Florence Day Trip: Chianti Tour & Cooking Class

Discover Florence’s Surroundings on a Chianti & Cooking Tour

This Florence Day Trip: Chianti Tour & Cooking Class offers a full-day experience exploring the heart of Tuscany in a relaxed, small-group setting. For 9 hours, visitors get to visit medieval villages like Certaldo and Monteriggioni, enjoy a premium Chianti wine tasting, and learn to cook authentic Tuscan dishes with a local chef. The tour starts at Via dell’Oriuolo, 61 R in Florence, and includes transportation by luxury minivan or minibus, making the journey comfortable and scenic.

What makes this tour stand out is its combination of historic village visits, wine tasting at a family-run winery, and a hands-on cooking class. It is especially suited for those seeking a blend of cultural sights, culinary experiences, and beautiful landscapes. The tour’s well-planned itinerary and expert guides ensure a balanced day with plenty of memorable moments.

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Key Points

• Visit two medieval villages: Certaldo Alto and Monteriggioni, perfect for strolling and photos
• Enjoy a wine tasting featuring 5 wines and 2 oils at a family-run Tuscan winery
• Participate in a Tuscan cooking class led by a local chef, culminating in a shared lunch
• Travel comfortably in a luxury minivan or minibus with a knowledgeable tour leader
• Flexible cancellation policy: Full refund available if canceled 24 hours in advance

Exploring Certaldo Alto, the Medieval Gem

The tour begins with a scenic drive from Florence to Certaldo Alto, a charming town perched on a hill. Here, visitors have two hours to explore, enjoy local snacks, and admire the stunning views of the Tuscan countryside. Certaldo Alto is known for its well-preserved medieval streets, artisan shops, and the historic Boccaccio Palace. The time allocated allows for strolling, taking photos, and soaking in the atmosphere without feeling rushed.

Monteriggioni: The Fortress Village and Sunset Views

After a 25-minute bus ride, the tour reaches Monteriggioni, a medieval fortress famous for its intact walls and towers. Visitors are given 1.5 hours to walk the ramparts, explore the photo stops, and visit local shops. The timing at Monteriggioni includes a sunset viewing, making it an ideal spot for photos and a chance to appreciate the historic architecture against the changing light. The village’s walkable layout and scenic setting make it a highlight of the day.

Chianti Hills: Wine Tasting and Tuscan Lunch

The journey continues into the Chianti Hills, where a family-run winery offers a wine tasting of 5 wines and 2 oils. This tasting provides insights into Tuscan wine-making traditions and the chance to sample a variety of flavors. Following the tasting, participants join a Tuscan cooking class led by a local chef, using fresh ingredients to prepare traditional dishes. The lunch served is the result of your own cooking, giving a genuine taste of Tuscan cuisine.

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The Culinary Experience: Hands-On Cooking with a Local Chef

The cooking class in the Chianti region is designed to be interactive and educational, suitable for families and couples alike. Under the guidance of an expert Tuscan chef, participants learn classic recipes, such as pasta or local specialties. The lunch that follows is a shared experience, with everyone enjoying the dishes they prepared alongside the wine tastings. This part of the tour emphasizes local culinary traditions and the joy of making authentic Tuscan food.

Scenic Drive Through the Chianti Vineyards

The drive through the Chianti hills offers beautiful views of rolling vineyards, olive groves, and charming farmhouses. The scenery is a major highlight, and the comfortable transportation makes the experience relaxing. The tour’s pacing allows travelers to appreciate the landscape without feeling hurried, and the expert guide shares interesting facts about the region’s history and wine culture.

Castellina in Chianti: Final Photo Stop and Sunset

After returning from the Chianti Hills, the tour makes a 30-minute drive to Castellina in Chianti. Here, visitors have an hour for a final photo stop, sightseeing, and shopping. The sunset views from this town are particularly noted, providing a perfect backdrop to conclude the day. The town’s historic charm and beautiful vistas leave a lasting impression before heading back to Florence.

Practical Details: Meeting Point and Transport

The meeting point is at Via dell’Oriuolo, Piazza del Duomo, where staff members wearing green shirts or holding a myTour panel are easy to spot. It is recommended to arrive 15 minutes early for a smooth start. The tour operates in multiple languages including English, Italian, and Spanish, with live guides leading the way. The small-group size enhances the experience’s intimacy and allows for personalized attention.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This full-day experience is ideal for those wanting a combination of sightseeing, wine tasting, and hands-on culinary activities. It suits families, couples, and anyone interested in authentic Tuscan culture without the stress of planning logistics. Note that wheelchair users are not accommodated, and walking over uneven surfaces is part of the experience.

Value and Flexibility

The tour offers full value with visits to multiple historic villages, a comprehensive wine tasting, and a culinary class included in the price. The reserve now & pay later option adds flexibility, and the full refund policy if canceled 24 hours in advance ensures peace of mind. The 9-hour duration balances sightseeing with leisure, making it manageable for most travelers.

Final Thoughts on the Florence Chianti & Cooking Tour

The Florence Day Trip to Chianti combines culture, gastronomy, and scenic beauty into one memorable experience. The expert guides and well-planned itinerary guarantee a smooth day with plenty of photo opportunities and tastings. The hands-on cooking class offers a genuine taste of Tuscan life, making this tour especially appealing for food lovers.

While the limited accessibility for wheelchair users may be a consideration, the overall value for money and enriching experiences make this tour a highly recommended choice for those wanting to explore Tuscany beyond Florence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes luxury minivan or minibus transportation between Florence and the various stops.

How long are the stops at each location?
You spend about two hours at Certaldo Alto, 1.5 hours at Monteriggioni, and approximately an hour at Castellina in Chianti, with additional time dedicated to the winery and cooking class.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the hands-on cooking class and scenic stops are great for families, though wheelchair users should note that access may be limited.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby