restaurants, bars, and local eateries where you can sample the best of Italian street food, scrumptious main courses, and sweet treats. 

Led by a local expert, experience the authentic aperitivo culture sipping Prosecco with an impressive spread of charcuterie and cheeses. Dive into the world of supplì, a classic Roman street food item, and join locals at a popular bar for a glass of Spritz.

Exquisite Italian wines perfectly paired with savory dishes, and an artisanal gelato are possibly the highlights of the tour, which includes over 10 food samplings and 6 drinks.  

📝 This food and wine tour in Rome includes : A local guide, and all food and drink tastings. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ Get ready for a delicious journey around the Vatican City neighborhoods with this Rome: Sunset Food and Wine Tour Near Vatican City . The experience is all about exploring Rome’s local gems, starting with a stop at a gourmet food shop, where you’ll dive into a delightful array of Italian cheeses and cured meats with wine pairings. 

Then, it’s pizza time at Gabriele Bonci’s Pizzeria, where you’ll taste the tastiest slices in the area. You’ll also visit a local restaurant to indulge in handmade pasta paired with DOCG Vermentino wine, and cap off the tour with an artisanal gelato. 

📝 This tour includes : All food and wine tastings. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ On this 4-hour Rome: Food Tour and Wine Tasting in a Traditional Trattoria , you’ll explore the historic heart of Rome…and eat your way through it! Accompanied by a fellow foodie guide, you’ll savor artisanal salamis and cheeses paired with fine wines, indulge in fried salted code and pizza by the slice, and try local rice balls. 

You’ll wander around the vibrant neighborhood of Trastevere and work up an appetite (yes, despite having enjoyed sumptuous tastings!) to have a delicious Roman antipasto and 2-course meal at a restaurant, paired with wines. Cap off the tour with a gelato!

📝 This tour includes : A guide, a walking tour, and all food and drink tastings. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

The Best Wine Tours from Rome to Tuscany

▶️ Embark on a captivating adventure with this Tuscany Guided Day Trip from Rome with Lunch & Wine Tasting . You’ll head into the Val d’Orcia region, marveling at the scenic hills that surround you, and visit the charming town of Montepulciano, which is famous for its fine wines and Renaissance charm. 

Learn about Vino Nobile and Brunello di Montepulciano wines on a walking tour, then enjoy a tasting with a 3-course lunch on a local farm. Next up is a trip to explore Pienza’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, designed by Pope Pius II. There you’ll have free time to shop for pecorino cheese or wander at your leisure before returning to Rome. 

If you’re looking for memorable Tuscan wine tours from Rome, you can’t go wrong with this one!

📝 This Tuscan wine tour from Rome includes : Roundtrip transportation, a guide, headsets, a visit to Pienza and Montepulciano, lunch, and wine tasting. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ This Private Tuscany Wine Country Day Trip from Rome with Lunch offers a fun-filled day in the countryside with comfortable transfers and delicious wine. Immerse yourself in the history of Tuscany and its legendary vineyards with the tales and tidbits offered by your knowledgeable guide, and tour a renowned winery to learn the ins and outs of winemaking. 

You’ll get to sip the prestigious Vino di Nobile and Brunello di Montepulciano paired with a Tuscan lunch, and explore the enchanting towns of Pienza, Bagno Vignoni, and Montepulciano. This is one of the most spectacular Tuscany wine tours from Rome, and it accommodates up to seven people. 

📝 This private wine tour from Rome to Tuscany tour includes : Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a driver/tour escort, wine tasting, and a Tuscan lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Rome Wine Tasting & Wine Tours FAQ

Yes! While Rome is not widely known as a producer of wine, it offers memorable wine-tasting experiences, both in the surrounding countryside or in trendy enotecas in town.

The best time to visit wineries and vineyards in Italy is during the fall, in the months of September and October, as this is the time of year when the harvest takes place, and there are usually many festivities around it.

In my opinion, the best vineyard tours from Rome for private groups are these:  • Wine Tasting in Frascati Tour from Rome • Frascati Wine Region Tour with Wine Tasting from Rome

The Lazio wine region is the closest wine region to Rome, which is why many wine tours from the Eternal City visit wineries in this area.

Stefania Guglielmi is the founder of Every Steph. Originally from Bologna, Italy, she's been traveling full-time since 2016 and has visited over 50 countries across 6 continents. She believes sustainable travel and luxury travel can go hand in hand and has been advocating for responsible tourism since 2014. Stefania's advice and travel experiences have been featured in important publications such as Business Insider, Refinery29, and Yahoo Money.

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5 of the Best Wine Tours from Rome to Tuscany

Ah, Tuscany! It’s beloved by people the world over and has been for generations. Discover what all the fuss is about for yourself on one of these fantastic wine tours from Rome.

(Photo: Getyourguide.com)

Italy’s Tuscany region is one of the world’s most revered wine producing areas, with Montalcino, Chianti and Montepulciano all capitalising on the region’s gentle, vine-lined slopes. With Rome being located anywhere between two and three hours from these major wine districts of Italy by road, a day trip from the Italian capital city is a great way to experience these wines right at their source, without having to worry about the logistics of transportation, hotels or paying tasting fees. Here are five of the best wine tour options.

Tuscany Taster Tour from Rome with Lunch & Wine

Many of the great Tuscany wine tours from Rome pair a wine tasting experience with a little sightseeing. After all, the historic hill towns and stunning scenery of Tuscany are an unmissable part of the experience. Take a walking tour of Montepulciano, see ancient wine cellars and visit a farmhouse for a three-course meal overlooking the vineyards, complete with pairings of local wines. Please note this tour normally runs daily but might have a reduced schedule during the winter months. From €129 per person.

Book at Getyourguide.com

Siena, Chianti, Wine Tasting and Lunch

One of Europe’s great medieval cities is Siena (it even made it onto our list of the 20 most charming cities ). Take an early fast train from Rome to Florence. From here you will board a minibus and head for Siena, with a short, guided tour and some free time to explore. Another highlight of this Tuscan day trip is San Gimignano, which is also a medieval town with UNESCO credentials. Between these towns and Florence lies the Chianti wine region, where you’ll stop to try a wine and olive oil tasting. Departs Sat-Mon and Thu. From €198 per person.

San Gimignano & Siena: Small Group Wine Tour from Rome

For a more wine-centric Tuscany tour, while still being able to enjoy Siena and San Gimignano along the way, try this popular tour. You will get to taste your first wine, a revered Vernaccia white, amid the medieval walls of the first stop San Gimignano. Next, you will be able to sample up to ten different regional wines and olive oils at a wine cellar, before touring the wine estate. This day trip includes lunch and a stop in Siena. Departs Sun, Mon, Wed and Fri. From €228 per person.

Siena & San Gimignano Full–Day Wine Tour

The UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Siena and San Gimignano certainly make for a popular itinerary when taking a day tour from Rome. In addition to visiting these two Tuscan highlights, you’ll stop in San Gimignano for a typical Tuscan lunch using local produce and a wine tasting, which includes La Vernaccia, a local wine with a history dating back to at least the 13 th century. In Siena you will also have an opportunity to try Italian coffee with a local type of sweet. This tour is available on Mon and Fri. From €278 per person.

Private Day-Tour of Tuscany from Rome

Have you read through all of the above and felt as though you’d enjoy the trip if it had fewer people and the freedom to move between sights only when you’re ready? This private day tour gives you the freedom to take your own, private Tuscan holiday over 12 hours, focusing on the vineyards of Montalcino and Montepulciano, sampling pecorino cheese in Pienza and tasting plenty of wines along the way. Another benefit of taking a private tour is the freedom to choose departure dates, as this tour is available on any day of the year. From €398 per person or €792 for up to 4 people.

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Old Frascati Food & Wine Tours

Discover Italy’s best kept secret near Rome

Take a break from sightseeing in Rome to discover the Roman Countryside!

Discover the region’s most unique vineyards and family-run wineries. Explore our charming city center and eat at traditional family-run bakeries and osterias. Learn how to make pizza, pasta and traditional Frascati specialties from scratch. Spend an amazing day in Frascati which is just a short train-ride from Rome. Relax in breathtaking wine country overlooking Rome. Old Frascati Food & Wine is a cultural association which promotes and protects the heritage, nature and family run businesses of Frascati.

Imagine yourself immersed in beautiful nature just a quick train ride from Rome.

Classic Half-Day Wine Tour

Discover all the best Frascati has to offer from its charming city center, beautiful views and vineyards, and fresh local cuisine. This half-day tour from Rome will stimulate your senses and rejuvenate your spirit.

Frascati Sunset Wine Tour

Rome can get quite hot in the summer, but the weather is always a bit cooler and breezier in Frascati which is at an elevation of 1100 feet! Take the train from Rome and find the ‘real’ Italy you’ve been looking for.

Frascati Cooking Class

Our farm to table cooking class introduces you to the traditions and secrets of Frascati cuisine. Learn how to make ‘pasta amatriciana’ and ‘ciambelline al vino’ and taste seasonal ingredients directly from the vineyard.

Pizza Making and Wine Tasting

Come and learn how to make delicious pizza in Frascati. We will teach you the secrets of real traditional Roman pizza paired with local wine at a historic location.

Backpacker’s Wine Tasting Tour

Spend a few hours tasting local wines at our tasting room in Roman wine country while also learning about the region and the secrets of wine pairing.

Big Groups, Retreats & More

Make Frascati the backdrop for your event! From team-building activities in the vineyard, to private winery tours for your group, let us help you plan your dream day!

AN ANCIENT TRADITION

Old Frascati Food & Wine brings you authentic Frascati culinary traditions and the wines of a small family-run wineries in the heart of Frascati DOCG country. These wineries' mission is to elevate Frascati Superiore DOCG for the modern pallet while remembering the wine’s ancient origins. Frascati wine was the wine of the Ancient Romans! Our vineyards are located in a gorgeous valley where winemaking artifacts dating back to 1000 B.C. have been discovered, all with spectacular views of Rome in the distance. These wineries are run by the 6th and 7th generation of winemakers who can’t wait to share their winemaking tradition with you!

FARM TO TABLE

Things move at a slower pace in Frascati. Nowhere is this fact better represented than in the the way food is produced and prepared. Porchetta is cooked in a wood burning oven for over 8 hours. The olive oil is extra virgin and cold pressed. The pasta is all hand-made. Our wine is still made with ancient techniques first used by the Romans. Here, the local baker, winemaker, tavern owner, and restaurant owner all value organic and locally sourced products. Not because its trendy, but because it’s tradition!

OLD WORLD CHARM

The Ancient Town of Frascati sits on the rim of a dormant volcano. Its rich volcanic soil was much sought after by the Etruscans, Ancient Romans, the Vatican State and most recently by Romans on weekend get-aways. Wine has been produced in Frascati for thousands of years. Frascati wine is known as the ‘Golden Wine of the Romans’, the ‘Pope’s Wine’ and the white wine of Rome. Each stone building, cobblestone street, and ancient church tells the story of the centuries of people who have called Frascati home.

Old Frascati Food & Wine is a cultural association based in Frascati, we work with local vintners, artisans, chefs, historians and sommeliers to show you the best that Frascati has to offer! We have several food and wine tours that we have created with our collaborators to give the perfect experience for visitors. We are all very passionate about our town’s heritage and love to share it with the world! Frascati is a unique town that has a rich tradition of farm to table cooking and winemaking. We bring you to the oldest family-run wineries in the region, a generations old family operated bakery, wonderful local restaurants, and a charming historic town in the Roman Countryside.

OUR PARTNERS

We work with the very best. We are proud of our partners, who work with us to deliver the best local Frascati wine and food

Please send us a message with the name of the TOUR you would like to join, the DATE and the number of participants.

We keep our groups to a 15 person maximum so book in advance and let us know if your dates are flexible.

Book directly with us for the best price online.

13 Best Wine Tasting Tours in Rome for Exploring Italian Vineyards

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Central Italy’s volcanic terrain is perfect for growing wine grapes. Not far outside Rome are hillsides festooned with vineyards.

The best wine tasting tours in Rome introduce you to the diverse flavors of Italian wines, either in the city or on a scenic day trip. Of all the things to do in Rome , wine tours pair sightseeing and tasting in a lovely way.

Check out my top 3 picks for wine tasting tours in Rome, or keep reading for more information on what’s available.

Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!

• wine tasting tours in Rome

1 – Tuscany Guided Day Trip with Lunch & Wine Tasting

Rating: ⭐️ 4.6/5 ( 1246 reviews )

“A great way to see and experience Tuscany. Enrika was fantastic and very knowledgeable. We enjoyed the entire experience. I would highly recommend City Wonders.” Kristine, Getyourguide

Tuscany’s hilltop villages and slopes striped in grape vines have become some of the country’s most emblematic images. Despite its distance from Rome, you can tack on a day trip to this storied region during your stay in Italy’s capital.

City Wonders ‘ Tuscany guided day trip with lunch and wine tasting is one of our top choices for Montepulciano tours from Rome . The combination of sightseeing and tasty treats make this tour an alluring addition to any Roman itinerary.

Summary of tour:

• Montepulciano tour
• 3-course lunch and wine tasting
• Free time in Pienza

This tour earns our highest praise for its convenience and inclusions. Ideal for a short stay in Italy, you’ll be immersed in the beauty of Tuscany in two of the region’s most appealing towns. The addition of a multi-course meal with wines at a vineyard is the icing on the cake.

Read more: Things to do in Tuscany

2 – Frascati Wine Road from Rome: Tasting & Lunch

Rating: ⭐️ 4.7/5 ( 157 reviews )

“It was a fantastic experience to visit the winery and not least to have the town’s history told by a very competent and sweet guide.” Christina, Getyourguide

Discover Frascati, one of the best wine regions to visit in Italy , only 45 minutes outside of Rome. ItaliaTours ‘s Frascati Wine Road from Rome tour with tasting and lunch gifts you with time at a renowned wine cellar, bites at Frascati artisan shops and a sumptuous lunch at a local trattoria. Feast on porchetta, pasta, biscotti and more, washed down with DOCG vintages.

• Tour wine cellar and Roman caves
• Sample 3 local wines
• Lunch at trattoria

This break from Rome tops our list on quick getaways that add depth to your Eternal City sojourn. With wine tasting at a historic site, lunch and an afternoon absorbing small-town marvels, this tour packs a lot into a short period of time.

3 – Wine & Food Paring Dinner with Sommelier near the Pantheon

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 262 reviews )

“Great experience – excellent food, wine & knowledgeable friendly host! Beautiful restaurant, well worth a visit!” Julie, Viator

Turn your nightly repast into something special with Gourmetaly ‘s Rome gourmet dinner with wine parings! Servers will ply you with wine, eats, and stories in a landmark restaurant atop age-old wine cellars. These food tours in Rome add an element of luxury to your day while saving your feet from the typical walking food tour.

• 3-course dinner
• 4 wines paired with food
• Limited to 10 people

So much more than a meal, Gourmetaly’s dinner with wine pairing combines personalized service with delicious eats in a historic setting. Great flavors and a memorable locale make this booking a crowd pleaser.

4 – Food and Wine Tour with Market Visit

Rating: ⭐️ 4.9/5 ( 164 reviews )

“Our food and wine tour in Rome was simply the best experience and the highlight of our trip.” Grace, Getyourguide

Food, wine and Rome as a backdrop: it’s hard to imagine a more tempting way to spend a morning. The Roman Food Tour has curated a half-day trip spanning two meals and crammed with 25 different tastings . Nibble and sip choice offerings at cafes, bakeries and the city’s largest market on one of the best food tours in Rome .

