EXCLUSIVE Wine Tour in Chianti & San Gimignano (Lunch & Wine Tasting included)

Discover the Charm of Tuscany on an Exclusive Private Wine Tour

This 6-hour private wine tour from Florence offers an immersive taste of Tuscany’s scenic landscapes and culinary delights. For $288.10 per person, travelers are whisked away in an air-conditioned private vehicle to explore the iconic Chianti hills and the medieval town of San Gimignano. This tour is designed for those who appreciate personalized experiences, as it is limited to just your group, with pickup included for added convenience.

What makes this tour stand out is its combination of beautiful vistas, authentic wine tastings, and a hearty Tuscan lunch. The journey is paced comfortably, allowing plenty of time at each stop to enjoy the sights, tastes, and local culture. While the tour is rich in experiences, it’s best suited for those who love scenic drives, wine, and regional food. The only consideration is that this tour involves some walking around San Gimignano and a farm visit, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Key Points

• Private and personalized experience limited to your group
• Includes pick-up from your accommodation in Florence
• Visits to San Gimignano and a biodynamic family farm
• Lunch and wine tastings featuring Chianti, Vernaccia, and more
• Stunning views of the Chianti countryside along the scenic route
• Total duration of approximately 6 hours

Starting the Day with Scenic Drive and Hotel Pickup

The tour begins at 9:00am with pickup from your hotel, B&B, or private apartment in Florence. Traveling in an air-conditioned private vehicle, the driver takes you along one of Tuscany’s most beautiful wine roads, winding through olive groves, cypress trees, vineyards, and ancient villages. This scenic drive sets the tone for a relaxed yet engaging exploration of the region.

This setup ensures a comfortable start to the day, with the driver providing a smooth transfer without the crowds often associated with group tours. The focus remains on enjoying the countryside views and anticipating the stops ahead.

Exploring San Gimignano: The Town of Fine Towers

The first stop is the medieval hill town of San Gimignano, famous for its more than 70 towers and its well-preserved walled historic center. Here, visitors have roughly an hour for self-guided exploration. The town is best known for its white Vernaccia wine, saffron, and its reputation as the “Town of Fine Towers.”

Walking through the main square, visitors can admire the medieval architecture, explore artisan shops, and sample the reputed “world’s best ice cream” at Gelateria Dondoli. This stop offers a beautiful blend of history, craftsmanship, and regional flavors, perfect for antique lovers and those wanting a taste of local life.

While some may wish for more time, the hour allows a brisk but satisfying look at this UNESCO World Heritage site. The stunning views from the town walls also provide excellent photo opportunities, capturing the essence of Tuscany’s past and present.

Visiting a Biodynamic Family Farm: Artisan Food and Wine

After San Gimignano, the tour continues to a family-run organic farm called Podere La Marronaia – Le Colonne. This biodynamic winery and farm presents an authentic Tuscan agricultural experience. As a small, local operation, it emphasizes organic practices and quality craftsmanship.

Visitors get to discover the art of wine and food pairing, with a focus on what makes Tuscan wines unique. The tasting includes a selection of wines such as Chianti, Chianti Riserva, Sangiovese, and Vernaccia, served alongside local extra virgin olive oils. These tastings are complemented by a delicious lunch served at the farm, featuring bruschetta, homemade lasagna or pasta, cured meats, pecorino cheese, and dessert.

The farm visit lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving ample time to learn about Tuscan winemaking techniques, sample regional products, and enjoy the peaceful farm environment. The inclusion of lunch and tastings ensures this stop satisfies both the palate and curiosity about Tuscany’s culinary traditions.

The Tuscan Lunch: Authentic Flavors in a Rustic Setting

The lunch is included in the tour price and takes place at the family farm. It’s a three-course meal showcasing local ingredients and traditional recipes. Expect fresh bruschetta, homemade pasta like lasagna, and cured meats and cheeses such as pecorino.

This meal not only fuels the afternoon but also offers a genuine taste of rural Tuscany. Paired with five wine tastings from the farm, including Chianti, Vernaccia, and Super Tuscan, the lunch provides a perfect combination of savoring regional flavors and learning about local wine production.

Participants also enjoy sampling extra virgin olive oils, making it a well-rounded gastronomic experience. The farm setting enhances the authenticity, giving travelers a true taste of Tuscan farm life.

The Comfort and Convenience of Private Transportation

Throughout the day, the private vehicle ensures a comfortable, stress-free experience. The driver acts as your guide, providing commentary about the scenery and local sights during the drive.

The pickup service means no need to worry about navigating public transportation or joining large groups, making this tour ideal for those seeking a more tailored experience. The air conditioning keeps the journey pleasant, especially on warm days, and bottled water is provided for hydration.

This setup allows for flexibility and a relaxed pace, so travelers can savor each stop without feeling rushed, an aspect highly praised in reviews.

The Richness of Chianti’s Backcountry Vistas

One of the tour highlights is the chance to see Chianti’s iconic backcountry vistas. The rolling hills, dotted with olive groves, vineyards, and medieval villages, create a picturesque landscape that captures the essence of Tuscany.

The driver provides commentary on the region’s history and agriculture, giving context to the scenery. This approach makes the drive itself a memorable part of the experience, as visitors can appreciate the distinctive Tuscan countryside from the comfort of the vehicle.

Photographers will appreciate the stunning panoramic views, especially from vantage points around San Gimignano and the farm.

The Expertise of the Driver and Local Guides

While the tour doesn’t specify a guide beyond the driver, reviews highlight guides like Andrea and Stefano as being knowledgeable, friendly, and personable. They are praised for their warmth and storytelling skills, making the experience more engaging.

At the farm, staff offer insight into organic winemaking, and at San Gimignano, artisans showcase their craftsmanship. The personalized attention and local expertise help create a warm, welcoming atmosphere that adds value beyond just the sights.

Flexibility, Booking, and Cancellation Policies

This private tour is designed for flexibility, with pickup available at your accommodation and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. The tour is popular enough to be booked 83 days in advance on average, indicating high demand.

The 6-hour duration balances sightseeing, tasting, and relaxation, making it suitable for a full morning or early afternoon outing. The small group size ensures a more intimate experience, with options for group discounts if booked for multiple travelers.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This experience appeals most to wine enthusiasts, food lovers, and those interested in medieval towns and scenic drives. It is ideal for travelers who want a personalized, relaxed day with plenty of tastings and cultural insights.

The tour’s moderate physical activity, mainly walking around San Gimignano and the farm, should be considered by those with mobility concerns. It is not recommended for travelers seeking a large group or a more hurried schedule.

Why This Tour Offers Excellent Value

Including hotel pickup, a three-course lunch, five wine tastings, and visits to two distinct locations, this tour provides a comprehensive taste of Tuscany in just 6 hours. The private setting and guided experience mean more personalized attention and a chance to learn about regional wine and food production directly from experts.

While the price of $288.10 per person may seem high, it reflects the exclusive, tailored nature of the experience and the quality of visits and tastings provided.

Final Thoughts: A Genuine Slice of Tuscany

This exclusive wine tour in Chianti and San Gimignano offers a well-balanced blend of beautiful scenery, authentic regional food, and quality wine tastings. The private transport and limited group size ensure comfort and intimacy, making it perfect for those who value personalized service.

The stops at San Gimignano and the biodynamic farm highlight both medieval history and modern organic agriculture, giving a well-rounded picture of Tuscany’s cultural and culinary richness. Coupled with a delicious Tuscan lunch, this tour makes for a memorable day in Italy’s wine country.

Ideal for wine lovers, foodies, and those seeking a relaxed, scenic escape from Florence, this tour strikes a good balance between structure and flexibility. The high praise in reviews confirms its reputation as a top-quality experience worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
While the tour involves some walking around San Gimignano and the farm, the private vehicle and flexible schedule make it accessible for most. However, walking on uneven surfaces or climbing towers may be challenging for some.

What is included in the lunch?
The included lunch features bruschetta, homemade pasta or lasagna, cured meats, pecorino cheese, and dessert, served in the farm setting.

Are the wine tastings unlimited?
The tour includes five wine tastings, with varieties such as Chianti, Vernaccia, and Super Tuscan. The focus is on quality and regional authenticity.

Can I customize the stops or itinerary?
Since this is a private experience, there is some flexibility to tailor the stops or pace, subject to prior arrangement with the provider.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking is recommended at least 83 days in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure availability.

What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing flexibility for change of plans.

Is transportation included from any location in Florence?
Yes, pickup at your hotel, B&B, or private apartment in Florence is included, with transportation in an air-conditioned private vehicle.

What makes this tour different from other Chianti or San Gimignano tours?
This tour’s private, personalized nature, gourmet lunch, and exclusive visits set it apart from larger group excursions, providing a more intimate and tailored experience.

What are the main benefits of choosing this tour?
The comfort of private transport, authentic farm visit, delicious regional cuisine, and expert guidance create a comprehensive, enjoyable, and memorable Tuscany experience.