Full-Day Tuscan Hills Bike Tour With Lunch at Farm

If you’re considering a way to see the Tuscan countryside beyond the usual day trips, this full-day bike tour from Florence might be just what you’re after. It promises a blend of gentle cycling through scenic hills, a visit to a family-run farm, and a hearty Tuscan lunch—all within a manageable seven-hour window. From the glowing reviews and high ratings, it’s clear that many who’ve signed up have come away genuinely pleased with what they experienced.

Two things we really like about this tour are the quality of the guides and the stunning views. Travelers consistently highlight how guides like Alessandro, Calin, Jacopo, and Toto bring the countryside to life with their storytelling, local knowledge, and friendly approach. Plus, the chance to taste regional wines and extra virgin olive oil at a working farm adds authentic flavor that elevates the experience beyond just biking.

One potential downside to consider is the tour’s intermediate level—it’s described as somewhat hilly and suited to those with moderate physical fitness. While e-bikes are available for an extra cost, not everyone may want to or be able to pedal through the terrain comfortably. So if you’re not confident on a bike or prefer a very relaxed pace, you might want to plan accordingly or opt for the e-bike upgrade.

This bike tour appears ideal for active travelers who enjoy scenic routes, good food, and engaging guides. It’s especially suited for those who want to combine outdoor activity with cultural and culinary experiences in Tuscany. Plus, it’s a good pick for anyone wanting an authentic, small-group adventure that feels personal and well-organized.

Key Points

• Beautiful countryside riding with scenic views of Tuscan hills and vineyards.
• Knowledgeable guides make the experience informative and fun.
• Farm visit and tastings of local wine and extra virgin olive oil are authentic and memorable.
• Upgrade to an e-bike makes the ride easier, especially on hilly sections.
• Delicious Tuscan lunch with regional ingredients, often enjoyed in a picturesque setting.
• Small group size ensures a personalized experience, with a max of 15 travelers.

What You Can Expect on the Tour

Starting Out in Florence’s Oltrarno District

The tour kicks off around 9:30 am from Via del Campuccio, a location close to public transportation, making it easy to reach. The group typically starts in Florence’s quieter Oltrarno neighborhood, away from the busy city center. Here, the atmosphere is relaxed, and you’ll get a chance to get fitted with a quality 24-gear touring bike and helmet—important details that ensure comfort and safety during the ride.

The Scenic Route Through Chianti Roads

From there, you’ll leave the city behind and head into the Chianti countryside along beautiful country roads like the Strada Statale 222 Chiantigiana. This area is famous for its rolling hills and vineyards, and the route is described as intermediate—some hills, some flatter stretches. The reviews consistently mention how the views are incredible, especially when the weather cooperates.

Several reviews mention the ride is manageable even for casual cyclists, especially if you opt for the e-bike. This is a smart choice if you’re concerned about hills or want a more effortless experience. The tour is designed not to be overly strenuous, but some physical activity is involved.

Visiting a Family-Run Farm

One of the highlights is a visit to a local family farm, where you’ll get to see how Tuscan olive oil and wine are produced. Your guide will lead you through the farm, offering insights into regional agriculture. Depending on the season, you might even see the olive harvest in action, which adds a rare, authentic touch to the experience.

At the farm, you’ll taste regional wine and extra virgin olive oil, both of which are highly praised in reviews. Many guests remark that the tastings are generous and delicious, with some saying they loved the chance to sample products directly from producers. While these are included in the tour, they are also available for purchase, making it easy to take a bit of Tuscany home with you.

The Tuscan Lunch

After the farm visit, it’s time for a traditional Tuscan lunch. The meal usually features local ingredients and is served in a scenic setting—often at a villa or farm. Guests frequently describe the lunch as excellent, with hearty regional dishes and, of course, more wine. It’s a relaxed way to sit down, chat with fellow travelers, and savor the flavors of Tuscany.

Return and Reflection

The tour wraps up back at the original meeting point around 4 pm, giving you plenty of time afterward to explore Florence or relax. The entire experience is about six hours of riding and sightseeing, making it a well-paced day that balances activity with leisure.

The Real Deal Based on Reviews

What really makes this tour stand out are the reviews praising the guides. Multiple guests mention guides like Alessandro, Calin, Jacopo, and Toto as being informative, friendly, and helpful. One reviewer called a guide “one of the friendliest, most knowledgeable, and intuitive” they’d ever met, which is high praise. These personal touches make the difference between a good tour and an unforgettable one.

Guests also love the scenic diversity—riding through vineyards, visiting historic villas, and stopping at picturesque farms. The feedback about the lunch and wine tastings has been consistently positive, with many saying it was some of the best food and wine they’ve had in Italy.

A few reviews highlight the importance of choosing the e-bike option if you’re not a regular cyclist or concerned about hills. One guest appreciated how the e-bike made the ride nearly effortless, allowing them to focus on the scenery rather than struggling uphill.

