Florence: Great Chianti Wine and Olive Oil Trail with Lunch

Florence: Great Chianti Wine and Olive Oil Trail with Lunch – An Authentic Taste of Tuscany

If you’re planning a trip to Florence and want to go beyond the usual museums and piazzas, this wine and olive oil adventure offers a genuine taste of Tuscany’s countryside. It’s a well-rounded experience that combines premium wine tastings, a lesson in olive oil production, and a delicious Tuscan lunch—all delivered in a comfortable, small-group setting. We especially appreciate the chance to visit award-winning wineries and soak up the stunning views, but it’s also worth noting that the tour’s pace might be a bit packed for those seeking a more leisurely day.

One of the things that stands out about this tour is the expertise of the guides—not only are they knowledgeable about wine and olive oil, but they also make the journey engaging and personable. The second highlight is the broad variety of experiences packed into just one day, from vineyard walks to historic olive oil mills. A possible drawback? The 7-hour duration means you’ll spend much of the day on the move, so those with mobility issues might want to consider this. This tour suits travelers who love good food, beautiful scenery, and want to learn some insider secrets about Tuscan traditions.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Visit 3 award-winning wineries with tastings and learn from expert guides.
• Culinary Delight: Enjoy a traditional 3-course Tuscan lunch paired with local wines.
• Scenic Route: Travel comfortably through the Chianti hills, with plenty of photo stops and stunning vistas.
• Olive Oil Insight: Tour a historic estate and discover how Tuscan extra virgin olive oil is made.
• Small Group Feel: Opt for the semi-private upgrade for a more intimate experience with a wine expert.
• Value for Money: For $89.50, you get a full day of tastings, sightseeing, and a delicious meal, making it quite a good deal in Tuscany.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

This tour offers a comprehensive peek into the heart of Tuscany’s wine country. Starting from Florence’s central meeting point, you’ll hop into a luxurious Mercedes minivan that guarantees comfort, style, and that much-needed WiFi to share your views along the way. The small group size—especially if you opt for the semi-private version—ensures a more personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and engage with the guides.

The Scenic Drive and First Stops

As you leave Florence, expect a pleasant ride through Chianti’s famous rolling hills, dotted with vineyards, olive groves, and charming villages. The guide will point out scenic vistas and share tidbits about regional history and culture. A quick photo stop provides a perfect chance to capture the iconic Tuscan landscape—think castles perched atop hills and winding country roads.

Visiting the Award-Winning Wineries

You’ll explore three different wineries, each with its own unique character. These are not just photo ops; they’re working wineries where you’ll walk among the vines and explore cellars that have been aging wine for generations. The tastings are led by knowledgeable guides or sommeliers, who will teach you how to evaluate wine like a pro—aromas, structure, acidity, and finish. Based on reviews, guests found the wines exquisite, with one saying, “The wines we tasted were absolutely exquisite,” highlighting the quality of these tastings.

Learning About Olive Oil Production

One of the unexpected delights is visiting a historic olive oil mill at an ancient estate. Here, you’ll learn how Tuscan extra virgin olive oil is produced and sample some fresh, high-quality oils. Our sources mention that guests appreciated discovering the craft behind this staple of Tuscan cuisine, which added depth to their appreciation of local food culture.

More Great Tours Nearby

Greve in Chianti

A charming stop in Greve in Chianti—the region’s medieval heart—is included for a quick walk and photo opportunity. It’s a lively village with a history that dates back centuries, and many guests enjoyed the free time to browse local shops or simply soak up the atmosphere.

The Lunch Experience

The highlight for many is the three-course Tuscan lunch at a boutique winery. The meal is described as authentic, with local ingredients and paired wines that complement each dish. One reviewer remarked that it was a “gourmet 3-course Tuscan meal,” making the experience feel well-rounded and satisfying after a morning of tastings.

The Bonus of a Semi-Private Upgrade

For those wanting a more exclusive experience, an upgrade to a semi-private tour with a certified wine expert is available. This version focuses on Supertuscan wines, offering deeper cellar access and premium tastings. Guests who’ve chosen this upgrade rave about the extra attention from guides and richer cellar visits.

Practical Considerations

• Duration & Timing: The tour lasts about 7 hours, including travel, tastings, and meals. Check the schedule for specific start times.
• Transportation: Traveling in a Mercedes minivan ensures comfort, and free WiFi makes the journey enjoyable.
• Group Size: The standard tour is small, with an option for even fewer guests (max 8) if you choose the semi-private upgrade.
• Cost & Value: At $89.50, the price covers multiple tastings, a full meal, and transportation—offering good value considering the quality and variety of experiences.
• What to Bring: Don’t forget your passport or ID, especially if you’re under 18 (they serve non-alcoholic beverages to minors).

Authenticity and Reviews from Travelers

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, with some describing them as warm, professional, and attentive. One reviewer said, “Michaela, our guide, was friendly and always happy to answer questions,” highlighting the importance of a engaging guide. The stunning views and picturesque wineries are also frequently mentioned, helping visitors visualize what they’ll see.

The overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 11 reviews underlines the tour’s popularity and solid delivery. Comments such as “highly recommended” and “incredible experience” suggest that most travelers leave with a sense of genuine appreciation for Tuscany’s culinary and scenic beauty.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine lovers, foodies, and those curious about Tuscan traditions. It’s ideal if you want a well-organized, guided day that combines education, tasting, and sightseeing without the hassle of planning individual visits. It’s also suited for travelers who value small group interactions and want to learn in an engaging environment.

However, if you prefer a very leisurely pace or have mobility concerns, you might find the 7-hour schedule a bit full. Also, for those with young teens, note that alcoholic beverages are served only to guests over 18.

Final Thoughts

This Chianti wine and olive oil tour offers a meaningful glimpse into Tuscany’s most iconic products—wines and oils that have been crafted with care for centuries. The combination of beautiful scenery, expert guides, and authentic food and drink makes this a compelling choice for visitors staying in Florence who want to dive into local culture without the fuss.

For a fair price, you get a full day of learning, tasting, and enjoying the Tuscan countryside—and perhaps even a new appreciation for what goes into every sip and drizzle. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to enrich your understanding of Italy’s culinary heritage, this tour is a well-rounded, enjoyable option.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, which includes travel, visits, tastings, and lunch.

What’s included in the price?
Round-trip transportation in a luxury Mercedes Minibus, guided tours at wineries and olive oil mill, tastings, a 3-course Tuscan meal, and an optional semi-private upgrade.

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or special diets?
While specific dietary accommodations aren’t detailed, guides will likely take dietary needs into account. It’s best to notify them in advance.

Can I participate if I’m under 18?
Yes, minors are welcome, but they’ll be served non-alcoholic beverages, as Italian law prohibits alcohol sales to under 18s.

How many wineries will we visit?
You’ll visit three award-winning wineries, each offering different wines and insights.

What is the semi-private upgrade?
It’s a more intimate experience (max 8 guests), led by a certified wine expert, with a focus on Supertuscan wines and deeper cellar visits.

What’s the scenery like?
Expect stunning views of rolling hills, vineyards, olive groves, and historic villages—perfect for photos.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve ahead to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.

Is transportation comfortable?
Absolutely—travel is in a Mercedes minivan with free WiFi, making the journey both cozy and connected.

What should I bring?
A passport or ID card, and comfortable clothes for walking and enjoying the countryside.

In essence, this tour offers a practical way to experience Tuscany’s culinary heritage and scenic beauty without the stress of planning. It’s perfect for those wanting to combine education, enjoyment, and authentic local flavors—all within a day from Florence.

You can check availability for your dates here: