Volterra and San Gimignano from Lucca

Exploring Tuscany becomes effortless with the Volterra and San Gimignano from Lucca tour, offered by Limo Service in Italy. This private 8-hour experience costs $1,173.35 per group (up to 8 people) and includes a private vehicle and an expert English-speaking driver. The tour combines visits to two iconic towns — the ancient Volterra and the medieval San Gimignano — with a special stop for lunch and wine tasting in the Chianti region.

Designed for those who prefer a personalized experience rather than a crowded coach, this tour offers a relaxed pace and the flexibility to choose optional activities like wine and olive oil tastings. The tour is most suitable for those interested in art, history, and authentic Tuscan cuisine, and it’s particularly appealing to travelers who value comfort and exclusivity.

Key Points

• Private full-day tour from Lucca exploring Volterra and San Gimignano
• Cost: $1,173.35 per group (up to 8 people)
• Duration: around 8 hours with flexible stops
• Includes private transport, an English-speaking driver, and onboard commentary
• Optional lunch with wine and olive oil tasting in the Chianti region
• A perfect choice for those seeking personalized sightseeing in Tuscany without the hassle of large groups

Start at Lucca with a Scenic Drive Through Tuscany

This tour begins with a pickup in Lucca, where you are transported in a comfortable, air-conditioned private vehicle. The entire day is dedicated to exploring the Tuscan countryside at a leisurely pace, giving ample opportunity to enjoy the views and capture photos along the way. The driver/guide provides informative commentary about the region’s landscape and history, enhancing the sightseeing experience.

The transportation quality and personalized approach make this tour stand out from larger group options. Most travelers book 5 days in advance, reflecting its popularity among those seeking a tailored day out in Tuscany.

Discover the Ancient Village of Volterra

The first stop is Volterra, a town with over 3000 years of history. Known for its Etruscan origins and Roman remains, Volterra offers a glimpse into ancient Italy. The visit lasts about 2 hours, with admission tickets included — which are free for this tour.

While exploring, visitors can admire medieval architecture, ancient city walls, and notable landmarks. The town’s rich history provides a captivating backdrop for walking around and taking photos. The focus here is on art, architecture, and cultural traditions, giving a well-rounded sense of the area’s deep roots.

San Gimignano and Its Famous Towers

Next, the tour takes you to San Gimignano, located in the heart of the Chianti wine region. Known for its medieval skyline, the town boasts towers that date back to the 13th and 14th centuries. You get about 3 hours here — a perfect amount of time to explore the historic streets and enjoy the atmosphere.

The optional lunch and wine tasting take place at a family-owned winery, where you can sample local wines and freshly prepared Tuscan dishes. This authentic meal is highly recommended and adds a flavorful dimension to the day. The tasting can be customized upon request, making for a personalized culinary experience.

Visiting a Family-Owned Winery in Chianti

The lunch stop in the Chianti region is a highlight for many visitors. It offers the chance to sample regional wines and olive oils in an authentic setting. The cost of wine tasting is $60 per person, and the experience is considered fabulous by previous guests.

This optional activity can be tailored to suit preferences, and the guide provides insights about local wine-making traditions. It’s a wonderful way to absorb the flavors of Tuscany in a relaxed, informal environment, and the home-style meal complements the wines perfectly.

Flexibility and Personalization in the Tour Experience

The tour is fully private, meaning only your group participates. This setup allows for greater flexibility in timing and stops. The driver is both a guide and chauffeur, offering local insights and recommendations throughout the day.

Since most travelers book this experience 5 days in advance, it’s clear that the tour’s customized nature appeals to those seeking a personalized, comfortable journey. The pickup service is included, simplifying logistics and ensuring a smooth start and end to your day.

What Makes this Tour Different from Other Tuscany Trips?

Unlike larger group tours, this private experience offers more intimacy and flexibility. The transport is a luxury, air-conditioned vehicle, ideal for enjoying the scenic Tuscany countryside. The expert driver enhances the day with local stories without the need for a guide with a fixed itinerary, giving you more control over your pace.

The visit to Volterra and San Gimignano covers both ancient Etruscan history and medieval architecture, providing a broad perspective of Tuscany’s diverse heritage. The optional lunch and wine tasting in Chianti also sets this tour apart, offering an authentic taste of regional wines and cuisine.

Pricing and Booking Considerations

At $1,173.35 per group, the tour is ideal for small groups or families of up to 8 people. The cost includes all taxes and handling fees, but lunch and wine tastings are extra at $60 per person.

Most bookings are made 5 days in advance, making it a well-organized option for planned trips. The free cancellation policy provides flexibility, allowing a full refund if canceled more than 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

This tour is designed to be suitable for most travelers and includes minimal walking at the stops. The private vehicle and air-conditioned transport are comfortable for extended periods, making it a good choice for those who prefer a relaxed pace. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes for walking around the towns and bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery.

Why Choose This Tour for Your Tuscany Visit?

The personalized nature and luxury transport make this experience attractive for visitors seeking a relaxed, hassle-free day in Tuscany. The combination of historic towns and the option for a gourmet wine and lunch experience gives a well-rounded taste of the region’s art, history, and gastronomy.

The high rating of 5.0 based on reviews, especially praising the knowledgeable guide Emanuel and the delicious wine tasting lunch, underscores the quality of this experience. It’s particularly suited for those who value comfort and exclusivity, and are eager to see both ancient and medieval Tuscany in one day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While specific details aren’t provided, the tour’s focus on sightseeing, towns, and optional wine tasting suggests it is best suited for adults or older children who can appreciate the historical and culinary experiences.

What is included in the tour price?
The private transportation, driver with commentary, and all taxes, fees, and handling charges are included. Lunch and wine tasting are optional and cost $60 per person.

How long are the stops at Volterra and San Gimignano?
The visit to Volterra lasts about 2 hours, while San Gimignano is allocated 3 hours, giving enough time for exploration and sightseeing.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the tour is private, allowing flexibility in timing and activities like the lunch or additional stops in the region.

What is the cancellation policy?
Guests can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The available data does not specify accessibility features, so travelers with mobility concerns should inquire directly with the provider.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made around 5 days in advance, which is advisable given the popularity and limited group size.

What makes this tour different from others in Tuscany?
The private, personalized approach combined with luxury transport and the option for local wine tasting set this experience apart from larger guided group tours.

Can I include additional activities, like truffle hunting or cooking classes?
The current tour does not include those activities, but the provider offers other experiences like Tuscan cooking classes and truffle hunting. Contact the provider to customize your itinerary.

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is optional and costs $60 per person. It features local Tuscan dishes paired with regional wines at a family-owned winery.

This Volterra and San Gimignano tour from Lucca offers an enriching day of exploring Tuscany’s historic towns, complemented by an authentic culinary experience. Its private, flexible nature makes it an excellent choice for those who want comfort, personalization, and a taste of Tuscany’s art, history, and flavors.