On the flip side, some mention the intermediate level may be challenging for absolute beginners or those with limited physical fitness, so preparation and a good bike fit are worth considering.

The Itinerary in Detail

Morning Start and Orientation

Your day begins at 9:30 am, with a meet-up at Via del Campuccio. After some quick bike fittings and safety instructions, you’ll head out into Florence’s Oltrarno district, leaving behind the urban hustle for the serenity of Tuscany.

Scenic Cycling Along Chianti Roads

The route follows the Chiantigiana road, famous for its gentle curves and stunning vistas. The ride covers some hills, but with the availability of e-bikes, even those less confident in their cycling ability can comfortably enjoy the scenery.

Guests often describe the ride as not too difficult, with frequent stops for photos and explanations from guides. The group size—limited to 15—keeps the pace friendly and intimate, allowing guides to tailor their storytelling and support.

Farm and Vineyard Visit

After about 3-4 hours on the bike, you’ll arrive at a family-run farm. Here, you’ll see the production of olive oil and wine, and probably witness olive harvesting if it’s the season. Guests rave about the generous tastings, with some noting that guides even carried their purchased bottles in backpacks—showing how accommodating and thoughtful the guides are.

Lunch Time

Post-farm, the group settles down for a Tuscan lunch, often at a villa or scenic estate. The meal is described as hearty and filled with regional ingredients, paired with more wine. Guests mention the lunch is one of the best they’ve had, providing a perfect way to relax and soak in the countryside atmosphere.

Return Journey

The ride back is usually easier, with some downhill stretches. The tour concludes back at the starting point around 4 pm, leaving plenty of time to explore Florence or unwind.

Practical Considerations

Cost and Value

At $114.95 per person, this tour offers good value considering the inclusion of high-quality bikes, guides, a farm visit, and a full Tuscan lunch with tastings. The reviews suggest that many find it worth every penny, especially given the personalized service and scenic diversity.

Physical Fitness and Gear

The tour recommends a moderate fitness level because of some hills. If you’re unsure, the e-bike upgrade at $30 is highly recommended. The bikes are described as easy to use, and helmets are provided.

Weather and Clothing

Since the tour operates in all weather conditions, it’s wise to dress comfortably and bring rain gear if needed. Many reviews mention that even in rain, the experience was enjoyable, thanks to the guide’s flexibility and the scenic beauty.

Family and Age Suitability

The minimum age is 14, and a height of 150 cm is required. It’s not specifically a family tour, but older teens and adults who enjoy biking and good food will probably love it.

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the experience, which is flexible enough for most travelers.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour is perfect if you’re an active traveler who appreciates beautiful landscapes, good food, and engaging guides. It’s especially suited for those who want to combine scenery, culture, and culinary delights in a day outside Florence—without the hassle of planning or navigating alone.

If you’re not an experienced cyclist or are worried about hills, the e-bike upgrade is a smart choice. It makes the ride more accessible and lets you enjoy the views without fatigue.

Travelers who value authentic local experiences—like farm visits and tastings—will find this tour hits the mark. It’s also great for small groups seeking a personal touch, with plenty of stops for photos, stories, and tasting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be an experienced cyclist to join?
Not necessarily. The route has some hills, but e-bikes are available for an extra $30, making it easier to manage. Many reviews mention how helpful the guides are, and some people even choose to walk if they prefer.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes a professional local guide, a high-quality 24-gear touring bike (or e-bike if upgraded), helmet, wine and olive oil tastings, and a traditional Tuscan lunch.

Can I purchase wine and olive oil?
Yes, these are available for purchase at the farm, but tastings are included in the tour.

What is the tour’s duration?
It lasts about 7 hours, with the main activities happening between 9:30 am and around 4 pm.

Is the tour suitable for families?
The minimum age is 14, and physical activity is moderate, so it’s best for teens and adults who are comfortable biking.

What should I wear?
Dress sporty and comfortable for biking. No special gear needed beyond what you’d wear for a casual bike ride.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour operates rain or shine. If it rains, guides are accommodating, and you might get a different view of the countryside, but it will still be enjoyable.

Final Thoughts

The Full-Day Tuscan Hills Bike Tour with Lunch at a Farm offers an authentic, scenic adventure for those who want a more active, intimate experience of Tuscany. The combination of riding through picturesque landscapes, visiting a family-run farm, and enjoying a hearty regional lunch makes it a well-rounded day. The guides’ friendliness and knowledge shine through in the reviews, and the option to upgrade to an e-bike provides extra convenience.

This tour is especially suited for travelers who like a mix of outdoor activity and culture without feeling rushed. It’s a fantastic way to see a part of Tuscany that many don’t get to experience from a bus or car, all while sharing good food, wine, and stories with like-minded explorers.

Let me know if you have any more questions or want tips on making the most of your time in Florence and Tuscany!