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Private tour of UNESCO sites: University of Virginia and Monticello

5.0· 1 reviews7 hoursFrom INR 34949
Private tour of UNESCO sites: University of Virginia and Monticello — Cultural & heritage things to do in Charlottesville

Four hours of guided exploration — the University of Virginia and Monticello, both UNESCO World Heritage sites, with time for refreshments at the Monticello Cafe.

This four-hour private tour covers two UNESCO World Heritage sites: the University of Virginia and Monticello. The tour starts at the University, showcasing the beautiful University Lawn and the renowned Rotunda, highlighting its architectural significance.

Following this, visit the David M. Rubenstein Visitor Center at Monticello, where engaging exhibitions about Thomas Jefferson await. There’s also a chance to recharge with a snack and drink at the Monticello Farm Table Cafe before diving into an in-depth tour of Jefferson's historic estate. The tour is fully guided, meaning detailed insights about both sites are readily available.

Places you'll visit

FAQ

Good to know

What's included in this experience?+
• Exclusive transportation • Experienced and amiable driver • Bottled water • Admission tickets to Monticello • Air conditioning inside the vehicle
What's NOT included?+
• Any meals or drinks
What should I know before booking?+
• Infants and young children are allowed in a pram or stroller • Nearby public transport options are accessible • Infant seats can be provided upon request • Participants should possess at least a moderate degree of physical fitness
What's the cancellation policy?+
To receive a full refund, cancellations must be made a minimum of 24 hours prior to the scheduled departure time.
How does pickup work?+
Make sure to provide your chosen pickup and drop-off locations.
What's the itinerary?+
• The itinerary starts with a one-hour guided tour of the well-preserved Rotunda, covering the original University and Lawn area. Tours begin in the Lower East Oval Room of the Rotunda. The Rotunda at the University of Virginia, designed by Thomas Jefferson, serves as the architectural and academic center of the university's scholarly community, which he referred to as the “Academical Village.” This concept emphasizes the idea of lifelong learning and the importance of interaction between faculty and students in the pursuit of knowledge. Jefferson modeled the Rotunda on the Pantheon, a second-century temple in Rome, and its construction took place from 1822 to 1828, concluding two years after Jefferson's death on July 4, 1826. The structure cost nearly $60,000 and was the last to be completed on the Lawn. Along with Monticello, the Academical Village is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site. • The next stop will be the David M. Rubenstein Visitors Center, the starting point for Monticello. Visitors will find a gift shop and the Monticello Farm Table restaurant here, offering local, sustainable, farm-to-table cuisine, including seasonal dishes made with fruits and vegetables from the Monticello gardens. A shuttle to Monticello departs from this location. The David M. Rubenstein Visitor Center and Smith Education Center serve as a modern gateway to Monticello, enriching the visitor experience with dynamic content that provides new insights into Monticello and the lasting impact of Jefferson's life and ideas. • A 45-minute guided tour will take you through the first-floor spaces of Thomas Jefferson’s home, the West Lawn, and the South Wing. The tour encompasses insights into Jefferson and his vision for America, the realities of slavery on the Monticello plantation, and the iconic architecture of the mountaintop. The Highlights Tour pass grants access to the gardens, grounds, walking tours, family-friendly activities, and exhibits. • Jefferson Vineyards will be the final stop of the tour, depending on time after visiting Monticello. At Jefferson Vineyards, guests can enjoy a glass of award-winning wine or sample a seasonal wine flight. Outdoor seating is available, and there is a large grassy area for picnicking, with limited indoor seating. This site was chosen by Thomas Jefferson and Philip Mazzei nearly 250 years ago for grape growing, making it the location of Virginia's first wine company. The current operation blends traditional winemaking with modern practices, realizing Jefferson’s dream.

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