The Roman Food Tour has scoured the city for prime examples of Italy’s culinary masterpieces. We love this tour for not only its generous offerings, but also that it is accessible for people with mobility issues and can be modified for special diets.

Read more: Best food tours in Rome

5 – Rome by Night-Ebike tour with Food and Wine Tasting

Rating: ⭐️ 4.9/5 ( 876 reviews )

“This is a must to have experience while in Rome.” Banipreet, GetYourGuide

Ancient Rome was not designed for cars. The twisting warren of lanes are perfect for a bike ride . Make it an e bike , and your jaunt up and down the city’s famed Seven Hills will be a breeze. As if that weren’t enough, you’ll kick off the soiree with wine and antipasto .

EsBike Tours waits until after sunset to show you Rome. Wheel past the Trevi Fountain , Castel Sant’Angelo and the Colosseum with a small group as a seasoned guide gives you the low-down on all that you see.

It’s hard to beat a tour that takes you to the best of Rome in a novel way. Add a light meal, a low price, great guides and the city lit after dark, and you have a five-star excursion.

Read more: Best bike tours in Rome

6 – Trastevere at Sunset: Food & Wine Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 94 reviews )

“If there were more stars I would give them. The tour was incredible and our guide Silvia was amazing and made it so much fun and comfortable.” Sam, Viator

Trastevere at dusk is sure to enchant you. This trendy quarter hugging the Tiber River is laced with meandering lanes hung with greenery and drying laundry. Picturesque Trastevere is also a culinary hotspot, and Devour Tours has assembled a delightful walking excursion filled with pauses for wine and snacks that will leave you happily sated.

Devour Tours’s guides earn our rave reviews for their engaging presentation, knowledge and passion for food and the neighborhood. Don’t eat beforehand! You will partake in enough food to equal dinner.

7 – Tuscany in One Day with 3-Course Lunch and Wine Pairing

Rating: ⭐️ 4.3/5 ( 1532 reviews )

“The landscape and our tour guide were exceptional. Tuscany is breathtaking.” Ian, Viator

How to fit all your desires into a short vacation is a conundrum. If you only have a handful of days in Rome and are itching for the beauty of Tuscany , you can make it happen with a best of Tuscany in one day tour. With round-trip transportation , guided explorations, wine tastings and lunch , this wine tour ticks off lots of must-dos with one reasonable purchase.

We praise this tour for its affordability, quality and its range of inclusions. It’s the ideal way to get a feel for Tuscany if you’re only in Rome for a limited time.

8 – Pasta Making with Wine Tasting and Dinner in Frascati

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 209 reviews )

” The food was delicious, the wine was amazing, especially the white wine.” Angela, GetYourGuide

While wine tastings and pasta cooking classes in Rome are wonderful way to spend an afternoon, they are a dime a dozen. Combine the two with a daytrip to a town in the Italian countryside and you have something that stands out.

From Scratch – Authentic Experiences  invites you to Frascati for a cultural journey that mingles food, wine, history and ambiance in just a few hours.

We give this tour high acclaim for many reasons. Participants rave about the beauty of Frascati, the skills they picked up in the class and personable instructors and guides. The low cost and delectable meal make this opportunity a winner.

Read more: Best cooking classes in Rome

9 – Roman countryside Food & Wine Tasting in a Medieval Winery

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 198 reviews )

“Beautiful unique winery. The guide was very interesting and knowledgeable. The wine and food were great. It was refreshing to take a trip out of the city of Rome for an afternoon.” Pamela, Viator

Treat yourself to a day of sensory delights on a VineblissTrip . Less than an hour outside of Rome, medieval villages nestle in the curving Lazio countryside. The stunning hamlet of Borgo is made even more appealing by surrounding vineyards that produce award-winning wines . Touring, tasting and a memorable lunch await you on this food and wine tasting adventure.

We love this tour for all that it includes in a reasonable price: plentiful and varied tastings, a tasty meal and lovely scenery perfected by entertaining guides.

10 – Private Frascati 3-Hour Wine Tasting Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.7/5 ( 65 reviews )

“What a lovely way to spend the morning in the green hills outside Rome and this beautiful ancient vineyard (…) We had generous tasting of their white, rose and red wines and the sumptuous snacks accompanying the tasting were delicious and well paired.” Monika, Getyourguide

Luxuriate in a private wine tasting event just for you and your chosen few in picture-perfect Frascati . The area’s wine production dates back millennia, and Eternal City Tours will induct you to the aspects from growing to sipping on one of the best private tours in Rome .

This private tour earns our high praise for value, quality and service. It’s hard to beat Eternal City Tours’s combination of inclusions and affordability for a private wine tasting.

11 – Wine Tasting in Trastevere with Food Pairing and Gelato

Rating: ⭐️ 4.7/5 ( 72 reviews )

“We tasted 3 incredible wines paired with many different cheeses, cured meats, truffles, and more, followed by a visit to a nearby Gelateria for some amazing gelato.” Michelle, Viator

Schedule yourself a deluxe snack break complemented with Italian wines, all set in the postcard neighborhood of Trastevere . Join a guide from Rome Like a Local for an amble through one of Rome’s top foodie destinations. Partake in more than you would on other cheese tastings in Rome , with buffalo mozzarella, asiago and more along with liberal pours.

The Wine Tasting Tour in Trastevere with food pairing and gelato earns a solid five stars. The mix of background info, plentiful tastings and reasonable price are all reasons to book this tour right away!

12 – Siena & San Gimignano Tuscan Wine Day Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 83 reviews )

“Everything was so special about the whole day. Would do it again in a minute I highly recommend it.” Robin, Viator

Get a real taste of Tuscany on this Siena day trip that includes a stop in San Gimignano . You’ll have the opportunity to explore both of these breathtaking cities in the company of a knowledgeable guide from Welcome Italy . Cap it off with an excursion to a historic vineyard with a delectable wine tasting.

The guides are the stars of this tour, with the attractions coming in at a close second. We love the pace, inclusions and stops on this Tuscan outing.

Read more: Things to do in Siena

13 – Private 3.5-Hour Castelli Romani Wine Tasting Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.7/5 ( 30 reviews )

“Really awesome experience. Tour guide had a background in food science and did an incredible job differentiating the wines and explaining the fermentation process as a whole.” Jeremy, Getyourguide

Magical Castelli Romani is a collection of wine making villages tucked into the hilly outskirts of Rome. Eternal City Tours is ready to escort you on one of the most enjoyable private tours in Rome . Grab your favorite person or people, and head out of the noisy capital for a memorable sojourn at a family vineyard.

Idyllic and close to Rome, a sortie to Castelli Romani is a stress-free glimpse at Italian winemaking in a pastoral setting. Eternal City Tours has assembled a lovely venture out of the city for a leisurely tasting with stellar guides and memorable flavors.

How to book wine tasting tours in Rome?

Depending on what you’re looking for in a wine tasting tour in Rome, you have ample variety to choose from. Many tour companies offer the same tours for different prices, so shopping around on Tourscanner.com or our mobile app is a smart way to ID your ideal outing.

• compare wine tasting tours in Rome

The Best Wine Tasting & Tours In Roma

Browse Through The Best Selection Of Roma DOC Wine Tours

Taste Lazio's Best: 3-Wine Tasting with Local Products

Discover Lazio wines at Cantine Capitani: 3 wines paired with local delicacies

Explore Cantine Capitani with a Premium Wine Tour and Wine Tasting

Tour the vineyard and visit the winemaking rooms, followed by a wine tasting paired with a food platter

Premium Wine Tasting at the Historic Cellar | Cantina Costantini

Enhance your knowledge of wine production and taste great wines paired with local delicacies at Cantina Costantini in the Lazio region

Premium Wine Tasting among the Vineyard Rows | Cantina Costantini

An unmissable multi-sensory experience: Tasting the wines of the Costantini winery while breathing in the scents of Lazio's land

Grape Harvesting on a Wine Tasting Tour of Cantina Costantini

Experience grape harvesting at Cantina Costantini, followed by a wine tasting and tour

Experience Cantina Costantini's Wines Paired with Local Delicacies

An opportunity to taste wines from entire range of Cantina Costantini paired with local gourmet delicacies

Castelli Romani Wine at Cantina Costantini: Tour & 4-Wine Tasting

Visit the historic cellars, taste local charcuterie, cheese and wine during your visit to Cantina Costantini winery in Lazio

Cantina Costantini: 3-Wine Tasting & Local Dishes

An Opportunity to Understand Cantina Costantini Winery’s Excellence on a Wine Tasting in Lazio

Wine tasting and tour at Gotto d'oro

Visit to Gotto d’oro winery includes a tour of the vineyards and the cellars and a wine tasting paired with local gastronomic produce

Wine tasting and tour at Casale Mattia

Learn the process of harvesting and winemaking during a wine tasting and tour at Casale Mattia

Vineyard Picnic at Cantine Capitani: Tour & Wine

An estate tour followed by a picnic in the vineyard, featuring wine, local produce, and dessert

Tasting with Visit to the Cellar at Dino Limiti

Get a taste of historical cellars and geat wines of Lazio wine region

Roma DOC Wine Tours Offered by Local Guides

6 Italian Fine Wines, Cured Meats & Cheeses Tasting

Romeing in Rome! Embark on a flavorful journey with a 2-hour wine tasting at a charming enoteca in Lazio, Rome

Wine Tasting and Opera Concert in Rome

Experience Italian opera, fine wines, and baroque music in the heart of Rome's historic palazzo in Lazio

Secret Food Tours Rome Trastevere

Learn Wine Tasting in Rome at Glu Glu Winebar

Elevate your wine tasting skills at Glu Glu: Wine and food pairing experience in Lazio

Shades of Italian Terroir - A Tasting of Minimal Intervention wines

Tour and taste minimal intervention wines from the Italian terroir with a certified sommelier in Lazio

Guided Private Tour with Wine Tasting and Lunch to Tuscany from Rome

Into the World of Wines

Are you looking for something specific?

Explore our experience categories and discover the perfect wine adventure in Roma DOC

Cheese & Wine Tastings in Roma DOC

Food & Wine Tours in Roma DOC

Harvest & Wine in Roma DOC

Hike & Wine in Roma DOC

Outdoor Wine Activities in Roma DOC

Picnic & Wine Tours in Roma DOC

Best cities to visit in roma doc, italy.

Roma DOC Wine Map

Design your perfect wine holiday in roma doc, personalize your wine experiences with our team of experts..

There are endless possibilities for customizable wine tastings and tours in Roma, Italy; we are here to help you choose! At WineTourism.com, we provide a window into the wineries and vineyards of local producers in Roma.

Several remarkable wine tasting experiences are available throughout the wine region for you to discover. We have provided a list of Wineries in Roma open to visitors with direct booking options for tastings and tours. Our wine tasting and tour map of Roma will help guide you to the exact location of each wine experience. We hope you will get a glimpse into the beautiful world of wine, and experience highly respected wine tastings and tours in the region.

Read more about Roma DOC

Get more information about Roma DOC wine subregion located in Lazio , Italy . Explore other nearby subregions, like Cilento and Valli Ossolane to discover tips and suggestions for your next trip.

Discover more experiences in Roma DOC

Check out the best Wine Tasting & Tours in Lazio . If you are looking for more nearby wineries to choose from, visit the Wineries in Roma DOC page.

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Best Wine Tasting Tours in Rome

LAST UPDATED BY Nicole Arriaga August 6, 2012

If you can't make it out to Tuscany, don't fret. There are plenty of places where you can taste good wine in Rome . From going on a wine tour to attending a wine tasting at an enoteca or gourmet food shop in Rome; there are plenty of options for those who want to stay in or near the city.

In Italian, a wine tasting is called a degustazione . Degustazioni or wine tastings are typically held in enotecas, which are specialty wine shops. Usually the wine you're tasting is accompanies by a light snack or spuntino which can be anything from olives, crostini or even formaggi (cheese). Some of the enotecas not only serve and sell wine by the bottle or glass but they also have a full-fledged restaurant as well. A popular enoteca in the Prati area that often features wine tastings is Enoteca Costantini . Here you can drink, eat and even inquire about tours at their nearby local vineyard in the Castelli Romani. Another place where you can go is Eataly . A newcomer on the scene in Rome, this mega gourmet food shop in Ostiense features all sorts of tastings from mozzarella and other cheeses to beer and wine. 

Perhaps, you might decide you want to latch on to a tour company that leads you out to the local vineyards in the Castelli Romani or takes you on a wine walk to some of the best enoteche in Rome to teach you what to look for in a glass of wine. Context Travel is a leader in sustainable travel tours in various topics including food and wine. Check out 10Best's list for more recommendations.

Eating Italy Food Tours

Not exactly a 'wine tour' but the founder of Eating Italy Food Tours, Kenny Dunn does touch a little bit about wine during his 3-hour food tour. What's nice about this tour is that Kenny take you away from your comfort zone, out of the center of Rome and invites you to this typical working-class neighborhood called Testaccio. Here, tourists get the chance to go on a tour and learn about the history of the open air-market in Testaccio, taste food from the famous gourmet specialty food shop Volpetti, and sample other dishes and desserts from various pizza shops, restaurants and gelaterie.

Local Expert tip : Kenny likes to keep his tour groups small (8-10 people). Therefore, it's wise to book before your trip to Rome.

Read more about Eating Italy Food Tours →

Get ready because Eataly has touched down in Rome. The giant gourmet food chain opened up its romana location in the former air terminal at Ostiense station right along side with Italy's newest and fastest (and private) railway Italo. The new Italian culinary complex is the biggest store to date. It covers over 17,000 meters of space and is spread out over 4 floors. At the food market, one can shop from over 14,000 different 'Made in Italy' products to choose from. Eataly also features more than 23 restaurants and snack bars. There are also tasting stands where one can sample some of the finest Roman and Italian delicacies while crossing off all of your items on your shopping list. Eataly also organizes degustazioni (wine tastings) of wines from various regions from Lazio, Sicily and Calabria to Tuscany and Trentino. At Eataly, one can embark on a cooking class by getting their hands dirty in the cucina and learn from some of the Italia's finest top chefs.

Local Expert tip : Service can sometimes be iffy here especially in the restaurant sections of the food complex. Make sure to ask all of your questions and get information on where to go first from the information booth located on the ground floor. Otherwise, you may run into some not so pleasant servers and cashiers who don't always enjoy answering questions. Sadly.

Read more about Eataly →

Enoteca Costantini

Whether you're looking for that unique bottle of wine to bring back home or a nice quiet place to sit and indulge in glass of Brunello, Enoteca Costantini is your place. Located in the prominent Piazza Cavour, Costantini was born in 1972. It was one the first enoteca to open in up in Rome. Today, the shop features more than 800 labels of wines and over a thousand different types of spirits. BUS:492, 30, 49.

Local Expert tip : The enoteca also organizes wine tastings, courses and tours at the family's owned vineyard in the Castelli Romani. Make sure to inquire about all of them.

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Città del Gusto

Citt? del Gusto is a culinary institution specializing in what else? Food. Well, they also specialize in wine as well. The gastronomical complex is spread out over six stories which includes a wine car, a caf? and restaurant, a book shop, an exhibition and conference hall where special events are organized. They also hold cooking classes for both amateurs and those seeking to be a professional chef. Citt? del Gusto also features monthly wine-tasting events showcasing wines from Sicily and Sardegna to Tuscany and the Veneto regions. METRO: Marconi

Local Expert tip : Every year, Citt? del Gusto sponsors the Roma Wine Festival, a two day event featuring workshops, presentations and tastings hosted by some of the leading experts, wine enthusiasts and sommeliers.

