Best Winery with Restaurant and wine tasting from Florence

My curiosity about Tuscany’s wine and culinary scene led me to a highly-rated experience in San Gimignano that promises a blend of history, gastronomy, and picturesque views. This tour, rated 5.0 based on 27 glowing reviews and recommended by 100%, is priced at $57.84 per person. It lasts around 1 hour 30 minutes but feels much longer thanks to the variety of activities packed in — from a private tour of a medieval tower to tasting some of Tuscany’s finest wines and local specialties. The meeting point is at Tenuta Torciano, just a scenic drive from Florence, making it easy to reach.

One of my favorite aspects of this experience is the chance to see San Gimignano from a medieval tower, offering a stunning panoramic view that’s UNESCO-recognized. The second highlight is the personal photoshoot—a thoughtful touch that helps you preserve memories of this special afternoon. The inclusion of a light Tuscan lunch featuring cheeses, salami, and classic dishes like lasagna or ribollita adds a genuine flavor of Italy, far beyond typical tasting rooms. On the flip side, the experience’s duration of around 1.5 hours, while packed, might feel a bit rushed if you’re keen to linger over the wines or the views, especially during busy seasons.

Key Points

• Unique Perspective: The private tour of San Gimignano’s tower provides a memorable vantage point with amazing views.
• Authentic Tasting: Sample a broad selection of Tuscan wines, including Chianti, Brunello, and Super Tuscans, paired with olive oils and balsamic vinegar.
• Culinary Comfort: The light lunch features local cheeses, salami, and hearty Tuscan dishes like lasagna, perfect for tasting regional flavors.
• Professional Photos: Capture high-quality memories with a personal photoshoot, making the experience truly special.
• Educational & Enjoyable: Knowledgeable guides like Lorenzo deliver engaging wine tastings, enhancing your understanding of local wines.
• Value for Price: At around $58, this experience offers a well-rounded taste of Tuscany’s wine, food, and scenery with a cozy, manageable group size.

A Closer Look at the Experience

The Meeting and Start

Meet at Tenuta Torciano, a renowned winery just outside of San Gimignano, with easy access from Florence. The location is convenient, and the mobile ticket process keeps the check-in simple. Most travelers book about three weeks in advance, which is wise given its popularity.

The Private San Gimignano Tour

The highlight is the private tour of the Chigi Tower, a medieval structure that towers over the old town. Climbing up to the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic vistas that stretch over the countryside — an ideal spot for photos and appreciation of the Tuscan landscape. The guide, often Lorenzo, is praised for being engaging and knowledgeable, turning what could be just sightseeing into a storytelling experience.

The Wine and Food Tasting

Next, you’re led into the estate’s wine cellar for a tasting of top-tier Tuscan wines. Tasting a variety like Chianti DOCG, Brunello di Montalcino DOCG, and Super Tuscans such as Baldassarre or Cavaliere wines, you get a real sense of regional diversity. Each wine is paired with olive oils and balsamic vinegar, revealing the subtleties of flavor that make Tuscany’s food scene so beloved. The light Tuscan lunch complements the tasting perfectly, featuring cheeses, salami, bruschetta, and a choice of lasagna or ribollita. One reviewer even exclaimed that the lasagna was “the best in all of Italy,” highlighting how memorable the food can be here.

The Photoshoot

A special bonus is the professional photoshoot — a rare opportunity to get personal, high-quality photos in a stunning setting. This thoughtful addition helps turn a lovely afternoon into timeless keepsakes. Travelers have appreciated having these photos as a way to remember their trip.

Duration and Group Size

The tour lasts around 1 hour 30 minutes, which feels adequate considering the array of activities. It’s a small group experience, but with a maximum capacity of 300 travelers, it’s quite manageable and intimate. If you prefer a more personalized experience, booking in advance is recommended.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Booking in advance is a smart move. Most travelers secure their spot about 3 weeks early, especially during the high season.
• Cost at $57.84 is reasonable given the range of activities and inclusions — quality wines, a scenic tower tour, a delicious Tuscan lunch, and a photoshoot.
• Weather dependency: Since much of the experience involves outdoor views, good weather is essential. If it rains, the tour offers the option to reschedule or receive a full refund.
• Accessibility: The meeting point is near public transportation, which is good for those not driving, but check your walking distance.
• Group size: While the maximum is 300 travelers overall, most participants find it to be a comfortably small group, perfect for engaging guides like Lorenzo.
• Family-friendly: Most travelers, including families, can participate, and service animals are allowed, making it accessible for a variety of visitors.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers looking for a blend of scenic beauty, history, and wine without the fuss of large-group tours. If you’re a fan of authentic Tuscan flavors, the chance to taste a spectrum of wines, and want a professional photos keepsake, this is a winner. It’s particularly good for couples seeking a romantic experience or small groups wanting an intimate taste of San Gimignano’s charm.

However, if your schedule is tight or weather looks uncertain, consider the flexibility of this tour—since it can be rescheduled or refunded if canceled due to bad weather. It’s also a smart pick for those who enjoy learning directly from passionate guides, as Lorenzo is frequently praised for his engaging storytelling.

Final Thoughts

Participating in this winery experience from Florence offers more than just wine tasting; it’s a chance to deepen your appreciation for Tuscany’s history, landscape, and culinary richness. The combination of a private tower visit, tasteful food, excellent wines, and professional photos creates a well-rounded, memorable outing.

For anyone craving an authentic, manageable, and scenic way to enjoy San Gimignano’s highlights, this tour strikes a delightful balance between education, indulgence, and fun. The modest price tag opens up a window into Tuscany’s wine culture that feels genuine and rewarding.

Whether you’re a wine lover, a history enthusiast, or just looking for a special way to celebrate in Italy’s heartland, this experience is worth considering.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for those who don’t drink wine?
While the focus is on wine tasting, non-drinkers can enjoy the scenic tower, culinary elements, and photos. You might find the experience still worthwhile for the views and the food.

How long does the entire experience last?
The activity runs approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, including the private tower tour, wine tasting, lunch, and photoshoot.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are not refunded.

What’s included in the price?
The package covers a light Tuscan lunch, wine and olive oil tasting, a photoshoot, and a private tower tour with scenic views.

Is it appropriate for families or children?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. While designed mainly for adults, families with children who appreciate the scenery and food should find it suitable.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is at Tenuta Torciano, Via Crocetta, 18, San Gimignano. The location is accessible and near public transportation.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes for walking and layers suitable for outdoor activities are recommended, especially if you plan to enjoy the tower views.

This experience stands out as an elegant, engaging way to enjoy Tuscany’s wine, scenery, and flavors—all within a well-organized, value-packed package that leaves you with lasting memories.