Tuscany Solo at 62: Beyond Cruises for Singles Over 60s

Tuscany Solo at 62: Beyond Cruises for Singles Over 60s

Exploring Tuscany Solo at 62: A Senior Woman’s Journey Beyond Cruises for Singles Over 60s

cruises for singles over 60s

My 8-Day Journey Through Tuscany: A Solo Senior Woman’s Review of “Highlights of Tuscany”

As a 62-year-old woman from Chicago, I’ve always dreamed of Italy’s art and rolling hills, but I wanted a trip that felt safe, manageable, and relaxing—perfect for solo travel in my 60s. I’d been researching options like cruises for singles over 60s, but the “Highlights of Tuscany” tour by Just You (£1,674 for 8 days, April 2025) caught my eye with its promise of culture, ease, and downtime. Having just returned, I’m excited to share my experience—the sights, the food, and especially the wonderful people I met along the way, both fellow travelers and locals. Here’s my detailed take, with a day-by-day breakdown of our schedule, meals, and the kindness I encountered.

Day 1: From Chicago to Pisa – A Warm Welcome and New Friends

  • Schedule: Today, April 15, 2025, was Day 1. I left Chicago on an overnight flight at 8:00 PM yesterday, landing in London at 10:00 AM local time. After a quick layover, I caught the 1:00 PM flight to Pisa, arriving at 4:00 PM. The sky was partly cloudy but warm—about 65°F (18°C)—perfect spring weather. Our group gathered at Pisa Airport, and by 5:00 PM, we boarded a comfy coach for the hour-long ride to Montecatini Terme, arriving at 6:00 PM.
cruises for singles over 60s
  • Evening: We checked into the Grand Hotel Tamerici & Principe, a charming 4-star hotel in Montecatini’s spa town center. At 7:30 PM, we gathered in the hotel’s elegant dining room for a welcome drink (prosecco) and dinner (pasta with pesto, included). This was when I met my group—about 15 of us, mostly solo travelers. There was Linda, a 65-year-old retired teacher from Seattle with a sharp wit; Tom, a quiet 70-year-old widower from Texas; and Susan, a bubbly 61-year-old nurse from New York who instantly became my dinner buddy. Over pasta and laughs, we swapped stories—Susan’s about her grandkids, Linda’s about her love for opera.

  • Thoughts: That first night eased my “solo travel for women over 60” nerves. The group felt like a little family already, and I wasn’t the only one craving connection after years of routine. I’d considered cruises for singles over 60s, but this land-based tour already felt just as social and welcoming.

  • Food Review: The pasta with pesto was light and flavorful—perfect after a long flight. The prosecco added a festive touch, though I’d have loved a bit more sauce to really savor it. A solid 8/10 start.

  • People Review: Anna, our Holiday Director, was a gem—warm, organized, and quick with a smile that put us at ease. The driver was polite but quiet, efficiently handling our bags. Hotel staff were welcoming, with the server at dinner chatting about the menu in broken English—charming and helpful. Locals at the hotel desk radiated Italian hospitality, making check-in a breeze.

Day 2: Tuscan Farmhouse – Bonding Over Olive Oil

  • Schedule: We started Day 2 at 9:00 AM from the hotel in Montecatini Terme. The morning was sunny and mild—around 68°F (20°C)—with a gentle breeze rustling the olive trees as we drove 30 minutes into the countryside. We arrived at the farmhouse by 9:30 AM, spent the morning there, and returned to the hotel by 2:00 PM for a free afternoon.

  • Experience: The farmhouse was nestled in olive groves, a postcard-perfect scene. The hosts served a lunch of bruschetta, cheeses, and Chianti (included) at 12:00 PM—rustic and tasty. I sat with Linda and Susan, and we giggled as Tom tried to pronounce “bruschetta” with his Texas drawl. A short olive oil-making demo followed at 1:00 PM, and I bought a bottle (£10) to bring home.

  • Thoughts: This day was pure “relaxing vacations for seniors”—calm and simple. Chatting with my new pals made it special; Linda’s curiosity about farming matched my own, and we vowed to cook with our olive oil back home. The group’s easygoing vibe was a delight, much like what I’d imagined from cruises for singles over 60s, but with the added charm of Tuscany’s countryside.

  • Food Review: The bruschetta was fresh and garlicky, the cheeses creamy—paired with Chianti, it felt authentically Tuscan. Simple but satisfying, though a little dessert would’ve capped it off. I’d give it a 9/10 for its rustic charm.

  • People Review: The farmhouse family was delightful—gracious hosts who smiled as they explained their craft, even with my limited Italian. Our driver was steady and kind, offering a hand off the bus. Anna checked in often, her cheerful energy keeping us relaxed. Back at the hotel, the kitchen staff plated lunch with care, though they stayed behind the scenes.

Day 3: Florence – Art and Laughter

  • Schedule: On Day 3, we left Montecatini Terme at 8:00 AM. The sky was clear and bright—70°F (21°C)—ideal for sightseeing. The coach took us 45 minutes to Florence, arriving at 8:45 AM. We explored until 2:00 PM, then returned by 3:00 PM, giving us a free evening back at the hotel.

