Private Tour in San Gimignano and Chianti Day Trip from Florence

A full-day private tour from Florence for $197.38 per person offers an immersive journey through some of Tuscany’s most iconic sights. With a carefully curated itinerary that covers San Gimignano, Monteriggioni, a Chianti vineyard, and Greve in Chianti, this trip combines history, culture, and culinary delights. The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, with pickup included, and is designed for small groups, ensuring a personalized experience. Its high 5.0 rating from 22 reviews and recommended by 100% of participants reflect its popularity and quality.

While the tour offers a broad taste of Tuscany’s heritage and flavors, it also balances sightseeing with enough free time for personal exploration. The inclusion of wine tasting and visits to a famous butcher shop and family-owned olive oil estate makes it especially appealing to those eager to experience authentic local traditions. A key consideration is that this is a private tour, ideal for travelers who prefer a flexible, intimate setting over large group excursions.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with only your group participating
• Eight-hour itinerary covering San Gimignano, Monteriggioni, Chianti, and Greve
• Includes wine tasting and visits to family-run olive oil and meat shops
• Pickup offered from Florence, with air-conditioned vehicle transportation
• Highly rated with a perfect 5-star review from 22 travelers
• Moderate walking at stops like San Gimignano and Monteriggioni, manageable for most

Starting the Day: Pickup and Journey from Florence

The tour kicks off at 9:30 am with pickup from Florence, making it convenient for visitors staying in the city center. The comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle ensures a pleasant ride across the Tuscan landscape. The journey sets a relaxed tone, with scenic views en route to the first stop.

Travel time between locations is minimal, with San Gimignano arriving after about 50 minutes of driving. This efficient schedule helps maximize time at each site and maintains a smooth flow throughout the day.

Exploring San Gimignano: Medieval Manhattan and World-Famous Gelato

The first stop, San Gimignano, is a highlight for its medieval skyline and UNESCO World Heritage status. Visitors have approximately 2 hours to walk through this medieval town, often called “medieval Manhattan” for its towers and historic architecture.

A well-known feature here is the chance to taste the world’s best ice cream. San Gimignano’s gelato is famed for its creamy texture and authentic flavors, often a favorite for those with a sweet tooth. The town’s narrow streets and towers provide perfect photo opportunities, and the free admission allows for flexible exploration.

Discovering Monteriggioni: The Ancient Fortress Town

A short 20-minute drive leads to Monteriggioni, a well-preserved medieval village encircled by its original walls. The 20-minute stop offers a chance to stroll around this picturesque fortress, which retains its historic charm.

The town’s walls and towers evoke the atmosphere of medieval Italy, making it a great spot for history lovers and photographers. Its compact size means visitors can enjoy a brief but immersive visit to step back in time.

Lunch and Wine Tasting at Poggio Amorelli in Chianti

Next, about 20 minutes from Monteriggioni, Poggio Amorelli welcomes guests to individually tour its Chianti estate. This part of the tour emphasizes small-group intimacy, with experts guiding visitors through creative and lively tastings.

Here, travelers enjoy a lunch paired with wine tasting, experiencing the flavors that make Chianti wines renowned worldwide. The estate visit lasts approximately 2 hours, giving ample time to learn about local wine production, olive oil, and culinary traditions. The setting offers a genuine taste of Tuscan hospitality.

Visiting Greve in Chianti: The Heart of the Chianti Classico Region

The journey continues with a 20-minute drive to Greve in Chianti, a medieval village famous for its beautiful square and local butcher shop called Falorni. Visitors have about 30 minutes to explore and visit the shop, which is known for its quality meats and authentic Tuscan products.

Greve’s charming atmosphere makes it a perfect place to enjoy some free time for walking and shopping. The visit to Falorni offers a taste of local food traditions, with some of the best meats available in the region.

Return to Florence: Comfortable and Scenic Drive

The tour concludes with a 30-minute drive back to Florence, allowing travelers to relax and reflect on the day’s experiences. The return trip completes the 8-hour itinerary, which balances sightseeing, tasting, and free time effectively.

Additional Inclusions and Considerations

The entire experience includes air-conditioned transport but does not cover lunch or tips, giving travelers flexibility in their spending. Since this is a private tour, only your group participates, ensuring a more tailored and exclusive experience. The confirmation is received at booking, and most travelers can participate, making this tour accessible.

The tour’s free cancellation policy allows cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, adding peace of mind for planning.

Why This Tour Stands Out in Tuscany

The personalized approach, with small-group tours and customized stops, makes this trip ideal for those seeking a relaxed, intimate experience. The expert guides explain the region’s culture, food, and history clearly, enhancing appreciation for each site visited.

The combination of medieval towns, world-famous wine, and authentic Tuscan food creates a well-rounded day. The high ratings and positive reviews highlight the quality of guides and the memorable experiences, especially at Poggio Amorelli and San Gimignano.

Limitations and Practical Tips

While the itinerary offers a great overview, the free time at each stop is modest, so travelers who want more in-depth exploration might find it somewhat limited. The walking involved is moderate, suitable for most but worth considering for those with mobility issues.

Booking well in advance is recommended, as the tour is popular and can be booked 114 days ahead on average. The price reflects the private, tailored nature of the experience, which is often valued by travelers seeking exclusivity.

Final Thoughts on the San Gimignano and Chianti Day Trip

This private tour from Florence provides an authentic, well-paced journey through Tuscany’s highlights, from the towers of San Gimignano to the vineyards of Chianti. Its small-group format, expert guides, and focused stops make it an excellent choice for those wanting a rich taste of Tuscany without the hassle of independent planning.

Ideal for wine lovers, history enthusiasts, and those seeking personalized service, this tour offers a convenient way to enjoy Tuscany’s beauty and flavors in a single day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes air-conditioned transportation throughout the day.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:30 am.

What stops are included in the itinerary?
Stops include San Gimignano, Monteriggioni, a Chianti estate for lunch and wine tasting, and Greve in Chianti.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but the walking involved is moderate. It’s best suited for those comfortable with walking and standing.

Do I need to pay extra for entrance fees?
No, all the stops listed, including San Gimignano and Monteriggioni, are admission-free.

What does the tour include?
The tour includes transportation and visits, but lunch and tips are not included.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time.

What is the guide’s role?
Guides are knowledgeable about local culture, history, food, and wine, providing explanations and insights during the stops.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking 114 days in advance is typical, especially in peak seasons.

Is this tour private or group?
It is a private tour, with only your group participating for a more tailored experience.