Florence: Chianti Secrets Wineries Tour With Lunch

If you’re considering a day away from Florence’s bustling streets, this Chianti Secrets Wineries Tour offers a genuinely local taste of Tuscany’s famed wine country. It’s a thoughtfully curated experience that promises more than just wine tasting — it’s about understanding the passion, tradition, and environmental care that shape each bottle. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or just someone eager to savor the region’s beauty, this tour offers a balanced mix of scenic vistas, authentic stories, and delicious food.

What we love about this experience is how it combines visits to off-the-beaten-track, family-owned wineries with expert guidance from a local sommelier — Matteo. Plus, the inclusion of a Tuscan lunch paired with wine elevates the whole day from a tasting to a cultural feast. Then, there’s the privilege of tasting Chianti Classico wines straight from passionate producers who value organic practices.

One potential consideration is the price point — $220.91 per person — which might seem steep for a full day, but understanding what’s included helps justify it. This tour is best suited for travelers who want to go beyond touristy spots, enjoy beautiful landscapes, and connect with real Tuscan craftsmanship.

Key Points

• Authentic visits to 3 family-owned wineries practicing organic farming
• Expert guidance from a passionate local sommelier, Matteo
• Tasting of Chianti Classico wines with insights into food pairing
• Delicious Tuscan lunch showcasing local ingredients
• Small group setting ensures personalized attention and relaxed pace
• Scenic views of rolling hills and vineyards throughout the day

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Taste of Tuscany: What to Expect

This tour offers a journey into the soul of Chianti, stretching beyond the typical tourist routes. Starting from Florence, you’ll leave the city’s busy streets behind and head into lush countryside dotted with vineyards and olive groves. The experience is designed for relaxation and genuine connection — not just ticking boxes.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start at Piazza Lorenzo Ghiberti — your meeting point is centrally located and easy to find. From there, you’ll hop into a comfortable van with a small group, limited to just 8 participants. This ensures a more intimate experience, with plenty of opportunities for questions and personalized insights.

First winery visit (1.5 hours):
Here, you’ll meet the owners of a family-run farm that practices organic farming. It’s a chance to see how these smaller producers approach winemaking with care and respect for nature. Expect a guided tour of the vineyard and cellars, along with a tasting of their Chianti Classico wines. Travelers have appreciated the unique stories these hosts share, adding a personal touch to each sip. One reviewer noted, “It’s refreshing to meet the people behind the wine and hear their passion firsthand.”

Mid-morning transfer (30 minutes):
The van ride is more than just transportation; it’s part of the experience. You’ll get sweeping views of Tuscany’s rolling hills, making every mile visually rewarding. The guide, Matteo, is a lively storyteller, sharing local lore, winemaking techniques, and environmental practices in an engaging way.

Second winery (2 hours):
This stop is perhaps the highlight for many. It’s bigger than the first, yet still family-owned and committed to organic methods. You’ll taste a variety of wines and learn how they’re crafted, often with an emphasis on eco-friendly practices. Some guests have mentioned how inspiring it is to see sustainable farming in action, knowing it results in higher-quality wines.

Lunch break (authentic Tuscan meal):
A true highlight for food lovers, the included lunch features local dishes prepared using traditional recipes. Think fresh pasta, hearty meats, or seasonal vegetables, all paired perfectly with the wines you’ve tasted. Learning about food and wine pairing from an expert like Matteo makes the experience educational as well as delicious. The emphasis on local ingredients adds to the sense of place.

Final winery visit (1.5 hours):
This last stop wraps up your wine journey with a final tasting and a chance to explore the vineyards. Visitors often comment on how each winery has its own personality — one might be more rustic, another more innovative — giving you a well-rounded picture of Chianti’s diversity.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Exclusive, off-the-beaten-path wineries mean you avoid touristy crowds, giving you a more authentic taste of Tuscany. The wineries’ organic farming practices ensure you’re supporting sustainable, environmentally conscious wine productions.

The small group size — capped at 8 — is ideal for those who prefer a relaxed, engaging atmosphere. Plus, traveling in a comfortable van makes for a smooth, scenic ride through Tuscany’s beautiful landscapes.

The guide’s insights elevate the experience. Matteo is not just a sommelier but a passionate storyteller who shares fascinating details about the region’s history, winemaking techniques, and the importance of sustainability. This adds depth to the tasting, making each glass more meaningful.

The Value of the Experience

At just over $220 per person, this tour might seem a bit on the premium side — but it’s packed with genuine value. You’re visiting three family-run wineries, each with its own story and approach. The tastings are exclusive, and you get a full Tuscan lunch that’s both hearty and flavorful. Plus, the expert guidance ensures you leave with more than just a full stomach — you gain insights into wine pairing, organic practices, and local culture.

Guests have described the experience as “a full day of taste, beauty, and tradition,” which succinctly captures what makes it special. It’s not merely about drinking wine; it’s about understanding the dedication of those who produce it and experiencing the landscape that inspires it.

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Practicalities and Tips

• Timing: Check availability for starting times, as tours are 8 hours long. Mornings are typical, with pickup from Florence at a convenient central location.
• What to bring: Comfortable shoes for walking, sun protection, a camera to capture the views, and water to stay hydrated.
• Not suitable for: Children under 10, pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those under 18, due to the nature of tastings and mobility.
• Transport: The van is comfortable and limited to small groups, making the journey intimate and less hectic.
• Cost: While the price includes all tastings, lunch, and guided visits, it does not cover hotel pickup or drop-off. You might prefer to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

Final Thoughts

This Chianti Secrets Wineries Tour offers a well-rounded, authentic experience of Tuscany’s most famous wine region. The focus on family-owned wineries practicing organic farming guarantees a look into sustainable, high-quality production. The small group size and guided storytelling ensure a relaxed, personalized journey that allows you to savor each moment.

If you’re a lover of wine, scenery, and local culture, you’ll likely find this tour both educational and enjoyable. The combination of beautiful landscapes, passionate producers, and delicious, locally inspired food makes it a worthwhile investment.

For those seeking a genuine, less touristy introduction to Chianti, this experience hits the mark. It’s perfect for travelers who want to connect with Tuscany’s traditions and leave with memorable flavors and stories.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour starts at the designated meeting point, Piazza Lorenzo Ghiberti. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting location.

How long is the total tour?
The full experience lasts approximately 8 hours, with multiple winery visits, tastings, and a traditional Tuscan lunch.

What is the group size?
Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personalized and relaxed experience.

Are the wineries organic?
Yes, all the wineries you visit practice organic farming, supporting sustainable and environmentally friendly wine production.

Can I learn about food and wine pairing?
Absolutely. The tour includes a Tuscan lunch where you’ll learn how to pair local dishes with Chianti wines, guided by the expert.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Not for children under 10, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues, as the focus is on wine tasting and walking through vineyards.

Do I need to pay upfront?
You can reserve your spot now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunhat, sunscreen, camera, and water are recommended for a comfortable day exploring Tuscany’s hills.

For those eager to experience true Tuscan hospitality and sustainable winemaking, this tour offers a compelling blend of scenic beauty, authentic stories, and delightful flavors. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to go beyond the tourist trail, seeking a deeper connection with the land and its people. The chance to meet the producers and taste wines directly from small, family-run wineries makes this a memorable journey into Tuscany’s vibrant wine culture. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply wish to indulge your senses, this tour promises a full, satisfying taste of Italy’s heartland.

You can check availability for your dates here: