This small-group day trip from Florence promises an immersive exploration of Tuscany’s historic gems. Visitors will discover the charms of medieval Siena, strolling through its picturesque center and admiring the iconic Piazza del Campo. The enchanting town of San Gimignano, with its distinctive skyline of towers, offers ample time for independent exploration. But the true highlight awaits at a renowned Chianti winery, where guests will savor a 3-course dinner and wine tasting, basking in the serene setting as the sun sets. This comprehensive tour provides an opportunity to delve deeper into the region’s rich history, architecture, and renowned culinary traditions.
Key Points
- This small-group day trip from Florence visits the historic cities of Siena and San Gimignano, as well as a renowned Chianti winery.
- The tour includes a guided walking tour of Siena, showcasing the city’s impressive architecture, history, and cultural traditions.
- Visitors have free time to explore the charming medieval streets and iconic towers of San Gimignano.
- The experience culminates with a 3-course dinner and wine tasting at a boutique Chianti winery, set against a serene outdoor backdrop.
- The tour provides round-trip transportation, an English-speaking driver and tour leader, and all the included amenities.
Tour Overview
This small-group day trip from Florence takes visitors to the picturesque cities of Siena and San Gimignano, as well as a renowned Chianti winery, offering a comprehensive exploration of Tuscany’s cultural and culinary highlights.
With over 100 excellent reviews, the tour includes a guided walking tour of Siena, free time to explore the medieval architecture and shops of San Gimignano, and a 3-course dinner with wine tasting at a Chianti winery.
Throughout the day, guests will learn about the traditions of Siena’s contrades, enjoy a surprise local food tasting, and have the opportunity to savor the winery’s outdoor setting as the sun sets.
Transportation, an English-speaking driver/tour leader, and gratuities are all included.
Exploring Siena
The guided walking tour of Siena takes visitors through the city’s historic center, showcasing its impressive Piazza del Campo, which hosts the renowned Palio horse races.
Along the way, the guide shares insights into Siena’s unique contrade, or districts, and their rich traditions. Participants have the opportunity to discover local specialty foods during a surprise tasting.
The tour provides a comprehensive look at Siena’s architecture, history, and cultural identity, giving travelers a deeper understanding of this captivating Tuscan city. With the guide’s expert commentary and the chance to take in Siena’s vibrant atmosphere, this walking tour offers an engaging and enlightening experience.
Highlights of San Gimignano
After exploring Siena’s historic center, the tour heads to the medieval town of San Gimignano, known for its impressive skyline of towering structures. Visitors are free to wander through the town’s charming streets, admiring the well-preserved Gothic and Romanesque architecture that has earned San Gimignano the nickname ‘the Medieval Manhattan.’ From the striking Duomo to the iconic Piazza della Cisterna, the town offers a glimpse into Italy’s past, inviting travelers to enjoy its timeless ambiance.
| Highlights of San Gimignano | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Duomo | Romanesque cathedral | ||
| Piazza della Cisterna | Picturesque central square | ||
| Historic Towers | Iconic medieval skyline | ||
| Local Shops | Opportunities to explore |
Chianti Winery Experience
Capping off the day’s exploration, the tour culminates with a delightful dinner and wine tasting at a picturesque Chianti winery.
Guests will savor a 3-course meal complemented by the winery’s finest offerings. As the sun sets over the Tuscan countryside, they’ll have the chance to enjoy the winery’s serene outdoor setting.
The experience provides an opportunity to learn about winemaking in the Chianti region and sample the distinct flavors of its renowned wines. With the guidance of the knowledgeable staff, visitors will come away with a deeper appreciation for the art of Italian viticulture.
This winery visit caps off a truly immersive day exploring the historic charms of Siena and San Gimignano.
Included Amenities
Typically, this small-group tour includes round-trip transportation from Florence via a luxury Mercedes minibus or minivan, led by an English-speaking driver and tour leader. The tour also provides a guided walking tour of Siena, where guests can learn about the city’s rich history and traditions. Visitors then enjoy free time to explore the medieval architecture and local shops in the charming town of San Gimignano. The experience culminates with a 3-course dinner and wine tasting at a boutique Chianti winery, allowing guests to savor the region’s renowned culinary offerings.
| Included Amenities | |
|---|---|
| Transportation | Luxury Mercedes minibus or minivan |
| Tour Leader | English-speaking |
| Siena Walking Tour | Guided |
| San Gimignano | Free time to explore |
| Winery Dinner | 3-course meal and wine tasting |
Tour Logistics
The tour begins with pickup from central Florence, where guests board a comfortable Mercedes minibus or minivan.
The English-speaking driver and tour leader then guide the small group on their journey through the picturesque Tuscan countryside. Along the way, they provide commentary on the sights and share insights into the local culture and traditions.
Gratuities for the driver and tour leader are included, as is drop-off at the end of the tour.
With the transportation and logistics taken care of, guests can sit back, relax, and fully enjoy the experience of exploring Siena, San Gimignano, and a Chianti winery.
Positive Traveler Feedback
Travelers have overwhelmingly praised this tour, awarding it 104 reviews and a prestigious Badge of Excellence.
Reviewers highlight the exceptional value it provides, with the guided walking tour of Siena, free time in the medieval town of San Gimignano, and a delightful 3-course dinner at a Chianti winery all included.
Many note the small-group size, which allows for a more personalized experience and the opportunity to connect with the knowledgeable driver/tour leader.
Guests rave about the surprise local food tasting in Siena and the chance to take in the winery’s picturesque outdoor setting at sunset.
What to Expect
On this day-long excursion from Florence, guests can expect to be whisked away in a comfortable Mercedes minibus or minivan to the historic cities of Siena and San Gimignano, culminating in an indulgent 3-course dinner at a renowned Chianti winery.
In Siena, a knowledgeable guide will lead a walking tour through the city’s charming streets, highlighting its iconic Piazza del Campo and revealing the traditions of its distinctive contrades (districts).
Afterwards, guests will have free time to explore the well-preserved medieval architecture and quaint shops of San Gimignano.
The highlight of the day will be dinner at a boutique Chianti winery, where guests can savor a selection of the region’s finest wines paired with a delectable 3-course meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?
The maximum group size for this tour is small, as it’s described as a "small-group day trip." The exact group size is not specified, but it’s likely to be no more than 10-15 participants.
Can I Request a Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Meal at the Winery?
Yes, travelers can request vegetarian or gluten-free meals at the winery. The tour operator is accommodating and will work with the winery to provide alternate meal options to meet dietary needs upon request.
How Much Time Is Spent at Each Location?
The tour spends about 2 hours in Siena, 1.5 hours in San Gimignano, and 2 hours at the Chianti winery for dinner and tasting. Exact times may vary depending on the group’s pace and interests.
Is There an Opportunity to Purchase Wine or Souvenirs?
Guests have the opportunity to purchase wine and souvenirs during the free time in San Gimignano. The winery dinner also includes a wine tasting, allowing guests to sample and purchase the winery’s offerings.
Can I Bring My Own Wine on the Bus During the Tour?
No, bringing your own wine on the bus is not allowed during this tour. The tour includes a wine tasting and dinner at a Chianti winery, so outside wine is not permitted. Participants must follow the tour’s guidelines.
Recap
This small-group tour offers a well-rounded Tuscan experience, blending the historic charm of Siena and San Gimignano with the flavors of a renowned Chianti winery.
Travelers can enjoy the regions’ medieval architecture, explore picturesque streets, and savor local wines and cuisine.
The tour culminates in a memorable 3-course dinner as the sun sets over the Tuscan countryside.
