Florence Oltrarno Neighborhood Food & Wine Dine Around

Discover the charm of Florence’s Oltrarno neighborhood through this 3.5-hour food and wine tour offered by Walks – Italy & Spain. For $127.72 per person, the tour provides a well-rounded exploration of local Tuscan cuisine, with over 8 tastings and 6 drinks included. Guided by knowledgeable local guides like Mara, Chiara, and Marilisa, visitors enjoy a carefully curated journey into Florence’s culinary scene, with stops in artisanal boutiques, trendy eateries, and historic wine windows.

This tour is especially suited for those who want to dive into Florence’s authentic flavors without the crowds of the city center. The small group size—limited to 12 people or fewer—ensures an intimate experience, making it perfect for food lovers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone curious about real Florentine life. However, it involves walking through the Oltrarno neighborhood, so comfortable shoes and moderate mobility are recommended.

Key Points

• Authentic Florence experience through local neighborhoods in Oltrarno and Santo Spirito
• Includes over 8 tastings of regional cheeses, bruschetta, focaccia, Florentine steak, and gelato
• 6 drinks are served, including Chianti, Prosecco, Negroni, and regional wines
• Guides like Mara, Chiara, and Marilisa are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and engaging style
• Stops at historical wine windows and local boutiques offer an authentic taste of Florence away from tourist hotspots
• Suitable for non-vegans and those with dietary restrictions (with prior notice), but not for celiacs or vegans

Starting at Caffè Notte: A Tuscan Food Primer

The tour begins at Caffè Notte in the Oltrarno neighborhood, a cozy corner bar on a quiet street. Here, you receive a crash course in Tuscan cuisine with regional cheeses, bruschette, focaccia, and a glass of Chianti Classico wine. This initial tasting sets the tone for the tour, offering a flavorful introduction to local ingredients and wine pairings.

This stop lasts about 30 minutes and is included in the tour fee. It’s an excellent way to relax before exploring Florence’s vibrant food scene further. The setting’s intimate vibe allows for easy conversation and a good overview of Tuscany’s culinary staples.

Exploring a Florentine Wine Window with Prosecco

Next, the guide leads you to one of Florence’s famous wine windows—small historical venues where wine was traditionally sold directly from local producers. Here, you enjoy a sip of Prosecco, adding a bubbly contrast to the previous tasting.

This stop is brief, around 15 minutes, but it offers a glimpse into Florence’s unique wine culture and history. Visiting these wine windows connects guests with local traditions, making it a memorable part of the experience.

Making a Negroni at Caffè Notte

After warming up with wine, the tour moves to a beloved local spot where you learn how to craft a Negroni, one of Florence’s most iconic cocktails. The guide demonstrates the process, and participants get to mix their own Negroni, then enjoy it alongside freshly baked schiacciata—a type of Tuscan flatbread.

This 30-minute stop enhances the tasting experience, blending hands-on activity with cultural insight. The inclusion of an aperitivo adds a lively, interactive element that most visitors appreciate.

Dinner at Trattoria BBQ Barbecue: Tuscan Classics

The journey continues at Trattoria BBQ Barbecue, where a sit-down dinner features traditional Tuscan pasta and the renowned bistecca alla fiorentina—Florentine steak. This dish is known for its generous size and high-quality beef, cooked simply and served rare, showcasing Florence’s meat-loving reputation.

The 40-minute meal is a highlight for meat lovers, providing a hearty taste of regional cuisine. The restaurant’s warm atmosphere complements the food, making this a memorable dinner stop.

Sweet Finish at La Sorbettiera Gelateria

The tour winds down at Gelateria Artigianale La Sorbettiera in Santo Spirito, a beloved gelato shop known for organic, regional ingredients. Guests select their favorite flavor from a variety of options—an essential experience when in the birthplace of gelato.

In just 10 minutes, this stop offers a sweet, refreshing conclusion to the tasting journey. The gelato’s quality and authenticity leave an indelible impression, especially for those appreciating handcrafted Italian desserts.

Logistics and Group Experience

The tour departs from Piazza Santo Spirito and ends at Piazza Tasso, both situated in vibrant, easily accessible parts of Florence. The tour operates in small groups of 12 or fewer, fostering a personal and engaging atmosphere.

It’s a walking tour, so comfortable shoes are advisable, and guests should be capable of walking at a moderate pace. The experience is in English and caters to a wide range of dietary needs, including vegetarian, pescatarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free options—though it is not suitable for vegans or celiac disease sufferers.

Guests with food allergies are advised to contact the Guest Experience team post-booking. Because of the multiple wine stops, alcohol consumption is significant, making this tour less suitable for children or non-drinkers.

The Food and Drink Highlights

Participants enjoy an impressive variety of tastings, from regional cheeses and cured meats to pasta dishes and Florentine steak. The drink selection includes Chianti Classico, Prosecco, Negroni, and regional wines, providing a comprehensive tasting of local beverages.

The quality of food and drinks is a recurring theme in reviews, with many praising the authenticity and freshness of ingredients. The tour offers a balanced combination of flavors, with enough variety to satisfy most palates.

Meeting Points and Availability

The tour begins at Piazza Santo Spirito and is designed to be conveniently located near public transportation. It is highly recommended to book in advance, as most bookings are made approximately 53 days ahead.

Cancellation is flexible, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour starts, allowing for peace of mind in planning.

What Sets This Tour Apart: Local Neighborhood Charm

Unlike tours focused solely on Florence’s main sights, this experience emphasizes local neighborhood life in Oltrarno and Santo Spirito. Guests walk through less touristy areas, discovering small, family-run establishments and hidden wine windows that reveal Florence’s everyday culinary customs.

The guides’ expertise and friendly demeanor are often highlighted in reviews as key strengths, making the tour both educational and enjoyable. The small group size ensures personalized attention and plenty of opportunities for questions and interaction.

Honest Considerations and Limitations

While the tour offers a diverse and rich tasting experience, it involves walking and standing for extended periods, so guests should be prepared for moderate activity. The inclusion of multiple wine and cocktail stops means it’s not suitable for children or anyone avoiding alcohol.

Guests with serious food allergies or strict dietary restrictions should communicate with the tour provider beforehand to ensure arrangements can be made. The tour is not suitable for vegans or those with celiac disease.

Florence Oltrarno Neighborhood Food & Wine Dine Around: A Flavorful Exploration

This tour stands out as a delightful way to experience Florence beyond its famous landmarks. The combination of local food tastings, regional wines, and interactive activities makes it a well-rounded introduction to Tuscan cuisine and culture.

The small group setting and expert guides ensure an engaging, authentic experience, praised consistently in reviews for the warmth and knowledge of guides like Mara, Chiara, and Marilisa. Guests leave with a deeper appreciation of Florence’s culinary traditions, along with delightful memories of the city’s neighborhood life.

While it may not suit everyone—especially those with strict dietary restrictions or young children—the tour offers excellent value, with plentiful food, drinks, and cultural insight packed into just over three hours. It’s perfect for foodies eager to taste their way through Florence’s hidden culinary gems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the tour is adaptable for vegetarians, and prior arrangements can be made. However, it is not suitable for vegans or those with celiac disease.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Due to the multiple wine stops, alcohol consumption, and walking involved, this tour is not recommended for children or non-drinkers.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are advised, as this is a walking tour through Florence’s neighborhoods. Dress appropriately for the weather, as the stops are outdoors.

Can I participate if I have food allergies?
Guests with serious food allergies should sign an allergy waiver at the start of the tour and contact the Guest Experience team after booking to arrange ingredients.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers more than 8 food tastings, 6 drinks, an expert English-speaking guide, and the visiting of local boutiques and wine windows.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 53 days ahead. Early booking is recommended to secure a spot, especially during peak seasons.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The data does not specify wheelchair accessibility; guests should be prepared for walking and moderate mobility requirements.