  • Experience: Florence was a cultural feast. Our Local Guide took us through the historic center—Piazza della Signoria, the Duomo, and a glimpse of the Uffizi (entry extra). Susan and I stuck together, marveling at the art, while Linda quizzed the guide about Michelangelo. Tom lagged behind, snapping photos, and we teased him about being our group’s “official photographer.” I skipped extra walking for gelato (£3) at 1:00 PM—Susan joined me, and we people-watched from a café.

  • Thoughts: This was the “cultural tours for seniors in Italy” I’d dreamed of. The group dynamic shone here—Susan’s humor kept me smiling, and Linda’s knowledge deepened the experience. The cobblestones were tough, though—next time, I’d bring a walking stick.

  • Food Review: No included meal today, so the gelato (hazelnut) was my treat—smooth, rich, and worth every penny. It hit the spot after walking, but I missed a proper lunch. Gelato gets a 10/10, though I’d plan a sit-down meal next time.

  • People Review: Our Local Guide, Marco, was a star—knowledgeable, patient, and full of anecdotes that brought Florence alive. He even slowed the pace for us older folks. Florentines were a mix—busy but polite; the gelato vendor grinned as he scooped, adding a friendly touch. Anna stayed nearby, her calm presence reassuring.

Day 4: Montecatini Terme – A Day of Choices and Chats

  • Schedule: Day 4 was a free day in Montecatini Terme. I started at 10:00 AM, taking the funicular to Montecatini Alto with Linda. The weather was warm—72°F (22°C)—with a few clouds drifting in by afternoon. We returned by 1:00 PM, and I relaxed at the hotel until dinner at 7:00 PM (included).
  • Experience: The funicular ride (£5 round-trip) offered magical views of the spa town’s lights as dusk fell around 6:00 PM the previous evening (I’d gone up for a peek). Today, Linda and I sipped tea (£4) at 11:00 AM while she shared teaching tales. Susan stayed back for the hotel spa (£20) at 10:30 AM, raving later about the hot tub. Tom left at 9:00 AM for the optional Lucca trip (£70), returning by 4:00 PM with stories of its walls. Dinner (chicken and risotto) was lively—Linda led a toast at 7:30 PM.

  • Thoughts: This “accessible travel for seniors” day let us bond in our own ways. Linda’s warmth made the village visit special, and Susan’s spa glow was contagious. I loved the flexibility—perfect for our varied paces. It made me wonder how a day on cruises for singles over 60s might compare, though I cherished the freedom of this land-based break.

  • Food Review: The chicken was tender, the risotto creamy with a hint of parmesan—comfort food done right. The tea in Montecatini Alto was a soothing bonus. Dinner gets a 9/10; I’d tweak it with a lighter dessert instead of the heavy cake.

  • People Review: Montecatini Alto locals were quaintly kind—the café owner chatted about the view, proud of his town. Hotel staff shone again; the spa attendant was gentle with Susan, and our dinner server cracked jokes, making the meal fun. Anna popped by to ensure we were happy—always attentive.

Day 5: Pisa – Tower Shenanigans

  • Schedule: We departed Montecatini Terme at 9:00 AM for Pisa, a 45-minute drive. The morning was sunny—68°F (20°C)—with a light breeze. We arrived at 9:45 AM, explored until 12:30 PM, and returned by 1:30 PM for a free afternoon.

  • Experience: Pisa was a blast! We all posed with the Leaning Tower at 10:30 AM—Tom held it up, Susan pushed it down, and Linda directed us like a movie star. The Field of Miracles dazzled, and our guide kept it short, leaving time for coffee (£2) at 11:30 AM. Susan and I sat chatting about our kids—she’s got three, I’ve got two—and swapped travel tips.

  • Thoughts: A “solo travel for women over 60” highlight! The group’s playfulness turned a touristy stop into pure fun. Susan’s energy lifted me, and even quiet Tom cracked a smile. Easy walking here was a bonus.

  • Food Review: Just coffee today (espresso, strong and smooth)—no included meal. It paired well with the morning, but I grabbed a panini (£5) at 12:00 PM that was decent but dry. Coffee’s a 9/10; I’d pack a snack next time.

  • People Review: Our Pisa guide was brisk but friendly, keeping us on track. Locals were tourist-savvy—helpful but not overly warm; the coffee guy winked as he served me, a small kindness. Anna and the driver were a team—her cheer balanced his quiet efficiency.

Days 6 & 7: Montecatini Terme – Deepening Connections

  • Schedule:
    • Day 6: We left for Siena at 8:30 AM (£79 optional excursion), a 1-hour drive. The day was warm—74°F (23°C)—and sunny. We arrived at 9:30 AM, explored until 3:00 PM, and returned by 4:00 PM. Dinner was at 7:00 PM at the hotel.
    • Day 7: A free day in Montecatini Terme. I stayed local, wandering parks at 10:00 AM with Susan. The weather cooled to 66°F (19°C) with a few clouds. Dinner was at 7:00 PM.

  • Experience: On Day 6, Siena’s medieval streets and Piazza del Campo were stunning—Linda and I sat sketching at 1:00 PM, while Tom hunted photos. Day 7, Susan and I strolled Montecatini’s parks and poolside (free) from 10:30 AM to 2:00 PM. She shared nursing stories, and I opened up about my late husband—unexpectedly healing. Dinners (lasagna, tiramisu, included) were cozy; Linda organized a trivia game on Day 7 at 8:00 PM, and we laughed till dessert.

  • Thoughts: Siena was a “cultural tours for seniors” gem, enriched by Linda’s company. Day 7 with Susan felt like catching up with an old friend. These days showed how travel can forge real bonds—better than I’d expected from cruises for singles over 60s, with the added bonus of exploring at my own pace.

  • Food Review:
    • Day 6: Siena had no included meal, so I tried a local trattoria’s gnocchi (£10) at 12:30 PM—soft, savory, and divine. A 10/10 treat. Dinner’s lasagna was hearty but a tad oily—8/10.
    • Day 7: Tiramisu stole the show—creamy, not too sweet, paired with a rich meat sauce pasta. A perfect 9/10; I’d skip the bread basket to save room.

  • People Review:
    • Day 6: Siena’s guide was passionate, his love for the city infectious. Locals were reserved but courteous; the trattoria server recommended the gnocchi with a smile. Anna coordinated flawlessly.

  • Day 7: Hotel staff glowed—pool attendants were chatty, and the dinner crew joined our trivia fun, adding warmth. Montecatini folks in the park nodded hello—subtly friendly.

Day 8: Farewell Tuscany – A Fond Goodbye

  • Schedule: We checked out at 9:00 AM after breakfast. The morning was crisp—62°F (17°C)—with a light mist. We left Montecatini Terme at 10:00 AM, arriving at Pisa Airport by 11:00 AM for my 1:00 PM flight to London, then home.

  • Experience: Over a final coffee (£2) at 10:30 AM, Susan hugged me, Linda swapped emails, and Tom promised to send his photos. The ride was quiet—everyone reflecting on our week together.

  • Thoughts: Leaving was hard. These weren’t just travel mates; they’d become friends. The tour’s structure made connecting effortless—a big win for solo seniors.

  • Food Review: Breakfast was the usual croissants and ham—fine but predictable, 7/10. The farewell coffee was bittersweet, literally and figuratively—a solid 8/10 send-off.

  • People Review: Hotel staff waved us off with genuine smiles, the kitchen crew quick with breakfast trays. Our driver was steady as ever, and Anna’s heartfelt goodbye speech sealed her as the trip’s MVP. Airport locals were efficient, if a bit rushed.

Accommodation: Grand Hotel Tamerici & Principe

  • Review: This 4-star gem was spot-on. My twin room was spacious, the bed heavenly, and the bathroom modern. The pool and terrace were lovely for chats—Susan and I lounged there often. The spa (£20) was a treat, though I skipped the pricier upgrades (£50 for a balcony).

  • Thoughts: Ideal for “accessible travel”—elevators everywhere. The staff’s kindness reminded me of my new pals’ warmth.

Food: Hits and Misses

  • Highlights: 12 meals (7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 4 dinners) were tasty—farmhouse bruschetta and farewell tiramisu stood out. Sharing meals with Linda, Susan, and Tom made them special.

  • Lowlights: Breakfasts (croissants, ham) got old fast; I missed veggies. Off-tour snacks (gelato, coffee, £2-£5) were cheap and fun.

  • Thoughts: Good value, but I’d pack nuts or fruit next time.

Costs Breakdown (My Total Spend)

  • Tour: £1,674 (flights, hotel, meals).
  • US Flights: $700 USD (£550).
  • Extras: Siena (£79), spa (£20), souvenirs/snacks (~£50).
  • Total: £2,373 ($3,000 USD).

Final Reflections

“Highlights of Tuscany” was a solo woman’s dream at 62. The culture (Florence, Siena), relaxation (Montecatini’s free days), and ease (transfers, porterage) were spot-on for my “relaxing vacations for seniors” search. The food—bruschetta to tiramisu—was a delicious thread, though breakfasts could perk up. The schedule was well-paced—early starts but plenty of downtime. I’d looked into cruises for singles over 60s before this, but Tuscany’s land adventure won me over with its personal touch. The real magic? The people. Linda’s wit, Susan’s heart, and Tom’s quiet charm turned strangers into friends. Tuscans were a mix—reserved yet kind—while Anna, our guides, drivers, and hotel staff wrapped the trip in warmth and care. Pisa was a fun bonus, and Siena’s worth the splurge—though Florence’s cobblestones taught me to pack better shoes!

Pros: Affordable, safe, senior-friendly, great group, tasty highlights, and lovely people.
Cons: Repetitive breakfasts and some walking challenges. A cane’s on my list for next time.

For any woman over 60 eyeing “solo travel for women over 60” or “cultural tours for seniors”, this tour’s a treasure. Tuscany’s beauty was unforgettable, but the kindness—of locals and my new friends—made it truly special. I’m already plotting my next adventure—maybe with Linda and Susan along, or perhaps I’ll try those cruises for singles over 60s next!

Refer to booking https://www.gotosea.com/

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