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TUSCANY

Florence, Lucca, San Gimignano, Siena, Piensa, Montepulciano, Cortona, and Val d’Orcia

TUSCANY

CINQUE TERRE

SICILY

NAPLES & AMALFI

PUGLIA

VENICE CARNIVAL

Renaissance architecture, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage await you.

Our 7-day Tuscany Photo Tour is a journey into a land where beauty unfolds in every direction, a place where the landscapes and towns seem to have been painted by the hand of an artist. The rolling hills are draped in a patchwork of golden wheat fields, verdant vineyards, and silvery olive groves, all stretching out under a sky that shifts from soft dawn pastels to the deep, rich hues of sunset.

As we explore the region, the medieval towers of San Gimignano rise majestically against the horizon, their ancient stones glowing in the afternoon light. In Florence, the heart of the Renaissance, every corner reveals a new masterpiece, from the intricate facades of the Duomo to the graceful arches of the Ponte Vecchio, reflected in the tranquil waters of the Arno River. The streets of Siena wind like a labyrinth through history, leading you to the grand Piazza del Campo, where the interplay of light and shadow creates a scene of timeless elegance. Lucca, with its charming city walls and tree-lined boulevards, offers serene moments where you can capture the gentle rhythm of Tuscan life. In Pienza, the perfectly proportioned Renaissance architecture opens onto sweeping views of the Val d’Orcia, where the landscape becomes a living, breathing work of art. Cortona, perched high on a hillside, offers breathtaking vistas that seem to stretch to infinity, while Montepulciano, with its stately palazzos and winding streets, invites you to lose yourself in its quiet beauty. Each location, from the iconic cypress-lined roads of Val d’Orcia to the hidden corners of ancient towns, offers endless photographic opportunities to capture the essence of Tuscany’s beauty, a place where every frame is a testament to the harmonious blend of nature and human creativity.

This adventure is designed to guide you to the most photogenic locations carefully planned for the best light and to aid you in mentally visualizing a scene before capturing the decisive moment. Our aim is to raise your awareness and spark your creativity so that you not only go home with images to be proud of but also use your newfound skills to improve and expand your photographic technique in general. Apart from the technical aspect of learning your camera settings and capabilities, you will learn how to turn an ordinary image into an extraordinary one by using your creativity.

In addition, you will become knowledgeable about how to survey the landscape, utilize and approach your environment, photograph people indigenous to the region, and the cultural considerations and challenges of photographing in a foreign country. Our time together will include individual and group discussions, inspiring ideas, and great fun. We cannot think of a better location to express your creativity than Tuscany!

As we explore the region, the medieval towers of San Gimignano rise majestically against the horizon, their ancient stones glowing in the afternoon light. In Florence, the heart of the Renaissance, every corner reveals a new masterpiece, from the intricate facades of the Duomo to the graceful arches of the Ponte Vecchio, reflected in the tranquil waters of the Arno River. The streets of Siena wind like a labyrinth through history, leading you to the grand Piazza del Campo, where the interplay of light and shadow creates a scene of timeless elegance. Lucca, with its charming city walls and tree-lined boulevards, offers serene moments where you can capture the gentle rhythm of Tuscan life. In Pienza, the perfectly proportioned Renaissance architecture opens onto sweeping views of the Val d’Orcia, where the landscape becomes a living, breathing work of art. Cortona, perched high on a hillside, offers breathtaking vistas that seem to stretch to infinity, while Montepulciano, with its stately palazzos and winding streets, invites you to lose yourself in its quiet beauty. Each location, from the iconic cypress-lined roads of Val d’Orcia to the hidden corners of ancient towns, offers endless photographic opportunities to capture the essence of Tuscany’s beauty, a place where every frame is a testament to the harmonious blend of nature and human creativity.

This adventure is designed to guide you to the most photogenic locations carefully planned for the best light and to aid you in mentally visualizing a scene before capturing the decisive moment. Our aim is to raise your awareness and spark your creativity so that you not only go home with images to be proud of but also use your newfound skills to improve and expand your photographic technique in general. Apart from the technical aspect of learning your camera settings and capabilities, you will learn how to turn an ordinary image into an extraordinary one by using your creativity.

In addition, you will become knowledgeable about how to survey the landscape, utilize and approach your environment, photograph people indigenous to the region, and the cultural considerations and challenges of photographing in a foreign country. Our time together will include individual and group discussions, inspiring ideas, and great fun. We cannot think of a better location to express your creativity than Tuscany!

