“Sweet Hills of Chianti & San Gimignano” with Lunch & 2 Tastings

A Complete Guide to the “Sweet Hills of Chianti & San Gimignano” Tour

Travelers looking to experience the soul of Tuscany beyond Florence will find the “Sweet Hills of Chianti & San Gimignano” tour a well-rounded choice. Offered by Pek Tuscany in Limo, this private 8-hour adventure combines scenic drives, historical stops, delicious food, and wine tastings—all with the comforts of private transportation. It’s designed for those who want a taste of Tuscany’s iconic landscapes and medieval charm, without the hassle of planning logistics or navigating public transport.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its balance of structured activities and free exploration—you get guided stops at key sites like San Gimignano and Monteriggioni, along with ample time to wander at your own pace. Plus, the inclusion of two wine tastings and a mouthwatering Tuscan lunch creates real value, especially given the intimate setting of a private group.

One consideration? The tour is quite full, with a packed itinerary that might feel rushed if you prefer a slower pace. But for most travelers, this is a great way to maximize your day and see a lot without feeling overwhelmed. It’s perfect for those craving a comprehensive, authentic day trip that balances historical exploration with good food and wine.

If you’re eager to indulge in the breathtaking vistas, historical sites, and culinary delights of Tuscany, this tour is a fantastic choice—especially if you prefer a private, intimate experience over a large group.

Key Points

• Private transportation ensures comfort and flexibility. No need to worry about driving or navigating busy roads.
• Two wine tastings with about 10 glasses of Chianti, Riserva, Vernaccia, and Super Tuscan wines provide excellent variety.
• Authentic Tuscan lunch with homemade pasta, bruschetta, pecorino cheese, and extra virgin olive oil offers true local flavors.
• San Gimignano’s medieval skyline with its famous towers is a highlight, perfect for self-guided exploration.
• Historical stops in Monteriggioni and scenic drives through Chianti hills enrich the experience.
• Ideal for small groups or families seeking a personalized, relaxed day immersed in Tuscany’s sights and tastes.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Transportation and Convenience

The tour kicks off at 9:00 AM with private pick-up from your Florence accommodation, whether it’s a hotel, B&B, or private apartment. This is a significant advantage, as it removes the stress of finding meeting points or public transit. The vehicle is air-conditioned, which is especially appreciated on warm days, making the journey through Tuscany’s rolling hills all the more enjoyable.

The comfort and flexibility of private transport also mean you can relax and take in the views without distraction. The driver, who is a local expert, not only gets you from place to place but adds a layer of storytelling, sharing insights about the landscape, history, and local culture.

San Gimignano: A Medieval Marvel

The first stop is San Gimignano, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its medieval towers that punctuate the skyline, giving it a fairytale feel. Your visit here is self-guided, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Expect narrow cobbled streets, charming piazzas, and plenty of photo opportunities.

One review mentions San Gimignano as “a town with breathtaking views of the countryside,” which indeed captures the essence of the place. You might find yourself indulging in the town’s famous saffron gelato or browsing local artisan shops. The free time here allows for spontaneous discoveries, whether you want to climb a tower for panoramic vistas or simply soak in the medieval ambiance.

Scenic Drive Through Chianti

After San Gimignano, the tour meanders along one of Tuscany’s most renowned wine roads, where olive groves, cypress trees, vineyards, and rolling hills paint a picture-perfect landscape. This is what many travelers come to Tuscany for: the classic vistas of cypress-lined roads and lush vineyards.

Tuscan Lunch at Podere La Marronaia

The highlight for many is the lunch at a family-run biodynamic winery—Podere La Marronaia- Le Colonne. Here, the focus on organic and sustainable practices adds an authentic touch. The three-course meal features homemade pasta, bruschetta, pecorino cheese, and a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, with truffle oil and cold cuts enhancing flavors.

You will sit down in a warm, welcoming environment that feels like a true family affair. The experience is not just about eating; it’s about tasting the land and understanding the passion behind the food and wine. The included wine tastings feature about 10 glasses, covering Chianti, Chianti Riserva, Vernaccia, Chianti Classico, and Super Tuscan options. Multiple reviews praise the quality and variety of wines, with one noting the wineries made guests feel “like royalty.”

Historic Monteriggioni

Post-lunch, you’ll visit Monteriggioni, a small but formidable medieval castle built between 1213 and 1219 by the Sienese. Its intact walls and towers evoke a sense of stepping back in time. The 30-minute stop offers a quick yet immersive glimpse into Tuscany’s medieval defensive architecture. Visitors often comment on how well-preserved and atmospheric the site is.

Final Wine Stop at Fattoria Lornano

The day concludes at Fattoria Lornano, another historical winery producing wine for generations. Here, you’ll indulge in a final tasting session, featuring the “king of wines”—Chianti Classico. This is an excellent way to round out the experience, as the wines are typically paired with local snacks, making it both a tasting and a learning opportunity about Tuscany’s wine heritage.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

The tour offers all transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, two wine tastings, a delicious three-course lunch, bottled water, and the guidance of a local expert driver.

Extra expenses are not included, such as additional drinks, souvenirs, or personal expenses. This straightforward setup keeps things transparent and convenient.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for small groups or families who want a personalized, relaxed day exploring Tuscany’s highlights. It’s perfect for wine enthusiasts, food lovers, or anyone interested in medieval towns and scenic drives. Travelers seeking a rundown that combines history, scenery, and culinary delights will find this tour offers excellent value.

If you’re short on time but want to tick off some of Tuscany’s most iconic sights and tastes, this tour efficiently combines all these elements into one memorable day.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

At around $269 per person, the price reflects the quality of experiences and inclusions. Private transport, two wine tastings, a full Tuscan lunch, and visits to both San Gimignano and Monteriggioni make this a compelling option for those eager to get a full-bodied taste of Tuscany without the hassle of planning each detail themselves.

The tour is especially well-suited for those who appreciate authentic, intimate experiences—you’ll be with your private group, not a large crowd, which means more personalized attention and flexibility. The enthusiastic reviews about knowledgeable guides and delicious wines suggest you’ll leave feeling satisfied and enriched.

While the itinerary is packed, most travelers report feeling that the balance between sightseeing, tasting, and relaxing is just right. If you’re after a scenic, culturally rich, and deliciously memorable day in Tuscany, this tour hits all those marks.

FAQ

• What time does the tour start?

The tour begins at 9:00 AM, with pickup from your Florence accommodation.

• Is the tour suitable for everyone?

Yes, most travelers can participate, and since it’s a private tour, it can accommodate various needs comfortably.

• How long are the stops?

San Gimignano is self-guided with about one hour, Monteriggioni is about 30 minutes, and the winery visits last roughly 1.5 hours and 45 minutes respectively.

• Are food and wine included?

Yes, a three-course lunch and two wine tastings—totaling around 12 glasses—are part of the package.

• Can I drink as much wine as I want?

While the tastings are generous, moderation is advised, especially if you plan to return to Florence afterward.

• What is the vehicle like?

You’ll travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned private vehicle, ideal for scenic drives.

• Are there any additional costs?

Extras such as souvenirs, extra drinks, or additional tastings are not included, so plan accordingly.

• Is this tour suitable for children?

It’s generally suitable, but keep in mind the wine tastings and potential age restrictions at wineries.

• Do I need to book in advance?

Yes, on average, this tour is booked about 51 days in advance, and booking ahead is recommended, especially during peak season.

• What if I need to cancel?

You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

This tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Tuscany’s landscape, history, and gastronomy. Whether you’re a wine lover, history buff, or simply seeking scenic beauty and delicious food, it’s a worthwhile way to spend a day outside Florence.