Florence to Tuscany: Chianti, Siena, San Gimignano & Wine +Lunch

Tuscany’s enchanting countryside has captivated visitors for centuries, and this tour promises an immersive journey through its architectural marvels, renowned wines, and gourmet delights. Travelers will explore the medieval cities of Siena and San Gimignano, admiring their well-preserved Gothic structures and captivating skylines. The highlight, however, lies in the Chianti wine region, where guests will savor world-class vintages and indulge in a gourmet lunch showcasing the finest local ingredients. With a small-group format and expert guide accompaniment, this tour offers a personalized and enriching experience, leaving one curious to uncover the full scope of Tuscany’s cultural and culinary treasures.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Wine Tours In Florence.

Key Points

• The tour explores the architectural marvels of Siena, including the Gothic Cathedral and the UNESCO-listed Piazza del Campo.
• Visitors can admire the iconic medieval towers of San Gimignano, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and discover its rich history.
• The tour includes a wine tasting experience in the renowned Chianti wine region, where guests can sample the region’s acclaimed red wines.
• A gourmet lunch in the Tuscan countryside showcases the region’s finest seasonal ingredients and local specialties, paired with Chianti wines.
• The tour offers a personalized, small-group experience led by knowledgeable guides, providing in-depth insights into the cultural heritage of Tuscany.

Discovering Siena’s Architectural Gems

Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, the medieval city of Siena captivates visitors with its well-preserved architectural marvels that span centuries.

At the city’s core stands the magnificent Siena Cathedral, an impressive Gothic structure adorned with intricate facades and a striking white and green marble exterior.

Nearby, the Piazza del Campo, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its unique shell-shaped design and the annual Palio horse race that takes place in the piazza.

Wandering the city’s winding streets, travelers will also discover elegant palaces, charming fountains, and hidden churches that showcase Siena’s rich cultural heritage and architectural prowess.

Exploring the Charming San Gimignano

From the historic city of Siena, travelers can venture to the UNESCO-listed town of San Gimignano, where they’ll discover a charming medieval skyline dotted with imposing towers and well-preserved architecture.

Known as the ‘Town of Fine Towers,’ San Gimignano boasts an impressive 14 medieval towers that once served as symbols of the town’s wealth and political power.

Wandering through its enchanting streets, visitors can admire the striking Romanesque and Gothic structures, like the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta with its stunning frescoes.

Exploring this picturesque hilltop town, travelers are transported to a bygone era, offering a glimpse into Tuscany’s rich history and captivating small-town atmosphere.

Savoring Chianti’s Renowned Wines

After exploring the charming medieval town of San Gimignano, the tour takes visitors to the heart of the renowned Chianti wine region, where they’ll have the opportunity to savor the area’s world-class vintages.

Nestled among rolling hills and picturesque vineyards, the Chianti wine tasting experience offers a delightful chance to sample the region’s acclaimed red wines, renowned for their bold flavors and rich, velvety textures.

Under the guidance of an expert sommelier, guests will learn about the unique terroir and production methods that contribute to Chianti’s exceptional quality.

This wine-focused stop on the tour provides a perfect complement to the day’s cultural discoveries, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the flavors and traditions of Tuscany.

Gourmet Lunch in the Countryside

The tour then leads guests to a picturesque countryside setting, where they’ll be treated to a gourmet lunch featuring the region’s finest seasonal ingredients and local specialties. The meal is a true culinary delight, showcasing the authentic flavors of Tuscany. Guests can expect a multi-course experience, accompanied by excellent Chianti wines to complete the gastronomic journey.

Menu Item	Description	Ingredients
Antipasto	Assorted cured meats, cheeses, and marinated vegetables	Prosciutto, salami, pecorino, olives, roasted peppers
Primi	Handmade pasta in a rich, tomato-based sauce	Pappardelle, Tuscan sausage, tomatoes, herbs
Secondi	Grilled steak or chicken, served with roasted potatoes and seasonal vegetables	Beef, chicken, potatoes, zucchini, eggplant

Small-Group Tour Highlights

This small-group tour offers a personalized and immersive experience, allowing guests to discover the enchanting Tuscan countryside at a relaxed pace.

Expert guides lead the way, providing in-depth commentary on the region’s rich history and cultural heritage as the group explores the picturesque medieval towns of Siena and San Gimignano.

With a maximum of 14 participants, the tour ensures an intimate and customized journey. Visitors can wander the charming cobbled streets, marvel at the stunning architecture, and soak in the authentic atmosphere of these iconic Tuscan destinations.

The small-group format enables a more personalized experience, allowing guests to ask questions and interact with the guide for a deeper understanding of the local way of life.

Transportation and Accessibility

Comfortable air-conditioned transportation ferries guests between the historic city of Florence and the picturesque Tuscan destinations featured on the tour.

Travelers explore the medieval town of Siena and the UNESCO-listed village of San Gimignano without the hassle of navigating on their own.

The tour is limited to small groups of 14 people or fewer, ensuring a personalized experience.

Unfortunately, the tour is unable to accommodate guests with mobility limitations, wheelchairs, or strollers. However, infant seats are available for those traveling with young children.

Expert Guide Accompaniment

Knowledgeable, English-speaking guides lead travelers on expertly curated walking tours of Siena and San Gimignano, providing invaluable insight into the history and cultural significance of these picturesque Tuscan destinations. Their expertise shines through as they share captivating stories and point out hidden gems, ensuring guests gain a deeper appreciation for the region. The guided tours offer a seamless and enriching experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the charming atmospheres of these medieval towns without the hassle of navigating on their own.

Key Benefits of Expert Guide Accompaniment
In-depth historical and cultural knowledge
Insider tips and hidden gem discoveries
Seamless navigation and logistics
Personalized attention in small groups
Maximized sightseeing in limited time

Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes an expertly guided experience, with transportation, lunch, and wine tasting, along with all necessary gratuities covered.

Travelers will be accompanied by an English-speaking guide who’ll provide insightful commentary during the walking tours of Siena and San Gimignano. The air-conditioned transportation ensures a comfortable journey to and from the destinations.

A gourmet lunch and wine tasting in the Chianti region are also included, allowing participants to savor the flavors of Tuscany.

However, the tour is unable to accommodate guests with mobility limitations, wheelchairs, or strollers. Infant seats are available, and most travelers can participate in the activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No, guests cannot bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes a gourmet lunch and wine tasting, so outside food and beverages are not permitted. Participants must follow the tour’s inclusions for the full experience.

Are Pets Allowed on the Tour?

Pets are not allowed on this tour. The tour operator does not accommodate guests with animals due to safety and comfort considerations for all participants. Only service animals are permitted to join the group.

Is There a Bathroom or Restroom Break During the Tour?

Yes, there are scheduled bathroom breaks during the tour. The tour itinerary includes stops in the towns of Siena and San Gimignano, where guests will have the opportunity to use restrooms at local establishments.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration or Customize the Itinerary?

Customers can’t extend the tour duration or customize the itinerary. The tour offers a fixed full-day itinerary with a guided walking tour of Siena and San Gimignano, a gourmet lunch, and wine tasting in Chianti.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for the Tour?

The tour has a flexible cancellation policy, allowing full refunds up to 24 hours prior to the start. Refunds may be subject to a service fee, and cancellations within 24 hours are generally non-refundable.

Recap

This small-group tour offers an immersive journey through Tuscany’s cultural and culinary wonders.

Visitors explore the architectural marvels of Siena and San Gimignano, savor world-class Chianti wines, and indulge in a gourmet lunch featuring local ingredients.

The expert guide’s personalized accompaniment ensures a rich and rewarding experience for those seeking to enjoy the essence of Tuscany.