Florence: Truffle Hunting and Vinci with Lunch and Winery

A genuine look at Tuscany’s treasure trove: Truffle hunting, Vinci, and wines

Imagine spending a day wandering through Tuscany’s rolling hills, hunting for the elusive truffle with a professional and his Lagotto dog, then sitting down to enjoy a meal that celebrates those finds. Add in a visit to Vinci, Leonardo da Vinci’s hometown, and a stop at a family-run winery for some of the best Chianti wines. That’s exactly what this tour offers — a full, well-rounded experience that balances nature, history, and taste.

What really stands out are the authenticity of the truffle hunt and the genuine warmth of the guide, plus the chance to taste some incredible local wines. We also appreciate how much effort goes into making this a memorable day, from the scenic views to the carefully curated lunch. On the flip side, if you’re not a fan of outdoorsy activities or if you’re looking for a low-key, purely cultural tour, this might not be your perfect fit.

This adventure suits travelers who want more than just sightseeing — those eager to see the countryside, learn about regional delicacies, and enjoy a taste of local life. It’s ideal for food lovers, wine enthusiasts, and curious explorers who appreciate a good mix of physical activity and cultural insight.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic truffle hunt with a professional guide and Lagotto dog in San Miniato.
• Delicious lunch featuring fresh truffles, highlighting local Tuscan cuisine.
• Visiting Vinci offers a glimpse into Leonardo da Vinci’s hometown and medieval charm.
• Wine tasting at a family-owned vineyard with stunning views in Chianti.
• Flexible booking options and full refunds with 24-hour cancellation.
• Small, private groups focus on personalized experiences.

Exploring the Tuscany experience: Truffle hunting, Vinci, and wine

This tour presents a lovely way to explore Tuscany beyond the usual highlights. It’s a package that combines the thrill of truffle hunting, the charm of Vinci’s historic streets, and the relaxing pleasure of wine tasting in the Chianti region. We’ll walk you through what makes each part special and what you can expect when you sign up.

The magic of truffle hunting in San Miniato

The trip kicks off with pickup in Florence and a drive into Tuscany’s countryside. The highlight here is the two-hour truffle hunt with a seasoned professional and his Lagotto dog, prized for their skill in finding these aromatic treasures.

From reviews, it’s clear that this part of the experience really hits the mark. Travelers love seeing the dogs in action — “It was great to see the dogs do something that made them happy,” says one reviewer. The hunt doesn’t just feel like a game; it’s a genuine demonstration of skill and a chance to understand why truffles are so treasured in Italian cuisine.

What makes this part memorable is the combination of scenery and activity. You’ll be walking in the woods, probably with some scenic views along the way, and the thrill of finding those little nuggets of flavor that will later feature in your meal.

Enjoying the truffle-inspired lunch

After the hunt, you’ll head to a local restaurant in Corazzano, where the real treat begins. The restaurant prepares a lunch based on the fresh truffles you’ve just found. It’s one thing to see a truffle in the wild, but to taste it in a beautifully prepared dish makes the experience complete.

Many reviewers rave about the quality of the meal and wine. One comment called the lunch and wine tasting “amazing,” and others appreciated how fresh and flavorful everything was. It’s a great opportunity to indulge in Tuscan culinary traditions, from pasta to antipasti, with truffles as the star ingredient.

Note that the experience isn’t rushed; the two-hour stop includes a guided tour, some walk-time, and the chance to explore the local food market if you wish. The overall vibe is relaxed, authentic, and full of flavor.

More Great Tours Nearby

Discovering Vinci: Leonardo’s hometown

Next, you visit Vinci, a town that’s filled with history and charm. This is more than just a photo op; you get a guided tour of the town, which allows you to soak in the medieval atmosphere and learn about Leonardo da Vinci’s roots.

The scenery en route offers breathtaking views, and the town itself provides a glimpse into the everyday life of Tuscany’s past. The review mentions the sunset views and the scenic drive, making this part of the day visually and culturally rewarding.

