From Civitavecchia: Tuscany-Latium Wine Tour with Tastings

Travelers cruising into Civitavecchia often find themselves rushing to iconic spots like Florence or Pisa. But for those wanting a more intimate, authentic taste of Tuscany—away from the crowds—this Tuscany-Latium Wine Tour offers an inviting alternative. Spanning around 7.5 hours, the experience combines boutique winery visits, scenic countryside, and a soothing stop at Saturnia’s famed hot springs.

What we love about this tour? First, the chance to explore the less touristy side of Tuscany—the Maremma region—where the landscape is just as breathtaking but the vibe is more relaxed. Second, the small-group format means more personalized attention and a laid-back atmosphere. However, it’s worth noting that this type of tour works best for those who enjoy wine, scenic drives, and a bit of outdoor relaxation. If you’re seeking a fast-paced city sightseeing day, this might not be your best fit. But if you’re after authentic flavors, stunning views, and a break from big crowds, this tour hits the spot.

Key Points

• Authentic Tuscany Experience: Visit the quieter Maremma region, not the typical tourist spots.
• Comfortable Transport: Stress-free round-trip transfer from Civitavecchia with a knowledgeable driver.
• Wine & Food: Sample wines at boutique wineries, paired with local delicacies.
• Unique Stops: Relax at Saturnia hot springs and explore two distinct wineries.
• Small Group: Max of 8 travelers for a more personalized experience.
• Value for Price: Includes all taxes, fees, tastings, and transportation, making it a convenient package.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour kicks off early at Largo della Pace in Civitavecchia, where your driver greets you with a sign bearing your name. This organized pick-up ensures you avoid the hassle of navigating public transport, which is especially appreciated after a long cruise day. The shared transport, usually with a small group of up to eight people, creates a cozy atmosphere and allows for a relaxed conversation with your driver—who, based on reviews, is generally knowledgeable and friendly.

Timing-wise, the tour begins at 8:45 am, giving you plenty of time to settle in and enjoy the day without feeling rushed. The return is seamless, ending back at the original meeting point.

First Stop: Villa Acquaviva – La Fattoria

The journey takes you into the rolling Tuscan hills of the Maremma. Villa Acquaviva offers a picture-perfect setting—surrounded by vineyards and countryside. Here, we loved the chance to learn about Morellino di Scansano, the region’s signature red wine, known for its versatility and boldness. The winery’s varied production means you get to taste different styles, from more traditional reds to innovative blends, which helps in understanding what makes this area special.

Guests have commented on the “great experience” of seeing the wine-making process firsthand. Some reviews emphasize the winery’s friendly, rustic atmosphere—more intimate and less polished than larger commercial estates—giving you a true taste of local craftsmanship. The tasting session typically lasts about an hour, allowing time to savor the wines, ask questions, and enjoy some local snacks.

Second Stop: Cascate del Mulino (Saturnia Hot Springs)

No trip to Tuscany would be complete without a soak, and this tour’s highlight for many is the Saturnia hot springs. These natural pools, heated to a comfortable 37°C (98°F) year-round, offer a relaxing break from the wine tasting. The sulfur-rich water, however, does produce a distinctive rotten egg smell, which some reviewers found surprising but manageable once immersed.

Travelers praise Saturnia for its stunning waterfalls and pools, with many noting that it’s a calm and scenic spot—a perfect place to unwind and recharge. It’s a 1-hour stop, and while the water is free to enjoy, be prepared for the sulfur smell. Some guests appreciated the opportunity to take photos and enjoy the natural surroundings.

Third Stop: Az. Agr. Roccapesta

The last winery visit is at Roccapesta, which offers a slightly different experience—more rustic and intimate compared to the first winery. This gives you a chance to see yet another facet of Tuscan wine production, often with fewer travelers around. Here, the focus remains on local winemaking traditions and smaller-scale production, giving you deeper insight into the region’s wine culture.

Guests have described this part of the tour as relaxed and insightful, with the opportunity to taste a variety of wines and learn about the local terroir. The 1.5-hour visit feels like a peek into a family-run estate—authentic and welcoming.

Overall Value and Practicalities

The $289.40 per person price includes all taxes, fees, tastings, and transportation, which makes it a convenient package for a day trip from Civitavecchia. When you consider the cost of private transfers, winery visits, and entry fees, this all-in-one experience offers good value. Plus, with the added bonus of visiting Saturnia hot springs, you get a mix of sensory pleasures—sights, tastes, and relaxation.

The tour’s small group size ensures an intimate experience, with personalized attention from guides and drivers. Reviewers consistently highlight the knowledgeable guides, especially Nicoletta, who is praised for her friendly demeanor and insight into the region.

Timing-wise, the schedule is well-paced. You spend about an hour at each winery, which is enough to enjoy the tasting and take in the scenery without feeling rushed. The 1-hour stay at Saturnia allows enough time to relax and soak, although some may wish for a longer dip.

What Travelers Are Saying

Leslie from October 2023 described the tour as “a great experience” with “fantastic tour guide Nicoletta,” emphasizing the memorable nature of the day. Mark, who took the tour in June, appreciated the “stunning views,” the “very nice wines,” and the driver’s professionalism. Amanda highlighted the diversity of the winery experiences—one more upscale and the other more rustic—giving her a rounded understanding of Tuscan wine-making.

Additional Considerations

While the tour is designed to be leisurely, it’s worth noting that it involves a fair amount of driving—roughly 1.5 hours each way. For travelers prone to motion sickness or those who prefer walking-heavy sightseeing, this is a good thing to keep in mind. Also, since the tour stops at outdoor locations, dress appropriately for weather conditions.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine lovers eager to explore less touristy parts of Tuscany. It suits those who enjoy a relaxed pace, scenic countryside, and authentic experiences over crowded attractions. It’s also perfect if you want a comfortable, organized day with transportation taken care of, especially after a cruise.

However, if you’re looking for a high-energy, fast-paced sightseeing day, or prefer larger, more commercial wineries, you might find this tour’s intimacy and slower rhythm less aligned with your preferences.

The Sum Up

This Civitavecchia-based Tuscany-Latium Wine Tour offers a genuine look into the quieter, more authentic side of Tuscany. Visiting boutique wineries, soaking in Saturnia’s famed hot springs, and enjoying local wines paired with regional snacks makes for a well-rounded, memorable day.

The small-group setting, knowledgeable guides, and scenic countryside all add to its appeal. While the sulfur smell at Saturnia might not be for everyone, most travelers appreciate the combination of sensory delights and relaxing natural beauty.

If you’re after a laid-back, authentic, and immersive experience that takes you off the beaten path, this tour provides excellent value and plenty of authentic moments. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate good wine, beautiful landscapes, and a touch of Tuscan tranquility—making it a perfect addition to a cruise or a day trip from Rome.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Civitavecchia’s Largo della Pace is included, making the logistics simple and stress-free.

What is the group size?
The tour operates with a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a small, intimate experience.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 7.5 hours, starting at 8:45 am and returning to the meeting point afterward.

Are there wine tastings at both wineries?
Yes, each winery visit includes tastings of local wines, primarily focusing on the region’s signature Morellino di Scansano.

Can I visit Saturnia hot springs if I don’t like sulfur?
You can enjoy the scenic pools and relax in the hot springs, but keep in mind the sulfur smell is quite strong and characteristic of these natural pools.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, the experience is best suited for adults or older children who appreciate wine and outdoor activities.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor walking and weather conditions. Bring a swimsuit or towel if you plan to soak in the hot springs.

Are gratuities included?
No, gratuities are optional and not included in the price.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if plans change unexpectedly.

This tour offers a meaningful taste of Tuscany’s less-visited but equally enchanting side—perfect for those seeking serenity, authentic flavors, and genuine local charm.