Group Size

4-6 Guests

Experience | Difficulty

  • Beginner, amateur, enthusiast and semi-pro photographers
  • DSLR, mirrorless, compact or iPhone cameras
  • Moderate schedule
  • Travel by car or minibus
  • Moderate elevation changes and some walking
  • (non-photographers also welcome)

Weather | Sun

May – Temps 70/49 F  21/10 C  Sunrise 6:11 | Sunset 8:13 (20:13)
September – Temps 83/60 F  28/16 C  Sunrise 6:46 | Sunset 7:36 (19:36)

Includes

  • 7 Days
  • Travel, landscape, seascape, architecture, and people photography
  • Professional photographer | guide
  • Photo walks & discussions
  • Small group size (4-6 guests)
  • Premiun Hotels
  • Breakfasts
  • 2 dinners
  • Local transportation

Travel Information

Arrival & Departure Airports: Florence (FLR) – Travel time to hotel 20 min.
You may also use the following airports to connect to Florence by train: Pisa (PSA), Milan (MXP), or Rome (FCO). 
Our adventure begins at 11 AM on the first day and ends at noon on the last day.
Travel Visa: A visa may be required depending on your nationality. We suggest you use iVisa.com They are excellent at providing quick service for obtaining travel visas.

Accommodations

Florence – Hotel Centrale, Hotel De La Ville, Floren Luxury Hotel, or similar 
Montepulciano – Villa Poggiano, Agriturismo La Bruciata, or similar

 

Helpful Links

> Tuscany for Photographers – by Ian Robert Knight

Tuscany Prices & Dates


Photographer Leader

Photographer Leader

Attilio Di Giangiacomo

September 7-13, 2025
September 6-12, 2026

*All prices are per person and based on double occupancy. Please select single occupancy for a private room. For your convenience, we offer optional early arrival and late departure accommodations so you can extend your stay before or after the trip. We typically stay in upscale boutique hotels in the 4 and 5-star category. Not all destinations offer these types of properties. We look for unique hotels that offer cultural, historic, and/or authentic features. Depending on the size of the group, smaller boutique hotels may have limited room inventory. In some countries or in remote locations, we may be limited to lodges or branded chain hotels. In Cuba, we stay in upscale family-owned Casas (bread & breakfasts). On all of our tours, breakfast is almost always included, but not guaranteed. Meal categories listed include (B) for breakfast, (L) for lunch, and (D) for dinner.

UPCOMING WORKSHOPS

TUSCANY 8 DAYS

Day 1 | Florence

We meet at our hotel in the center of Florence in the morning, where we’ll begin our Tuscany Photo Adventure. Florence is located in northern Tuscany and is home to some of the most stunning Renaissance art and architecture. Both provide a wealth of photographic opportunities, especially during the atmospheric conditions experienced during the early morning light and golden hour sunsets. We’ll capture the iconic Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Duomo), with its striking dome designed by Brunelleschi. We’ll explore the Uffizi Gallery and Piazza della Signoria for statues and Renaissance masterpieces. Take sunset shots along the Arno River, where the light reflects off the water, casting a warm glow over the city. In the evening we’ll celebrate with a “Welcome Dinner” at one of our favorite Italian restaurants. (D)

Day 2 | Florence

We begin our day with early morning shots at Piazzale Michelangelo, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, the Arno River, and the Ponte Vecchio bathed in soft, golden light.

After, we’ll visit Sant’Ambrogio Market, one of Florence’s most historic markets. The market is an excellent place to have breakfast and focus on people photography. Florence’s markets are a vibrant part of the city’s cultural and commercial life, offering a glimpse into its rich history, local traditions, and the everyday life of Florentines. Located in the heart of the old city, this market has been a bustling hub for centuries, where locals and visitors shop for fresh produce, artisan goods, and unique souvenirs. Sant’Ambrogio has been serving Florentines since the late 19th century and is one of Florence’s most authentic local markets. The indoor section offers a wide range of fresh produce, meats, fish, and cheeses, while the outdoor section features vendors selling clothing, household goods, and fresh flowers.

After lunch, we’ll continue exploring the center of the city and the nearby neighborhoods, focusing on street photography, documentary portraits, architecture, and cityscapes. (B)

Day 3 | Florence - Lucca

On day three, we depart for the medieval walled city of Lucca, just one hour west of Florence. From here, we will set out for a day of photography in this ancient yet stylish northern Tuscan city. Lucca is a city renowned for its well-preserved Renaissance walls—these walls offer elevated views of the historic center and distant hills. We’ll photograph the unique Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, a circular square built on a Roman amphitheater’s remains, offering a charming, enclosed space perfect for wide-angle shots. The Torre Guinigi, with its rooftop garden, provides a unique vantage point, while the Lucca Cathedral offers intricate Gothic architecture to explore with your camera. Lucca has become a favorite among many of our guests. In the evening we’ll return to our hotel in Florence. (B)