Read more about Città del Gusto →

Context Travel Tours Rome

Context Travel is an American tour comany operating in cities all over Italy and Europe. What makes their 'tours' so special is that they're not actually tours but rather small walking seminars. Rather than using tour guides, Context uses professors, docents and experts in the field to lead the walks. Their walks are catered to the 'intellectually curious' or people who are interested in taking a class while on vacation rather than just following a typical tour guide with an umbrella. Context firmly believes in sustainable travel. Therefore, their walking seminars never exceed more than 8 people per group. Their seminars cover everything from Ancient and Religious Rome, Renaissance and Baroque Art, Architecture, Food seminars and even wine tastings. Context has a specialized wine walk lead in Rome by a professional sommelier. During the course, the sommelier takes the group to two typical enoteche where he/she teaches you about the history of wine making, seasonal wines and how to pair your wine with certain foods.

Local Expert tip : Context Travel also leads walking seminars in New York, Boston, Philadelphia, Washington and also in Beijing.

Read more about Context Travel Tours Rome →

Katie Parla Tours

Katie Parla is a food and travel writer based in Rome who does small, private specialized tours on food, wine, art and archeaology. Around Italy, she is considered to be a food guru and has a pretty extensive blog to show for it www.parlafood.com. Per request, she can take you on tours teaching you about traditional Roman Cuisine, Rome's Open Air Markets, Craft Beer, and Local Regional Wines. Her specialty wine tour takes a look at the bureacracy behind the wine industry in Italy, history of wine making and also teaches you how to pair your wine with the appropriate foods. Katie has written for various travel publications such as National Geographic Traveler, Insight Guides, TimeOut, Fodors and the New York Times. She is also a trainer sommelier.

Local Expert tip : Katie has a smart phone dining app out now called 'Rome for Foodies.'

Read more about Katie Parla Tours →

Dark Rome Tours

Dark Rome is one of the top tour groups in Rome specializing in everything from historical and religious sights to culinary tours and wine tastings in the local vineyards. Dark Rome does an exceptional wine tour near Rome in the local nearby vineyards of Frascati. The tour is roughly 3.5 hours long where travelers get to visit one of the oldest vineyards belonging to the Pallavincini estate in the Castelli Romani (Roman Castles) region. On the tour, visitors will get to visit over 200 acres of the estate's vines, learn about the process of making wine and sample three different types of red and white wines explained by a professionally-trained sommelier.

Local Expert tip : Frascati is only about a 30-40 minute drive from Rome, which makes taking a tour of the vineyards much easier than making a day trip from Rome to Montalcino in Tuscany.

Read more about Dark Rome Tours →

Walks of Italy Tours

Walks of Italy is an American company that specializes in small English-language led tours of major historical sights in Rome, Florence, Pisa, Venice, Milan, Umbria, Pompei and the Amalfi coast. They feature tours on the Vatican Museums and the Roman Forum to the leaning tower of Pisa and the Uffizi museum in Florence. They also organize culinary tours and cooking classes. If you wish to visit the vineyards of Tuscany, they arrange for a full day on a private farmhouse. The tour includes a full home cooked meal, wine tastings and lessons on truffles and how to make cheese.

Local Expert tip : Walks of Italy Tours have been featured in Rick Steves' guidebooks, USA Today and the company even earned some exporsure in Showtime's docu-film, The Borgias.

Read more about Walks of Italy Tours →

When in Rome Tours

When in Rome Tours takes wine enthusiasts on a tour of three different towns in the Castelli Romani. The tour takes you to three family-run vineyards in Tenimento di Casamara, Velletri e Montecompatri. The tour starts off in a family run vineyard and wine cellar that dates back to the 1700s. Visitors will get to taste various different white and red wines from the Frascati region including Frascati Doc. Tourists will also get the chance to sample extra-virgin olive oil and visit the historical city center of Frascati.

Local Expert tip : Frascati is a great option for touring the vineyards as it's only 30 minutes from Rome.

Read more about When in Rome Tours →

A 1999 trip to the Bel Paese and a kiss from an Italian boy made Nicole fall in love with Rome. Not being able to stop thinking about cappuccinos and her Italian amore, Nicole Arriaga packed...   More About Nicole

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Nicole Arriaga: Rome Local Expert

Nicole says, Don't leave Rome without exploring the city’s street markets. You'll get great bargains on food and clothes, and see Roman culture come alive.

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15 Best Wine Tasting Tours in Rome and Wine Bars in 2023

In this post, you will find a local guide to the best wine tastings in Rome , Italy.

Contemporary Romans appreciate wrapping up a day of work or leisure over a glass of wine.

Although beer culture has become very popular in recent years, red and white wine remains the first choice when it comes to accompanying the delicacies of the local cuisine.

Sparkling wine, on the other hand, is a must when it comes to toasting a happy event, be it a birthday, a declaration of love, the achievement of a goal, or in the summer.

Wine is also an important component of the Roman aperitivo , or antipasti , when it goes with cheese, street food, and finger foods.

In the wine bars of the Eternal City, it is customary to combine wine tasting with cheese tasting, but not only. 

By reading the post you will find out what are the most popular pairings in contemporary Rome.

Tuscan wines always remain the most beloved, along with those from Veneto and Puglia. 

However, locals also know and appreciate wines produced in the vineyards near Rome , such as Frascati , Cerveteri , and Montefiascone .

Thanks to the slow food movement and new food awareness, organic wines or “ natural wines ,” as they call them in town, have become very popular. 

I will dedicate part of the post to the places that offer them.

Where to have the best wine tastings in Rome, Italy

Wine tours in rome.

If you are only in town for a few days, taking part in a wine tour with a local guide might be the wisest choice.

The best wine tours are designed to offer only the best wine and food in town and are continually checked for quality, so it’s hard to go wrong. 

The guide will also provide you with crucial information about food and wine culture in Rome and introduce you to the most popular neighborhoods for foodies. 

So you will also know how to go back there on your own! 

The group will offer moments for conviviality and sharing.

Here are the best wine tours in Rome right now:

1. Sunset wine-tasting tour in Trastevere

What better place to start your tasting trip than the most popular neighborhood in Rome for foodies , Trastevere ?

For decades a symbol of authentic Romanity, it is now a destination for culinary wanderings for tourists and locals alike.

On the tour, which lasts about 4 hours, there are 20 tastings in 4 different venues and you start with the trapizzino , the trendiest street food in Rome .

How could it be more delicious, a corner of pizza bread stuffed with typical Roman (or Italian) dishes, even vegetarian, accompanied by wine, but that’s just the beginning. 

It continues with cheese and charcuterie tasting and ends with homemade pasta and genuine gelato.

2. Morning wine tasting with a visit to the food market

If the time of day when you are most craving tantalizing food is in the morning, then lean toward an early morning wine-tasting tour.

There is a tour that will take you to discover the food market in the upscale Prati district , adjacent to the Vatican but almost unknown to tourists.

The tour begins with a sweet surprise, the best Sicilian cannoli in Rome, so I recommend you have a very light breakfast at your hotel.

The highlight of the tour is the world’s most famous Roman pizza al taglio , that of chef Gabriele Bonci. 

You will taste many types of pizza by the slice (you know Romans are crazy about a soft, crispy pizza topped with many different foods) accompanied by excellent DOCG wine .

There is also cheese and cold cuts tasting, and they will continually refill your glass.

The morning ends with a tasting of the most popular dessert in Rome : tiramisu.

3. Evening wine-tasting tour in the Prati neighborhood

4. gluten-free wine-tasting in rome.

Travelers with food intolerances might think they will suffer all the time looking at the food they cannot eat, but they are wrong. 

Rome is full of restaurants that have an eye out for those who need to eat gluten-free, you just have to know how to find them!

There is by the way a gluten-free food tour with dinner and a tasting of local wines (it includes an excellent pizza). 

Even those without food intolerances will love every taste provided on the tour.

During the 5 stops, you will discover Rome’s Jewish ghetto , famous for osterias and good food, Campo dei Fiori, and Piazza Navona. 

The dinner based on traditional Roman dishes (all gluten-free) is served in front of the ruins that saw the end of Julius Caesar.

5. Wine tasting in Rome city center

If you have little time to get to know Rome and its delicacies, it will be best to combine a visit to the city’s most beautiful monuments with tasting the best food.

You can do this with a guided tour that will take you on a discovery of the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, and Rome’s most beautiful piazza while you tantalize your taste buds.

You start at the historic Campo dei Fiori food market , where you’ll enjoy a platter of genuine cheeses and hams made in the Abruzzo town of Norcia, accompanied by red wine.

You will also sample Roman pizza al taglio and admire one of the most beautiful squares in the world while enjoying the world’s most delicious dessert, Tiramisu.

The tasting tour ends on a high note with gelato made with 100% natural ingredients.

Wineries near Rome

With a full day to devote to your taste explorations, you may consider a day trip . 

This way you can get up close and personal with the wines of the Roman countryside. If you’re familiar with this blog, you might have read about the Lucciano Farm , which you can reach only independently.

There are several tours that organize day trips to wineries near Rome .

6. Wine tasting in a medieval winery

The setting for this tour is unique. We are located east of Rome, a few miles from the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Here is the Castello di Torre in Pietra , of medieval origin. The tour takes place in the ancient cellars carved into the rock. 

An expert will accompany you to discover how wine is made.

Lunch is based on local food and includes an appetizer with cold cuts, cheese, and bruschetta.

The first course is a typical Roman pasta.  

The meal is accompanied by the tasting of 3 bottles, the characteristics of which a sommelier will explain.

Wine-tasting tours in Frascati

The Castelli Romani area in the countryside southeast of Rome has become famous for “fraschette.” 

In the middle of the last century, fraschette were cool, damp cellars where diners would sit and drink the new wine, with tables between the barrels. 

Today, fraschette are modern venues somewhere between restaurants and delis where local foods can also be purchased. 

Local wine takes center stage, along with porchetta , a typical Roman street food.

The best-known town near Rome for tasting local wines and food is Frascati. 

Here is how you can join a tour in Frascati.

7. Wine Tasting in Frascati with a pasta-making class

This tour of about 3 hours allows you to visit the vineyards and cellars of a family-run winery in the Frascati countryside.

In addition to tasting 2 types of wine accompanied by sliced meats and cheeses, you will find ready-made ingredients for making pasta with your hands.

You will cook and dress the same pasta with your favorite Roman sauce. This is the most fun tour for sure!

8. Visit a vineyard in Frascati

Probably the best wine-tasting tour in Frascati is this one here. 

This tour lasts half a day and is divided into three stops. First, you reach Frascati by a half-hour train ride from Rome. 

With your guide, you visit the historic center of Frascati with its gourmet stores .

From the town, you will come to a vineyard where a family has been producing high-quality wine for 7 generations. 

After this visit, you will learn all about local wine production. 

There will be 3 wine tastings accompanied by homemade delicacies, including EVO oil farmed there.

The tour ends with dinner at a typical restaurant, so you will be full but happy at the end of the day.

9. Private tour to a vineyard in Frascati

10. You can do a Tuscany wine tour from Rome

In case you want to visit the Italian region most famous for wine and EVO oil production then what you need is a wine-tasting tour in Tuscany from Rome .

This tour that will take you to Val d’Orcia , the Unesco World Heritage region in southern Tuscany, lasts a full day.

The places you will visit have the typical postcard beauty.

First, you will see the village of Montepulciano, where a local wine famous throughout Italy is produced. There are very old cellars here, dating back to pre-Roman times.

Afterward, your guide will take you to discover a Renaissance church that is a real hidden gem in Tuscany , the church of San Biagio.

At this point, you will be very hungry. It is time to head to a farmhouse for lunch. Here you will taste the wines produced by your host winery and have a hearty 3-course meal. 

Have you ever heard of Brunello di Montalcino wine? You will taste it here in many varieties!

The tour ends with a free tour of Pienza, one of the most beautiful small towns in Tuscany .

Best wine bars in Rome

In case you want to explore the wine bars in Rome and plan your own wine and cheese tasting in Rome , here are some of the best places to do so.

Sit down and take a look at the menu. Order a glass of wine and have it accompanied by a cheese and/or charcuterie board, and some bruschetta, and you’re all set!

11. Cul de Sac

Here is one of the first wine bars to open in Rome. Cul de Sac is located a few steps away from the stunning Piazza Navona , so you will definitely pass by it.

Here you can find wines from Italy and all over the world, including natural wines . 

Among the highlights of the dishes are the meat pâtés.

12. Rimessa Roscioli

The Roscioli family’s premises are a landmark for foodies in Rome’s historic center. The bakery led the way, then came the patisserie, and after that came the wine bar.

It is run by an international team. The location is Rome’s Jewish ghetto.

Pairings with some of their wines are suggested on the menu. 

There are also first and second courses which are sophisticated with even some seafood crudes and risottos.

Rimessa Roscioli organizes wine-themed evenings and also hosts a wine club . 

If you want to get bottles to send home, they can arrange that.

13. Il Goccetto

One of the most popular wine bars in Rome is Il Goccetto , a tiny place where it is difficult to find a seat, even at the bar.

Il Goccetto is located in one of the most beautiful spots in Rome, halfway between Piazza della Chiesa Nuova and the Lungotevere.

The sign on the door of the restaurant says “Vino Olio,” and indeed you can taste both wine and oil here. The specialty, however, is the wines.

Here you will find some very expensive wines next to some semi-unknown ones and also natural wines.

The menu is all about wine tasting, so there’s plenty of room for small, medium, or large cured meats and cheeses , crostini, bruschetta, and many other appetizers.

If you can only choose one wine bar to visit in Rome, come here without hesitation. 

The only downside is that you may have to wait a bit before sitting down, but it’s worth it.

14. La Barrique

The venue is located in the quaint Rione Monti , an evening hangout for Romans in their 30s and 50s, one of the hipster neighborhoods in Rome.

The place is warm and welcoming, with wines to suit all budgets. 

It features popular local cuisine, in fact here you will find not only appetizers but also the actual dishes of the Roman tradition.

The cost of the dishes is between €6 and €14. The highlight is the polpette di bollito (meatballs).

15. L’antidoto

This wine bar is located in the heart of Trastevere. The Antidote is run by 3 friends with a passion for natural wines. So know that if you sit here, it will be to drink organic wine .

Go ahead and ask about the bottles-the staff really knows everything about both the production and the producers.

And, for once, put the Roman dishes on hold and have the wine tasting accompanied by refined and unusual food combinations.

This has been a real journey through the wine culture in my city. 

Now you have a lot of knowledge to take with you while you are wine-tasting in Rome.

Further readings

• Where to find the best gelato in Rome
• Rome for foodies: a local’s guide
• The best neighborhoods in Rome
• The most beautiful views in Rome
• Most famous landmarks in Rome
• The best food to try in Lazio

I’m Lisa, an Italian from Rome who one day discovered she finds incredible joy in traveling to new places. With this blog, I help you discover Italy (especially Rome and its surroundings) as a local would. Find out more about me here .

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Where to go wine tasting in Rome in 2024

Jul 1, 2023 | Winery Tours in Italy | 0 comments

Embracing Italy’s aperitivo culture is one of the best parts about any trip to the boot. And given most travelers will fly into Rome or visit the eternal city at some stage, it goes without saying that you’ll want to get in a few wine tastings in Rome.

Table of Contents

We are lucky enough to live in Rome and you best believe we sip our way around some of the best wine bars in Rome (for strict research purposes of course!) Keep reading to discover the best wine tasting in Rome whether you just want to enjoy a fun aperitivo during your travels or are a serious wine connossieur. 

We’ll also highlight some wine tasting from Rome experiences to try with a tour or self-guided, and how you can enjoy a Tuscany wine tour from Rome all in one day. 

10 Best Places to go W ine Tasting in Rome Italy

Here’s our top tips for R ome wine tasting in the historical center and in some of our favorite neighbourhoods like Testaccio (ours!) and Trastevere. 

1. Da Corrado – Testaccio

This is a little market stall in the Testaccio Market and one of our favorites! That said, it’s only open during market hours (until 2.30pm or thereabouts). Corrado the owner offers wine tasting events every Saturday morning and stocks a fantastic range of mostly organic wines from all over Italy. You can also visit during the week and pop in for a glass of wine – he has a particular passion for Piemontese wines so this is a great place to try them if Piedmont isn’t in your travel plans. 

2. Roscioli Rimessa – Jewish Ghetto

Roscioli are a Roman institute popular amongst locals and tourists alike. Rimessa is their best location to get an education on Italian wine. You can opt for either a Flight Tasting or a Wine and Food Tasting dinner depending on your budget and the kind of experience you’d like.

The Flight Tasting can be booked privately and runs from 11am-7pm everyday. You can try 5 wines for 25 euros and from 5pm onwards there will also be a sommelier on hand to explain each of the wines in detail.

Instead the Wine and Food Dinner is a group experience between everyone who books and a dedicated sommelier. You get to try 8 different wines from all over Italy and enjoy them paired with 12 small bites of food. There is a dedicated sommelier on hand who explains each wine and dish and a chance to interact with the sommelier, ask questions and then enjoy your food and wine. It’s a really fun experience that we would recommend for wine connoisseurs as well as complete novices!

3. Vino Roma – Monti

This wonderful social club in central Monti is a great place to start your wine education when it comes to Italian wines. They offer fun group wine tastings and you can choose from a few different options including one with dinner. This is probably for anyone with an interest in wine in general as they’ll teach you how to properly taste wine and give you an understanding of which wine is made where across all the regions of Italy.

4. Bar Bozzo – Garbatella

Firmly off the tourist path, Garbatella is a real local southern Roman suburb not too far from the centre. If you love natural and organic wines, and want to rub shoulders with locals then this cool wine bar is for you! Be sure to book a table because there is very limited seating inside! 

5.  Enotecca L’Antidoto – Trastevere

If you’re traveling to Rome, Trastevere will undoubtedly be on your hit list of destinations to explore. Perhaps you’re even staying in this pretty ivy-draped part of town! Whatever the case, you’ll want to add this trendy wine bar to your list. Also a great location for those interested in tasting organic or natural wines and if you’re looking for a bar that can offer great food! Again be sure to book a table as there are only a few inside.

6. Latteria Trastevere – Trastevere

Another great option for a wine tasting or aperitivo in Trastevere is Latteria Trastevere! Here you can try wine from all over the boot and pair it with delicious cheese (in fact latteria in Italian means cheese shop). We like to grab a table outside so we can people watch and enjoy all the comings and goings in the neighborhood at the same time.

7. Il Goccetto – historical centre

Il Goccetto is a long-standing bar down a pretty cobblestone street in the city center that we first discovered in 2019. It’s a lovely wine bar that’s best for aperitivo with some little nibbles rather than a full-on wine tasting. You can also buy bottles to bring home from this enoteca (wine shop).

8. L’Angolo Di Vino – city centre

Just around the corner from Campo de Fiori, this is a great wine bar to add to your list if you’re staying in the historical center! It stocks an impressive collection of wines from all around the country piled high throughout the shop. Again, it’s better for an aperitivo rather than a traditional wine tasting. 

9. Circoletto – Circus Maximus

From the creators of Roman restaurant Trecca, we knew this wine bar was going to be great. Located just across from Circus Maximus, you might expect this place to be touristy. But it definitely delivers a great wine tasting experience! It’s ideal for trying natural wines from all around the country and pairs them with tasty, modern dishes.

10. Piano C – San Giovanni

Totally off the tourist radar, we love the San Giovanni neighborhood! It’s a place where regular Romans live and you won’t see many tourists unless they’re off to nearby Santo Palato. Piano C is a gorgeous little wine bar with delicious natural wines from all over the country and they serve tasty modern plates alongside your glass.

Inspired to join a wine tasting or try some wine tours from Rome ? Let us know in the comments your favorite place to drink wine in Rome!

The Best Venice Wine Tours to Try in 2024

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10 Best Wine Tastings In Rome

Ah, wine tastings in Rome—a delightful experience that combines the city’s rich history with the exquisite flavors of Italian wines. The cool part? The variety! From bold reds that practically embody Tuscany to sparkling Proseccos… 

What makes wine tastings in Rome truly special is the opportunity to explore the diverse Italian wine regions. And let’s not forget the delectable pairing options. Oh boy, don’t get me started.

Rome boasts a variety of wine bars and cellars, each offering a unique selection of local and international wines. So, if you ever find yourself in the region, do yourself a favor and dive into a wine tasting adventure. We’ve listed the 10 best wine tastings in Rome to help you with that!

Map Of Wine Tours In Rome

1. local wine tasting in rome.

Location: Via dei Frassini, 42, 00172 Roma RM, Italy

A glass of wine is for everyone to drink, but only some have a good palate. Make a reservation at this local wine tasting in Rome if you want to learn the techniques used by sommeliers how to pick a good wine! 

The staff will lead you through the wine tasting, which consists of tasting multiple wine samples matched with delicious home-cooked fare.

Why we love this tour: It was a wonderful experience to learn about wine and its history. Plus, we loved the local meat and cheese selection paired with wine!

From $55.71

2. Wine Tasting in Frascati from Rome

Location: Rome (You can provide pickup details. If you are staying at a B&B, the driver will meet you at the address you provided or in your hotel’s lobby.)

Escape from the hustle and bustle of Rome for a delightful half-day wine tasting in Frascati . Discover the history and art of winemaking while taking a luxurious drive to a 300-year-old winery. 

Roman winemaking had a significant role in ancient Roman society, and this tour offers the chance to discover more about it. The highlight of this tour for many visitors is the wine tasting that is served with small bites at the end.

Why we love this tour: It’s very convenient that the driver can pick you up right in front of where you’re staying. And the snacks during the wine tasting are made from local products.

From $264.08

Discover hidden-gem wineries, learn how to get around, explore Tuscany’s food scene, find the perfect accommodation, experience Tuscany’s stunning landscapes, and much more .

3. Wine Tasting Tour in Rome around Rione Monti

Location: Via Urbana, 72, 00184 Roma RM, Italy

On this Rione Monti wine tasting and walking tour , you will stroll through Rome’s oldest neighborhood. Situated at a short distance from the Colosseum, this neighborhood is well known for remaining virtually entirely Roman and for being devoid of the regular hordes of tourists. See the charming neighborhood’s artistic and historical landmarks, stopping at various wine bars along the way. 

This guided tour is more than just a wine tasting—rather, it’s an enjoyable indulgence. Your knowledgeable guide will lead you through the wine tasting at each location, explaining the terroir of each wine region and suggesting potential meal pairings. Snacks and small bites will be served with the wines.

Why we love this tour: You will see the well-known Borgia stairs, the churches of Santa Maria ai Monti, San Pietro in Vincoli, and many more! 

From $99.17

4. Food & Wine Tasting Tour in Rome

Location: Vicolo dell’Aquila, 4, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

With this food and wine tour in the Trastevere neighborhood of Rome—known for its quaint cobblestone streets and top-notch trattorias—you can eat and drink across the city. Aside from pasta, antipasti, pizza , gelato, and some excellent Lazio wines, you’ll sample everything from pancetta to salami.

Why we love this tour: There are five stops in total from Campo de Fiori to Trastevere. You will sample cold cuts, cheeses, suppli’, wine, two varieties of typical Roman pasta for supper at a restaurant, and a delicious gelato to round it all off.

From $128.14

5. Rome Countryside Vineyards and Wine Tasting – Private Tour

For a worry-free wine tasting in a 17th-century winery , head to the slopes of the Castelli Romani region. Your driver will pick you up from your Rome lodging for your private trip and deliver you to one of the oldest wineries in the area after a lovely drive through the rural areas of Frascati. Take in the flavors of locally produced wines and immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings while learning about the history of winemaking in the area.

Why we love this tour: You will enjoy a guided tasting coupled with locally baked bread and fresh olive oil, following a brief introduction to the region’s history and wine-making customs.

From $187.20

6. Pasta Making, Local Lunch & Wine Tasting On The Hills Of Rome

Location: Via Cavour, 7, 00184 Roma RM, Italy

This pasta-making and wine tasting experience is a genuine dive into wine tasting in the heart of Rome’s wine district, Castelli Romani. In between a fun pasta-making lesson, you’ll sip on well-chosen local wines before sitting down to the most delicious meal you’ve ever had! You will be served three distinct wines from three of the most intriguing local vineyards.

Why we love this tour: You’ll get to walk around Frascati Centro Storico like a local. Experience the narrow streets and small monumental squares. The pasta-making lessons are held in a traditional restaurant.

From $245.14

7. Private Siena and San Gimignano Tour with Wine Tasting From Rome

Take this private tour of Siena and San Gimignano to get away from the congestion of Rome. Drive into the gorgeous Tuscan countryside following an early-morning pickup from where you’re staying. 

Before traveling to San Gimignano, home to numerous medieval towers, see the charming and historic city of Siena. Visit a nearby winery for a small lunch and wine tasting to cap off the day.

Why we love this tour: This full-day tour can accommodate up to 8 travelers. You’ll get to experience the lovely towns and countryside of Tuscany.

From $495.85

8. Amalfi Coast with Wine Tasting – Private Driving Tour from Rome

Take a day trip to the Amalfi Coast and forget about the hustle and bustle in the city of Rome. With this private tour, you can take your time, stopping frequently to take pictures and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Italian countryside and coastline. After exploring Positano, make your way to the foot of Mount Vesuvius for a memorable lunch and wine sampling. 

Why we love this tour: We definitely love the flexibility in the itinerary. Your group can go to Sorrento and have lunch and wine tasting at the foot of Vesuvius. Or you may choose to explore Positano and the entire Amalfi Coast, stopping there for lunch.

From $167.14

9. Rome Trastevere Food Tour By Night with Wine Tasting and Guided Sightseeing

Location: Chiesa di San Benedetto in Piscinula – Piazza in Piscinula, 40, 00153 Roma RM, Italy

On this small-group night tour in Trastevere , get off the beaten path and explore one of Rome’s most atmospheric and lovely neighborhoods. Prepare to become fully immersed in the local way of life by visiting the family-run businesses in this neighborhood, where Roma families share Sunday dinners. 

Starting at 5:30 p.m., the trip offers a delectable sampling of appetizers and the region’s most well-known street cuisine, all while strolling through the area’s tiny cobblestone lanes and streets and ending with a sumptuous supper. When you dine at restaurants owned and operated by long-term residents and their families, you will experience authentic regional cuisine and gain cultural knowledge!

There will be more than five stops, ranging from savory to sweet, where you can sample authentic local cuisine and learn about this treasure of a place. You will experience the true ambiance of traditional Italy with a knowledgeable and local guide, and you will discover how Italians retain their heritage, particularly in food.

Why we love this tour: The tour includes stops at some beautiful locations, such as Piazza Trilussa, Tiberine Island, the Church of St. Francis of Assisi at Ripa, and Sistine Bridge.

10. Rome Food Tour by Night in the Jewish Ghetto & Campo Marzio with Wine Tasting

Location: Piazza Mattei, 00186 Roma RM, Italy

During this food and wine walking tour through the Jewish Ghetto and Campo dè Fiori district , you’ll be taken off the typical tourist path. Explore the Theater of Pompeo, the Fountain of the Four Rivers, the Largo di Torre Argentina, and other attractions starting in Campo de Fiori. Savor Italian delicacies like gelato, espresso, cured meats, pizza, and fried artichokes prepared the Jewish way while traveling.

Why we love this tour: This tour combines sightseeing and cuisine to experience Rome through your senses. It’s worth exploring traditional Jewish food while learning about their culture and Italy’s history.

The Best Wine Tastings That Rome Can Offer

Imagine wandering through the cobbled streets, soaking in the history, and then stumbling upon these charming little wine spots that are basically like liquid time machines. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, there’s something for everyone.

Aside from being guided by expert sommeliers during wine tasting, you’ll experience Rome intricately with the help of knowledgeable guides from the tours listed above. Tip: Make sure to pick a tour with a local tour guide so you can make sure that they really know their way around the history and culture of Rome.

Whether you join a guided wine tour or explore the enotecas independently, the experience of wine tastings in Rome is definitely worth it!

Wine Tasting In Rome FAQs

What is the best winery to visit in rome.

Well, Rome itself isn’t known for its vineyards, but there are incredible wineries in the surrounding regions. If you’re up for a short trip, check out Antinori nel Chianti Classico in Tuscany. It’s a stunning winery with a long history and, of course, some fantastic wines.

What is the most popular wine in Rome?

When in Rome, you’ll find that the locals deeply love their red wines. A classic choice is Chianti, a robust red from Tuscany. It pairs perfectly with the hearty Roman cuisine.

How does wine tasting work in Italy?

In Italy, wine tasting is often a relaxed and social affair. You’ll be guided through a selection of wines, typically starting with whites and progressing to reds. Expect to learn about the different varieties, the regions they come from, and the characteristics that make each wine unique. It’s not just about drinking; it’s about savoring the experience.

What is the number 1 must-see in Rome?

Ah, that’s a tough one with so much history around! But if I had to pick, the Colosseum steals the show. It’s an iconic symbol of Rome’s grandeur and a jaw-dropping testament to ancient engineering.

What is the most famous wine in Italy?

Italy has a treasure trove of famous wines, but if we’re talking about the absolute classic, it has to be Chianti. The distinctive squat bottle and the Gallo Nero (Black Rooster) symbol make it easily recognizable.

What do you wear to a winery in Italy?

Keep it classy and comfortable. Italians appreciate a touch of elegance, so smart-casual attire works well. Ladies, a sundress or nice blouse with pants, and guys think slacks or khakis with a button-down shirt. You might want to wander through those vineyards, and comfortable shoes are a must!

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Food and Wine Tours in Rome

The food in Rome is the best in the world, and I promise I’m not saying this just because I’m Roman. According to TimeOut Magazine , the capital of Italy is renowned for having the finest cuisine on the planet.

And what better way to acquaint yourself with and uncover the wonders of this magnificent city than through a food and wine tour?

What are Food and Wine Tours?

If you’re not familiar with the concept, let me explain. A food and wine tour is an incredible experience where you have the opportunity to explore the local gastronomy and indulge in delicious dishes and wines, all while being expertly guided by knowledgeable professionals.

It’s a delightful way to immerse yourself in Rome’s culinary delights and create unforgettable memories. So, come join us on this incredible adventure and let your taste buds relish the very best of Rome.

Types of Food and Wine Tours

Finding a Food and Wine Tour to do in Rome won’t be difficult because plenty of options are available, catering to all tastes and preferences.

Guided Food and Wine Tours

These tours offer a structured and informative experience. They are led by knowledgeable local guides, ensuring an authentic and enjoyable time. The fascinating aspect of these tours is that, accompanied by a local. You’ll discover many exciting anecdotes about both the food and the city.

Typically, guided food tours include the cost of all tastings in the tour price. And since the guides are well acquainted with the establishments they work with, you can expect special treatment during your tour, including interactions with owners and chefs.

Self-Guided Food and Wine Tours

If you’re up for an adventure and love planning things yourself, organise your own food and wine tour of Rome.

To plan for the perfect self-guided food and wine tour of Rome, you should consult reliable and up-to-date websites that recommend interesting spots to visit. Alternatively, you could follow food-themed influencers – that’s how I still discover some hidden gems in town. 

Jot down the most intriguing addresses, save them on Google Maps, and then categorise them based on the theme or the day you plan to visit. 

Tip: When organising a self-guided food tour, remember that Rome is a very large and sometimes chaotic city. Spread the tour over multiple days or visit restaurants and bars in the same area. You’ll avoid spending the whole day walking or using public transport .

Themed Food and Wine Tours

If you’re looking for a unique food and wine tour or prefer an actual food experience, you’ll love a themed food and wine tour. Among the options that you’ll find there are:

• Food and wine tasting in the countryside: take a break from the chaos and enjoy the amazing culinary traditions of the Roman countryside
• Aperitivo tours : the perfect tour if you enjoy a nice Aperol Spritz or a glass of prosecco before dinner
• Bicycle food and wine tours : cycle through the city and stop at various food and wine spots along the way.
• Terrace restaurant tours : if you love panoramic views, these tours will make you happy
• Tiramisu tours : if you have a sweet tooth, you should go on a tasting of the best tiramisu in the city.
• Gelato-themed tours : probably the best food tour during the scorchy summer months. Visit renowned gelaterias to sample a variety of exquisite gelato flavours.
• Pasta tours : discover pasta-making and taste all the traditional Roman pasta dishes.
• Pizza-focused tours : discover the secrets of authentic Roman pizza – by the slice or round, thin, and crispy.
• Cooking classes : engage in a hands-on cooking experience, learning from Italian grandmothers or professional chefs who will teach you traditional recipes and techniques.

Gluten-Free and Vegetarian Food Tours 

If you follow a plant-based or gluten-free diet, fear not. You’ll find several tours entirely dedicated to those following a specific dietary style.

Rome is a city deeply rooted in its traditions, but luckily, there are more and more venues and restaurants catering to customers’ needs who choose to eat plant-based or gluten-free. Because of this, you’ll quickly come across guided food and wine tours in Rome that fully respect your dietary choices.

Florence, Naples, and Surroundings

Rome has a strategic location for visiting other marvellous tourist cities. Naples and Florence are just a few hours away by train from Rome. That’s why you’ll find several day-trip food tours from Rome, allowing you to discover the food and wines of these amazing cities.

Food and Wine Tour in Naples

Naples is the birthplace of pizza, and to this day, Neapolitan pizza is honestly the best in Italy. If you truly love pizza and want to try some amazing street food, I highly recommend taking a tour in Naples, perhaps with a guide, to avoid wasting time or falling into tourist traps.

Food and Wine Tour in Florence

Florence is easily reachable from Rome, and you’ll find so much more than just the Uffizi Gallery. During a food and wine tour of Florence, you’ll get to taste traditional dishes such as Florentine steak, ribollita (a hearty vegetable and bread soup), pappa al pomodoro (tomato and bread soup), lampredotto (a tripe sandwich), and cantucci (almond biscotti). It’s even better when paired with a sweet dessert wine called Vin Santo. 

How to Pick the Best Food and Wine Tour

When choosing a food tour, it’s best to play it safe. The most reliable option, albeit possibly more expensive, is to select one of the food and wine tours offered by tour operators.

This way, you can guarantee that you’ll be accompanied by a professional. Additionally, professional tour operators provide better guarantees when it comes to cancellations, refunds, and customer service.

If you prefer a more down-to-earth and authentic experience, you can try websites like Viator, TripAdvisor Experiences, or the Experiences section of Airbnb. You’ll find various food and wine tours organised by regular people or small cultural organisations. And rest assured, these experiences will be just as memorable.

Food and Wine Tastings in Rome

As you’ll soon discover, in a city brimming with culinary culture like Rome, the line between a tour and a tasting is quite thin. Many food and wine tours involve tastings at multiple venues, while others are dedicated tastings at a single location.

Either way, rest assured that choosing a gastronomic experience in Rome is one of the finest ways to immerse yourself in local culture and learn about the history, customs, and traditions of ancient and modern Rome.

Etiquette and Tips

Insider tips.

• Many of the food and wine tours will involve a lot of eating: make sure you come hungry so you can have a taste of everything that is offered
• Group tours are sociable events: be prepared to chat a lot.
• Go on a food tour early on your visit to Rome so you can appreciate the city’s culinary traditions during your whole stay.
• If you have any food allergies or dietary restrictions, ensure the tour caters to this before you book.

How to Book

Booking online is the best and most convenient way to secure your place on a food and wine tour. If you’re already in Rome, you might also ask for a food and wine tour at your hotel desk, a travel agency, or a specialised tour operator.

What Costs to Anticipate

You should expect to pay around €90 roughly for a guided food and wine tour in Rome. The prices may differ a bit, especially if there is something besides the tour, like an added experience. Obviously, if you decide to go for a self-guided tour, the price will be limited to the cost of food tastings.

What to Expect

Most food and wine tours generally visit more than a few restaurants and bars. A guided tour will also include learning about the history of the area and information about food and wine. If you pay for a small group tour, it can be quite sociable. But if you’re dreaming of an exclusive experience, upgrade to a private tour.

Tips for Getting the Best Deals and Experiences

There are many online sites that offer bookings for food and wine tours in Rome . The prices are competitive but roughly the same: shop around to find the best deal.  

If you’re staying at a hotel, try asking your receptionist if they can suggest any tours within your budget. Often they are in contact with tour operators and can offer last-minute deals on tours and experiences.

• Food & Drink

Top 6 Best Places for Wine Tasting in Rome

If you’re in Rome and want to explore the wonderful and complex world that is Italian wines , you don’t have to take a trip to Tuscany to go wine tasting. (Though you should! It’s beautiful!) Throughout the Eternal City, there are wine and food tours that can help your taste buds become a little more familiar with the deep red goodness swirling in your glass.

Italian Food & Wine Journey

Want to take an entire journey through pairing Italian wines with food from the comfort of a local trattoria ? Then join Master Sommelier Marco for an evening in which you’ll taste 6 top-quality wines next to 6 classic Italian dishes. What makes this wine tasting dinner unique from the rest is that you’ll not only learn which wines enhance which food – you’ll experience which pairings can have drastic consequences, too! Dinners take place at a Roman trattoria just outside of Trastevere, and last around 3 hours.

The small tour company, Enjoy Rome, takes wine tasters on one tour that seems to cover the best Rome has to offer : art, food and wine. The “Caravaggio and Wine Tasting Walking Tour” is a 3-hour wine tasting and walking tour of Rome’s historic center. It starts in Piazza del Popolo and the church of St. Maria del Popolo where two famous paintings by Caravaggio hang, and it finishes at a wine bar where the wine tasting is hosted. It’s a perfect way to get to know the Eternal City just a little bit better.

Rome Tasting

This short wine and food tasting happens in a local wine bar with history, specializing in the wines and foods of the Lazio region. Be guided as you try a glass of Bellone, Frascati Superiore, and Nero Buona paired with regional cheeses and dried meats. In addition to knowing more about the taste and colors of the wines of Lazio, you’ll walk away with a sense of the history of the countryside they come from. When in Rome, why not drink and eat what’s from the region?

**********************

Join us for a Wine and Food Stroll where you’ll taste beautiful wines and foods from six of Italy’s top wine-producing regions – without setting foot outside Rome!

Katie Parla

Katie Parla sometimes seems to be the one-woman food-and-beverage Rome show . And that’s great when she puts her wine knowledge (certified by AIS) to work for you. In addition to her food tours, Katie Parla gives wine tastings to small groups of people. The 2 standard wine tastings that Katie offers are “Introduction to Italian Wines” and “Natural Wines.” Each of these takes place in a local wine bar and will give you the knowledge to bravely venture alone into the large world of Italian and natural wines.

Roscioli isn’t a wine tour company or an individual or only a restaurant. Walk inside the main shop and the walls of wine, the counter with fresh cheeses and meats, will stun you. Wine tastings are held in another location 300m from them at Via del Conservatorio 58 at Rimessa Roscioli . Eight wines, picked by the sommelier, are paired with cheeses, meats, and even dessert from the Roscioli kitchen. Contact them for an evening in Rome to remember (or perhaps, to forget, depending on how much wine you drink!).

Vino Roma might just be the wine tasting place in Rome that you’re looking for. Based in Monti, Vino Roma’s wine studio is where the sipping takes place. The studio and cellar were designed with only wine, drinking, storing, enjoying, in mind. Vino Roma has 3 different wine tasting packages to please everyone. “My Italians” covers the basics of Italian wines; “Sparkling Saturdays” takes you through the varied and surprising world of sparkling Italian wines; and “Wine & Cheese Lunch” pairs great Italian wines with great Italian meats, cheeses and breads—and it’s sometimes surprising why certain pairs work and others don’t.

Oh and if you need to test your knowledge post tour, Rome is full of enotecas (wine bars) for you to sample!

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * When in Rome Avoid the tourist traps and taste the best of the Vatican area!

Join us on our Vatican Area Private Tour for Foodies:

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

This post was originally published on October 10, 2016.

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Eternal Rome: Jewish Ghetto, Campo de' Fiori and Trastevere

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About Kenny Dunn

Kenny’s love for European cuisine was sparked after moving to Rome in 2009. He fell in love with the city’s backstreet eateries, and even more with the people and stories behind each dish. Now he's turned his passion into food tours, so  Eating Europe  guests can also share a taste of local life.

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15 Best Tuscany Wine Tours & Wine Tastings for 2024

Thinking About Visiting Tuscany in 2024? Book Some of the Best Tuscany Wine Tours to Experience the Region Like a Local

Italy has been a popular destination for #Winetravelers this year. We’re frequently asked how to best navigate popular regions such as Tuscany , and there really is no better way to fully immerse yourself in the region than by using a guided wine tour or tasting experience that’s operated by a local. With insider knowledge, not worrying about planning, logistics or driving, you can have a much more fulfilling time exploring the region, and usually save yourself a lot of stress and time.

RELATED: Table for Two in Tuscany: Romantic Itinerary for Places to Eat, Stay, Drink & Explore

All of that being said, we’ve compiled a list of the top wine tours in Tuscany based on reader feedback and ratings. These tours include both group experiences, as well as options for private wine tastings and excursions throughout Tuscany. Whether you’re staying within the Tuscan countryside or you’re looking for a day trip from Florence , Rome or Siena , we have you covered below.

Note that for a limited time, we’ve partnered with Viator to provide our readers with secure advanced booking, free cancellation as well as an exclusive 15% discount on any wine tours that are booked via Winetraveler.com . Simply use code WINETRAVELER15 at check out.

RECOMMENDED: Stay at These Luxury Tuscan Vineyard Resorts While You Visit Tuscany

Horseback Ride and Poolside Day Chillout with Tuscan Lunch

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Florence serves as an ideal base for Tuscany wine tours due to its central location within the region, providing easy access to renowned wine areas such as Chianti, Montepulciano, and Montalcino. Its well-connected transportation system, including train routes and bus lines, ensures hassle-free travel to various vineyards and wineries.

RELATED: The Best Tuscany Wineries, Hotels & Vineyard Resorts to Experience

Additionally, numerous tour operators within Florence offer curated wine experiences that cater to a range of preferences, from small boutique wineries to larger renowned estates. This, combined with the city’s own rich cultural and culinary scenes, makes Florence the perfect starting point for exploring Tuscany’s wine country.

Tuscan Safari: Tuscan Villas with Vineyards, Cheese, Wine & Lunch from Florence

Winetraveler Rating (over 3,165 reviews):

Italy’s iconic Tuscany region is more than just a destination – it’s a feast for all your senses. This full-day Tuscany wine and food tour, departing from Florence, offers you the chance to taste the region’s finest offerings, guided by experts with in-depth local knowledge.

Navigate the enchanting Tuscan countryside in a comfortable 4×4 minibus, stopping to explore a historic wine estate and villa, and a cellar filled with delectable Chianti Classico. Each stop on your journey is an opportunity to learn more about wine and olive oil production, and to indulge in locally-sourced cheese and other Tuscan delicacies.

This unique journey culminates in a traditional 3-course Tuscan lunch at a winery restaurant with breathtaking views. Experience the magic of the Chianti region as you dine amidst vineyards under the Tuscan sun.

This particular tour, operated by Walkabout Tours, has been designed to ensure a seamless and enriching experience for our #Winetravelers.

Highlights:

• Full-day wine and food tour from Florence, with 4×4 off-road minibus transportation.
• Traverse the scenic Tuscan countryside on an off-road adventure.
• Delight in a traditional Tuscan lunch at a picturesque winery restaurant.
• Explore a historic wine estate, with a guided tour of wine, extra-virgin olive oil, and cheese tastings.
• Visit a second winery for a deeper dive into the renowned Chianti Classico wine.

15% Off With Code WINETRAVELER15

Florence Vespa Tour: Tuscan Hills and Italian Cuisine

Winetraveler Rating (over 2,896 reviews):

Venture off the beaten path and explore the heart of Tuscany on a classic Vespa scooter. This unique tour, offered by Walkabout Tours, takes you on a scenic ride through the Tuscan hills, starting from the Renaissance city of Florence. With a knowledgeable local guide leading the way, you’ll discover hidden gems such as the Piazzale Michelangelo and the Church of San Miniato al Monte.

RELATED: 25 Best Things To Do in Florence Italy: Visitor’s City Guide

The adventure doesn’t end there. After exploring the picturesque countryside, head back to a welcoming country estate to indulge in a delicious traditional Italian meal. Feast on a menu of mouth-watering bruschetta, perfectly cooked pasta, and a flavorful cheese and salami board. Experience the authenticity of Tuscany as you dine surrounded by its natural beauty.

To ensure a truly personalized and intimate experience, this tour is limited to 15 travelers.

• Explore the Tuscan hills on your own Vespa scooter, led by a local guide.
• Discover lesser-known sights such as the Piazzale Michelangelo and the Church of San Miniato al Monte.
• Delight in a traditional Tuscan meal at our country estate, featuring local favorites like bruschetta, pasta, and a cheese and salami board.
• Enjoy the personalized attention offered by small-group tours with a maximum of 15 participants.

This Vespa tour in Tuscany, presented by Walkabout Tours, gives you a unique opportunity to experience Tuscany’s charming countryside in an authentic and memorable way. Don’t just visit Tuscany, live it like a local!

Grab this opportunity to explore Tuscany in the most Italian way possible. Reserve your spot now as this is one of the best selling Tuscany wine tours currently.

Tuscany Bike Tours: One Day Bike Tour through the Hills of Tuscany

Winetraveler Rating (over 1,158 reviews):

Escape the bustling city of Florence and immerse yourself in the natural splendor of the renowned Tuscan countryside. Offered by Tuscany Bike Tours, this top-rated bike tour combines the awe-inspiring scenery of Tuscany, a rich history that spans centuries, and an authentic taste of the region’s flavors in an exciting and active way.

