Essence of Chianti Small Group Tour with Lunch and Tastings from Florence

Florence , Italy

Essence of Chianti Small Group Tour with Lunch and Tastings from Florence

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About this experience

Discover the real essence of the Tuscan countryside, driving through amazing postcard views; departing from Florence, in a small group, that means top comfort and quality, you will see Greve in Chianti, you will have a guided visit to 3 of the best wine estate, you will enjoy a genuine Tuscan light lunch, and you will taste and compare different wines, olive oil and other typical products. This unique experience will finish with your trip back to Florence in the afternoon.

Available options

Essence of Chianti Small Group Tour with Lunch and Tastings from Florence

What's included

Professional and informative English speaking driver/guide to lead you through the experience

Guided visit to 3 wineries, tasting of great wines, olive oil and more

Quick stop to see Greve in Chianti, the most representative Village of the Chianti Classico area

Small group tour: no crowds and more personalized experience

Transportation by air-conditioned and fully equipped vehicle

Typical Tuscan lunch: assorted cold cuts, cured ham, salami, cheeses, bruschetta, pasta (usually handmade pasta), and dessert.

Free wi-fi on board

Detailed itinerary

After having meet your guide and your travel companions in Florence depart in the direction of the Tuscan wine country. During the ride your guide will explain the schedule of your day.

After a 45 minutes ride, you will stop to Riseccoli, an organic and family owned, hilltop winery; the estate is the expression of the quintessential beauty of Tuscany; rolling hills planted with vines and olive trees, Mediterranean forests and farmhouses scattered against an idyllic backdrop. Here after the visit you will taste a selection of their wines and olive oil.

After a panoramic ride through the Tuscan wine country, you will reach Greve in Chianti, (a typical village of the Chianti Classico countryside) and the birthplace of the famous Tuscan explorer Giovanni da Verrazzano, the Tuscan who discovered the New York Harbor; here you will spend approx. 30/45 minutes to admire the Piazza Matteotti, a gently sloping square which is the hub of life in Greve, and have a look at the many local shops and wine stores, including the famous butcher shop Falorni, etc.

Leave Greve in Chianti, and after a 30 minutes ride through the most famous Tuscan wine road, (rolling hills, huge vineyards, olive trees, etc.? arrive at the second winery

Your experience at the second winery will start with an introduction about the history of the estate, with the explanations about the wine making process, and all the secrets to produce the Chianti red wine and the Tuscan olive oil, famous all over the world. After the visit, take a seat to enjoy a typical Tuscan light lunch paired with different wines (Chianti Classico, Riserva, Super Tuscans, etc.) and the olive oil, one of the most important ingredients of the italian cooking.

The last stop is at Villa Poggio Torselli, a family-owned historical Villa/Winery, where you will have the chance to admire the views over Florence and one of the most beautiful Italian garden in the area (weather permitting). Taste their genuine products, made with the deepest respect for the cultivation traditions of the territory, with almost the totality of the plants being represented by indigenous varietals, particularly Sangiovese. The third stop represent the perfect way to conclude your wine and food experience and complete your overview about the Tuscan wines by comparing the products and the philosophy of 3 different wine makers of the area.

Your day will end with a relaxing 45 minutes drive back to the departure point in Florence

What's not included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

305 reviews

5★

289

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

953 reviews

5★

933

4★

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1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Vegetarian option available on request

Due to uneven surfaces, and a few stairs to access wine cellars, this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair

In case the mentioned wineries are not available, we will choose estates in the same area and with the same level/quality.

Return at departure point: approx. 5:00pm. To reserve other activities, allow plenty of time, in case of heavy traffic, etc.

Luggage can be stored on the bus during the tour, if needed

Itinerary and/or visited wineries may change, based on their availability

Minimum age to join the tour is 12 years old; infants are not allowed

For cruise ship passengers only: if your ship docks at Livorno or La Spezia Port, be advised that the driving time to the meeting point in Florence is approx. 2 hours. Before booking, be sure your ship schedule works with our departure times, and you have your own transportation arranged from the port to Florence and back.

Meeting point

WHEN: 8:45am (at the latest)

WHERE: on the left side of the street, opposite to the parking lot

HOW: Look/ask for the PRESTIGE RENT staff, close to a red flag and the checkin table

Important notes

CHECK-IN TIME
You must check-in at 8:45am.
Late arrivals are considered as a no-show (NO REFUND)

IMPORTANT!!
We cannot hold the tour for late arrivals because it would be disrespectful to other guests arrived on time. If you show up late or cannot find the meeting point, for any reason, refunds will not be issued. Keep also in mind, it is not logistically possible to join the group after it has started. Arrive at the right check-in time, or a few minutes earlier, is the best way to be relaxed, enjoy your experience from the beginning, maintaining the good mood of the group.

HOW TO GET THERE:
By walk from the Florence SMN Train Station:
- From Piazza della Stazione (Stazione Square), leave the Train Station on your left, and walk towards Via Valfonda (Valfonda street), keeping the tram rails on your right.
- At the end of Via Valfonda, go to the traffic light on your left and across the street in front of you (Viale Filippo Strozzi), turn left, and walk till the end of the fortress red-brick wall (on your right), then turn right and go straight for approx. 100 meters (110 yards).
- There is a parking lot in front of you; the meeting point is on the left side of the street, (opposite to the parking lot), at the bottom of the highest red-brick building, exactly where the PRESTIGE RENT red flag is.
By taxi: reserve it in advance, and ask the driver to bring you directly to Piazzale Montelungo (NOT PIAZZALE MICHELANGELO)

HOW TO RECOGNIZE YOUR TOUR
Look for a red flag or the checkin table, with the PRESTIGE RENT logo;
IMPORTANT: In order to avoid confusion, even if you booked through Viator or TripAdvisor, tell the staff at the checkin, you are with PRESTIGE RENT, the operator that arranges the booked tour.

GOOGLE MAP
If you use Google map: https://goo.gl/maps/u9epigBugs1WLxVP8
don’t forget to set the by walk option, and do not follow the itinerary passing inside the Train Station, along the last platform, because it is actually closed at the exit!!

About Florence

Florence, the capital of Italy's Tuscany region, is a treasure trove of art, architecture, and history. Known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, it's home to iconic masterpieces, stunning cathedrals, and a rich cultural heritage that continues to captivate visitors from around the world.

Top Attractions

Duomo

The Florence Cathedral, known as the Duomo, is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Its iconic dome, designed by Brunelleschi, offers panoramic views of the city.

Architecture/Religious 2-3 hours Free to enter the cathedral, €18 for the climb to the dome

Uffizi Gallery

One of the world's most famous art museums, the Uffizi Gallery houses works by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci.

Museum/Art 2-3 hours €20

Ponte Vecchio

A medieval stone bridge famous for its jewelry shops. It's one of the most iconic landmarks in Florence.

Architecture 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Piazzale Michelangelo

A panoramic terrace offering breathtaking views of Florence. It's a perfect spot for sunset and photography.

Scenic Viewpoint 1-2 hours Free

Accademia Gallery

Home to Michelangelo's famous statue of David, the Accademia Gallery is a must-visit for art lovers.

Museum/Art 1-2 hours €16

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bistecca alla Fiorentina

A thick-cut, grilled T-bone steak, seasoned simply with salt and pepper. It's a must-try for meat lovers.

Dinner Contains beef, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Ribollita

A hearty vegetable and bread soup, traditionally made with leftover bread and vegetables. It's a classic Florentine dish.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian, can be made vegan

Lampredotto

A Florentine street food made from the fourth and final stomach of a cow. It's typically served in a sandwich.

Lunch Contains beef, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Cantucci

Almond biscotti traditionally served with Vin Santo, a sweet Tuscan wine. They are crunchy and perfect for dipping.

Dessert Contains almonds, can be made gluten-free

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Tuscan countryside Cycling tours Hot air balloon rides Wine tasting tours Spa day at a luxury hotel Strolling through the gardens of Villa medici Visiting museums and art galleries Attending opera or concerts

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

These months offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to the summer peak. Ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

15-28°C 59-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, French, Spanish
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Florence is generally safe for tourists, but pickpocketing and petty theft can occur, especially in crowded areas. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps

Getting there

By air

Florence Airport • 5 km from city center
Pisa International Airport • 85 km from city center

By train

Santa Maria Novella Station

By bus

Villa Costanza Bus Station, Florence Airport Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The bus network covers the entire city and is the primary mode of public transport. Buses are frequent and reliable.

Taxis

Available • Apps: MyTaxi, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Santa Maria Novella Oltrarno San Lorenzo Santa Croce

Day trips

Siena

70 km from Florence • Half day to full day

A medieval city known for its stunning Piazza del Campo and the Palio, a traditional horse race held twice a year.

Pisa

85 km from Florence • Half day

Home to the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa, this city offers a mix of historic sites and scenic views.

Chianti Wine Region

30-50 km from Florence • Full day

A picturesque wine region known for its rolling hills, vineyards, and charming villages.

Festivals

Festa di San Giovanni • June 24 Calcio Storico Fiorentino • June (dates vary) Firenze dei Fiori • April to June

Pro tips

Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Book tickets for popular attractions in advance to save time and avoid long queues
Explore the city's hidden gems, such as the Oltrarno neighborhood and the secret passages of the Palazzo Vecchio
Try local specialties like Bistecca alla Fiorentina, Ribollita, and Lampredotto
Learn a few basic Italian phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals