Wine Tour in the Countryside of Lucca with Lunch – with Minivan

If you’re looking to combine a love of good wine, stunning scenery, and authentic Tuscan culture, this Wine Tour in the Countryside of Lucca with Lunch might just be your perfect day. With a carefully curated itinerary that includes visits to two wineries, a medieval hilltop town, and a genuine farmstead from the 1600s, it offers a well-rounded taste of the region’s flavors and history. The tour is private, flexible, and includes a delicious farm-style lunch paired with local wines, making it a great choice for those wanting a more intimate and immersive experience.

What I really appreciate about this tour are two things: first, how knowledgeable the guides and drivers seem, with many reviews highlighting their friendliness and expertise. Second, the balance between structured tasting experiences and free time to explore beautiful towns like Montecarlo. However, a potential consideration is that the tour is quite full, so if you prefer a slow, unhurried pace, you might find the 5-hour schedule a bit brisk. Still, for many travelers, the value packed into this experience outweighs the tight timing.

One thing to keep in mind is that this is a group-size tour with a private vehicle, which means you get personalized attention without the hassle of large group crowds. The price is around $341 per person, which is a fair investment considering the included wine tastings, farm visit, and traditional lunch. This tour is especially suited for those who want to enjoy Tuscany’s wine and countryside without the fuss of organizing transport or multiple stops.

Key points / Takeaways

Private transportation means stress-free travel between scenic spots.
Guides like Benedetta and Biagio get high praise for their knowledge and friendliness.
Multiple wine tastings include four wines at the Montecarlo winery and five at the farm, showcasing local varieties.
Authentic farm experience offers a glimpse into Tuscany’s rural past with tastings of cured meats, cheeses, and olive oil.
Free time in Montecarlo allows for wandering the medieval streets and enjoying the panoramic views.
A well-rounded experience combines wine, history, scenery, and cuisine in one seamless day.
Excellent reviews highlight the delicious, filling meal and the warm, personalized service.
Flexible cancellation policy makes booking with confidence easier, with free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.

An in-depth look at the Lucca countryside wine tour

Why this tour stands out among Tuscany’s many wine experiences

Travelers often ask what makes a wine tour worth the cost, and this one checks several boxes. At $341.15 per person, it’s not the cheapest option available, but it includes private transport, multiple tastings, a farm visit, and a local lunch—all ingredients for a memorable day. The experience is offered by Road Trippin’ Italy, a reputable provider known for creating thoughtfully curated small-group adventures, and it tends to be booked about 19 days in advance, indicating solid interest and popularity.

Comfort and convenience are key

Starting at 10:00 am, you’re picked up directly from your accommodation, which saves the hassle of finding your way to a meeting point. The air-conditioned minivan with WiFi keeps everyone comfortable and connected, making the drive between stops part of the pleasure. With admission tickets for the wineries and farm included, your focus can stay on tasting and soaking in the surroundings rather than worrying about extra costs.

Itinerary breakdown: What to expect each step of the way

Stop 1: Lucca to Montecarlo Winery
The journey begins with a 30-minute transfer from your accommodation into the gentle rolling hills of the Tuscan countryside. The first stop in Montecarlo is a modern winery where you sample four different wines. Guides like Biagio are often praised for their storytelling, making each tasting a chance to learn about regional varieties and winemaking techniques. The tour here is free, but the real highlight is the wine — which many reviews say is both plentiful and good quality.

Stop 2: Exploring Montecarlo
Post-tasting, you get some free time in Montecarlo, a medieval hilltop town celebrated for its beauty and wine heritage. With its well-preserved walls and panoramic views from a height of 163 meters, it’s a perfect spot to stroll, take photos, or simply enjoy the scenery. The town has earned the Touring Club’s Orange Flag, a mark of high-quality tourism, so you can expect a charming, well-maintained setting.

Stop 3: A day at the farm in Tofori
The final stop takes you to a family-run farm where the cellars date back to the 1600s. This is where the experience turns truly local, as you learn about Tuscan farm life and taste traditional products: cured meats, cheeses, bruschetta, and a typical Lucchese first course. The olive oil tasting with fresh bread and the selection of four wines (three reds and one white) give a comprehensive taste of the farm’s offerings. Reviewers like Julie mention a “delicious and filling meal,” emphasizing how substantial and authentic the lunch feels.

Return to Lucca
The day wraps up with a 30-minute transfer back to your accommodation, leaving you plenty of time to relax or explore more of Lucca’s charming streets afterward.

The guides and their importance

Multiple reviews praise guides like Benedetta and Biagio for their knowledge, friendliness, and extra effort. Benedetta, in particular, is noted for adding special services at no extra cost, which elevates the experience. These personal touches and the guides’ storytelling skills can make a big difference in how memorable the day is.

Value and what you’re getting for the price

Considering the inclusions—transport, tastings, lunch, and farm visit—the cost is justified for many travelers. It’s a more curated alternative to self-led wine tastings or wandering on your own, especially since the logistics of visiting multiple wineries and a farm can be complicated without local help. Plus, the free cancellation policy offers peace of mind.

Who this tour is best for

This experience suits wine lovers eager to learn about Tuscany’s regional varieties in a relaxed setting. It’s also ideal for those interested in rural life and traditional Tuscan cuisine, given the farm visit and hearty lunch. If you prefer free exploration rather than structured schedules, note that the day is quite packed, but most find the balance perfect. It’s a good fit for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who want a personalized yet guided experience.

Final thoughts: Is this your ideal Tuscan day?

If you’re seeking a comprehensive taste of the Lucca countryside—combining wine, history, scenic views, and authentic food—this tour hits the mark. It offers quality guides, a beautiful setting, and a good value for money. The ability to relax in private transportation, enjoy multiple tastings, and wander through Montecarlo makes it a memorable way to spend a day outside the busy cities.

While it’s not a cheap outing, many reviews suggest the experience and the memories are worth the price. It’s especially suited for those who want a deep dive into local wines and cuisine with the comfort of an organized day.

FAQ – Quick answers to common questions

Is this tour private or group-based?
It’s a private tour with only your group participating, which allows for a more personalized experience.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers private transportation, wine tastings at two wineries, a farm visit, and a traditional Tuscan lunch with wine.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, starting at 10:00 am and ending around 3:00 pm.

Are the wineries and farm open and accessible?
Yes, both the wineries and the farm have free admission, and the farm’s cellars date back to the 1600s.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses an air-conditioned minivan with WiFi, making the ride comfortable and connected.

Do I need to prepare for anything?
Just wear comfortable shoes for walking around Montecarlo and the farm, and bring a camera for stunning views.

Are guides available in different languages?
While specific language options aren’t listed, guides like Benedetta and Biagio are known for their engaging storytelling, which suggests a high level of professionalism.

Who is this tour recommended for?
Perfect for wine enthusiasts, history lovers, foodies, and travelers seeking a scenic, authentic Tuscan experience.

In the end, this wine and food tour in Lucca’s countryside offers a well-balanced day of indulgence, education, and beauty. It’s a chance to step into Tuscany’s rural world, taste its wines and flavors, and enjoy the kind of scenery that makes this region famous. If you’re after a memorable and authentic experience that combines all these elements, it’s certainly worth considering.