Chianti Wine Tour with Tuscan Lunch Open Top Van

If you’re dreaming of soaking up the Tuscan sun, sipping Chianti wines, and wandering through picturesque villages, this Chianti Wine Tour with Tuscan Lunch might just be what you’re looking for. Although I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the reviews and details paint a pretty enticing picture of a well-organized experience that combines beautiful scenery, delicious food, and plenty of wine.

What really caught our eye are two standout features: the small, intimate group of just six people (making it much more personal than those large bus tours) and the open-top van that lets you really take in the views while snapping photos. Plus, the chance to visit two local wineries and enjoy a hearty Tuscan lunch with wine pairing sounds like a lovely way to spend a day.

One thing to consider, though, is that this tour doesn’t include hotel pickup, so you’ll need to meet at the designated spot in Florence. If you’re comfortable with that, it shouldn’t be a problem. It’s especially well-suited for wine enthusiasts or those wanting a more relaxed, scenic escape from the city—and it’s great for small groups or couples looking for a personal touch.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points

• Intimate experience with a maximum of 6 travelers
• Scenic open-top van for unobstructed views and photo opportunities
• Visit two family-owned wineries with guided tastings and food pairings
• Visit charming villages like Greve in Chianti and Montefioralle
• Includes a multi-course Tuscan lunch at a second winery with wine pairing
• Free time in Greve for exploring artisan shops and local sights

A Scenic Journey Through Chianti’s Heartland

This tour offers a fantastic way to see the Chianti countryside without the hustle of large groups. From the moment you step into the open-top van, you’ll notice how much more immersive the experience feels. The scenic drive through rolling hills, vineyards, and charming villages is truly the highlight—especially if you’re someone who loves to capture photos or just enjoy the views.

The small van (only six seats maximum) ensures a cozy atmosphere, where everyone can ask questions and enjoy the ride without feeling lost in a crowd. Travelers frequently mention how much they appreciated the personalized attention and the knowledgeable guides like Farus and Firas, who make the experience engaging and friendly.

First Stop: Castellina in Chianti

Our first destination is a beautiful winery located right in the heart of Chianti. Here, you’ll get the chance to sample top-quality wines and even purchase bottles directly from the cellar. Tour reviews describe the wine as “delicious,” and many mention sending bottles home or buying some on-site. This stop typically lasts about an hour, giving enough time to learn about the wine-making process and enjoy the tasting.

The setting itself is often praised for its picturesque views and authentic charm. If you’re a wine lover, this is a highlight, with many reviewers quoting how they loved the chance to taste wines that are made with passion and care.

Exploring Greve in Chianti

Next, the group heads to Greve in Chianti, famous for its magnificent square and local artisan shops. You’ll have about 30 minutes of free time, which is enough to stroll, browse local crafts, or just soak in the village atmosphere. Reviewers often mention that this stop gives a nice taste of authentic Tuscan life, away from the tourist crowds.

Some reviews highlight the Falorni butcher’s shop, which is a local favorite, offering a glimpse into Tuscan culinary traditions. It’s a perfect chance to snap photos or pick up a souvenir before heading to the next winery.

Second Stop: Fattoria di Luiano

The second winery is described as a fascinating place with guided tours of the cellars and tastings of both fine wines and traditional Tuscan dishes. Here, you’ll indulge in a multi-course lunch featuring local specialties, paired with carefully selected wines. The reviews rave about the generous tastings—some mention getting 4-5 glasses of wine at each vineyard.

The food at Fattoria di Luiano is praised as delicious and authentic, making this not just a wine-tasting but a real culinary experience. Many reviewers mention that the lunch exceeded expectations and that the wine pairing added a special touch.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes all wine tastings, lunch, and guided cellar tours. It’s a good deal, especially considering the quality of the wines and food. However, the tour does not include hotel pickup, so you’ll need to meet at the designated Florence meeting point. There’s also no mention of tips being included, so you’re free to show appreciation for your guide’s service.

Price-wise, at around $231 per person, it might seem on the higher side, but considering the personalized experience, multiple stops, and lunch, many travelers find it offers great value. Especially if you’re someone who appreciates a relaxed pace and small group intimacy, this tour is worth it.

What Travelers Say: The Honest Feedback

The reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with all 86 reviews rating it a perfect 5 stars. Travelers praise the knowledgeable guides, particularly Firas and Farus, describing them as friendly, helpful, and full of good stories. Several mention that the wine was delicious, and some even sent bottles home as souvenirs.

Many loved the scenic drive in the open van, with comments like “the breeze and birdsong made it so special.” The small group size is frequently highlighted as making the experience more personal, more relaxed, and more fun than larger tours.

A few reviewers did mention the possibility of bringing a jumper —since the van is open-top, it can get chilly in cooler months. Also, since the tour begins at 9:30am, it’s best suited for those comfortable with morning starts.

Practical Tips for Your Tour

• Be ready for a full day—the tour lasts around 7-8 hours, but don’t worry; the pace is relaxed and enjoyable.
• Bring a jumper or light jacket if you’re sensitive to the breeze, particularly in cooler weather.
• Since the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup, plan to meet at the Florence starting point on time.
• The small group makes this ideal for those who want a more personal experience but less suitable for travelers who prefer larger, more energetic groups.
• Take advantage of the photo opportunities—the scenery is stunning, and the open van makes capturing the views easier.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re seeking a relaxed, intimate way to experience Chianti, this tour checks many boxes. The personalized service, beautiful scenery, and authentic wine tastings make it a standout choice for wine lovers and scenery enthusiasts alike. The lunch at a local winery adds a delicious, homegrown touch, making this a well-rounded day trip.

It’s especially suited for those who value small group experiences, guided insights, and the joy of exploring in a comfortable, open-air vehicle. If you’re traveling without a car and want a stress-free way to enjoy Tuscany’s renowned wine country, this tour could be a perfect fit.

However, keep in mind the meeting point and the fact that it’s not suited for travelers looking for a large-group, high-energy experience. Also, if you’re traveling with very young children or need hotel pickup, you might want to explore other options.

This tour offers a beautiful blend of scenery, culture, and cuisine—a day that many reviewers say is one of the best parts of their trip to Italy.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup. You’ll need to meet at the designated meeting point in Florence.

How many people are in each tour group?
The maximum group size is 6 travelers, making it a very intimate experience.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Are there any extra costs I should be aware of?
Tips are not included, so if you feel your guide provided excellent service, tipping is appreciated but optional. You might also want to purchase wine or souvenirs at the wineries.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the small and relaxed nature of the tour makes it suitable for travelers who enjoy wine and scenic drives. Always consider your children’s comfort with outdoor, open vehicles.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes, a jumper or light jacket if needed, and a camera for all those photo ops. Since it’s an open vehicle, dress appropriately for the weather.

What’s the best time of year to do this tour?
Most travelers book this about 46 days in advance, and with good weather, spring through early fall will give you the best experience. Always check the weather forecast, as the open van is more weather-dependent.

This Chianti tour in an open-top van offers a genuine taste of Tuscany’s beauty and wine. With its small group, scenic drives, and authentic experiences, it’s a memorable way to spend a day outside Florence. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or just looking to enjoy Italy’s stunning landscapes, this trip is worth considering.