Tuscany Wine Tour : 2 Wineries & San Gimignano from Florence

If you’re eyeing a day trip to Tuscany that combines stunning scenery, delicious wines, and a touch of medieval magic, this tour could be just what you need. While we haven’t personally done it ourselves, the reviews speak volumes about its popularity — a glowing 4.8 out of 5 from nearly 600 travellers. It’s clear that many find this experience both worthwhile and memorable.

What really draws us in are the chance to taste up to 7 different wines in one day — a true boon for wine lovers — and the opportunity to explore San Gimignano, one of Tuscany’s most picturesque towns. A potential downside? With only about 1.5 hours in San Gimignano, some might find that’s enough to just get a quick glimpse rather than a deep dive into its medieval streets. Still, for most, this tour strikes a great balance between relaxation, education, and sightseeing.

This experience is perfect for anyone who enjoys wines and scenic landscapes and prefers a laid-back, small-group atmosphere. If you’re looking for a guided day that offers both educational insights and plenty of tastings without feeling rushed, then this tour could be an excellent choice. It’s especially suited for those who want to see Tuscany’s countryside without the hassle of planning each stop themselves.

Key Points

• Relaxed, full-day experience that balances wine tastings, sightseeing, and learning
• Up to 7 wines sampled across two different wineries
• Expert guides provide engaging insights into Tuscany’s culture and wine-making
• Scenic drives through breathtaking Tuscan landscapes dotted with vineyards
• Visit San Gimignano’s medieval streets with enough time to wander
• Small group size (limited to 8 participants) for a more personal experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tuscany Wine Tour

This tour offers a wonderful way to get a taste of Tuscany’s famed countryside, wines, and medieval charm, all in a comfortable, organized package. Starting from Florence, you’ll meet your guide at a designated spot around 9:45 am, giving you a little extra snooze time before a full day of exploration.

The Pickup and Drive

You’ll meet your guide, easily recognizable in a purple T-shirt, at Piazza della Calza near Porta Romana. The drive out of Florence takes about an hour, during which your guide will set the scene with stories about Tuscany’s landscape, history, and wine culture. Expect scenic views of rolling hills, vineyards, olive groves, and cypress trees—classic Tuscany postcard moments.

The First Winery: Family-Run Charm in Ulignano

Once you arrive at the first winery, located in the quaint village of Ulignano near San Gimignano, you’ll step into a welcoming family environment. This estate offers guided tastings where you can sample a variety of wines, including Chianti, Super Tuscans, and Vernaccia di San Gimignano, often paired with local delicacies. Reviewers appreciate the personal touch here — “a large family-run business with exceptional service,” and “a vineyard owner who takes the time to explain their wines,” make it clear that this stop feels authentic and intimate.

The experience isn’t just about drinking wine; it’s about understanding what makes Tuscan wines special. Some visitors mention that they learned a lot about the vineyard’s history and winemaking process, adding educational value to the tasting.

The Second Winery: Scenic and Rustic

Just five kilometers from San Gimignano, the second estate offers stunning panoramic views of the Tuscan landscape. Here, you’ll taste three different wines: Vernaccia, Chianti Colli Senesi, and a lovely rosé. The setting is picturesque, and many reviews highlight how “beautiful the view of San Gimignano” is from this spot, making it a memorable photo op.

While the second winery is described as smaller and more rustic, some reviewers note that it’s less polished and that the wine-making explanation could be more detailed, especially in English. However, the charm of the setting and the quality of the wines make up for that.

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San Gimignano: A Medieval Marvel in Just Over an Hour

After the wineries, you’ll have about 1.5 hours to explore San Gimignano, often called the “Medieval Manhattan” because of its impressive skyline of towers. The town is perfect for wandering its cobblestone streets, visiting artisan shops, or simply soaking in the views from the Torre Grossa, which offers a panoramic vista.

Many reviews mention that this time is just enough to get a quick feel for the town and enjoy some gelato — the Gelato World Champion is often recommended here. Some guests wish for a longer stay, but most agree that the amount of time allows for a decent overview without feeling rushed.

The Return Journey

After San Gimignano, the drive back to Florence takes approximately an hour, giving you time to relax, reflect, and maybe chat about your favorite wines of the day. Drop-off is back at the original meeting point around 5 pm, and many travelers leave with a camera full of photos and perhaps some bottles of wine and olive oil bought during the tastings.

The Practicalities

This tour lasts about 7 hours in total, starting around 9:45 am and returning by 5 pm. The small group size (up to 8 people) ensures a more personal and relaxed atmosphere. It’s guided in English, with knowledgeable guides who are often praised for their friendliness and insights.

You should bring your passport or ID, especially if you plan to buy wine or other goods. The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or children under 18, so it’s geared more toward adult wine enthusiasts or curious travelers.

Pricing includes the tastings, guide, and transport, offering good value considering the quality of experiences and the scenic drives. You can reserve now and pay later, which adds flexibility to your planning.

What the Reviews Say

The resounding feedback from past travelers is how knowledgeable and personable the guides are. “Valentina was wonderful,” says one reviewer, highlighting the detailed information and friendliness. Others mention the “beautiful views,” “quality wines,” and “authentic family-run wineries” as highlights.

Many rave about the variety and quality of wines — “you try 7 types at two wineries,” and some even buy bottles to take home. The stops in San Gimignano are often described as perfect for a quick walk, with a few wishing for more time to explore.

Several reviews emphasize the value for money: “everything was so organized,” and “the price reflects the experience,” with many considering it a highlight of their trip to Florence.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable experience for wine lovers, scenic enthusiasts, and curious travelers looking to enjoy Tuscany’s iconic landscape without the hassle of planning. The small group size fosters an intimate, engaging atmosphere, and the expert guides make a real difference with their knowledge and friendliness.

If you want to sample a variety of wines, enjoy breathtaking views, and stroll through a beautiful medieval town, this trip ticks all those boxes. It’s ideal for those who prefer a relaxed pace but still want to cover significant ground in a day. Be aware that the limited time in San Gimignano means you’ll get a taste rather than an in-depth exploration, so plan additional visits if you fall in love with the town.

Finally, for travelers who want good value, expert-guided insights, and a scenic drive through Tuscany’s heart, this tour offers a memorable way to experience Italy’s famous wine country.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes transportation via comfortable coach from and back to Florence. The drive takes about an hour each way.

What’s the meeting point?
You’ll meet your guide at the Piazza della Calza, near Porta Romana, at 9:45 am. Look for someone in a purple T-shirt.

How many wines will I taste?
You’ll try up to 7 different wines across two wineries, with options including Chianti, Vernaccia, Super Tuscans, and rosé.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 18, pregnant women, or wheelchair users.

How long is the visit in San Gimignano?
You’ll have just over an hour and a half to explore the town, which is enough for a quick walk and some gelato.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, especially if you plan to purchase wines or other products.

Is the tour suitable for couples or small groups?
Absolutely. The group size is limited to 8, making it intimate and ideal for couples or small groups seeking a personal experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.

What if I don’t speak English well?
The tour is guided in English; the guides are known for their friendly, clear communication.

Will I learn about wine during the tour?
Yes, guides often provide engaging insights into wine types, production, and regional specifics, adding educational value to the tastings.

This tour is a fantastic choice for anyone wanting to enjoy Tuscany’s famed scenery and wines in a relaxed, well-organized setting. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or just looking to savor some local flavors, it’s a trip that offers a genuine taste of Italy’s wine country.

You can check availability for your dates here: