Behind the Table in Tuscany

This is not a tour from the sidelines. This is Tuscany from the inside—up close, hands-on, and impossibly delicious. We’ll go behind the scenes with small, traditional producers who define the region’s most beloved foods, from the historic streets of Florence to the rolling hills of Chianti Classico. Along the way, we’ll eat, taste, and learn our way through one of Italy’s most treasured culinary landscapes—one bite, one glass, and one unforgettable story at a time.

Tuscany is the birthplace of Zingerman’s Food Tours—and truly our home away from home. Traveling with our longtime Italian collaborator and Florence local, Bernardo Conticelli, we’ll step into places most travelers never even find, let alone enter: family-run kitchens, storied workshops, and iconic culinary destinations where tradition still rules. We’ll meet the people behind the food, hear the stories that shape it, and experience flavors you simply can’t access on your own—because they aren’t on the menu, they’re behind the scenes.

Who?

The trip is designed for experienced travelers with a passion for great food that is still made the way it was done hundreds of years ago – food that is deeply connected to the people and culture of the place. Our guests are adults of all ages, who enjoy walking, and enjoy exploring places on their own as well as with the group. We keep the group small. Up to 12 guests traveling with two experienced hosts.

What’s Included?

• Behind the scenes visits to artisanal producers of some of the most outstanding food of Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna.

• Wonderful food – almost all meals. We will enjoy traditional regional specialties made from local, fresh ingredients, some of which we’ve made ourselves.

• Cooking lessons with local chefs in a lovely Tuscan kitchen.

• A Zingerman’s tour host and our guide will be at your disposal at all times.

• Recipes of the dishes we will make together, to take home with you.

• Transportation by air-conditioned private bus during the tour.

What’s not included?

Airfare.

Alcoholic beverages (other than beverages with dinner or when they are specifically included in the itinerary).

Personal spending money.

A few meals on your own.

What about accommodations?

Guest will stay in the heart of Florence in historical accommodations on the local side of the Arno and only a few blocks off the river—a truly central and prime location.

Day 1

April 19

Day 2

Day 3

Prepare for an immersive Tuscan cooking class led by passionate local chefs today. Using the freshest seasonal ingredients, you’ll create traditional dishes that reflect the heart of Italian home cooking.
We’ll savor our handmade creations together — a celebration of flavor, community, and the beauty of sharing a meal.

This afternoon you can enjoy free time to relax at the hotel or wander Florence’s charming streets, shops, and hidden corners at your own pace.

Dinner tonight is at a cozy wine bar renowned for its exceptional charcuterie, artisanal cheeses, and carefully paired local wines.

Day 4

This morning we’ll say farewell to Florence as we venture into the Chianti countryside. Along the way we’ll stop at an artisanal pasta workshop where time-honored traditions meet unmatched craftsmanship. Watch masters at work and pick up techniques you can take home.

We’ll enjoy a private countryside lunch hosted by a local winemaker. The combination of our host’s soulful wines and heartfelt hospitality, this intimate experience captures the true essence of rural Tuscany.

After lunch we’ll check into our countryside retreat. Take time to unwind, stroll the grounds, or relax with a glass of wine before the evening’s festivities.

Dinner tonight is at an enchanting spot tucked deep into the Tuscan hills. Expect rustic charm, local wines, and dishes that celebrate the land, all under a canopy of stars — a truly magical evening.

Day 5

We’ll begin the day with an olive oil tasting and learn how this liquid gold is crafted and taste the nuanced flavors that make Tuscan oils among the finest in the world.

Next, we visit a rising star of the Chianti Classico region. This small estate has quickly gained acclaim for its stunning Sangiovese wines. Meeting these visionary winemakers is sure to be an inspiring highlight.

Back at the hotel, we’ll gather for another hands-on cooking class with local chefs. Together, we’ll prepare a traditional Tuscan feast — then sit down to enjoy the dishes we’ve created, sharing stories and laughter over a meal made with heart.

Day 6

Today begins with a visit to an artisanal cheese producer. We’ll explore their craft and enjoy a guided tasting of exceptional cheeses born from generations of passion and skill.

For lunch we will indulge in an iconic Tuscan experience with world-renowned butcher. This spirited, joyful meal is always a guest favorite — a celebration of food, personality, and tradition. Afterward, we return to the hotel for some well-deserved rest.

Dinner tonight is optional. We’ll share final details as the day unfolds.

DAY 7

We’ll enjoy a scenic drive to a breathtaking family-run estate in the Tuscan hills. Surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, we’ll spend the day with the estate’s owners, exploring their cellars, gardens, and kitchen before enjoying a relaxed family-style lunch featuring their personal recipes and exquisite wines.

Back at our hotel, we’ll gather for a final dinner together — a time to toast new friendships, unforgettable flavors, and the memories we’ve created over the past week.

DAY 8

After breakfast, we’ll say our goodbyes and transfer back to Florence. Depart with a full heart, new friends, and a taste of Tuscany you’ll never forget.

Your adventure is waiting.