Pedal across fertile valleys and hilly landscapes adorned with olive trees and vineyards, stopping to explore a 12th-century villa and indulge in a traditional Italian restaurant for a mid-day meal. Recharge and enhance your journey with tastings of Chianti wine and local olive oil – the signature flavors of Tuscany.

• Cycle through the beautiful Tuscan countryside, leaving the city behind.
• Enjoy a wine tasting at a medieval castle and savor a delectable lunch at a local restaurant.
• Engage in an active and refreshing journey, a welcome alternative to being confined on a bus.
• Join the ranks of satisfied travelers who’ve showered this bike tour with hundreds of 5-star reviews.

Experience the Tuscan region in a refreshing and dynamic way. The inviting landscape, the ancient history, the flavors of the region – all come together on this journey to provide an unforgettable Tuscan experience.

Ready for the ride of a lifetime? Secure your spot on this Tuscany Bike Tour today.

Pizza and Gelato Cooking Class at a Tuscan Farmhouse from Florence (with wine, of course)

Winetraveler Rating (over 3,633 reviews):

Embark on a delightful culinary adventure near Florence, nestled within a picturesque Tuscan estate. Ideal for culinary enthusiasts and culture lovers, this unique experience allows you to learn the art of crafting two of Italy’s culinary treasures – pizza and gelato, guided by a professional Italian chef.

This interactive, hands-on cooking lesson culminates in a delicious 3-course feast of appetizers, freshly made pizza, and delectable gelato, all paired with a selection of fine wine and beer. To keep the magic of this culinary adventure alive, you’ll also receive a recipe booklet to take home and hone your new skills.

• Participate in a pizza and gelato cooking lesson, right in the heart of Tuscany.
• Learn the art of crafting two iconic Italian delights under the guidance of a professional chef.
• Relish a 3-course meal accompanied by wine or beer, all set within a charming Tuscan estate.
• Enjoy round-trip transportation from central Florence for a hassle-free experience.

Why Choose this Tour? This gourmet cooking class pairs two beloved Italian classics with the unbeatable scenery of Tuscany, creating an immersive experience that surpasses any restaurant setting.

Ready to create some delicious memories? Book this culinary adventure now and add a slice of Tuscan flavor to your journey. Unleash your inner chef and bring a piece of Italy back home with you.

Tuscan Wine Tour with Lunch, Visit to San Gimignano & Organic Wineries

Winetraveler Rating (over 547 reviews):

Take a break from the energetic pace of Florence and set off on a journey into the heart of the Tuscany wine region. This day trip includes round-trip transport from a central Florence location, making your adventure as comfortable as possible.

In the company of your knowledgeable guide, you’ll gain valuable insights into the intricate winemaking process at local vineyards, typically overlooked by many visitors to Tuscany. The day’s schedule is thoughtfully designed to include wine tastings, an authentic Tuscan lunch, and ample opportunities for capturing beautiful photographs against the backdrop of Tuscany’s scenic landscapes.

• Savor tastings of Chianti wines and relish a traditional Tuscan lunch.
• Benefit from the expertise of a guide, ensuring a stress-free exploration without the need for navigation.
• Gain insights into the winemaking process unique to the Chianti region.
• Enjoy hassle-free, round-trip transportation from a central Florence location.

Discover the serenity and charm of Tuscany’s renowned wine region with this insightful Chianti day trip. Immerse yourself in the winemaking heritage, savor authentic Tuscan cuisine, and capture memories set against Tuscany’s breathtaking vistas.

Ready to uncork the magic of Tuscany & Chianti? Book this day trip now and delve into a world where the essence of Tuscany comes alive in every vineyard, every glass of wine, and every plate of food.

Self-Drive Vintage Fiat 500 Tour from Florence: Tuscan Wine Experience

Winetraveler Rating (over 415 reviews):

Embark on an Italian adventure like no other as you couple a wine tasting experience with a classic Fiat 500 tour. Departing from Florence, step into the driver’s seat of a beautiful 1960s Fiat 500 model, and journey through the Tuscan hills as part of a scenic convoy. The tour reaches its crescendo as you park your vintage ride at a stunning 15th-century wine estate and villa.

• Enjoy a self-driven Fiat 500 tour from Florence, highlighting the esteemed wines of Tuscany.
• Visit a captivating 15th-century Renaissance villa and wine estate nestled in the Tuscan countryside.
• Immerse yourself in the estate’s vineyards and cellars, indulging in tastings of several locally produced wines.
• Travel through the scenic Tuscan hills with confidence, guided every step of the way.

Explore the splendors of Tuscany in an unforgettable way. From the thrill of driving a classic Fiat 500 through the picturesque hills, to the rich taste of Tuscan wines in a historic setting – this tour promises a feast for the senses.

Ready to drive into a day of Tuscan delights? Reserve your spot now and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Private Tuscany Wine Tour Experience from Florence

Winetraveler Rating (over 54 reviews):

Delve into the heart of Tuscany’s world-renowned flavors and stunning landscapes on a private wine tour from Florence. Journey through the picturesque hills and vineyards in the company of a knowledgeable sommelier guide, visiting three distinctive estates to sample top-notch regional wines and olive oil.

The journey includes a visit to a family-owned winery, where a traditional Tuscan lunch, paired with an array of fresh local products and wine, awaits you. Gain insights into traditional winemaking processes through a cellar tour and engaging conversations with winemakers.

• Full-day private wine tour from Florence, removing any uncertainty about selecting wineries, thanks to your expert sommelier guide.
• Explore three diverse wineries, including quaint family-run and organic estates.
• Discover the winemaking process through an immersive cellar tour.
• Savor a range of the region’s best varietals.
• Enjoy an authentic Tuscan lunch crafted from locally produced ingredients.
• Benefit from the flexibility to tailor your itinerary to your preferences.

Embark on a journey of flavor and beauty in the Tuscan region. From the quaint charm of family-run vineyards to the vibrant taste of Tuscan wines and the warm hospitality of the locals, this tour promises a truly enriching experience.

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Trade the bustling streets of Florence for a day of tranquility immersed in nature. Experience a horseback riding adventure through the picturesque Tuscan countryside, capped off with downtime at an elegant country resort nestled within the verdant Florentine hills. Indulge in a delightful Tuscan lunch served poolside and complemented by local Chianti wine.

• Escape the crowds of Florence and embrace the tranquility of the Tuscan countryside.
• Absorb the lush landscapes from the unique perspective of horseback riding, suitable for all levels.
• Enjoy a private experience tailored exclusively for your party.
• Benefit from round-trip transfers from Florence for a hassle-free day.

Immerse yourself in the calming serenity of Tuscany’s nature. From the thrill of horseback riding through picturesque landscapes to relaxing at an elegant resort with a refreshing poolside lunch, this day promises a rejuvenating escape from the hustle and bustle.

Tuscany Wine Tours from Rome

While Rome is not located in Tuscany, its position and connectivity make it a viable alternative base for Tuscany wine tours. Rome’s strategic location allows for comfortable day trips to southern Tuscan areas like Montepulciano and Montalcino, both renowned for their exceptional wines. The Italian capital boasts excellent high-speed rail links and highway networks that can transport you to the heart of Tuscany in just a couple of hours. This flexibility allows you to explore Tuscany’s world-class vineyards and return to Rome’s vibrant nightlife and historical attractions all in one day, offering a rich, balanced travel experience.

Tuscany Wine Tour from Rome with Private Driver

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Make the most of your time with this private tour that covers three enchanting hill towns in Tuscany and Umbria in just one day. With the convenience of hotel pickup in Rome and a full day’s transport, you can indulge in wine tasting in Montepulciano, savor the renowned pecorino cheese in Pienza, and admire the breathtaking views from the cliffside town of Orvieto.

• Benefit from round-trip private transportation from your hotel or chosen location in Rome.
• Enjoy ample free time to explore and shop in the beautiful towns of Montepulciano, Pienza, and Orvieto.
• Experience the unique flavors of Tuscan wines, cheeses, and other gourmet delights.
• Take advantage of a private day trip for greater flexibility and personalized attention.

Embark on a journey through the scenic landscapes of Tuscany and Umbria. Savor the exquisite flavors of the region, marvel at the panoramic views, and soak up the unique charm of these picturesque hill towns.

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Trace the footsteps of the Etruscans as you visit the picturesque medieval settlements of Montepulciano and UNESCO–listed Pienza, two of Tuscany’s most charming hilltop towns. Starting from Rome, this tour offers a comfortable journey in an air-conditioned minivan, giving you ample time to explore the historical streets at your own pace. Revel in the magnificent panoramas over the Val d’Orcia, with round-trip transport from your Rome hotel included.

• Explore the enchanting towns of Montepulciano and UNESCO–listed Pienza in a single day.
• Enjoy ample free time to discover the rich history and culture of these sites at your own pace.
• Be captivated by the panoramic views of the Val d’Orcia from the vantage point of Pienza.
• Benefit from round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned minivan from your Rome hotel.

Step back in time and explore the medieval charm of Tuscany. From the Etruscan roots of Montepulciano to the UNESCO-listed beauty of Pienza, this tour offers a captivating look into Tuscany’s past.

Tuscany Wine Tours from Siena

Tuscany hiking tour from siena including wine tasting.

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Join us as we step back in time, tracing the footsteps of ancient pilgrims along the Via Francigena, a historic route that connected Canterbury, England, to Rome. This rural path winds through charming villages, vineyards, and some of Tuscany’s most picturesque landscapes. The journey concludes in the enchanting medieval village of Monteriggioni, where you’ll be rewarded with a curated wine tasting. To wrap up your adventure, we’ll provide a train ticket for a comfortable return to Siena.

RELATED: Here’s Why You Should Include Siena on Your Next Trip to Italy

• Enjoy a half-day hiking tour from Siena coupled with a delightful wine tasting.
• Follow sections of the historic Via Francigena, a key pilgrimage route leading to Rome.
• Absorb the history of the route from our expert guide.
• Traverse between Siena and the medieval walled village of Monteriggioni.
• Bask in the captivating Tuscan vistas of rolling hills blanketed in vineyards and olive groves.
• Immerse yourself in local flavors during an educational wine tasting session in Monteriggioni.
• Take advantage of the included train ticket for a convenient return to Siena.

This is more than just a hike; it’s an invigorating journey through history and a celebration of Tuscany’s beautiful landscapes and rich flavors. Ready to walk the ancient paths and savor the local wines? Book your spot today!

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Tuscany is famed worldwide for its exceptional wines. Get an insider’s view into this illustrious industry with a tasting tour in the vineyards close to Siena. This intimate tour, limited to just 12 participants, takes you to a historic cellar where you’ll refine your palate and learn to distinguish delicate flavors under the guidance of a sommelier. With a choice of morning or afternoon departure, you can conveniently fit this experience into even the most packed sightseeing agenda.

• Break away from the city and effortlessly explore the vineyards surrounding Siena.
• Sharpen your palate to discern subtle flavors under the guidance of a trained sommelier.
• Choose from two departure times throughout the day for your convenience.
• Benefit from personalized attention in a small group limited to 12 participants.

Unleash your inner wine connoisseur on this exclusive tasting tour. From exploring historic cellars to learning from a knowledgeable sommelier, this experience brings you closer to Tuscany’s rich wine culture.

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Experience the unique thrill of hunting for Italy’s coveted tubers in the Tuscany countryside during an authentic truffle hunt near San Miniato. Join Francesca, a seasoned forager, and her truffle-hunting dog for a leisurely stroll through the woods in search of fresh truffles. After the hunt, unwind at her family farmhouse, where a mouth-watering lunch featuring the day’s truffle harvest awaits.

• Engage in the age-old tradition of truffle hunting with an experienced local “tartufaio” in Tuscany.
• Enjoy a walk through the woodlands near San Miniato with a specially trained truffle dog.
• Relish a satisfying lunch featuring bruschetta and pasta adorned with freshly found truffles, followed by dessert.
• Enjoy the warmth of local hospitality during this immersive experience at a family-run farm.

Embark on a truly unique Tuscan journey. From the exciting pursuit of truffles to the exquisite flavors of a truffle-infused lunch, this experience offers a deep dive into the tradition and culinary richness of Tuscany.

Tuscany Travel Logistics

Getting to tuscany.

Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR): Known as Amerigo Vespucci Airport, it’s the closest airport to the heart of Florence and Tuscany. It’s relatively small and offers fewer international connections, but it’s a popular choice due to its proximity to Tuscany’s major cities. Browse current flight deals and book as the best rates arise using Kayak.

Pisa International Airport (PSA): Also known as Galileo Galilei Airport, this is the largest airport in Tuscany with more international flight connections. Pisa airport is well-connected to Florence and other Tuscan cities by both train and bus services.

Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ): Although not located within Tuscany, it’s another good option to consider as it has strong flight connections, both domestic and international. It’s roughly an hour and a half’s train ride to Florence.

RECOMMENDED: Visit Cinque Terre: Wine Tasting Itinerary & Travel Guide For Wine Lovers

Arriving from Other Parts of Italy

Tuscany is well-served by Italy’s extensive train network. The high-speed trains from cities like Rome, Milan , and Venice make getting to Tuscany both quick and convenient. Florence’s main station, Firenze Santa Maria Novella, is a major hub connecting Tuscany to the rest of Italy.

Getting Around Tuscany

Public transportation.

Trains: The train network in Tuscany is quite extensive, connecting not only the major cities but also smaller towns. They are generally punctual, affordable, and efficient.

Buses: For some of the smaller towns and villages, bus is the only public transport available. Although they can be less predictable than trains, buses can get you to places trains can’t reach.

Renting a car can be an excellent option if you wish to explore the countryside or visit vineyards at your own pace. Do remember that driving in Italy requires an International Driving Permit along with your regular driver’s license for non-EU citizens. Also, many city centers in Tuscany are limited traffic zones (ZTLs) and are camera-controlled. Driving into these zones without a permit will result in a fine.

Taxis are readily available in cities and larger towns. Uber operates in Florence and is another convenient option for getting around.

Best Time to Visit: Tuscany is a year-round destination, but the ideal times to visit are between April and June, and September and October when the weather is comfortable and the countryside is at its most vibrant.

Language: Italian is the official language. However, English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.

Currency: Euro (€) is the official currency of Italy.

Safety: Tuscany is generally safe for tourists, but like any other tourist destination, be aware of your surroundings, particularly in crowded places.

Electricity: Italy operates on a 220V supply voltage and 50Hz. The power plugs and sockets are of type F and L.

Cities, Towns and Villages within Tuscany

As the capital of Tuscany, Florence is an incredible mix of art, history, and culture. It’s the birthplace of the Renaissance, and home to world-class museums such as the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia Gallery, where you can admire Michelangelo’s David. The city also has a rich culinary scene, with countless trattorias serving classic Tuscan cuisine. Florence is an ideal base for day trips throughout the region, thanks to its central location and excellent transportation links.

Famous for its medieval cityscape and the historic Palio horse race, Siena is a must-visit. The city’s heart is the Piazza del Campo, a shell-shaped square that hosts the Palio twice every summer. The Siena Cathedral (Duomo di Siena) is another highlight, featuring intricate Gothic architecture. Siena’s historical center has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its preserved medieval city planning and architectural splendor.

RELATED: Top Small Towns in Italy to Visit Famous for Wine [Wineries & Wine Tour Options Included]

Known worldwide for its leaning tower, Pisa has much more to offer. The city hosts a wealth of historic sites, including the Piazza dei Miracoli, where you’ll find the Leaning Tower, the Pisa Cathedral, and the Baptistery. For an authentic Tuscan experience, visit during June when the city celebrates the Luminara di San Ranieri festival with thousands of candles lighting up the riverside.

Enclosed by well-preserved Renaissance walls, Lucca is a charming town ideal for leisurely exploration. Its cobblestone streets, beautiful piazzas, and numerous churches, including the Lucca Cathedral, offer a snapshot of its rich history. One fun fact is that the town’s intact city walls have been transformed into a pedestrian promenade, perfect for biking or a leisurely walk.

San Gimignano

Known as the “Town of Fine Towers”, San Gimignano is famed for its 14 medieval towers that dominate the skyline. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers fantastic art, great dining, and world-class gelato at the Gelateria Dondoli, a two-time champion of the Gelato World Cup. Its proximity to Chianti makes it an excellent stop on a Tuscan wine tour.

Montepulciano

This medieval and Renaissance hill town is known for its Vino Nobile wines. Stroll along the Corso, a grand avenue packed with Renaissance palazzi and churches, or visit the impressive Tempio di San Biagio. The town also offers panoramic views over the surrounding vineyards and Val d’Orcia.

Best known for its Brunello di Montalcino wines, this hilltop town is a favorite among wine lovers. Besides its wine, the town boasts a stunning fortress offering panoramic views, a charming historical center, and the beautiful Romanesque Abbey of Sant’Antimo.

RELATED: Read Recent Articles and Travel Guides for Exploring Italy

A true hidden gem, Volterra offers Etruscan, Roman, and medieval sites, including the Roman Theatre and the Etruscan Acropolis. Volterra is also renowned for its alabaster craftsmanship, a tradition that dates back to the Etruscan period.

Set on a hill overlooking Lake Trasimeno, Cortona is one of Tuscany’s oldest towns with a history dating back to the Etruscans. Visit the Museo dell’Accademia Etrusca, or explore the town’s charming narrow streets and squares. The town is also known from the book and movie “Under the Tuscan Sun.”

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Frequently Asked Questions about Wine Tours in Tuscany

What kinds of tuscany wine tours and wine tasting experiences are there.

Tuscany offers a rich variety of wine tours and tastings that cater to all tastes and preferences. For instance, there are full day private tours from Florence, led by a knowledgeable sommelier, offering the chance to visit three different wineries and enjoy an authentic Tuscan lunch. For those looking to combine scenic drives with wine, consider the excursion that pairs a Fiat 500 tour with a visit to a 15th-century wine estate. Alternatively, you can delve into Siena’s surrounding vineyards on a small group tasting tour that educates your palate with the help of a sommelier. For those seeking a unique countryside experience, a horseback riding tour in the Tuscan countryside lets you unwind at a country resort with a full Tuscan lunch and local Chianti wine. These are just a few examples of the range of experiences Tuscany has to offer. Each tour provides a unique way to explore the region’s world-renowned wine culture. To learn more and book a wine tour that suits your preference, please check our detailed guide.

When is the best time of year for a wine tour in Tuscany?

The best time to visit Tuscany for a wine tour largely depends on your personal preferences, but there are a few peak periods that are particularly popular. Spring (April to June) and Fall (September and October) are often considered the ideal times for a Tuscan wine tour. The weather during these seasons is typically mild and pleasant, and the landscape is at its most vibrant – with blooming flowers in spring, and changing leaves in the fall. Fall is also the time of the grape harvest (known as “vendemmia”), which can be a fascinating process to witness. Some wineries even allow visitors to participate in the harvest. Summer (July and August) in Tuscany can be quite hot, and many Italians go on vacation in August, which means some wineries might be closed. However, the region is still beautiful during this time and the wine tours are certainly still operational. Winter (November to March) is the low tourist season in Tuscany. While the weather can be cooler and wetter, there are fewer tourists, making it a good time to visit if you prefer to avoid crowds. Regardless of when you choose to visit, it’s always a good idea to check with individual wineries or tour companies in advance for their operating hours and to book your tour.

What is the main wine region in Tuscany?

The most renowned wine region in Tuscany is the Chianti region, famous for producing Chianti and Chianti Classico wines. It’s characterized by its idyllic rolling hills, historic vineyards, and scenic villages. The Chianti region is situated between Florence and Siena, making it conveniently accessible for tourists and wine lovers. However, Tuscany boasts several other notable wine-producing areas. For example, Montalcino, located south of the Chianti region, is renowned for its Brunello di Montalcino wines. Nearby, Montepulciano produces the famous Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. Further west towards the coast, you’ll find the Bolgheri region, known for its superb “Super Tuscan” wines, a term referring to high-quality wines that don’t adhere to traditional Italian wine regulations but have nonetheless achieved worldwide recognition. Each of these areas offers unique variations in climate, soil, and winemaking traditions, contributing to the diversity and richness of Tuscan wines.

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19 Best Tours in Rome

By Maresa Manara and Erica Firpo

Vacation tours can be a divisive topic, particularly for people who feel passionately about exploring a city independently. But the truth of the matter is that exploring it with a local by your side will bring you to parts of it you might never find on your own. And no locals have as many stories to tell their city as the Romans. You'll find the most intellectual and personable tour guides to take you around vineyards, through olive groves, on vespa rides, through film studios, food markets, cemeteries, medieval churches, and the most iconic ancient sites. Without further delay, these are our picks for the very best Rome tours.

Click the link to read our complete Rome travel guide.

City Wonders: Ostia Antica Half-Day Tour from Rome Arrow

Ostia Antica is a historic seaside village an hour from Rome and these half-day tours of the coastal archaeological site are well-planned. Groups visit Ostia’s amphitheater, temples, historic baths, and ancient market. Guides seem to have real passion for the subject, talking visitors through the entire tour, peppering their commentary with anecdotes and fun facts. This is a slam-dunk for true history buffs who want to get deeper into the greater Rome area.

Elizabeth Lev: Rome's Historical Center, An All-You-Can-See Smorgasbord of Art Arrow

Elizabeth Lev is something else. Rome is her city, and this tour is her work of art. She has an incredible way of engaging with the history, the art, the monuments, and the stories. You'll find yourself wanting to spend all your time with her. The tour explores the ancient, medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque art periods; and it visits sites like 13th century frescos above the church of Santa Cecilia and art collections behind the facades of the Spada palace. You'll be wowed by all of the layers of the city and how it feels like Rome has been hitting a string of never-ending home runs since antiquity.

Elizabeth Lev: Borrowed but Never Baroque, Bernini & 17th Century Rome Arrow

This tour of Elizabeth Lev's meets up outside the beautiful Piazza della Repubblica . Our group was tiny, but Liz will accommodate larger private groups. She is both an incredible academic brain and a witty storyteller. And her tour shows of the dramatic  range of Baroque art and architecture within Rome. This tour is great for anyone who wants a deep dive into the city's Baroque history, and anyone who wants to appreciate Rome in an experience that's not quite in the guide books.

LivItaly Tours: Vespa Sidecar Tour Arrow

The Vespa Sidecar tour is entirely private and can be customized for return visitors who may have already seen the highlights. It is not, though, a show-up-when-you-want activity. It can be organized for up to six participants, but you'll only be in a group if you choose to be. My tour was perfect because it was just me and the driver/guide Luca.  As a licensed guide, he knows his history, is easy to understand, and is very friendly. He always has a plan, but is quick to change it at the first request. We talked Rome and food and went to all the right places, from big names to more under the radar finds. 

Sarah James

Caitlin Morton

Jahnavi Bhatt

Alex Erdekian

Rome 500 Experience: The 7 Hidden Gems of Rome Tour in an Antique FIAT 500 Arrow

There's a lot of reasons to sign up for this tour through greater Rome, not least is that you get to drive yourself with the top down in a vintage Fiat 500. Another nice perk: Rome's traffic is seriously easier to deal with when traveling in convoy (the group can have up to 50 cars in it). And, as you will get your own car to drive, it can feel like a private tour, although groups are also organized by language, so communication shouldn't be a problem for anyone.  But most importantly, you just look so much better behind the wheel of a classic Italian car.

Top Bike Rental & Tours: Ancient Appian Way, Catacombs, and Aqueducts Park Tour Arrow

This tour will take the better part of your day (it's six hours start to finish). But going by bike to these outer city sites —the old Appian Way via the ancient aqueduct—is the easiest and most entertaining way to see them. Plus you won't want to cut out early: it ends with wine and some nibbles in Caffarella Park, which is so expansive it feels like you're in the countryside even though it's smack in the middle of the greater city. Bikes feel brand new and the confidence of the tour guides will put any nervous riders at ease.

Rome Tram Tracks Tour Arrow

This tour is a rocking dance  party on a vintage tram that rumbles through Rome. It lasts two hours, during which you'll cut up the dance floor, drink, and cheer as you roll past some of Rome's most iconic sites . This is really an evening activity for those who don't just want to go get dinner somewhere in town. The greatest part, however, may have been how the senior citizens on our ride managed to upstage all the thirty- and forty-year olds on the dance floor.

Casa Mia Tours: Rome Cinema & Food Arrow

Rome has a rich history of cinema, and while you could take any tour with any guide, there is nothing quite like seeing its cinematic history with Eleonora Baldwin, Cinecittà Studios veteran and granddaughter of famed director Vittorio de Sica, four-time Academy Award winner and father of Italian cinema. This tour is both Rome's history and Eleonora's story, and she is so passionate that it will make you want to spend all day with her, and all night watching films. There are only three requirements—a pair of comfy shoes, an empty stomach, and a reservation.

Non-Catholic Cemetery Tour Arrow

You should always visit the truly Roman neighborhood of Testaccio when in Rome, but this tour of its historic non-Catholic Cemetery gives you reason to stay in the area after you've hit its prime trattorias. It's a beautiful, unusually tranquil space, filled with bougainvillea and museum-worthy sculptures in the middle of the city. The informative guides will school you on the cemetery's 400-year history as you amble past the tombstones of Keats, Percy Shelly, and other famous expats.

Context Travel: Fall and Rise of Rome Arrow

This historical tour starts at a medieval church in San Clemente and ends at the church of SS. Giovanni e Paolo. Its chronology spans from the Roman Empire's fall to the Renaissance's beginnings. The guide Philip was total pro. He's an archaeologist with a great sense of humor and passion for every site. He knew exactly what to show me and could even point out where to stand so I had the best understanding of the sights. People who enjoy Roman, religious, and art histories will  love this tour. It's also a great opportunity for people who have already seen the main tourist attractions to see some gems off the beaten path.

The Roman Guy: Cocktail Bars in Rome, Evening Walking Tour Arrow

This English-speaking tour will take you to some of Rome's most popular bars, including Trastevere's Freni e Frizioni , with stop offs to major attractions along the way. Plus, company founders Sean and Brandon are always quick to offer tips on the best spots for gelato or pizza in the city as you pass by for that next negroni. It’s actually a fantastic way to experience life in Rome with locals—far more relaxing that spending time trying to avoid tourist traps. 

Katie Parla: Vineyard Visit to Cantina Ribelà Arrow

Sommelier Maurizio di Franco meets you at your hotel and accompanies you via hired car to Cantina Ribelà while enchanting you with a bit of Lazio history and winemaking background on Ribelà. Maurizio is a certificated sommelier, and it doesn't hurt that he's also super charming. His love of wine is contagious, he tells great stories, and his patience is wonderful. At the winery you'll be struck be the natural beauty of the landscape, close as it is to a city as big as Rome. 

LivItaly Tours: Virtual Reality Tour of the Colosseum and Domus Aurea Arrow

Imagine if you could physically see the sites, monuments, and reference points that tour guides bring up when ushering you around a city as ancient as Rome. This virtual reality tour lets you, by creating enhanced versions of the way the Eternal City appeared during the days of the empire, all visible through the glasses you'll wear as you make your way through the Roman Forum and Colosseum .

Vatican Museums: “Out of Hours” Guided Tour, Good Morning Vatican Museums Arrow

There is nothing like opening the doors to an empty Sistine Chapel . The exclusive private Out of Hours Good Morning Vatican tour must be booked months in advance and is subject to permission of the Vatican. You will be greeted by Vatican personnel and escorted through the complex by the Clavigero, holder of the 300 keys of the Vatican Museums. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and it does begin quite early in the morning. At 6 a.m. you and no more than 19 others will accompany the Clavigero to open the doors of the Vatican Museums.  

Johnny Madge: Olive Oil Tours Arrow

You'll have to trek well outside the city (close to an hour) to reach the olive groves in the Sabina country, but it's well worth the trip. Johnny Madge is an olive oil authority , judging competitions all over the world and this is his backyard. He clearly loves it, and that love is contagious. Tourees will learn to distinguish extra virgin olive oil from everything else and importantly that you do not drizzle oil on your food. You pour it. This  is best for foodies who want to get out of the city and deep dive in Roman food. 

Le Domus Romane di Palazzo Valentini: Multimedia Tour Arrow

The Domus Romane are ancient Roman villas and other structures, abandoned in antiquity, filled in with debris, and inadvertently used as foundations for Palazzo Valentini, a Renaissance palace turned government office building. They are now underground, obscured by buildings and pavement just beside Piazza Venezia. On this tour, in situ multimedia renderings recreate an Imperial Rome domus, as well as some aspects of Roman life. The guides are actual archaeologists, and the fact-checked audio is delivered cleanly. These language-specific multimedia tours are popular though, and must be booked in advance.

Tavole Romane Food Tours: The Rome Food Walking Tour Arrow

Think of Tavole Romane, the food-and-wine-focused walking tour of Rome, as getting access to the little black book of those who know the city's food scene best. Owners Gabriele and Silvia customize the tours based on the interests of each intimate group, which could mean wine bars in Trastevere or an aperitivo-heavy hop through the centro storico, led by somms, chefs, or another tapped in member of Rome's food scene.

Latteria Studio: Market to Table Arrow

This market tour and cooking class began with a wonderful walk through the market to Latteria Studios, a functional cooking studio and photo set. Alice, Rachel, and Carla, who head up the activities, are real professionals. They know everyone at the market, and they know all about food. Sitting at the table at the end of day fosters a real sense of community with what may have been a group of strangers from different countries and continents. You'll immerse yourself in Rome and make new friends at the same time. 

Cinecittà Studios: VIP Tour Arrow

This is your chance to see the studio that was once home to Fellini and Leone. It's still a working studio though, so you'll need to follow the guide's itinerary to the letter. She will know about Cinecittà though: its history, and its film productions, and its famous alumni. Also, Cinecittà owns every set that was built on the lot. Master artisans created them all—ancient Rome, a 1940s submarine, and fantastical, imagined worlds. They perfectly accurate to their settings, as well as pristinely preserved.

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Srn member links, what did ancient roman wine taste like.

A new study has unearthed the complexities of ancient winemaking and its surprising similarities with modern-day viticulture

• Olivia Nolan

The inhabitants of Ancient Rome were known for their love of wine—growing, shipping and drinking it throughout their empire. But what exactly did their wine taste like? Would we find it palatable today?

New research on the winemaking practices of Ancient Rome has found that not only was Roman winemaking far more advanced than previous studies have found, but also that Roman wine had complex flavors and colors, with many similarities to modern wine—as well as some notable differences.

Published in Cambridge University Press ’ journal Antiquity , “ Making Wine in Earthenware Vessels: A Comparative Approach to Roman Vinification ” provides evidence that ancient Roman vintners used familiar practices like controlled maceration , oxidation and pigéage , or punchdowns, to craft wines with various colors, tastes and aromas that were far more sophisticated than past research has suggested.

Lead researcher Dr. Dimitri Van Limbergen, an archaeologist and specialist in ancient viticulture at the University of Verona, explains that based on his findings, ancient Roman wines would have been most similar to today’s pétillant naturels , orange wines and red Saperavis of Georgia , where qvevri , or earthenware clay vessels, are still used for fermentation and aging. Qvevri are similar to the ancient Roman dolia investigated in the study.

“Winemaking in qvevri and dolia is both extremely straightforward and an ingenious way of producing wine,” Van Limbergen told Wine Spectator . He believes that to understand the sensory profile of Roman wines, we need to look at wines fermented in similar vessels and with similar techniques.

“Modern wine classification ideas are unhelpful to capture the nature of Roman wine,” said Van Limbergen. “Wine colors, for example, were not subdivided between white and red, as is done today. Roman wines belonged to a wide spectrum of colors ranging from white, yellow, amber, brown and then red and black.”

Archaeology Unearths Ancient Winemaking Techniques and Tastes

For their research, Van Limbergen and his team carefully analyzed dolia that had been discovered at various archaeological excavations of Roman villas in population-dense parts of the empire, such as Rome itself, as well as Ravenna and Pompeii. Each of these sites had a plethora of what are known as dolia defossa cellars—intricately designed storage and aging facilities used by the Romans to keep the dolia and the wine they contained in a temperature-controlled environment, just as winemakers the world over still do today.

The researchers found that ancient Roman vintners used many techniques akin to those of the modern day, including lees stirring, skin contact , pressings and extended aging . They also had an understanding of how complex variables such as temperature control and oxidation levels would affect the flavor profile of each wine.

For example, the study describes how archaeologists found that many dolia were coated with different amounts of substances such as pitch to control the intake of oxygen through the earthenware’s pores. That’s a reductive procedure still practiced today through vessels like stainless steel tanks. Controlling exposure to oxygen during the fermentation and aging processes would have allowed Roman wines to undergo malolactic conversion , a key aspect of the flavor profiles of some of today’s most popular wines.

Another example of ancient vintner expertise is the use of surface yeasts, such as the flor employed to make Sherry. “These surface yeasts produce several chemical compounds, including acetaldehyde and acetoin, but most notably sotolon, which is responsible for the slightly spicy taste of flor wines and imparts aromas of toasted bread, apples, roasted walnuts and curry,” writes Van Limbergen and his team in the published paper.

An Empire of Wine: Ancient Industry Insights

The intricacies and widespread nature of the dolia defossa cellars led Van Limbergen and his colleagues to posit that these discoveries show “the development of a wine industry on a scale never attained before. Their presence attests to economic prosperity in the Roman world in Late Republican and Early Imperial times.”

“At the same time,” said Van Limbergen, there is also archeological proof that “many households could afford a dolium , and winemaking was probably part of daily life in many families.” In Georgia, this is still common practice today, he points out. “Many households in Georgia today make their own wine and keep it next to the kitchen or in a cellar inside a qvevri . This must have been quite similar in the Roman world.”

Van Limbergen is excited to continue his research by conducting further analyses on dolia to discover even more details on the chemical makeup of Roman wine. He is involved with the ArchaeoAdWine project in Italy, which aims to study ancient vine-growing practices in the northern Adriatic region through the reconstruction and replication of archaeobotanical data.

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Why This Unique Tour In Rome Was My Favorite Way To Explore The City

R ome has a rich history and vibrant culture that can transport you to a different era. Long before I ever visited Rome, what I knew of the ancient city came from the movies. I’m a classic movie buff, and Roman Holiday , the 1953 romantic comedy, is my favorite film.

The story unfolds as Princess Ann, who, during a visit to Rome, escapes her guardians to explore the city. Enter a handsome newspaper reporter who whisks her away on the back of his Vespa. I’ll never forget the images of iconic landmarks in the eternal city whizzing by as the movie unfolds.

On a recent visit, I found that exploring Rome by Vespa Sidecar Tour can make you feel like you’re living a similar fantasy. 

My private Vespa Sidecar Tour was provided by Anantara Palazzo Naiadi as part of a hosted stay at the beautiful hotel. As always, all opinions are my own.

The Vespa Sidecar Tour 

The Vespa Sidecar tour offers a unique way to discover the city’s famous landmarks, hidden gems, and picturesque squares. As you motor through the bustling city, you can imagine yourself as Audrey Hepburn’s character, Princess Ann, embarking on her own Roman adventure. 

The company’s owner, Luca Di Trapano, explained that the Vespa Sidecar Tour was born in a flash of inspiration after 2 decades of giving tours in Rome. He thought the concept was genius but later learned his idea was 45 years too late.

The makers of the Vespa stopped producing the model equipped with a sidecar in 1968. Not easily deterred, he persevered and brought his dream to reality. Since 2018, Luca has welcomed over 20,000 passengers on board without a single accident. He told me, “It is like having sailed through the streets of Rome with four or five gigantic cruise ships!”

The tours are 3 hours, depending on traffic. The price is 110 euros per person (about $117) on the small group tour (12 guests max). You can take the tour solo as I did or with a companion or group. Trade places halfway through for a new perspective. A private tour’s price depends on the number of guests.

Here are several reasons why you should explore Rome on this unique Vespa tour.

Easy Meeting Point

Piazza della Repubblica is the tour meeting point. The square is well-connected and easy for drop-offs by taxis and vehicles. Take the subway Line A to the Repubblica-Teatro dell’Opera stop. It’s just a 2-minute walk from the Central Termini Railway Station.

Pro Tip: If you want somewhere to stay close by, I recommend Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Rome Hotel . A restored 19th-century, crescent-shaped palazzo, it fronts Piazza della Repubblica, where the Vespa tour starts. At the assigned time, I met my guide, Alessio, at the concierge desk. My chariot, i.e. baby blue Vespa, was waiting just outside.

The Iconic Landmarks Of Rome

Exploring the highlights of the Eternal City, we visited 12 sights, including the Spanish Steps, Piazza del Popolo, and the Borghese Gardens. There were several opportunities to stop, stretch our legs, and linger, including the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon.

It’s A Blast!

When exploring the beautiful city of Rome, I loved all the astonished looks on people’s faces as we made our way down tight alleys and broad avenues. I felt like a movie star — everyone was smiling, waving, and snapping our photo. We must have been quite a sight; something special to share with family members when you get home.

Avoid The Crowds

What’s the best way to avoid crowds and see a different side of Rome? See it on a Vespa! If you’re fearless, you could rent one yourself. But my advice? Enlist a pro. You will feel much safer riding next to or behind someone who understands the ins and outs of Rome’s streets, where locals think traffic lanes are merely suggestions.

It’s A Beautiful Ride

The Vespa is a classic: These stunning coupes from Italy are iconic on the streets of Rome. Piaggio & Co. started making the Vespa after WWII as cheap, affordable transportation. Eventually, in 1953, the hit movie Roman Holiday showed the world how great a Vespa could be, resulting in record sales. Like the Colosseum, the Italian scooter has remained a part of Italy’s landscape. You will feel like an authentic Italian in the sidecar of a Vespa.

Unique And Unforgettable Way To See The Eternal City 

Unlike larger vehicles, a Vespa can easily maneuver through tight spaces, allowing you to see more of the city’s hidden gems and local hotspots. As you zip through the streets, you’ll experience the city in an exciting and unique way. Your guide will share his knowledge of the city’s history and culture, providing insights into the backstories of the pivotal figures in the Roman Empire.

A Driver And Official Guide Rolled Into One

My driver, Alessio, wasn’t just a history buff: He’s also an official guide, which means he’s been trained to lead tours and provide in-depth information on all the sites you’ll see. He knows how to keep you engaged, entertained, and informed, making your Vespa tour an unforgettable experience. Throughout the tour, he shared fascinating facts, historical anecdotes, and his favorite neighborhoods and restaurants. With his expertise and passion for sharing the city’s rich history, you’ll have a one-of-a-kind adventure that you’ll remember for years to come. 

Radio-Connected Modern Whispers

As we cruised along the streets of Rome, Alessio provided commentary directly into my ear through a modern whisper system. He pointed out the window overlooking St. Peter’s Square where the Pope makes his Sunday address. It was chilling to see the balcony above the Piazza Venezia, where Mussolini delivered his most famous speech, the declaration of war on France and Britain in 1940.

A Sense Of Freedom And Excitement

Take in Rome’s sights, sounds, and smells from the open-air Vespa sidecar. You can enjoy the warm breeze on your face, witness the daily life of Romans, and immerse yourself in the city’s timeless beauty. 

Pro Tip: Three hours is about the right amount of time to get a taste of Rome. I saw much more than I would in a walking tour, and it was a better experience than a hop-on, hop-off bus tour — we could go where large coaches could not.

I Felt Safe 

The guides are expert drivers and the top-class helmets have face shields and disposable head covers. The passenger wears a seatbelt with a shoulder harness. We traveled at the most 24 miles per hour; just the right pace. Once you are on board, your unease fades away as you sit back, hold on, and enjoy the thrill of exploring Rome on a Vespa.

The Hidden Gems Of Rome

Rome is one of the most beautiful places in Italy and a real bucket-list destination. But allow some time to visit the hidden gems many tourists miss. Janiculum Hill, called the “Eighth Hill of Rome,” is a beautiful, often overlooked area with the best views of Rome. It’s a bit of a climb on foot, but on a Vespa, sit back and enjoy the ride. Piazzale Garibaldi in the center has the Giuseppe Garibaldi Monument with a cannon that fires daily at noon. Don’t miss the 17th-century Aqua Paola Fountain.

Cappuccino And Cornetto 

After visiting the Pantheon, we stopped for a cappuccino and cornetto, the traditional Roman breakfast choice. Our baby blue Vespa was parked nearby and I enjoyed watching how much attention it got from passersby. On the afternoon tours, customers are offered gelato instead.

Unforgettable Experience 

This is the perfect gift for someone who has done everything and an unforgettable experience for curious travelers of all ages. You will carry home remarkable moments and fun memories. 

Would I recommend Vespa Sidecar Tour? Absolutely. If this had been my first time in Rome, it would have given me a good overview of the places I would like to return to for a deeper dive. I have been to Rome several times, but until now, I’ve never seen the eternal beauty of Rome from the seat of a Vespa sidecar. And the coin I tossed into the Trevi Fountain guarantees I’ll be back.

Related Reading: 

• 9 Ways To Avoid Looking Like A Tourist In Rome
• 7 Unexpected And Unforgettable Attractions You Need To See In Rome
• 7 Best Places To Indulge In Dolce Far Niente While Visiting Rome

This article originally appeared on TravelAwaits

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Rome Visit Review April 24 - 28 2024 - Rome Forum

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For reference Rome was our last stop on our way home after visiting Turkey and Croatia.

I do want to make it very clear this is our experience visiting Rome.

It was a disappointment. I realize the crush of tourists doesn't happen until a bit later there were so many people. Every single place was packed. Every train and bus was packed. It doesn't help there is construction right outside the Colosseum but again - so many people. We had a tour organized to see the Forum and the Colosseum and were quite pleased with the tour. The group was on the smaller side and the guide was good. The area where all the guides and tourists meet up is a bit of a gong show but eventually it all gets sorted. Glad we did the tour. This was the only tour we took.

I don't recall reading anywhere on any forum about the panhandlers that are all around the tourist spots - they are aggressive, do not like taking 'no thank you' as an answer, push their items into your hands and at times block you way. They start off speaking in English then if you don't respond they start switching to a few words in various languages trying to get you to respond - lastly they say they like your hair. This was just as bad as being on a beach in Mexico. They even would stop at your table when you were sitting outside at a restaurant wanting to hawk their stuff - there was just no escape!

I had seen in my research all those quaint and cute tables outside of the restaurants, with the canopies and lights - looks so pretty and inviting. We tried a number of them and it is nothing like what social media shows. You are sitting on a part of the road with a little dirty plastic plant hedge separating you from the vehicles. The vehicles just whiz on by. Not even close to being a good experience and also noisy.

I had read that to experience good food it would be necessary to check out the restaurants away from the tourist areas - we were staying at a hotel that wasn't in the typical tourist zone so going to smaller local restaurants wasn't an issue. However the food was. We had our share of rude waiters, cold dinners and just plain not good food. You have to buy your bread if you want some - which of course we did for 3 euro - only to have it taken away when they gave us the bill. We bought it but couldn't take the couple of extra pieces with us. I'm sure it ended up on another table. The red wine we had was very good though. We ended up having just one good dinner and one exceptional dinner - the rest were disappointing. Our hotel provided breakfast so we did not experience that at a restaurant.

One of the things that bothered us the most was how dirty Rome was. While directly outside the hot tourist spots there wasn't garbage laying about that could most certainly can not be said for about a half block away and further. There was garbage and dog ** everywhere - all over the sidewalks and streets. It was so disappointing and disgusting. We didn't notice any stray dogs so perhaps it just owners that won't pick up after their dog.

We did take a bus and headed south - can't remember if it was the 118 or the 181 just to get out of the city. The bus of course was packed. We managed to have a bit of a walk in the country and that was very nice. Stopped at catacombs before catching the beyond packed bus back to the city. The catacombs were a good thing to see.

Yes, items such as beer, water etc is cheaper farther away from the tourist area shops.

We did a lot of walking in Rome - from up by the train station to Trastevere , Jewish Ghetto, Colosseum etc and everywhere in between and next to.

We had also heard how cat friendly Rome was. We didn't see one cat while we were there and it wasn't for the lack of looking. Our guide at the Colosseum pointed out the cat doors that were put into the security fencing but I doubt they will be used. Not sure how you can be considered a cat friendly city when there are none to be seen - not even strays eating discarded pizza crusts!

The train from and to the airport is certainly efficient and the service was good. We took the metro out to the ends of the line just to see what was there.

If we ever go back or our kids want to go we would certainly recommend to blast off the hot tourist things quickly and then get the heck out of the city into the country.

I hope this review helps out from our perspective.

2 replies to this topic

I've been to Rome a few times (not enough, lol) and am going back in September. I'm expecting heat and crowds and I'm sure I won't be disappointed on both fronts. But I'm planning in advance to ensure I can beat the heat where possible (air con?!) and to avoid as many of the busist spots as I possibly can.

I've been to the Colosseum a few times, same for the Forum and Palatine Hill . I want to do a walk past this year, but beyond that, will not ventue in,

Instead, I'm looking to visit places that aren't on the main tourist track.

Regarding panhandlers, Rome is very very old city, and a melting pot of cultures, so you have to expect this. I have only just returned to the Rome TA forum recently, so have no idea if these people are brought up often anymore, but I know that the last time I was going to Rome, and researching, I was well aware due to posts on this forum. Panhandlers and pickpockets.

I've also had not great meals in Rome, but also some fantastic meals too - and not just in the outer suburbs. I had an amazing meal many years ago about 5 minutes walk from the Spanish Steps . Can't remember the name now, but I could probably direct myself there once in Rome.

I hope you decide to give Rome another go in the future, but if not, then that's fine too. There is so much of the world to see, that you don't need to travel to places you don't want to!

Thanks for your honest report. Very intersting reading :)

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