Urban Adventures has been one of my favorite tour companies to this day, especially since they operate in SO many cities. What always blows my mind, however, is how every city is operated by someone different (like a franchise), yet all equally stellar. 

On my recent trip to Italy, I was lucky enough to have a private tour with Tuscany-native guide Martina. This ended up being one of the greatest (and first) days of my trip, which got the entire week off to a great start. 

Unlike some tours I have experienced, there was an abundance of food (great value for your money!), and Martina was much more than your average guide. A love for history, culture, AND food in combination with years of experience allowed her to teach me more than I ever could have expected to learn in Italy. Throughout our afternoon together, Martina took the time to answer every single one of my questions and curiosities with great detail—she had answers for everything! Most importantly, however, she was so friendly, funny, accommodating, and personable: another key aspect of a great tour that is often lacking. 

The afternoon started with something sweet: cantuccio from the original almond biscuit creators, Mattei Biscottificio. The history behind this treat that I know as biscotti was so fascinating, and I would have never known to make this stop! Next, we crossed the “Santa Trinitia” bridge (incredible views!) and made several more stops. These stops included gelato, prosecco, olive oil and balsamic tasting, chocolate, and charcuterie. All of these stops had their own unique stories and delectable Italian delicacies, but one was particularly memorable to me. At the farm-to-table salumeria, Alimentari Uffizi, Martina introduced me to owner Allesandro whose family has owned the shop since 1924. He was SO sweet, and his relationship with Martina was adorable. Before leaving the shop, I was overjoyed to purchase some of the cheese we had sampled to take home for Christmas day—thank goodness for vacuum sealing!! 

Overall, this was an incredible tour and I honestly could not make any critiques whatsoever. Martina and I have stayed in touch, and I truly hope to see her again soon. 

If you are interested in booking this tour for yourself, check out their website here!