From Florence: Small-Group Tuscany Wine & Oil Tour with typical Tuscan Meal

Discover the authentic flavors of Tuscany on a small-group wine and oil tour from Florence. For around 7 hours, you’ll explore the picturesque Chianti region with knowledgeable guides, visiting two wineries and an olive oil mill. The tour includes tastings of Chianti Classico and other regional wines, a delicious Tuscan meal, and plenty of scenic views. The price of approximately $94 per person makes this a great value considering the depth of experience and the personalized attention in a small group.

What we love about this tour is how it balances informative visits with relaxed tastings—so you get both a look behind the scenes of wine and olive oil production and the chance to enjoy the flavors in their natural setting. Plus, the round-trip transportation in a comfortable minivan means no stress about driving.

One potential consideration is the weather—this tour takes place rain or shine, so packing an umbrella or raincoat might be wise if the forecast isn’t clear. Also, if you’re traveling with a larger group, be aware that the tour might split you into different vans, which some might find less ideal for group bonding.

This experience suits travelers seeking a genuine taste of Tuscany’s countryside, whether you’re a wine lover, foodie, or simply want to see the rolling vineyards away from Florence’s busy streets. It also works well for those who appreciate small groups and personalized guides, as many reviews highlight how engaging and knowledgeable the hosts are.

Key Points

• Authentic Tuscan Experience: Visit two wineries and an olive oil mill, tasting regional products in their natural setting.
• Beautiful Scenery: Ride through the Chianti region, with views of vineyards, castles, and cypress-lined roads.
• Expert Guides: Learn about wine and olive oil production from friendly, knowledgeable guides.
• Delicious Food: Enjoy a traditional Tuscan lunch at a local cooking school, complemented by wine.
• Round-Trip Transport: Comfortable minivan pickup and drop-off from Florence simplifies logistics.
• Small Group Setting: Typically limited to 8 people, allowing for personalized attention and richer interactions.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Setting Out from Florence

Starting at Via dei Vagellai in Florence around 9:30 am, the journey begins with a comfortable ride in a Mercedes minibus. The drive lasts about an hour, during which you’ll watch the cityscape give way to the gentle slopes and lush vineyards of Tuscany. This scenic transition is what makes the trip special—seeing Florence’s hustle turn into the peaceful countryside is a visual reminder of the region’s tranquil beauty.

First Stop: Malenchini Wine Estate

Your first visit is to Malenchini Wine Estate, where you’ll step into the cellar and see where their wines are carefully stored and aged. The highlight here is the wine tasting, which includes up to six Chianti wines. You’ll learn how the Canaiolo and Sangiovese grapes are cultivated, and what makes Chianti Classico distinct. This is the kind of behind-the-scenes look that elevates a simple tasting into an educational experience, appreciated by many reviews that mention the guides’ expertise.

Second Stop: Diadema Wine & EVO

Next, the tour takes you to Diadema, a boutique winery where you’ll again explore their cellar, learn about their wine-making philosophy, and sample wines in a relaxed setting. You’ll also have a chance to browse their wine shop, which is perfect if you want to pick up bottles to take home. The tasting here focuses on top-quality oils as well, giving you a full flavor of Tuscany’s culinary produce.

The Scenic Drive to Greve in Chianti

After visiting two wineries, you’ll enjoy around 50 minutes of free time exploring Greve in Chianti, a charming town famous for its via Chiantigiana route. The drive itself is one of the highlights—passing castles like Vicchiomaggio and Verrazzano with their medieval towers and sprawling vineyards. Many reviews describe the views as “gorgeous” and “like being in a movie,” which is exactly what makes this region memorable.

Lunch at a Local Cooking School

The afternoon includes a traditional Tuscan lunch at Diadema Cooking School. This is not just a meal but an experience—sampling local specialties and sipping on more wine. The meal typically involves a three-course menu, paired with wines, echoing the region’s emphasis on fresh, flavorful ingredients. As one reviewer noted, the host’s knowledge and friendliness added a lot to the experience, making it feel like dining with friends rather than travelers.

Wrap-Up and Return

After lunch, the tour concludes with a relaxed drive back to Florence. Many travelers comment on how the experience left them feeling both relaxed and enriched, having learned about regional wines and oils, enjoyed stunning views, and tasted authentic Tuscan cuisine—all without any of the hassle of organizing individual visits.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While $93.61 may seem modest, the experience includes multiple winery visits, tastings of up to six wines, a guided olive oil tour, and a full Tuscan lunch—all in a small-group setting. The guided element is key; you’ll gain insights that you wouldn’t get if exploring solo, making this a worthy investment for wine and foodies. The round-trip transport saves you the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads, and the small group size ensures a more intimate, personalized experience, highly praised by past travelers.

Authentic Focus

What sets this tour apart is its focus on authentic, traditional production. The visits to wineries and an olive oil mill give you a genuine glimpse into regional farming and craftsmanship. Many reviews rave about guides like Francesca, Chiara, and Eleanora, who share their expertise with warmth and humor, making the day both educational and fun.

Stunning Natural Surroundings

The scenery in Chianti is truly the star of this experience. Expect rolling hills, vineyards stretching into the distance, and historic castles that seem straight out of a postcard. Several travelers mention how the views alone justify the trip, providing a peaceful escape from Florence’s busy streets.

Food and Wine Quality

Multiple reviews emphasize the quality of the wines and olive oils sampled—”amazing” and “delicious” are common descriptions. The food at the cooking school is described as authentic and plentiful, with many appreciating the pairing of meals and wines, which enhances the flavor experience.

Practical Tips for Participants

• Dress comfortably and wear layers, especially if the weather forecast is uncertain.
• Bring a small bag if you plan to buy bottles at the wineries.
• Remember, the tour operates rain or shine, so pack a rain jacket if necessary.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, but those under 18 won’t be served alcohol.
• The tour’s maximum size is 20, but many groups are smaller, ensuring more interaction and attention from guides.
• If you’re traveling with a larger group, be aware that the vans might split you up, as some reviews noted.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
Approximately 7 hours, including transportation, visits, tastings, and lunch.

Are meals included?
Yes, a three-course Tuscan lunch with wine tastings is part of the experience, served at a local cooking school.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, round-trip in a comfortable Mercedes minibus from a central Florence meeting point.

Can I buy wine and olive oil during the tour?
Absolutely. Each winery has a shop where you can purchase products. Many guests have enjoyed bringing bottles home.

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
While the menu is typical Tuscan fare, specifics aren’t detailed. Given the focus on local cuisine, many dishes will likely be meat or cheese-based, but you may inquire about vegetarian options.

What happens if it rains?
The tour occurs rain or shine. It’s a good idea to bring an umbrella or raincoat if the weather forecast predicts rain.

How many people are typically in the group?
The maximum is 20, but many reviews describe smaller, more intimate groups—sometimes even just four people, which adds to the personalized feel.

Final Thoughts

This small-group Tuscany wine and olive oil tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the region’s culinary and scenic treasures. From visiting historic wineries to tasting authentic oils and enjoying a hearty Tuscan meal, it provides a balanced mix of education and relaxation. The guides are praised for their expertise and friendliness, making the experience feel more like a day out with friends than a tour.

Ideal for those who want to escape Florence’s crowds and see the countryside at a leisurely pace, this tour is perfect for wine enthusiasts, food lovers, and anyone eager to experience Tuscany’s authentic flavors firsthand. The stunning vistas, delicious tastings, and warm hospitality combine to make it a memorable day worth every penny.

In short, if you’re seeking an authentic, small-group experience that combines scenic beauty with regional tastings and good food, this tour is a solid choice. It delivers genuine value, memorable moments, and a taste of Tuscany’s best—without the hassle of planning it all yourself.