Florence: S. Gimignano, Siena, Chianti & Wine Tasting Lunch

Discover the enchanting charm of Tuscany’s medieval towns and vineyards with this immersive tour. Venture through the UNESCO-listed San Gimignano and Siena, soaking in their timeless architecture and rich histories. Indulge in a delectable Chianti-style lunch paired with a guided wine tasting at a local winery, savoring the region’s renowned flavors. As you gaze upon the rolling hills and picturesque villages, it’s easy to see why this tour has captivated the hearts of countless travelers. Uncover the essence of Tuscany and prepare to be captivated by the sheer beauty that unfolds before you.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Lunch Experiences In Florence.

Key Points

• This 11-hour journey showcases UNESCO World Heritage sites like San Gimignano and Siena, offering a guided wine tasting and Chianti-style three-course lunch.
• The tour includes stops in the medieval town of San Gimignano, the Chianti Hills for a wine tasting, and the historic city of Siena.
• Participants can explore the architectural and artistic achievements of these iconic Tuscan destinations, immersing in the region’s rich cultural heritage.
• The Chianti winery experience provides an opportunity to sample three distinct Chianti wines and learn about the area’s winemaking traditions.
• The tour offers scenic views of Tuscany’s rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves, as well as charming medieval villages and historic cityscapes.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The tour, titled "Florence: S. Gimignano, Siena, Chianti & Wine Tasting Lunch," promises an 11-hour journey through Tuscany.

Priced from $87.84 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Highlights include visits to the UNESCO World Heritage sites of San Gimignano and Siena, a guided wine tasting and three-course Chianti-style lunch at a local winery, and scenic views of the rolling Chianti hills.

Transportation is provided via an air-conditioned bus with a multilingual tour escort.

The tour starts and ends at Piazzale Montelungo, and it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, though the organizer should be notified for clients with motor disabilities.

Itinerary Highlights

This tour offers a well-rounded exploration of Tuscany, starting with a visit to the charming medieval town of San Gimignano.

Visitors enjoy 2 hours of free time to wander its iconic skyline of towers and discover its quaint streets and piazzas.

Next, the tour ventures into the picturesque Chianti Hills, where guests savor a 100-minute guided wine tasting and Chianti-inspired three-course lunch at a local winery.

The final stop is the historic city of Siena, where travelers can optionally join a guided tour of the city’s medieval center and the magnificent Siena Cathedral before returning to Florence.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Two of the destinations visited on this tour are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, recognized for their outstanding cultural significance.

San Gimignano, a medieval town renowned for its well-preserved towers, is a prime example of a small, fortified settlement from the feudal era.

Siena, with its magnificent Duomo and the iconic Piazza del Campo, showcases the architectural and artistic achievements of an Italian Renaissance city.

Exploring these UNESCO-protected gems provides a window into Italy’s rich history and allows travelers to enjoy the timeless beauty and cultural heritage of Tuscany.

Chianti Winery Experience

As part of the Chianti Hills segment, visitors embark on a guided tasting of three distinct Chianti wines at a local winery.

The experience offers a delightful opportunity to explore the renowned Chianti region and its world-class wine production.

During the tasting, guests will:

• Sample a range of Chianti varietals, learning about their unique flavor profiles and production methods
• Discover the nuances that differentiate each wine, developing a deeper appreciation for the terroir
• Enjoy a Chianti-style three-course lunch, perfectly paired with the tasted wines
• Gain insights into the rich winemaking heritage and traditions that have shaped the Chianti region for centuries.

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Siena Exploration

After savoring the Chianti wines and indulging in the local cuisine, the tour moves on to explore the enchanting medieval city of Siena.

Visitors stroll through the city’s charming streets, taking in the stunning architecture and historic landmarks. The highlight is the iconic Piazza del Campo, a stunning square known for its unique shell-like shape and vibrant atmosphere.

Visitors can also opt for a guided tour of the magnificent Siena Cathedral, admiring its intricate Gothic façade and stunning interiors.

This exploration of Siena provides a glimpse into Tuscany’s rich cultural heritage and the enduring beauty of its historic cities.

Scenic Views

Throughout the day, the tour offers ample opportunities to drink in the scenic views of Tuscany’s rolling hills and picturesque Chianti countryside.

As the group journeys between San Gimignano, Siena, and the Chianti region, they’ll be treated to:

• Breathtaking panoramas of lush vineyards and olive groves stretching across the undulating landscape

• Charming medieval villages perched atop rolling hills, their striking towers and historic architecture framed by the scenic vistas

• Winding roads that snake through the Chianti region, affording glimpses of the idyllic countryside dotted with rustic farmhouses and centuries-old wineries

• Stunning views of the Tuscan countryside from the top of Siena’s iconic Duomo, providing a bird’s-eye perspective of the region’s natural beauty.

Meeting Point and Accessibility

The tour’s meeting point is at Piazzale Montelungo, where an assistant in blue clothing with the Caf Tour and Gray Line logos will greet participants.

Attendees should bring their original ID and wear comfortable shoes.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and those with motor disabilities should notify the tour organizer in advance.

The tour provider aims to accommodate all guests, but certain accessibility limitations exist due to the historical nature of the sites visited.

Participants are advised to consider their mobility needs when booking this comprehensive Tuscan excursion.

Customer Feedback

Based on over 1,800 customer reviews, the tour has earned an impressive overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Customers have been particularly satisfied with:

• The knowledgeable and personable tour guides, who received an average rating of 4.8/5
• The comfortable and reliable transportation, rated 4.7/5
• The overall quality of service, with a 4.5/5 score
• The smooth organization of the day’s activities, which earned a 4.4/5 rating

While most reviewers had a fantastic experience, some suggested allowing more time in San Gimignano and noted that larger group sizes could occasionally impact efficiency.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour does not have a strict dress code, but comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and walking shoes are recommended. Casual attire is suitable, as the focus is on exploring the sights comfortably.

Are Any Meals Included Besides the Lunch?

The tour includes a Chianti-style three-course lunch with wine tasting, but no other meals are provided. Travelers will need to plan and pay for their own breakfast and dinner during the day-long excursion.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Bus?

Passengers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the bus. However, the tour organizer may request that snacks and beverages be consumed during designated rest stops to avoid distractions or spills on the vehicle.

Is There a Discount for Seniors or Children?

The tour does not offer discounts for seniors or children. The price is a flat rate per person, regardless of age. There are no special provisions for bringing your own food and drinks on the bus.

Can I Extend My Time in Any of the Visited Locations?

While the standard itinerary doesn’t allow for extensions, travelers can opt to stay longer in locations like San Gimignano or Siena at their own expense. Discussing this with the tour organizer beforehand is recommended to ensure feasibility.

Recap

This enchanting tour through Tuscany’s medieval gems and picturesque landscapes promises an unforgettable experience. Discover the UNESCO-listed wonders of San Gimignano and Siena, savor the flavors of a Chianti wine tasting, and indulge in a delightful Chianti-style lunch. With breathtaking vistas and a blend of culture and gastronomy, this tour offers an immersive glimpse into the captivating essence of Tuscany.

You can check if your dates are available here: