Private Tuscany Excursion. Florence American Cemetery, Greve in Chianti, Winery

Discover the Charm of a Private Tuscany Excursion from Florence

This private Tuscany tour offers a personalized eight-hour journey starting from Florence, with a focus on scenic views, historical sites, and wine tasting. For $393.58 per person, you gain exclusive access to remarkable locations such as the Florence American Cemetery, the medieval village of Castello di Montefioralle, the vibrant town of Greve in Chianti, and the breathtaking Piazzale Michelangelo. The tour features private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, led by a fluent English-speaking driver who customizes your afternoon based on your preferences.

While the tour includes a delicious lunch at a small Chianti winery with the option for wine tasting (additional cost), it also offers flexibility to explore an extra winery or visit the picturesque town of Castellina in Chianti. With just 19 days in advance booking recommended, this experience appeals most to those seeking a comfortably paced, scenic, and culturally rich day in Tuscany. This tour is praised for its stunning vistas and excellent wine selection, making it ideal for lovers of history, scenery, and wine alike.

Key Points

• Private, customizable 8-hour tour with a fluent English-speaking driver
• Includes visits to WWII memorials, hilltop villages, and key scenic spots
• Wine tasting at a small Chianti winery with lunch included (additional cost)
• Stunning views from Montefioralle Castle and Michelangelo Square
• Flexible options for extra wine tastings or visiting Castellina in Chianti
• Fully private experience with group discounts available

Starting Point and Tour Duration in Florence

The tour departs at 9:00 am from Florence, offering a private vehicle that ensures comfort and flexibility throughout the day. With a total duration of approximately 8 hours, it balances sightseeing, relaxation, and culture without feeling rushed. The air-conditioned transport keeps comfort high, especially when traveling through Tuscany’s warm seasons.

This timing allows for a leisurely exploration of the region’s highlights while leaving room for spontaneous stops or extended visits at favored spots. Since the tour is private, it can be tailored to match your pace and interests, whether you prefer soaking in the views or spending more time at specific locations.

Visiting the Florence American Cemetery

The day begins at the Florence American Cemetery, a poignant site built for American soldiers who lost their lives during WWII. Located in a scenic valley near Florence, the cemetery is a monumental memorial and accessible free of charge. Visitors can walk among the graves, reflecting on history in a peaceful setting framed by Tuscany’s rolling hills.

This site provides a meaningful start to the day, connecting visitors with the region’s recent past. Its proximity to Florence makes it a logical first stop before heading into the countryside. The quiet, respectful atmosphere offers a contemplative moment amidst scenic surroundings.

Exploring Castello di Montefioralle

Next, the tour visits Castello di Montefioralle, a medieval hamlet perched atop a hill since the 1200s. Once a fortress for soldiers, the village now charms visitors with its narrow streets, stone houses, and panoramic views over the Chianti valley.

Spending around 15 minutes, visitors can admire the medieval architecture and take in views from the hilltop location. Though the site is free to visit, its historical significance and picturesque setting make it a favorite for those interested in Tuscany’s medieval past. The walk through this small village offers a quiet contrast to the busier towns.

Discovering Greve in Chianti’s Charm

The next stop is Greve in Chianti, the main town of the Chianti wine region. Here, visitors enjoy a 30-minute walk through its lively central square, featuring a classic arcade and local shops. The town encapsulates the region’s vibrant wine culture and offers a taste of authentic Tuscan life.

While the stop is brief, it provides a snapshot of Chianti’s lively atmosphere and the chance to browse local shops or simply soak up the ambiance. Greve’s central square serves as a gateway to the region’s renowned vineyards and scenic landscapes.

Spectacular Views from Piazzale Michelangelo

In the late morning, the tour includes a short stop at Piazzale Michelangelo, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of Florence. This iconic lookout point allows visitors to capture photos of the city’s skyline, with the Duomo, Palazzo Vecchio, and other landmarks visible from above.

Spending around 10 minutes, this stop is perfect for snapping memorable photos and appreciating Florence from a vantage point. It’s a highlight for those interested in landscape photography or simply wanting to admire the city’s beauty from a hilltop.

Lunch and Wine Tasting at Casa Emma

The highlight of the afternoon is a two-hour visit to Casa Emma, a small winery in the Chianti Classico region. Here, visitors may enjoy a lunch with local dishes, paired with wine tasting if available. The winery provides a glimpse into traditional Chianti wine production, with the opportunity to visit the cellar.

Since lunch and wine tasting are at your own expense and subject to availability, booking in advance is recommended to secure this experience. If Casa Emma is fully booked, the guide will suggest an alternative winery of similar quality in the same area. This stop represents a perfect chance to indulge in authentic Tuscan flavors and learn about local winemaking.

Scenic Drive Along State Road 222 through Chianti

The tour follows State Road 222, the famous Chianti Classico route renowned for its beautiful landscapes and world-famous red wines. This scenic drive allows travelers to admire rolling vineyards, cypress-lined roads, and rustic farmhouses.

This route is a highlight for lovers of Italy’s countryside scenery and wine culture. The drive provides numerous opportunities to pause for photos, soak in the views, and appreciate the region’s natural beauty. It is a central feature of the personalized afternoon that the private tour enables.

Visiting Castellina in Chianti (Optional)

For those wishing to extend their experience, the guide can recommend visiting Castellina in Chianti, a charming hilltop town known for its historical walls and vineyard views. Although optional, this visit can be arranged for an extra taste of local life and scenery.

This flexibility demonstrates the tour’s adaptability based on your interests. Whether you choose to explore Castellina or spend more time in other locations, the guide can tailor the afternoon to suit your preferences.

Final Stop at Michelangelo Square for a Panoramic View of Florence

Returning to Florence, the tour concludes with another visit to Piazzale Michelangelo or similar viewpoint, offering a last look at Florence’s skyline. This allows visitors to reflect on the day while capturing final photos of the city.

The tour wraps up around 5 pm, leaving plenty of time to explore Florence further or enjoy a relaxed evening. The private nature of the tour ensures a smooth, unhurried experience, ideal for those seeking a comprehensive yet personalized day in Tuscany.

Overall Experience and Who Will Love It

This private Tuscany excursion combines the best of scenic landscapes, historical sites, and wine culture in a flexible, intimate setting. It is especially well-suited for those who appreciate customized itineraries and want to avoid crowded group tours.

The standout features include stunning vistas from Montefioralle and Michelangelo Square, a meaningful visit to the WWII memorial, and a delicious wine and lunch experience. The flexibility to add extra wine tastings or visit nearby towns makes this tour adaptable to personal interests.

While it does not include the cost of lunch or wine tasting in the base price, the overall value lies in the personalized service and scenic highlights. This tour offers an authentic taste of Tuscany’s beauty, history, and wine tradition in just one day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for large groups?
No, it is a private tour designed for your group only, with the possibility of group discounts.

What is included in the tour price?
The private transportation, air-conditioned vehicle, and the guided itinerary are included. Lunch and wine tasting are not included in the base price.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, as a private tour, it allows for customization based on your preferences, such as adding extra wineries or visiting specific towns.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Changes less than 24 hours before the tour are not accepted.

This private Tuscany excursion from Florence offers a well-balanced mix of history, scenery, and wine, making it an ideal choice for those who want a personalized experience in Italy’s celebrated region.