Chianti Wine Tour with Tuscan Lunch Open Top Van

A Taste of Tuscany: The Chianti Wine Tour with Open-Top Van

If you’ve ever dreamed of cruising through Italy’s iconic Chianti region, this tour offers a delightful blend of scenic beauty, authentic wine experiences, and charming villages—all in a comfortable, open-air minivan. For about seven to eight hours, you’ll visit two family-run wineries, stroll through historic hilltop towns, and enjoy a multi-course Tuscan lunch paired with local wines. The cost is around $231 per person, and the small group size of just six travelers means a more personal adventure.

What we love most about this experience is how close you get to the countryside—thanks to the open-top van, you’ll be soaking up the sun and capturing those postcard-perfect views. Plus, the visits to small, family-owned wineries make for a more genuine, less commercial wine tasting than you might find elsewhere. The second highlight? The opportunity to wander Greve in Chianti, a lively village bursting with artisan shops and local charm.

A real consideration is that the tour starts at 9:30 am and does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to organize your transportation to the meeting point in Florence. Also, while most travelers find this tour suitable, the limited group size and outdoor nature mean it’s best for those comfortable with some walking and open-air exposure.

This tour suits those who appreciate good wine, scenic landscapes, and small, intimate groups. It’s especially well-suited for couples, small groups of friends, or anyone eager for a genuine taste of rural Tuscany without the fuss of large tour buses.

Key Points

• Intimate Experience: Small group of up to six travelers for personalized attention.
• Scenic Drive: Open-top van offers stunning views and photo opportunities.
• Authentic Visits: Two family-run wineries and two charming hilltop villages.
• Gourmet Lunch: Multi-course Tuscan meal with wine pairing at a second cellar.
• Flexibility: Free time in Greve in Chianti to explore artisan shops.
• Value: All tastings and lunch included, making it a comprehensive day trip.

Exploring the Details: The Perfect Balance of Sight and Sip

This tour balances the beauty of Tuscany’s landscapes with the pleasures of local wine and cuisine. Starting in Florence, the journey takes you through rolling hills dotted with vineyards and olive groves—views that immediately set the mood for a relaxing day. The open-top van, a feature many reviews highlight as a great way to experience Tuscany, allows you to feel the breeze, hear the sounds of the countryside, and snap photos of the landscape that often looks like a painting.

First Stop: Castellina in Chianti

Your first visit is to a beautiful winery nestled in the heart of Chianti. Here, you’ll have the chance to taste some excellent wines and purchase bottles directly from the winemaker. Reviewers consistently praise the wines here, calling them “delicious,” and note that you can buy or even send bottles home—an excellent souvenir from your trip. The hour-long visit includes a guided tour of the cellar, offering insight into the winemaking process, which enhances your appreciation of each sip.

Second Stop: Greve in Chianti

Next, you’ll stop in Greve in Chianti, a lively village with a famous piazza—Piazza Matteotti—that’s perfect for strolling and soaking in local life. Reviewers love the free time here, mentioning they enjoyed browsing artisanal shops and visiting the Falorni butcher’s shop. It’s a good moment to pick up some local delicacies or simply relax in a café. The half-hour stop is brief but meaningful, giving you a taste of authentic Tuscan village life.

The Highlight: Fattoria di Luiano and the Tuscan Lunch

The final and most substantial part of the tour is at Fattoria di Luiano, a second winery that boasts a beautiful setting in the countryside. Here, you’ll indulge in a multi-course Tuscan lunch, paired with carefully selected wines. The meal is more than just a snack—many reviews describe it as generous, with delicious food that highlights regional flavors.

The guided cellar tour and tasting at Luiano add depth to your experience. Expect to sample olive oils, cheeses, and cold cuts, alongside the local wines. Several travelers mention that the lunch exceeded expectations and was a highlight of their day. Although not explicitly detailed in reviews, the multi-course meal with wine pairing is a clear value addition, making the overall experience more immersive and memorable.

The Transportation: Open-Top Van Experience

The open-top van isn’t just about style; it’s about feeling connected to the landscape. Many reviews praise the van’s design, calling it a great way to enjoy the scenery and get excellent photos. The van holds only six people, fostering a more intimate atmosphere where guides can give personalized attention.

Firas, the driver and guide, receives special mention for his knowledge, friendliness, and helpfulness. He often went above and beyond, stopping at extra points of interest and sharing insightful stories, as noted by multiple reviewers. One reviewer praised him for helping with shopping and taking photos, making the experience even more relaxed.

Group Size and Comfort

Given the small group size, you’ll find yourself with plenty of room and a less rushed, more conversational experience. This is especially beneficial if you’re shy about large crowds or want a more tailored tour. The downside? The tour doesn’t include hotel pickup, so you’ll need to get yourself to the meeting point in Florence.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts eager to visit small, family-run wineries, or for those wanting to combine scenic drives with cultural stops. It also appeals to travelers who favor small-group settings and authentic local encounters over large, commercialized tours. Perfect for couples, small groups of friends, or anyone interested in a relaxed, intimate taste of Tuscany’s countryside.

A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

1. Castellina in Chianti

This first stop sets the tone for the day. The winery’s location within Chianti’s core ensures you’re in prime wine country. Tasting excellent wines here is a highlight, especially since you get the opportunity to buy bottles directly from the producer or have them shipped home. The guided tour of the cellar is informative without being overly technical, making it accessible for all.

2. Piazza Matteotti in Greve

A charming village square, this stop offers a snapshot of Tuscan life. The shops are filled with local artisan goods, and the famous Falorni butcher shop is a treat for meat lovers. The free time allows you to wander at your own pace, enjoy a coffee, or browse local crafts, adding a layer of local flavor to your experience.

3. Fattoria di Luiano and the Tuscan Lunch

The second winery is a larger estate where the real culinary highlight awaits. The multi-course lunch includes regional specialties, all paired with wines carefully chosen to complement the dishes. Several reviews mention that the lunch was impressive—more than just a quick bite, it’s a proper meal that showcases Tuscan cuisine.

Guided Tours and Tastings

At both wineries, guided tastings give insight into wine production, improving your understanding of Chianti wines. Many guests note the generous tastings—often 4-5 glasses per vineyard—and the friendly, knowledgeable guides who make the experience enjoyable.

The Overall Experience: Authentic, Scenic, and Delicious

The small group size and personalized touches make this tour stand out. You’ll enjoy the beautiful vistas of Tuscany, the authentic charm of family wineries, and the delicious food and wine that showcase regional pride. The guided visits ensure you learn something along the way, and the free time in Greve keeps the pace relaxed and flexible.

From the enthusiastic reviews, it’s clear that many guests found this to be a highlight of their trip to Florence—a perfect escape from the city hustle to experience Italy’s wine-country charm. The value for money is evident, considering all tastings, the meal, and the personalized experience.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re a wine lover, this tour offers a genuine taste of Chianti’s small wineries combined with the scenic beauty of Tuscany. It’s especially suited for those who prefer a small, intimate group and want to learn about local wine production while enjoying stunning views. The open-top van adds an extra fun element, making the journey as memorable as the destinations.

However, if you’re short on time or prefer to stay within Florence, this day trip provides a well-balanced mix of nature, culture, and gastronomy—all in one seamless package. It’s a perfect choice for travelers who want an authentic, relaxing day out with a touch of adventure.

FAQ Section

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts about 7 to 8 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, the tour starts at a specified meeting point in Florence, so you will need to arrange your transportation there.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is six travelers, which means a more personalized experience and fewer crowds.

Are tastings included?
Yes, the tour includes guided tastings at two wineries, featuring Chianti wines, olive oil, cheeses, and cold cuts.

What is the lunch like?
The lunch is a multi-course Tuscan meal, served at the second winery, with wine pairings included. Many guests find it more than enough and very delicious.

Can I buy wine during the tour?
Absolutely, you can purchase wines directly from the wineries to take home or send to your address.

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or special diets?
The review mentions a multi-course meal, but specific dietary restrictions are not detailed. It’s best to inquire directly with the provider beforehand.

Do I need to prepare for outdoor elements?
Yes, the van is open-top, so bring a jumper or hat depending on the weather. The experience is best on sunny days.

What is the cost per person?
The tour is priced at approximately $231.05, which covers tastings, lunch, and guided visits—considered good value for a full-day, intimate experience.

Is this tour accessible for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but note that it involves some walking and outdoor exposure, so check your own comfort with these.

This Chianti wine tour offers a genuine, intimate look at Tuscany’s famed wine country, perfect for those craving authentic experiences without the crowds. The combination of scenic drives, small wineries, a hearty lunch, and the chance to explore real villages makes it a memorable day out. If you love wine, scenic countryside, and local culture, this tour is definitely worth considering for your Florence itinerary.