Who can travel visa-free: check nationality here
Absorbed in the golden glow of its rich history, Tuscany presents an exceptional setting for a corporate retreat. The Renaissance cities of Florence, Pisa and Siena, filled with cultural treasures, inspire creativity, while the scenic landscapes, dotted with vineyards and iconic cypress trees, create a peaceful atmosphere that encourages team bonding. Tuscany’s unique blend of historical charm and natural beauty provides the ideal environment for strategic planning and collaborative team building.
With well-connected airports in Florence and Pisa, the region is easily accessible for international teams. Tuscany offers a compelling mix of cultural richness and modern convenience, making it the perfect destination for a company retreat.
Reaching Tuscany from various parts of the world is easy. The region is well-equipped to accommodate international teams, with well-connected airports, efficient public transportation, and private travel options available.
For most global teams, the easiest route is to fly into one of Tuscany’s two major airports – Florence Airport Peretola (FLR) or Pisa International Airport (PSA) – followed by convenient transport to your retreat destination. The region is well-prepared for international visitors, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey.
For larger groups or those looking for added convenience, hiring a private coach is an excellent option. Numerous local companies offer tailored services for corporate groups, providing comfortable, air-conditioned buses for airport transfers, local tours, and transport between retreat activities.
Choosing Tuscany gives you an unparalleled blend of scenic beauty, cultural richness, and diverse activities. The picturesque landscapes of the region’s countryside, with its rolling hills and historic villas, provide a serene setting for relaxation and inspiration. Teams can engage in unique activities such as wine tasting, truffle hunting, and exploring charming towns, which offer a taste of the authentic Italian lifestyle. Tuscany’s renowned cuisine and warm hospitality ensure a memorable and enriching experience for all participants.
We handle the hard work. Easily unite your team and enjoy a company retreat experience in Europe.
Tuscany offers a wide range of accommodation options that cater to teams of all sizes and preferences. For those seeking luxury and comfort, there are numerous high-end hotels and resorts, which have wellness centers, outdoor pools, and beautifully landscaped gardens. These establishments often provide comprehensive amenities including meeting rooms, fitness centers, and gourmet dining options, making them ideal for corporate retreats and team-building activities.
For a more authentic and immersive experience, teams can opt for agricultural tourism – traditional farmhouses that have been converted into charming accommodations. These properties, like the ones found in the picturesque countryside around Siena and San Gimignano, offer a unique opportunity to experience rural Tuscan life. Many such farm houses provide activities such as cooking classes, wine tasting, and guided tours of the vineyards and olive groves, which can be excellent for bonding and relaxation.
Tuscany also has a variety of boutique hotels and villas that can be rented exclusively for teams. These properties, often located in historic towns like Lucca and Arezzo, combine modern amenities with historic charm. They typically feature spacious rooms, private gardens, and sometimes even private chefs, offering a perfect blend of privacy and luxury. This type of accommodation is particularly suitable for smaller teams looking for a more intimate and personalized retreat experience.
Teams can immerse themselves in Tuscany’s rich cultural and historical heritage by visiting iconic cities like Florence, Siena, and Pisa. In Florence, exploring the Uffizi Gallery and marveling at Michelangelo’s David can be both inspiring and educational. Siena offers the chance to witness the famous Palio horse race and explore the stunning Piazza del Campo. Pisa, with its world-renowned Leaning Tower, provides a unique photo opportunity and a chance to delve into the city’s medieval history.
Tuscany is a paradise for food and wine enthusiasts. Teams can participate in cooking classes where they learn to make traditional Italian dishes like pasta and pizza from scratch. Wine tasting tours in regions such as Chianti and Montalcino offer the chance to sample some of Italy’s finest wines while enjoying the picturesque vineyard landscapes. Additionally, truffle hunting excursions in the Tuscan forests provide a unique and adventurous way to experience the local cuisine. These culinary activities are perfect for creating lasting memories.
For teams that enjoy the great outdoors, Tuscany offers a variety of adventure activities. Cycling tours through the rolling hills and scenic countryside provide a refreshing way to explore the region. Hiking in the Apuan Alps or the Val d’Orcia offers breathtaking views and a chance to connect with nature. For a more thrilling experience, teams can try canyoneering in the Garfagnana region or hot air ballooning over the Tuscan landscape. These outdoor activities strengthen team dynamics through shared challenges and experiences.
Renowned for its rich cultural heritage, Tuscany is deeply rooted in its history and artistic legacy. It is often considered the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, with Florence, its capital, playing a pivotal role in this cultural movement. The influence of notable figures such as Dante Alighieri, Petrarch, and Leonardo da Vinci is evident in the region’s art, literature, and architecture. Tuscany’s cultural identity is also reflected in its language, as the Tuscan dialect became the foundation of the Italian language due to its use in significant literary works.
The region’s artistic heritage is showcased in its numerous museums, galleries, and historical sites. Florence is home to the Uffizi Gallery and the Palazzo Pitti, which house masterpieces from renowned artists like Michelangelo and Botticelli. Beyond Florence, smaller towns such as Siena, Pisa, and San Gimignano also host impressive architectural and artistic treasures. The UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Tuscany, including the historic centers of Florence and Siena, the Cathedral of Pisa, and the Val d’Orcia, highlight the region’s cultural significance.
Local culture is also deeply intertwined with its culinary traditions and wine production. The region is famous for its wines, such as Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, which are celebrated worldwide. Tuscan cuisine, characterized by its simplicity and use of fresh, local ingredients, reflects the region’s agricultural heritage. Dishes like ribollita, pappa al pomodoro, and bistecca alla fiorentina are staples of Tuscan gastronomy, offering a taste of the region’s rich cultural tapestry.
When planning a company retreat to Tuscany, it’s important to understand visa requirements for your team. Italy is part of the Schengen area, so some travelers will need a tourist visa, but the process is straightforward.
Travelers who will need a visa to enter Italy have to submit the Schengen visa application through the official procedure.
Rights and duties of foreign nationals for entry into Italy are available at this link at DGIT - Directorate General for Italians Abroad and Migration Policies.
Always check the official website for current information about visas.
I'm Daniele, your local expert for Italy, specializing in crafting unforgettable experiences in the enchanting regions of this beautiful country. With a background in architecture, floral art, and wood craftsmanship, my passion for Italy's artistic and natural beauty runs deep. Having lived and worked in Milan, Emilia Romagna, Sicily, and Abruzzo, I've absorbed the unique charm and cultural significance of each region.
From the vibrant art scene in Milan to the culinary delights of Emilia Romagna, the rich history of Sicily, and the stunning landscapes of Abruzzo, my journey has been a tapestry of diverse experiences. My immersive exploration involves collaborating with local artisans, uncovering hidden gems, and marveling at the intricate details of Italy's wood craftsmanship—a true art form. Beyond academia and profession, I'm an enthusiastic traveler and adventurer, whether trekking the Etna trails, wandering through Tuscan vineyards, or getting lost in the charm of medieval villages in central Italy.
I'm your guide to unlocking the best of Italy, from hidden gems to renowned landmarks. Whether your interests lie in art, history, cuisine, or you're seeking personalized local recommendations, reach out for an authentic Italian experience.
Leverage the power of our local experts for a retreat to remember in Europe.
The Tuscan dialect is the most widely recognized form of the Italian language. During the 14th and 15th centuries, Tuscany became a hub of Italy’s commercial and diplomatic activities as Florence experienced significant growth. Influential Italian figures, including politicians, philosophers, and writers, favored the Tuscan dialect for its close resemblance to Latin. Through these prominent members of society, the dialect gained popularity across various regions of Italy. It wasn't until the formal unification of Italy in 1861 that the Tuscan dialect was officially established as the national language.
The roots of western music can be traced back to Florence in the mid-16th century, where a group of poets, musicians, and intellectuals, known as the Florentine Camerata, experimented with blending ancient Greek myths and music on stage. This creative exploration is widely regarded as the birthplace of some of the world’s earliest operas and eventually gave rise to the classical forms of symphonies that followed.
The Chianti region, often referred to as the "Heart of Tuscany," is renowned for producing the famous Chianti wine. Authentic Chianti is crafted using 80% Sangiovese grapes. Historically, Chianti was associated with a distinctive squat bottle wrapped in a straw basket, known as a fiasco, though this packaging is now used by only a few winemakers. Today, most Chianti is bottled in more conventional wine bottles.
Tuscany has been the birthplace of many renowned figures across various fields. Florence alone has produced influential individuals such as the poet Dante Alighieri, the sculptor Donatello, the explorer Amerigo Vespucci, the philosopher Niccolò Machiavelli, and the fashion designer Roberto Cavalli. The region was also home to the artist and inventor Leonardo da Vinci from Vinci, the astronomer Galileo Galilei from Pisa, and the composer Giacomo Puccini from Lucca. Other notable Tuscans include the author Carlo Collodi from Collodi, the artist Michelangelo Buonarotti from Caprese Michelangelo, the artist Sandro Botticelli from Florence, and the mathematician Fibonacci from Pisa.
Tuscany has eight UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the historic centers of Florence, Pisa’s Piazza del Duomo, San Gimignano, Siena, and Pienza (1996). The region also features the picturesque Val d’Orcia, the Medici villas and gardens in Florence, Vaglia, Fiesole, Prato, Cerreto Guidi, Quarrata, Carmignano, Barberino in Mugello, and Lucca, and the Great Spa Towns of Europe, which includes Montecatini Terme.
Pienza, located in Southern Tuscany, was envisioned by Pope Pius II as a utopian city. Today, while the area’s famous pecorino cheese takes center stage, visitors can still stroll through the quaint town and discover the Pope’s meticulously planned ideal city.
Pisa is home to not just one, but three leaning towers. The San Nicola bell tower, designed by the same architect as the renowned Leaning Tower of Pisa, also tilts. Additionally, the bell tower of San Michele degli Scalzi leans as well. Although it is shorter than the famous Leaning Tower, it has a steeper tilt.
The famous – The Leaning Tower of Pisa, is a bell tower known for its unintended tilt. Construction began in 1173, and the tower leans due to the soft, unstable ground it was built on, combined with a shallow three-meter foundation. The name “Pisa” means “marshland” in Greek, highlighting the unsuitable building conditions. The tower weighs 14,500 tons and houses seven bells, which no longer ring to avoid further destabilizing the structure. Despite its lean, the tower remains a popular tourist attraction and an iconic symbol of Italy.
The Vespa is an iconic Italian brand of scooters and mopeds manufactured by Piaggio. Introduced in 1946, the Vespa, which means “wasp” in Italian, was designed to provide a modern and affordable mode of transportation in post-war Italy. Known for its distinctive pressed steel unibody, flat floorboard, and front fairing, the Vespa quickly became a symbol of Italian style and practicality. Over the years, it has evolved into a full line of scooters and remains one of the seven brands owned by Piaggio.
Tuscany is predominantly characterized by its hilly and mountainous terrain, with approximately 65% of the region consisting of hills and another 25% being mountainous. If you plan to visit Tuscany for a cycling adventure, be prepared to spend most of your time navigating its numerous hills and slopes.
Tuscany is home to seven islands: Elba, Giglio, Capraia, Montecristo, Pianosa, Giannutri, and Gorgona, listed from largest to smallest. According to legend, these islands were formed when the Goddess Aphrodite lost seven beads from her necklace in the waters off the Tuscan coast, which then transformed into the islands of the Tuscan archipelago.
We handle the stress of travel and planning logistics for you. If we believe a destination isn’t the best fit for your requirements, we’ll let you know. Your goals are our top priority.
A wide variety of available activities create unforgettable experiences and enhance your team's overall satisfaction.
We offer a variety of horseback riding tours in the picturesque Tuscan countryside. These tours cater to different preferences and skill levels, ranging from short rides to full-day excursions. Participants can enjoy the stunning landscapes, including vineyards, olive groves, and medieval villages, having a great outdoor team activity. The tours also provide opportunities for wine tasting and exploring local culture. Whether your employees are beginners or experienced riders, there’s a suitable option for everyone to experience the beauty of Tuscany on horseback.
Tuscany is renowned for its numerous natural thermal springs and spa towns, many of which have been visited since ancient times. These thermal baths offer a variety of experiences, from modern spas with indoor and outdoor pools to free open-air springs. The thermal waters, rich in different minerals, are known for their therapeutic properties. Some of the notable spa towns include Gambassi Terme, Petriolo, Saturnia, and Bagni San Filippo, each offering unique historical and natural attractions.
Gambassi Terme, for instance, has been a significant site since the Neolithic Age and offers scientifically proven therapeutic waters. Petriolo’s hot springs, surrounded by beautiful woodlands, maintain a constant temperature of 43°C, making them suitable for year-round visits. Saturnia, one of Italy’s oldest towns, features the famous Cascate del Mulino waterfalls with sulfur-rich waters at 37.5°C. These locations, along with others like Venturina and Montecatini Terme, provide visitors with a perfect blend of relaxation, history, and natural beauty.
Corporate sailing team-building is an effective way to enhance teamwork and interpersonal relationships among employees. The sailing regatta is an ideal activity to develop common goals and strategies, improve problem-solving skills, and foster a sense of responsibility and commitment. The experience is designed to take participants out of their comfort zones, allowing them to face challenges that mirror real-life company dynamics. The trained skippers guide participants through their roles, ensuring a rewarding and satisfying experience for everyone, regardless of their prior sailing experience.
These activities are powerful metaphors for company processes and dynamics, helping to improve communication, leadership, and team management skills. By participating in these activities, employees can better understand the importance of collaboration and silent communication, ultimately leading to a more cohesive and effective team.
Experience a unique blend of yoga and wine tasting in the picturesque setting of Tuscany. Participants can enjoy yoga sessions led by experienced instructors, followed by guided wine tastings featuring local wines. The experience is designed to promote relaxation, mindfulness, and a deeper connection with nature, all while savoring the rich flavors of the region’s renowned wines.
In addition to yoga and wine tasting, this activity includes opportunities to explore the beautiful vineyards and learn about the winemaking process. Teams can also indulge in gourmet meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients, enhancing the overall sensory experience. This retreat aims to provide a holistic escape, combining physical wellness, culinary delights, and the serene beauty of the Italian countryside.
Experience the thrill and charm of riding a Vespa through the picturesque Tuscan hills. Embrace “La Dolce Vita” with us on our Tuscany Vespa Tours, where you'll explore the stunning Chianti region atop a true Italian classic. After a brief scooter orientation and safety session, you'll set off through rolling hills, winding your way through vineyards and olive groves, with plenty of stops to capture the breathtaking views of the countryside. Following this unforgettable ride, enjoy a traditional Tuscan lunch along with a wine and extra virgin olive oil tasting.
The pasta-making process in Tuscany can be transformed into an engaging team-building activity with a competitive twist. Teams start by gathering fresh, local ingredients to create traditional Italian pasta from scratch. Each team mixes flour and eggs to form a dough, which they knead until it reaches the perfect consistency. The dough is then rolled out into thin sheets and cut into various shapes, such as fettuccine or ravioli. Teams compete to master specific techniques, ensuring their pasta cooks evenly and holds the sauce well. The emphasis is on achieving the best texture and consistency through careful handling and precise measurements.
In addition to making the pasta, teams also prepare complementary sauces using seasonal ingredients. These sauces range from simple tomato-based ones to more complex combinations involving vegetables, meats, and herbs. The goal is to create a sauce that enhances the pasta’s flavor and texture. The activity culminates in a communal meal where teams present their dishes for judging, paired with local wines. This competitive process not only fosters teamwork and creativity but also provides a fun and immersive way to experience Italian culinary traditions.
Truffle hunting in Tuscany can be an exciting activity that combines adventure, learning, and collaboration. Teams embark on a guided hunt through the Tuscan forests, accompanied by trained dogs that help locate the elusive truffles. The activity begins with a briefing on the types of truffles found in the region, their natural habitats, and the techniques used to find and extract them. The experience also includes learning about the truffle’s biological cycle and how to distinguish high-quality truffles from inferior ones.
After the hunt, teams can enjoy a tasting session where they sample the truffles they have found, often paired with local wines and other regional delicacies. This activity offers a unique insight into the rich culinary traditions of Tuscany, making it a memorable and educational experience for all involved.
The art and painting class offers an unique and immersive experience in the heart of Tuscany, perfect for a company retreat. Participants will enjoy a serene environment surrounded by the picturesque Chianti countryside, which provides ample inspiration for creativity. The classes cater to all skill levels, from beginners to experienced artists, and are led by a passionate and experienced local teacher. The program is personalized to meet the needs and goals of each participant, covering various techniques in watercolor and acrylic painting. The sessions can be held indoors in a well-equipped studio or outdoors, allowing participants to capture the stunning landscapes directly onto their canvases.
The painting classes are designed to be both educational and enjoyable, with a focus on developing personal artistic styles and expressions. Participants will learn about color theory, composition, and different painting techniques, all while being guided in a supportive and motivating environment. Improve your painting skills while having a memorable and enriching experience, making it an ideal choice for team-building and creative exploration.
This bike tour offers an immersive cycling experience through the picturesque Chianti region, known for its stunning landscapes and world-class wines. Participants will cycle through gentle hills adorned with vineyards and olive groves, visit charming stone villages, and explore historic sites. This six-hour tour is designed for cyclists of all levels and includes an English-speaking guide, e-bike with helmet and water, and optional services like trekking or gravel bikes, lunch at a local restaurant, and van support.
Ideal for a company retreat, this bike tour combines physical activity with team bonding in a beautiful setting. Whether cycling through the scenic countryside or enjoying a wine tasting, the Chianti Bike Tour provides a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration, making it an excellent choice for team-building activities.
The Tuscany Grape Harvest Experience offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the traditional “vendemmia” or grape harvest. This activity, taking place from late August to early October, allows participants to engage in hands-on grape picking and stomping, guided vineyard tours, and wine tasting sessions. The experience is designed to provide an understanding of the winemaking process, from the meticulous selection of grapes to the final product. Teams will also enjoy the scenic beauty of Tuscany’s rolling hills and historic vineyards, making it a memorable cultural and educational experience.
Ideal for a company retreat, this experience combines team-building activities with the rich traditions of Tuscan winemaking. Participants will not only learn about the art of grape harvesting but also enjoy local culinary delights paired with the estate’s wines. The guided tours offer insights into the history and cultivation methods of the vineyards, while the wine tasting sessions allow participants to savor a variety of wines, from fresh young varieties to mature vintages. This immersive experience provides a perfect blend of education, relaxation, and cultural exploration, making it an excellent choice for fostering team spirit and creativity.
The balloon flight experience in Tuscany begins at dawn, offering beautiful views of the region’s rolling hills, vineyards, and historic villages. The flight lasts just over an hour and concludes with a traditional Champagne toast and a hearty breakfast featuring local delicacies. People can enjoy private flights for a more personalized experience or join group flights. The season typically runs from late spring to early autumn, ensuring optimal weather conditions for a safe and enjoyable flight. The journey is complemented by the expertise of highly qualified pilots and the charm of Tuscany’s picturesque landscapes.
This is an engaging team-building activity in Florence, where participants embark on a treasure hunt through the city’s historic streets. This activity combines fun and competition as teams solve clues to discover hidden mysteries and iconic landmarks such as Piazza del Duomo, Giotto’s Bell Tower, and the Uffizi Gallery. The event is designed to foster teamwork and cooperation while allowing participants to explore Florence’s rich cultural heritage.
Participants will enjoy a 3-hour adventure that includes visits to notable sites like the Museo Casa di Dante, the Baptistery of St. John, and the Fountain of Neptune. The City Hunt is not only a sightseeing tour but also an opportunity to learn more about oneself and colleagues in a unique and interactive way. Led by experienced guides, this team-building activity promises memorable moments and a deeper appreciation of Florence’s historical and artistic treasures.
Experience the ultimate olive oil tasting in Tuscany at a picturesque estate nestled in the heart of the Chianti region. Begin with a guided tour of scenic olive groves, learning about different types of Tuscan olive trees and traditional hand-harvesting methods. The tasting session includes premium extra virgin olive oils, such as Chianti Classico DOP and Toscana IGP, along with unique aromatic oils. Expert guides will help you distinguish the rich flavors and aromas of each oil, enhancing your culinary knowledge. Enjoy authentic Tuscan appetizers paired with the oils, and gain insight into the meticulous process behind producing high-quality, small-batch olive oils.
This educational and delicious adventure offers a deep dive into the world of authentic Tuscan olive oil. Participants will savor the rich flavors, beautiful landscapes, and timeless traditions of Tuscany. The experience is ideal for food lovers and culinary enthusiasts, providing a unique opportunity to explore the nuances of olive oil production and its culinary applications. The tasting also includes a selection of local products expertly paired with fine wines, making it a memorable and enriching experience in one of Italy’s most famous culinary regions.
The cooking class challenge offers a unique team-building experience in Florence, where participants are divided into teams to prepare a full meal from scratch under the guidance of a professional chef. The event emphasizes teamwork and communication as teams compete to create the best dishes, which are judged on taste, accuracy, and presentation. The challenge concludes with a shared meal featuring the prepared dishes and selected local wines, providing a fun and interactive way to bond and enjoy authentic Italian cuisine.
The wine tasting challenge is a team-building activity in Florence that combines fun and learning. Participants are guided by an expert sommelier through a tasting game featuring both red and white wines, including some mystery selections. The event emphasizes team bonding and friendly competition, with the sommelier sharing insights and anecdotes about Italian wines. The challenge concludes with the announcement of a winner and can be followed by a dinner, making it a memorable and engaging experience for all involved.
Chart source: meteoblue.com
Effortlessly unite your team and enjoy a memorable retreat in Europe.