Exclusive Winery Tour with Tasting and Dinner in Chianti vineyard

Experience the Charm of Chianti with an Exclusive Winery Tour

If you’re craving a taste of Tuscany beyond Florence’s crowded streets, this full-day Chianti winery tour offers an authentic experience. Priced at around $113.84 per person, it includes round-trip transportation, visits to two unique wineries, guided tastings, and a special evening dinner among the vineyards. Led by friendly guides—like Stefano and Nico—this 6.5-hour journey whisks you away from the hustle of the city into the rolling hills and charming villages of Chianti.

What we love about this tour is how it balances wine education with stunning scenery. The visit to two different wineries means you get to sample a diverse selection of Chianti wines, each with its own character. Plus, the inclusion of a Tuscan dinner in such an exclusive vineyard setting makes it feel like a true local experience—something you can’t get at generic tourist spots. Another highlight is the small group size capped at 25, ensuring an intimate atmosphere where everyone can ask questions and enjoy the scenery without feeling lost in a crowd.

A possible consideration for some travelers is that the dinner might feel a bit rushed or chaotic according to some reviews, with food and drinks served quickly. Also, weather can influence the experience, but the tour does offer indoor options if needed. This tour is best suited for those who appreciate good value, authentic wine experiences, and scenic drives—perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone looking to escape the city for a relaxed, taste-filled day.

Key Points

• Authentic Chianti experience with visits to two different wineries
• Expert-guided tastings paired with local Tuscan snacks
• Stunning views and charming villages like Greve in Chianti
• Intimate group size ensures personalized attention and relaxed atmosphere
• Dinner among the vines offers a memorable Tuscan meal with wine pairing
• Convenient round-trip transportation from Florence makes planning simple

A Deep Dive into the Chianti Winery Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins in Florence at Piazzale Montelungo, a convenient and central meeting spot. From there, a comfortable bus whisks you out of the city, giving you a chance to settle in and enjoy the scenery. The group size is small—maximum 25 travelers—meaning you won’t be just a face in the crowd. Reviews consistently mention the pleasant bus ride and the friendly, knowledgeable guides, like Stefano and Nico, who make the journey engaging and informative.

First Winery Visit: Exploring Chianti’s Roots

Your first stop is a winery along Strada Statale 222 Chiantigiana, the main road through Chianti. Here, you’ll step into the cellar and learn about the wine-making process, from grape budding to harvest (“vendemmia”) and fermentation. The tasting is carefully curated, featuring some of the finest Chiantis, paired with local Tuscan snacks like cured meats and olive oil.

Reviewers like Kathleen and Angela rave about the wines and views at this first stop, emphasizing the quality and diversity. One reviewer called it a “wonderful wine tasting experience,” highlighting how the expert guides helped them appreciate the nuances of each wine. The setting itself—picturesque vineyards and rustic stone walls—adds to the sense of being truly in the heart of Tuscany.

Charm of Greve in Chianti

Before heading to the second winery, the tour makes a brief stop in Greve in Chianti, a small medieval town that feels like stepping back in time. Here, you can browse artisan shops, enjoy a leisurely walk, or grab a quick coffee. Reviewers described this as a “fantastic stop,” adding that it provides a peaceful break from the winery visits. It’s a perfect chance to soak in local life and maybe pick up a souvenir or two.

Second Winery: Dinner in the Vines

As sunset approaches, the tour transitions into a truly special highlight—a VIP dinner among the vineyards at the second winery. This is not your typical restaurant meal. You’ll be seated amid the vines, with views stretching across rolling hills. The dinner features seasonal, fresh ingredients prepared in a typical Tuscan style, with each course expertly paired with Chianti wine.

While some reviews note the dinner can feel “rushed and chaotic,” most guests agree that the setting and quality of food and wine make up for it. The experience offers a genuine taste of local hospitality, with many praising the friendly hosts and the beautiful ambiance. An added bonus is the possibility to arrange for wine shipping, making it easy to bring home a memento of your trip.

Return to Florence: Reflecting on the Day

After a leisurely evening, the bus returns to Florence, with travelers often recounting how the day exceeded expectations. The scenic drive back offers one last chance to chat about the day’s highlights or relax with a glass of wine.

Authenticity and Value

This tour strikes a good balance between guided education and authentic experiences. Many reviews commend the knowledge of the guides, who are both personable and well-informed. You’ll learn about the entire wine-making process, from vine to glass, in a way that feels accessible rather than scholarly.

At $113.84, the value is quite competitive considering the included activities—two winery visits, tastings, and a full dinner—all in a scenic setting. Compared to other tours, the small group size and personalized approach add significant value. Plus, the option to ship wine home simplifies logistics, especially if you’re worried about airline restrictions.

The Experience’s Strengths

• Quality of wine and food: Multiple reviewers praise the wines and the seasonal, flavorful dishes.
• Scenic beauty: The views of Chianti’s rolling hills and quaint villages are breathtaking.
• Intimacy and guide knowledge: Guides like Stefano and Nico are mentioned as engaging, helpful, and humorous.
• Convenience: Round-trip transportation from Florence makes planning stress-free.

A Slight Drawback

Some guests mention that the dinner can be a little rushed, with courses served quickly and glasses cluttering the table. If you prefer a slow-paced, multi-course meal, this might be a minor inconvenience. Also, in case of bad weather, the dinner moves indoors, which can slightly alter the ambiance.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for wine lovers who appreciate a genuine taste of Tuscany in a relaxed setting. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who want to combine sightseeing, wine tasting, and a memorable dinner. If you’re someone who values authenticity and scenic beauty, this tour will likely meet or exceed your expectations.

Travelers looking for a comprehensive, well-organized day out from Florence that balances education with leisure will find this tour offers excellent value, especially given the small group intimacy and the beautiful vineyard setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included? Yes, round-trip transportation from Florence is provided, making it easy to relax and enjoy the ride.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, ensuring flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Is there any food restriction accommodated? Vegetarian or vegan menus are available upon request, and travelers should inform the tour provider about any food allergies or intolerances.

What’s the group size? The tour caps at 25 travelers, which promotes a more personal and intimate experience.

Are children allowed? Yes, children are welcomed and will be offered soft drinks during tastings.

What if the weather is bad? If it rains, the dinner will be held inside the winery, so the experience remains enjoyable regardless of weather.

Final Thoughts

This exclusive Chianti winery tour offers a fine blend of scenic drives, authentic wine tastings, and a memorable dinner in one of Italy’s most beloved regions. The guides’ warmth and knowledge shine through, making the experience accessible and enriching. The chance to taste different wines, explore a charming village, and dine among the vineyards makes it a well-rounded day out for those craving authentic Tuscan culture.

While the dinner might feel a bit hurried for some, the overall value and authenticity cannot be beat. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to get a genuine sense of Chianti’s landscape, gastronomy, and wine traditions—all in one seamless, well-organized experience.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to deepen your appreciation for Italian wine and scenery, this tour promises a day filled with beauty, flavor, and good company.