Chianti Wine Tour with Tuscan Lunch Open Top Van

The Chianti Wine Tour with Tuscan Lunch in an open-top van offers a charming and intimate way to explore the renowned Chianti region. Priced at $231.05 per person, this 7 to 8-hour tour in Florence is highly rated with a perfect 5.0 out of 5 from 86 reviews and is recommended by 99% of participants. The small group size—limited to 6 travelers—ensures a personalized experience, guided by knowledgeable locals who share deep insights into the region’s wine and culture.

This tour stands out for its combination of scenic drives in an open-top van, visits to two family-run wineries, and stops at two historic hilltop villages. It also includes a multi-course Tuscan lunch paired with local wines. The experience is perfect for those eager to combine wine tasting, cultural exploration, and breathtaking views all in one day. A key consideration is that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so guests should plan to meet at the designated location.

Key Points

• Small-group tour limited to 6 travelers ensures a personalized experience.
• Includes visits to two wineries, each offering generous wine tastings and the chance to purchase bottles.
• Scenic open-top van ride provides unobstructed views of Tuscany’s rolling hills and vineyards.
• Stops in Montefioralle and Greve in Chianti offer charming village exploration and shopping opportunities.
• A multi-course Tuscan lunch at a second winery features expertly paired wines and local cuisine.
• Tour departs at 9:30 am from Florence, lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours.

Discovering the Chianti Wineries and Villages

This tour begins in Florence at Via dei Renai, 5, where the open-top van awaits at 9:30 am. The first stop is Castellina in Chianti, a picturesque winery positioned in the heart of Chianti. Here, visitors taste excellent wines while having the opportunity to purchase bottles directly from the winery. The relaxed one-hour visit provides a genuine taste of Chianti’s wine-making craftsmanship.

Next, the journey continues to Piazza Matteotti in Greve in Chianti, a lively and scenic square. Guests have 30 minutes of free time to explore local artisan shops and visit the famous Falorni butcher’s shop, known for its quality cured meats. This stop offers a glimpse into the authentic village life that surrounds the wine region.

The highlight is the Fattoria di Luiano, a second winery where guided cellar tours and wine tastings last around two hours. Here, the focus is on Tuscan cuisine, with a multi-course lunch served alongside carefully selected wines. The meal emphasizes regional flavors and offers a generous tasting experience that many reviews praise as exceeding expectations.

Scenic Drive in an Open-Top Minivan

One of the tour’s biggest draws is the open-top minivan, which offers an unmatched view of Chianti’s rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves. Guests often mention how this setup enables excellent photo opportunities and a genuine feel of the Tuscan countryside.

The drive through scenic roads is leisurely, allowing plenty of time to admire the landscapes, breathe in the fresh country air, and listen to the commentary from guides who share stories about the region’s wine traditions and history. The breeze and sunlight add to the relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere, making this a favorite among visitors.

The van’s small size—up to 6 people—keeps the experience intimate, fostering a friendly and more engaging environment. Many reviewers highlight how this personal touch, combined with a knowledgeable guide, makes the day memorable.

Exploring Montefioralle and Greve in Chianti

Apart from winery visits, this tour includes stops at two historic villages. Montefioralle offers a charming medieval atmosphere with narrow streets and ancient stone buildings, perfect for a short walk and photo-taking. The village’s peaceful surroundings contrast beautifully with the bustling modern towns.

In Greve in Chianti, the tour provides free time to stroll through the lively streets, browse artisan shops, and admire the local architecture. The Falorni butcher’s shop stands out as a local favorite, showcasing regional cured meats. Visitors often enjoy this casual exploration, appreciating the authentic and less touristy feel of Greve.

These stops provide a well-rounded experience, combining cultural sights with opportunities for shopping or simply soaking up the village atmosphere.

Wine Tasting, Olives, and Tuscan Delights

Throughout the day, guests sample a variety of Chianti wines, including red wines, along with olive oil, fresh bread, cold cuts, and cheeses. The tastings at each winery are described as generous, with 4-5 glasses per venue, making this experience both educational and indulgent.

The lunch at the second winery is a highlight, featuring multi-course dishes paired expertly with local wines. Many reviews comment on the quality of the meal—not just a simple snack but a full, delicious Tuscan feast.

The guided cellar tours accompany the tastings, providing insights into the production process and regional wine characteristics, enriching the tasting experience.

Practical Details and Logistics

The tour begins at 9:30 am and lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, concluding back at the starting point in Florence. The meeting point is accessible by public transportation, making it convenient for most visitors to join without needing hotel pickup.

Since tips are not included and hotel drop-off is not offered, guests should plan their day accordingly. It’s recommended to wear comfortable clothing and bring a jumper or jacket, especially for the open-top van, as many reviews suggest the breeze can be refreshing.

The activity is suitable for most travelers, with most people able to participate. It’s ideal for wine lovers, those interested in regional food, and anyone seeking a scenic, relaxing day outside the city.

Why This Tour Stands Out in the Chianti Region

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its combination of authentic winery visits, personalized experience with a small group, and the scenery-driven open van ride. Many guests note how the small group size fosters a more relaxed and engaging atmosphere, unlike larger bus tours.

The guided visits at two family-run wineries allow for personalized tastings and the chance to buy wines directly, often at better prices. The lunch experience is praised for its regional authenticity and generous portions, offering a true taste of Tuscan cuisine.

The scenic drives through Chianti’s hills, combined with village exploration, make for a well-rounded and memorable day. The tour’s positive reviews consistently highlight knowledgeable guides and beautiful vistas as some of its biggest strengths.

Final Thoughts on the Chianti Wine Tour with Tuscan Lunch

This small-group tour offers an authentic, relaxed, and scenic way to enjoy Chianti’s wine and countryside. The open-top van provides unbeatable views, while the visits to two family-owned wineries and stops in charming villages make for a varied and enriching experience.

The multi-course Tuscan lunch paired with local wines is a standout feature, often exceeding expectations. While the lack of hotel pickup might be a minor inconvenience for some, the well-organized meeting point and the small group size make this a smooth adventure.

This tour is best suited for wine enthusiasts, food lovers, and those who want to see Tuscany at a relaxed pace. The glowing reviews and stellar ratings reflect the high quality of the experience, making it a top pick for a day outside Florence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included from my hotel?
No, this tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. Guests meet at Via dei Renai in Florence.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 6 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Are meals and wine tastings included?
Yes, lunch and wine tastings at two wineries are included, along with olive oil, bread, cold cuts, and cheeses.

Can I buy wine or souvenirs during the tour?
Yes, at the first winery, you have the opportunity to purchase or send home wines tasted. Additional shopping is available during free time in Greve.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and a jumper or jacket are recommended, especially for the open-top van experience.

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is praised for its friendly guides and manageable pace, making it ideal for food and wine lovers seeking an authentic taste of Tuscany.