While Vinci is mainly known for its connection to Leonardo, the town’s quiet streets and historic buildings make for a peaceful walk. It’s a good mix of history and genuine small-town charm, especially if you enjoy enjoying local stories.

Sampling Chianti: Wine tasting at a family-owned vineyard

The final activity takes you to a family-owned winery, where you’ll taste some of the best wines of the Chianti region. The 50-minute visit includes a guided tasting amid scenic views, offering a chance to understand what makes Chianti wines so special.

From the reviews, it’s clear that the wine is well appreciated, with travelers describing it as “the best wine of Chianti.” The guide is knowledgeable, and the setting—likely rural and picturesque—adds to the overall charm. For wine lovers, this is a lovely way to cap off the day, with enough time to relax and savor the flavors.

Practical details and overall value

The entire tour lasts about 9 hours, which is quite reasonable considering the number of experiences packed into it. It’s designed as a private group, meaning you’ll get personalized attention, and the small group size makes it feel intimate and relaxed.

Transportation is included, and the schedule is well-organized: starting in Florence, with a clear flow from activity to activity. The tour operates rain or shine, so come prepared for the weather. The ability to reserve and pay later offers flexibility, especially for travelers with unpredictable plans.

Pricing is a consideration, but when you think about the quality of experiences — the truffle hunt, gourmet lunch, scenic town visits, and wine tasting — the overall value seems fair. Especially since many reviews highlight how much they enjoyed the guides’ knowledge and the authentic atmosphere.

Who will love this tour?

This experience is perfect for food lovers eager to see how Tuscany’s culinary gems are found and enjoyed. It’s also suited for culture enthusiasts who want to explore Vinci and learn about Leonardo’s roots. Wine aficionados will appreciate the Chianti tasting, and nature lovers will enjoy the outdoor truffle hunt.

While families could enjoy it, keep in mind that the activities are outdoor and involve walking, so it’s best for those who are comfortable with some physical activity. If you’re looking for a laid-back, purely cultural tour, this might be a bit lively for some.

Final thoughts

All in all, this tour offers a genuine slice of Tuscany — combining culinary discovery, cultural insight, and scenic beauty. The guides seem to make all the difference, bringing knowledge, warmth, and flexibility to the experience. It’s quite a comprehensive day, filled with memorable moments that blend history, flavors, and landscapes seamlessly.

For anyone wanting a well-rounded Tuscan adventure that mixes activity with relaxation, and local flavors with scenic views, this tour could be just the ticket. It’s especially suited for those who value authentic experiences and don’t mind a bit of outdoor wandering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is primarily outdoor and involves walking, it can be enjoyed by families comfortable with some activity. It’s best to check with the provider if you have specific needs, but no age restrictions are mentioned.

How long does the truffle hunt last?
The truffle hunting part lasts about two hours, giving enough time to hunt and learn about this delicacy.

What’s included in the lunch?
The lunch is at a local restaurant and features dishes based on the fresh truffles found during the hunt. It’s a full meal in a relaxed setting.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there a guide?
Yes, the tour includes a live guide speaking English, Italian, or Spanish, depending on your preference.

How do I get to Vinci from Florence?
The transportation is arranged as part of the tour, so you’ll be picked up in Florence and driven to each destination.

What kind of wines will I taste?
You’ll sample wines from a family-owned vineyard in Chianti, known for its high quality and scenic setting.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s designed as a private group experience, ensuring personalized attention.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially for the woods and town walks. Check the weather forecast as the tour runs rain or shine.

How long is the overall tour?
It lasts about 9 hours, starting in the morning and returning in the evening.

If you’re after an authentic, balanced day exploring some of Tuscany’s best flavors, views, and history, this tour could be a fantastic choice. It combines activity with leisure and offers enough flexibility to make it a memorable part of your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: