Florence: Countryside Tour with Wine Tasting & Pasta Class

This 7-hour tour in Tuscany offers a comprehensive taste of Italy’s countryside, combining vineyard visits, organic wine tasting, and a hands-on pasta making class. Starting from Florence, it’s ideal for those eager to explore authentic farm life, learn about organic wine production, and enjoy a hearty meal of handmade pasta. The tour is highly rated at 4.9 out of 5, based on 529 reviews, highlighting its popularity and consistent quality.

The experience is designed for adults who appreciate good wine, delicious food, and scenic countryside. It features a guided walk through vineyards and botanical gardens, a visit to the wine cellar with tastings of five organic wines, and a pasta class taught by professional chefs. For families with children, advance booking for car seats is required, and children under 12 cannot participate. The tour balances educational insights with fun activities and tasty local delicacies.

• 7-hour guided experience starting from Florence, with local transportation available.
• Includes a walk through vineyards, olive groves, and botanical gardens.
• Tastings of 5 organic wines, including both white and red varieties, plus Vin Santo.
• Hands-on pasta making with fresh tortelli or ravioli, cooked and enjoyed together.
• Farm visit features friendly animals, including pets and possibly a pet pig.
• Meal included with wine pairings, ending with limoncello and cake.
• Small group size limited to 20, ensuring personalized attention and a convivial atmosphere.

The tour departs from Piazza del Tiratoio, Florence, in front of “Antico Ristoro di Cambi”. A private van with the sign “My Farm – Experience in Florence” picks up guests, making the start smooth and straightforward. For those opting for the round-trip minivan service, the fee is €20 per person, paid directly to the driver, who also handles the car seats for children under 12. Pickup times vary depending on the session—either morning or afternoon, with return times around 4:30-5:00 PM or 9:30-10:00 PM respectively.

Once on the farm in Fucecchio, the experience begins with a stroll through the scenic landscape. Travelers walk among rolling fields, ancient olive trees, and vineyards, with the chance to see farm animals. In September, visitors can taste fresh grapes directly from the vine, adding to the farm’s authentic charm. The guide explains the history and farming practices, offering insights into organic methods and local traditions. It’s a relaxed walk that also provides numerous opportunities for photos of the picturesque Tuscan scenery.

The wine cellar visit is a highlight, showcasing the traditional process of organic wine production. Guests sample five wines, including both white and red varieties**, directly from the barrel, along with Vin Santo, a sweet Tuscan wine. The tasting is paired with extra virgin olive oil and appetizers, emphasizing local produce. Visitors have the option to purchase wines at cellar prices or order for shipping. A short video about the farm’s mission enhances understanding of their regenerative, organic approach.

The final activity involves a hands-on pasta class led by professional chefs. Participants learn to make tortelli or ravioli, with the pasta cooked collectively in the traditional Italian style. The meal is served at a communal table, fostering a warm, familial atmosphere similar to an Italian home. During the meal, additional wine is served, and the chef and hosts ensure everyone feels involved and comfortable, regardless of skill level. The pasta creations are enjoyed together, completing a day full of culinary discovery.

A unique aspect of this tour is the opportunity to meet farm animals and learn about local farming practices. The farm is home to friendly pets and perhaps a pet pig, creating a charming setting that complements the wine and food experiences. The guided walk provides context about the farm’s organic and regenerative farming techniques, making it more than just a tasting tour but an educational peek into sustainable agriculture.

Reviews consistently praise guides Naomi, Christina, and others for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and warmth. They take time to explain the wine-making process, farm history, and pasta techniques, making the experience engaging and accessible. The chefs, like Laura or Cassandra, are described as friendly, helpful, and skilled, making the pasta class both fun and informative. Their passion for the craft shines through, creating memorable moments during the meal.

Every part of the day features delicious food and drink pairings. The wine tasting includes five organic wines, carefully paired with local appetizers for balance. The pasta meal is a hearty, freshly prepared dish, served with extra wine to enjoy with the homemade pasta. Guests appreciate the quality of the wines, which are described as excellent, with some choosing to purchase bottles to ship home. Even in rainy weather, the food and drink remain a key highlight, thanks to the farm’s cozy setting and attentive staff.

The vineyard, botanical garden, and winery tour involve about 1 hour of walking on foot. The activity may not suit those with mobility issues or who require wheelchair access, as it’s not specifically designed for accessibility. Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially since the landscape is uneven. The experience is best suited for adults, as wine tasting is central, and children under 12 cannot participate unless they have a car seat booked in advance.

The tour is structured to be well-paced, with a balance between activities—from farm walk, to cellar tour, to pasta making, and a shared meal. The morning session includes lunch, while the afternoon session features dinner, providing flexibility for different schedules. Group size is limited to 20, ensuring a relaxed atmosphere where guests can socialize easily and ask questions.

Unlike many other wine tours, this experience integrates a farm visit, organic wine tasting, and a pasta class into one seamless day. The small group size fosters intimacy, while the hands-on pasta making and farm exploration add a tactile, authentic feel. The passionate guides and chefs are frequently highlighted in reviews as making the experience special. The organic and regenerative farming approach aligns with environmentally conscious travelers seeking meaningful engagement with local Tuscan life.

This 7-hour tour offers a comprehensive glimpse of Tuscany’s rural charm, with wine, food, and farm experiences woven into a single day. The high ratings and positive reviews reflect its consistent quality and warm atmosphere. It’s especially suited for adults who want a relaxed, hands-on experience away from crowded tourist spots, with an emphasis on organic wines and delicious Italian cuisine.

While the walking involved and the limited access for mobility-impaired guests are considerations, the personalized attention, passionate guides, and authentic setting make this tour a memorable choice for wine lovers, foodies, and those curious about farm life. It’s a well-rounded day that combines educational insights with genuine Tuscan flavors in a picturesque setting.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 12 years old cannot participate unless they have a booked car seat. The experience is primarily designed for adults, as wine tasting is central.

Does the tour include transportation from Florence?
Yes, there is an optional minivan service for €20 per person, paid directly to the driver. The van picks up from Piazza del Tiratoio and provides a comfortable journey to and from the farm.

What is the main highlight of this tour?
The combination of vineyard walk, organic wine tasting of five wines, and a hands-on pasta class stands out, with the guided farm visit adding a unique touch.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, vegetarian options are available, and hosts are happy to accommodate dietary needs during the meal and tastings.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, sun hat, sunglasses, water, and insect repellent are recommended for the outdoor elements of the tour.