Experience the essence of Tuscany in a single, full-day tour that combines truffle hunting, a hands-on cooking class, wine and olive oil tastings, and a visit to the famous medieval town of San Gimignano. This tour offers a well-rounded immersion into Tuscan flavors, scenery, and history, all within 8.5 hours. Starting with a private driver guide, travelers are taken through lush landscapes, with authentic experiences led by knowledgeable guides and private chefs, making it ideal for those who want an intimate, personalized day in Tuscany.

The tour is designed for those who enjoy gastronomy, cultural exploration, and scenic drives. It includes multiple stops: a truffle hunt in the woods, a cooking session with a private chef, wine and olive oil tastings at a Tuscan villa, and a guided visit to San Gimignano, where visitors can climb the Great Tower and sample the Gelato World Champion. The comprehensive schedule ensures a balanced mix of activities, though it requires some walking and comfort with outdoor activities.

Key Points

All-inclusive full-day experience combining culinary, cultural, and scenic activities in Tuscany.
Private group tour with pickup, guided in Italian and English, offering personalized attention.
Highlights include a truffle hunt with dogs, hands-on pasta and tiramisu cooking, and tastings of local wine and olive oil.
Visit San Gimignano, famous for its medieval towers, and enjoy tasting the Gelato World Champion.
Duration is 8.5 hours, starting at 8:30 am and ending around 5:00 pm, making it a full-day adventure.
Comfortable shoes and camera recommended, as there is walking in woods and exploring historical sites.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discover the Authentic Truffle Hunt in the Tuscan Woods

The tour begins with a pick-up from one of eight locations, including Florence, Siena, and San Gimignano. After about 45 minutes of transfer, the group arrives in the scenic Tuscan countryside where a private truffle guide and his dogs await. The truffle hunt takes place in the woods, combining outdoor walking with the excitement of searching for these prized fungi. This activity emphasizes a hands-on experience that highlights the important role of dogs in Tuscan truffle hunting.

The truffle hunt stands out as a genuine connection to local traditions, and the guide explains the process in an engaging way. While the experience involves walking in the woods, the focus remains on the search for truffles, promising an authentic and memorable activity. If you’re a foodie or nature lover, this part of the tour offers a special glimpse into Tuscan culinary secrets.

If wine interests you, we've examined these other wine experiences in Barberino Tavarnelle

Chianti: Vineyard to Bottle Winery Visit with Tastings

Cooking Class with a Private Chef in a Tuscan Villa

After the truffle hunt, attendees are transported to a beautiful Tuscan villa, where a private chef awaits to lead a cooking class lasting approximately 1.5 hours. Here, the focus is on learning to prepare authentic dishes with truffles, including fresh pasta and a second dish, as well as tiramisu with truffles. The chef demonstrates techniques and shares tips, making it accessible even for those with little cooking experience.

The cooking class culminates in a truffle lunch, where participants enjoy the dishes they’ve prepared, highlighting the rich flavors of local ingredients. This hands-on approach creates a personal connection to Tuscan cuisine, making the experience both educational and delicious. The setting of a stunning villa enhances the ambiance, providing a perfect backdrop for culinary discovery.

Wine and Olive Oil Tasting at a Tuscan Villa

Following the cooking experience, the tour transitions into a wine and olive oil tasting session. Held at the same Tuscan villa, the tasting allows guests to savor local wines and olive oils in a peaceful, scenic environment. The tasting lasts about one hour and showcases the region’s best products, often accompanied by explanations from knowledgeable hosts.

This segment offers a chance to appreciate the subtle differences in flavors and qualities of Tuscan olive oils and wines, complementing the earlier culinary activities. The villa’s picturesque setting enhances the sensory experience, making it a highlight for lovers of authentic regional products.

Exploring San Gimignano’s Medieval Skyline

After the tastings, the journey continues with a drive through the Chianti hills to the medieval town of San Gimignano. The visit lasts approximately 1.5 hours, giving ample time to explore the town’s narrow streets and historic charm. San Gimignano’s famous towers provide a distinctive skyline, and visitors are encouraged to climb the Great Tower for panoramic views of the Tuscan landscape.