Day 4 | San Gimignano - Siena - Montepulciano

On day four, we depart Florence early for the rolling hills of southern Tuscany. We begin with a stop in San Gimignano, famous for its medieval towers. The town’s skyline, dotted with these ancient structures, is particularly photogenic, especially from a distance. We’ll wander through the narrow, cobblestone streets, capturing the rustic charm and the interplay of light and shadow among the stone buildings. The Piazza della Cisterna and Piazza del Duomo are key spots for architectural shots, while the surrounding countryside, with vineyards and rolling hills, provides beautiful landscape photography opportunities.

After lunch, we depart for Siena, the medieval heart of Tuscany. They say that Siena is a “State of Mind,” and perhaps they are right. It has an allure that grabs hold of you and has you returning for more. Siena dates back to 900 B.C. and is declared a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Italy’s most visited cities. The Piazza del Campo is one of Europe’s most remarkable squares. The unique shell-shaped design of the square, with the towering Torre del Mangia and the historic Palazzo Pubblico, provide a dramatic backdrop. The Siena Cathedral (Duomo di Siena) is one of the most dramatic Duomos in Italy, with its intricate Gothic facade and richly decorated interiors. We’ll explore the winding streets that radiate from the piazza, each offering unique perspectives and intimate scenes of daily life.

After, we’ll settle into our hotel near the rural medieval city of Montepulciano. (B)

Day 5 | Val d’Orcia - Cypress Groves - Montepulciano

Today, we are up very early to explore Val d’Orcia and capture breathtaking landscapes, likely including the rolling fog that southern Tuscany is known for. This area is famous for its idyllic landscapes, rolling hills, cypress-lined roads, and isolated farmhouses that have become iconic images of Tuscany. The Cappella della Madonna di Vitaleta, a small chapel set amid the fields, is a must-photograph location, particularly at sunrise or sunset when the light enhances the serene beauty of the landscape. The Horti Leonini gardens and the Romanesque Collegiata di San Quirico church offer additional opportunities for capturing the historical and natural beauty of the area. We’ll have lunch in San Quirico d’Orcia, a small, picturesque town in the heart of the Val d’Orcia.

In the late afternoon, we’ll visit Montepulciano, known for its narrow, winding streets, which are a photographer’s delight. We’ll capture the charm of the cobblestone alleys, lined with stone buildings, artisan shops, and flower-adorned balconies. We’ll look for unique perspectives, such as doorways and arches framing views of the town or countryside. The interplay of light and shadow in these narrow streets, especially in the early morning or late afternoon, creates a dramatic effect in your photos.

The Piazza Grande in the heart of Montepulciano is surrounded by impressive buildings, including the Palazzo Comunale, which resembles Florence’s Palazzo Vecchio, and the Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta), both offering fantastic architectural photography opportunities. We’ll have dinner in Montepulciano. (B)

Day 6 | Piensa - Cortona

We begin our day with more southern Tuscan landscape opportunities. A morning stroll and early lunch in Pienza, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a gem of Renaissance urban planning. The town is perched on a hill overlooking the stunning Val d’Orcia, making it ideal for capturing panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside. The Piazza Pio II and the Pienza Cathedral offer beautiful examples of Renaissance architecture. The town’s narrow streets and charming squares, like Via del Bacio (Street of the Kiss), are perfect for capturing the romantic essence of Tuscany.

After lunch, we set out to discover Cortona, a small charming town in the Valdichiana, or Chiana Valley, in the province of Arezzo in southern Tuscany. The city, enclosed by stone walls dating back to Etruscan and Roman times, sits on the top of a hill about 600 meters (about 1968 feet) above sea level. This dominant position over the valley offers a spectacular view from all over the town of the surrounding valley and even Lake Trasimeno.

Our afternoon and evening in Cortona will be spent inside and outside city walls, taking in all Cortona has to offer. In Cortona, we’ll enjoy a wonderful “Farewell Dinner” with our group. (B) (D)

Day 7 | Montepulciano - Florence

After an early morning shoot, breakfast, and a review of our photos, we’ll check out of our hotel in Montepulciano and return to Florence for your departure. In Florence, you can catch a train elsewhere or depart from the city’s international airport.

We urge you to extend your stay in Italy or elsewhere in Italy and use all the wonderful photographic techniques you will learn on our amazing photo adventure. (B)

(B) Breakfast, (L) Lunch, (D) Dinner, (E) Excursion

 

May all who come as guests... leave as friends®

 

OPTIONS AND BENEFITS

Pricing

All prices are per person and based on double occupancy. Please select single occupancy for a private room. For your convenience, we offer optional early arrival and late departure accommodations so you can extend your stay before or after the trip. We typically stay in boutique hotels in the 4-star category. Not all destinations offer these types of properties. We look for unique hotels which offer cultural, historic and/or authentic features. Depending on the size of the group, smaller boutique hotels may have limited room inventory. In some countries or in remote locations, we may be limited to lodges or branded chain hotels. Breakfast is included only if included in our room rates.

Private Guided Adventures

We offer amazing private guided photo adventures, cultural tours and vacations for individuals, couples, families and groups. We can customize any of our published adventures, as well as others, to meet your individual needs, schedule, budget and interests. This may include the finest 5-star accommodations, business-class travel, and private guides and fixers who are able to make the impossible possible. If you are not interested in a photo-centric vacation, but you love our approach to private travel, we will be happy to design and deliver an amazing adventure focused on travel, culture and cuisine. Click here to request a quote. Feel free to call us at 1-888-834-0288 or contact us for more information.

Travel Insurance

We offer travel insurance through the internationally recognized Travelex Travel Insurance Company, as well as evacuation and medical transportation insurance through MedJet, one of the best in the industry.

The cost for travel insurance can be as low as 4% of the total trip cost, depending upon age and other factors. Knowing you have trip cancellation coverage can make a big difference should you have to cancel for some unforeseen reason. Travelex Insurance Services is a BBB Accredited business with an A+ rating. Click here to learn more about why you should consider travel insurance.

Rewards Program

Start earning points today and SAVE $200 - $900 off future trips!
Simply register for one of our amazing photo adventures and begin earning points today!

How The Program Works
For every adventure reservation you make with Photo Workshop Adventures, you earn valuable points which you can redeem on your next trip. This is a great way to save up to 8% off future trips. Our Rewards Program is designed with three tiers: Orange, Gold and VIP Members. Points may be applied towards balance payments on your next trip, or you may choose to accumulate points for a free trip in the future.

ORANGE REWARDS
All guests begin with our Orange Rewards Program (Level 1), which earns 4 points for every dollar you spend. You begin earning points immediately after your first trip. A $5,900 spend earns 23,600 points with a value of $236 USD.

GOLD REWARDS
With our Gold Rewards Program (Level 2), you earn 6 points for every dollar you spend. Orange Members who reach 120,000 accumulated lifetime* points (approx. 4-6 trips), automatically move up to Gold Rewards. A $5,900 spend earns 35,400 points with a value of $354 USD.

Additional Gold Benefits:

  • Earn up to double points during promotional events
  • Advance notifications for upcoming adventures and special offers

VIP REWARDS
With our VIP Rewards Program (Level 3), you earn 8 points for every dollar you spend. Gold Members who reach 350,000 accumulated lifetime* points (approx. 8-12 trips) move up to VIP Rewards. A $5,900 spend earns 47,200 points with a value of $472 USD, (8+/-% discount).

Additional VIP Benefits:

  • Earn up to double points during promotional events
  • Advance notifications for upcoming adventures and special offers
  • Ability to Gift or Transfer points to others
  • Receive complimentary airport transfers at the destination location*

Redeeming Your Points
Redeeming your points couldn’t be easier. You can always log in to your account to check your points balance. When you are ready to book your next trip, register and pay your deposit. When you go to pay your balance you will be given the option to apply your points and receive a discount.

THINK ORANGE Magazine

Subscribe to our Think Orange Magazine and eNews. THINK ORANGE is a wonderful mix of stories and tips related to travel, photography, adventure, culture, art, technology, cuisine, lifestyle, people and more. Our objective is to immerse you in a world you may only fantasize about. Raise your awareness and inspire your creativity. Perhaps even help make you a better photographer. We deliver similar experiential experiences that our guests enjoy on our photo adventures. Like all of our adventures, our blog is “photo-centric”, while also allowing you to experience all the nuances and cultural aspects of travel and adventure. Welcome to our world. We hope you enjoy. Our eNews is a great way to receive information about upcoming photo adventures, exciting new destinations, photography tips, special offers and more. Subscribe today!

Gift Cards

Give someone you know a Gift Card, good toward any of our Photo  Adventures, Photo Tours, Private Guided Tours, Online Courses, Prints or Merchandize. Our beautifully personalized eGift Cards and Certificates are delivered to you electronically. They are fully transferable and have a 2 year expiration date. They are available in any amount from $100 to $5000. It makes a great gift for anyone who loves photography, travel or adventure. Order now, or email for more information.

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