Best Winery with Restaurant and wine tasting from Florence

Imagine sipping some of Tuscany’s finest wines while gazing out over the medieval skyline of San Gimignano from a historic tower. For around $58 per person, you get a 1.5-hour private guided tour of the tower of San Gimignano, a delightful wine and olive oil tasting, and a light Tuscan lunch in a setting that feels more like a private escape than a typical winery visit.

What makes this experience especially appealing is its blend of authentic local flavors and spectacular scenery. You’ll enjoy UNESCO-listed panoramic views from the Chigi Tower, taste a selection of prized Tuscan wines like Brunello di Montalcino and Chianti, and even have a professional photographer capture your memories. Two things we love: the personalized photoshoot—a real treasure for keepsakes—and the intimate setting that combines culture, cuisine, and wine all in one.

One possible consideration: the tour lasts about 3 hours, which might be a bit long if you’re pressed for time or prefer quick visits. It’s ideal for those who want a relaxed, in-depth experience rather than a hurried tasting.

This tour suits wine lovers, history enthusiasts, foodies, and couples seeking a romantic escape. If you appreciate authentic Tuscan flavors paired with incredible views and personalized touches, this is a wonderful choice.

Key Points

• Private Tower Tour: Enjoy a guided ascent of San Gimignano’s historic tower for stunning views and cultural insight.
• Wine & Olive Oil Tasting: Sample a broad range of Tuscan wines and high-quality olive oils, including extra virgin and truffle-infused varieties.
• Authentic Tuscan Cuisine: Savor a light, locally-sourced lunch featuring cheeses, salami, bruschetta, and traditional dishes like ribollita or truffle lasagna.
• Professional Photos: Capture your experience with a personal photoshoot, perfect for memorable keepsakes.
• Scenic Views: Take in panoramic vistas from the UNESCO-listed Chigi Tower, making it a visual feast as well as a culinary one.
• Value for Money: With an all-inclusive experience for under $60, it offers excellent value considering the personalized elements and cultural depth.

In-Depth Look at the Experience

What’s Included and What to Expect

Starting at Tenuta Torciano, you’ll meet your guide for a tour that lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes. The journey begins with a private climb of the San Gimignano tower, offering panoramic views that stretch far across the rolling Tuscan hills. The guide will share stories about the tower’s history and its role in medieval Tuscany, adding contextual richness to your visit.

Following your ascent, you’ll descend into a charming wine cellar for tastings. Here, you’ll sample a curated selection of Tuscan wines, including popular regional varieties like Chianti, Vernaccia di San Gimignano, and Super Tuscans such as Baldassarre and Cavaliere. The tasting is thoughtfully paired with olive oils, balsamic vinegar, and Tuscan appetizers—a true taste of Italy’s culinary craftsmanship.

The light Tuscan lunch is served on a terrace overlooking the vineyards or within a cozy tasting room. The menu features local cheeses and salami, bruschetta, and a choice between truffle lasagna or ribollita—a hearty Tuscan vegetable soup. For dessert, Cantuccini dipped in dessert wine make a sweet finish. Reviewers consistently mention the quality of the food; one visitor calls the lasagna “the best in all of Italy.”

The Photoshoot and the Views

Perhaps the most unique aspect of this tour is the professional photography session. For just a few extra moments, a photographer captures you against the breathtaking backdrop of San Gimignano’s towers and rolling hills. Several travelers comment on how special these photos are, providing a lasting memory of their Tuscan adventure.

The Setting and Atmosphere

The experience takes place at Tenuta Torciano, which is not just a winery but a well-loved estate with a reputation for warm hospitality and excellent wines. The UNESCO-protected views from the tower are truly unforgettable, offering a perfect platform for photography and quiet reflection.

Group Size and Practicalities

This tour is designed to be intimate, with a maximum of 300 travelers, although most groups are smaller, making the experience more personalized. It’s suitable for most travelers, including those with mobility considerations, as service animals are allowed and public transportation is nearby.

The experience is booked on a mobile ticket, and most bookings are made about 3 weeks in advance—so plan ahead if you want to secure your spot.

Value and Pricing

At $57.84 per person, this activity offers a well-rounded experience that combines cultural insight, culinary delights, and stunning scenery. Given the guided tower tour, wine and oil tastings, a meal, and professional photos, the value is evident. It’s a step above simple tastings, providing a fuller immersion into Tuscan life.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a wine aficionado or a food lover, you’ll appreciate the chance to taste top-tier wines and local delicacies. History buffs will enjoy the explanation of San Gimignano’s medieval towers, while couples seeking a romantic outing will find the terrace lunch and panoramic views ideal for memorable moments. Photographers and social media enthusiasts will value the professional photos to showcase their trip.

This tour is especially suited for those who want a relaxed, in-depth experience rather than a quick tasting. If you’re looking for a special, multi-sensory journey into Tuscany’s wine, food, and history, this tour checks all those boxes.

The Sum Up

This San Gimignano experience offers a perfect combination of history, scenery, culinary finesse, and personalized touches. The highlight is the private tower tour paired with tastings of some of Tuscany’s best wines and oils, all served with a view that’s hard to beat. The professional photos add a charming touch, making this a memorable keepsake of your visit.

While the duration might feel lengthy for some, those who enjoy savoring the moment will find this a worthwhile investment. The value for money is clear, especially given the inclusive nature of the experience—from the guided tour and tastings to the delicious Tuscan meal and photos.

This experience is best suited for those who value authentic, immersive experiences over rushed visits, and who are eager to take home lasting memories of Tuscany’s wine, food, and landscape.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours, including the tower tour, tastings, lunch, and photoshoot.

What is included in the package?
You get a light Tuscan lunch, wine and olive oil tastings, a guided tour of the tower, and a professional photoshoot.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Is this suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. However, the tower climb may require some mobility, so check in advance if needed.

What wines will I taste?
Expect to sample Brunello di Montalcino, Chianti, Chianti Classico, Morellino di Scansano, and Super Tuscans like Baldassarre and Cavaliere.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Yes, the experience is suitable for families, especially those interested in wine, food, and history.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Tenuta Torciano and ends back at the same location.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 22 days ahead; booking early is recommended, especially in peak seasons.

What’s the price?
The experience costs around $57.84 per person, offering good value considering all inclusions.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain or poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

This tour offers an enriching taste of Tuscany’s wine and culture, paired with breathtaking views and personalized memories. Whether you’re a wine lover, history enthusiast, or romantic couple, it’s a well-rounded way to experience San Gimignano beyond just sightseeing.