Along With sightseeing, the tour offers the chance to taste the Gelato World Champion in San Gimignano, a perfect treat after walking through the town’s historic center. This stop combines culture and culinary delight, making it a memorable part of the day.

More Great Tours Nearby

Scenic Drive Through Chianti’s Vineyards

Between activities, the guide leads the group on a drive through the Chianti wine region, renowned for its rolling vineyards and scenic vistas. This 45-minute scenic transfer offers stunning views, giving time to relax and enjoy the landscape that has inspired countless artists and vintners.

While specific stops are not detailed in the itinerary, the drive itself adds to the overall appeal of the tour, framing the day with classic Tuscan scenery and providing opportunities for photo stops or short walks.

Flexibility and Comfort for a Full Day in Tuscany

This tour is designed for comfort and flexibility, with private pickup and drop-off at multiple locations. It starts early at 8:30 am and ends around 5:00 pm, allowing a full immersion into Tuscan life without feeling rushed. Travelers are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes and clothes, as walking in the woods and exploring towns require some physical activity.

The group remains private, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. The tour operates with live guides in Italian and English, enhancing the learning experience. The cancellation policy allows full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance, adding peace of mind to your planning.

Practical Tips for Participants

Attendees should bring comfortable shoes, a camera, and comfortable clothes. The tour involves walking outdoors, so suitable footwear is essential. Since the tour includes outdoor activities and sightseeing, weather considerations are important—light rain gear or sun protection may be advisable depending on the season.

While the itinerary is full, the pace is generally manageable, and the variety of activities means there’s always something engaging to do. The experience is suitable for anyone interested in gastronomy, scenic drives, and cultural exploration, especially those eager to learn about truffle hunting and local culinary traditions.

Summary of Tour Logistics and Booking

This full-day private tour operates with flexible reservation options, including pay later and full cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand. It features a live guide in Italian and English and includes pickup and drop-off at designated locations like Florence, Siena, and San Gimignano. The tour’s 8.5-hour duration makes it a comprehensive introduction to Tuscany’s flavors and history in a single day.

The experience is ideal for small private groups seeking an intimate, personalized exploration of Tuscany’s culinary and cultural gems, with plenty of opportunities to taste, learn, and enjoy scenic views.

Taste Tuscany: Truffle Hunt, Cooking Class, Wine & Olive Oil – A Unique Day in Tuscany

This tour offers a balanced combination of outdoor adventure and culinary immersion, perfect for those who want to experience Tuscany beyond the typical sightseeing. The truffle hunt with dogs provides a tactile connection to local traditions, while the hands-on cooking class deepens understanding of regional cuisine.

The wine and olive oil tastings add another layer of flavor appreciation, complemented by the historic charm of San Gimignano. While the itinerary is packed, the flexible structure and private group setting ensure a relaxed, personal experience. For lovers of gastronomy, scenic landscapes, and medieval towns, this tour delivers a well-rounded taste of Tuscany.

✨ Book This Experience

Taste Tuscany: Truffle Hunt, Cooking Class, Wine & Olive Oil

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour and what time does it start?
The tour lasts 8.5 hours, starting at 8:30 am and ending around 5:00 pm.

What activities are included during the day?
Activities include a truffle hunt in the woods, a private cooking class with a truffle lunch, wine and olive oil tastings, and exploring San Gimignano, including climbing the Great Tower and tasting the Gelato World Champion.

Where does the tour pick up from?
Pickups are available from eight locations, including Florence, Siena, San Gimignano, and surrounding areas.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with limited mobility?
The tour involves walking in the woods and exploring towns, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Mobility limitations are not specified, so it may depend on individual needs.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

Is there a private guide during the tour?
Yes, the tour features a live private guide speaking Italian and English.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, comfortable clothes, and an umbrella or sun protection depending on the weather.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is private, so group size depends on your booking, ensuring personalized attention.

Are meals included?
The truffle lunch after the cooking class is included, featuring dishes prepared during the class.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of outdoor truffle hunting, culinary skills, and scenic town visits offers a diverse and authentic Italian experience in just one day.