Versilia, with its rolling hills, historic towns, and picture-perfect landscapes, is a fantastic place to explore Tuscany’s renowned wines. Unlike busier wine regions, Versilia offers a more relaxed, authentic experience — perfect for those wanting a genuine taste of Italy’s wine-making traditions. Whether you prefer a short, intimate tasting or a full-day adventure through villages like Siena and San Gimignano, the options here are diverse enough to suit different interests and schedules. One tour we especially like is the Lucca wine tasting at Tenuta Mareli because of its focus on organic and biodynamic wines, and the chance to learn about natural wine production in a friendly setting. The small group tours and personalized experiences make it a highlight for wine lovers.
If you’re interested in exploring multiple spots, including Siena, San Gimignano, and the famous Chianti region, the full-day small group tour from Viareggio offers a comprehensive look at Tuscany’s most iconic sights and wines. For those with more time and a taste for elegance, the wine tour and lunch in Lucca area combines visits to vineyards with a hearty Tuscan meal. Lastly, for a quick half-day escape into Chianti’s hills and Leonardo da Vinci’s birthplace, the Chianti wine and olive oil tour stands out for its relaxed pace and scenic drive.
1. Lucca – Wine tasting at Tenuta Mareli
At number 1 on our list, the Lucca – Wine tasting at Tenuta Mareli offers an intimate introduction to organic and biodynamic wines grown directly on the Lucca hills. The tour lasts about an hour and a half, during which you’ll visit the vineyard, tour the cellar, and taste four of their natural wines, paired with local cheeses, oil, and honey. Francesca, the passionate host, shares her family’s story, philosophy, and their dedication to sustainable wine-making. The setting under a pergola makes this tasting memorable and relaxed.
What makes this experience special is the focus on natural, organic wines made with minimal intervention, which appeals to eco-conscious travelers. The tasting is complemented by a visit to the internal rooms of the estate, offering insight into traditional and modern production methods. Reviewers love Francesca’s warm, knowledgeable approach, with one calling it a “wonderful experience with delicious wines and memorable food.”
Bottom Line: Perfect for lovers of authentic Tuscan wines and those wanting a personal, educational experience. The high rating and affordable price make it a top pick for a quick yet meaningful wine stop.
2. Siena, San Gimignano and Chianti Wine Small Group from Viareggio
This full-day tour is a fantastic way to cover the highlights of Tuscany’s most famous towns along with tastings of Chianti wines. Starting early from Viareggio, the small group travels in comfort to San Gimignano, where medieval towers and artisan shops await. You’ll have time for gelato and exploring, then visit a renowned estate for a guided wine tasting of Vernaccia and Chianti DOCG. Lunch is a highlight — you’ll sample bruschetta, cheese, and local delicacies.
Afterward, the tour moves to Siena’s Piazza del Campo, where your guide will walk you through this stunning medieval city. The visit to the Palazzo Pubblico and Torre Grossa provides a glimpse into Siena’s rich history, all while enjoying the scenic Tuscan landscape. The wine tasting at the estate is a highlight — you get to see how Chianti is made, and learn about the region’s wine traditions directly from the winemaker.
Reviewers mention the relaxed pace and the guide’s expertise as real advantages. The trip is best suited for those eager to see multiple towns in one day, with a focus on wine and culture.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for history and wine enthusiasts who want to experience Siena, San Gimignano, and Chianti in a single, well-organized day. It’s a full immersion into Tuscany’s most iconic sights and flavors.
3. Wine tour and lunch in Lucca area
If your goal is a full-day wine experience with a focus on local cuisine, this tour delivers. Over six to seven hours, you’ll visit two estates in the Lucca and Montecarlo wine regions, renowned for both native Sangiovese and Trebbiano grapes and French varieties like Syrah and Chardonnay. The tour includes visits to vineyards and cellars, where you’ll learn about wine production and sample a variety of wines, including whites and sparkling. A light Tuscan lunch is part of the experience, often paired with your tasting.
The tour’s strength lies in exploring different wine styles and ** terroirs**, offering a well-rounded taste of the region’s diversity. Reviewers have praised the trip for its educational value and the chance to sample exceptional wines directly from the producers. It’s a good fit for serious wine fans who want a deeper dive into the region’s agricultural heritage.
The only potential downside is the high price, but the included tastings and lunch make it worthwhile for those seeking a premium experience. The tour is suitable for travelers with a serious interest in wine and a willingness to spend a bit more.
Bottom Line: Best for wine connoisseurs wanting a comprehensive exploration of Lucca’s vineyards and pairing with a traditional Tuscan meal. It’s a premium experience, but one that offers lasting memories.
4. Half-Day Chianti Wine and Olive Oil Tour from Viareggio
For travelers short on time but eager to taste Chianti’s famous wines, this half-day tour is a great choice. Departing in the afternoon, you’ll visit Vinci, Leonardo da Vinci’s birthplace, and enjoy the rolling Chianti hills during the scenic drive. At a local estate, you’ll tour the winery and taste four Chianti wines, paired with olive oil and local snacks.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of cultural and culinary highlights — a quick historical stop at Vinci combined with a private wine tasting in a family-run estate. Reviewers mention the relaxed pace and the on-board commentary as pluses, making it easy to learn without feeling rushed. It’s suitable for those who want a taste of Chianti but have limited time, or prefer a more relaxed, scenic experience.
The price point is reasonable, especially considering the inclusion of olive oil tastings and the personalized feel. The only thing to consider is the shorter duration, which means you won’t see as many sights but will get a focused, high-quality visit.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a short, scenic, and educational Chianti experience, with a good balance of wine, culture, and food.
How to Choose the Right Wine Tour in Versilia
When selecting your ideal experience, consider budget, time available, and interests. For a quick, affordable introduction to organic wines, go for the Lucca wine tasting at Tenuta Mareli. If you want a full day of sightseeing and tasting in Tuscany’s most famous towns, the small group tour from Viareggio hits the mark. For those seeking a more personalized, premium experience with wine and food, the Lucca wine and lunch tour offers excellent value. Lastly, if your schedule is tight but you want a scenic, educational taste of Chianti, the half-day Chianti tour from Viareggio delivers.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and ensure availability. All these tours provide a distinct slice of Tuscany’s wine culture, so choose based on your interests, time, and budget.
Final Thoughts
Versilia offers an impressive array of wine tours and tastings that cater to different tastes and schedules. If you’re looking for an intimate organic wine experience, the Lucca tasting at Tenuta Mareli is a top choice. For a sweeping Tuscany sightseeing and wine adventure, the full-day trip from Viareggio is hard to beat. And for a quick but rich Chianti dose, the half-day Chianti tour hits the sweet spot.
No matter which you pick, these experiences promise a genuine taste of Tuscany’s winemaking heritage. Don’t forget to book early, and enjoy your trip through the hills and vineyards of Versilia!