From Florence: Pisa, Vinci and Tuscany with wine tasting

Tuscany is one of Italy’s most enchanting regions, known for its rolling hills, world-famous art, and delicious wines. This full-day tour from Florence promises a balanced mix of iconic sights, cultural insights, and authentic wine experiences—all packed into about 8.5 hours. We haven’t personally taken this exact trip, but after reviewing the details, it’s clear that it’s tailored for travelers eager to maximize a single day’s exploration without feeling rushed.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, the small-group format (limited to 8 people) ensures a more personalized experience, and a knowledgeable guide keeps things lively and informative. Second, the combination of historical sites and wine tasting offers both cultural and gustatory pleasure. Third, the itinerary’s convenience—visiting Vinci, Pisa, and a local winery—means you get a well-rounded taste of Tuscany’s highlights. One possible consideration: since the tour doesn’t include tickets to the Leaning Tower, those wanting to go up will need to arrange that separately.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want an immersive, authentic day trip without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. It’s perfect for those with a keen interest in art, history, and wine, and who appreciate small-group outings that foster a friendly, intimate atmosphere.

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Key Points

Small Group: Limited to 8 participants, fostering a more personal experience
Expert Guide: Guides like Eduardo and Nedas are praised for their stories and knowledge
Cultural Mix: Visit Vinci, the birthplace of Leonardo da Vinci, and explore Pisa’s famous Piazza dei Miracoli
Wine & Olive Oil Tasting: Enjoy a curated tasting of 3 wines, plus premium extra virgin olive oils, with stunning vineyard views
Flexible & Convenient: Includes transportation, sightseeing, and tastings, with optional free time in Vinci
Ideal for Short Stays: Great for those in Florence wanting to experience Tuscany in a day

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Meeting Point & Departure
The tour starts bright and early at 9:45 am in Piazza della Calza, near Porta Romana and the church of San Giovanni Battista della Calza. The guide, easily recognizable in a purple T-shirt, sets the tone for a relaxed, engaging day. The group size stays intimate—no more than 8—allowing for tailored interactions and quick responses to questions.

Vinci: Birthplace of Leonardo
Your first stop is Vinci, a charming town where Leonardo da Vinci was born in 1452. We loved the way the tour gives you a full hour here—enough time to wander the streets, peek at the local museums, or grab a quick coffee. Reviewers like Linda appreciated the free time, saying: “Had an amazing day with our tour guide Nedas. He was very knowledgeable and accommodating.” It’s a special moment to stand in the town where one of history’s most versatile geniuses began his journey.

Wine Tasting in Chianti
Next, the highlight for many is the visit to a family-run winery in Chianti’s rolling hills. Here, you’ll explore the vineyards, learn about traditional winemaking methods, and sample 3 carefully curated wines. The tasting includes premium extra virgin olive oils and tasty snacks, making the experience feel both indulgent and authentic. Visitors like Jack described their guide Ned as “fun and very knowledgeable,” making the tasting both informative and enjoyable.

The views from the winery are a bonus—picturesque hillsides dotted with grapevines set the perfect scene for a relaxing afternoon. The tasting session is praised for its quality; reviewers mention the wines being exquisite and well-curated, providing real value for the price.

Pisa and the Piazza dei Miracoli
The afternoon is dedicated to Pisa, where you’ll have around 2 hours to explore the UNESCO World Heritage site. The main attraction is, of course, the Leaning Tower, along with the Baptistery and the Cathedral. Your guide will give you insights into the history and architecture of this iconic complex, making your photo moments even more meaningful.

While tickets to ascend the Leaning Tower aren’t included, the open piazza offers plenty of opportunity for photos, sightseeing, and soaking in the atmosphere. Reviewers like Nedas and others appreciated the chance to see Pisa’s landmarks up close, making this a memorable highlight of the trip.

Return to Florence
After a full day, the bus departs Pisa around 4 pm, arriving back at Piazza della Calza by approximately 6:30 pm. The return journey offers a chance to relax and reflect on a day filled with culture, scenery, and wine.

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Transportation & Group Dynamics

Traveling in a comfortable minivan allows for a smooth, scenic ride through Tuscany’s countryside—no cramped bus here. The small-group setup guarantees more interaction with your guide and fellow travelers, which many reviews highlight as a big plus. The guides like Eduardo and Nedas are praised for their storytelling skills and attentiveness, making the journey engaging and informative.

The tour’s duration—about 8.5 hours—strikes a good balance, giving enough time at each stop without feeling overly rushed. The slightly flexible schedule, with start times checked on availability, adds to the convenience.

The Value of This Experience

When analyzing the cost, this tour offers a comprehensive package: transportation, expert guiding, a visit to Vinci, a wine tasting with multiple wines, and a visit to Pisa’s main sights. The reviews emphasize guides like Eduardo and Nedas as making the experience extra special through their knowledge, friendliness, and local tips.

While the tour doesn’t include the Leaning Tower ticket, the overall experience offers excellent value for those wanting a mix of cultural sights and wine indulgence, all in one day. For travelers with limited time in Florence, this trip streamlines the best of Tuscany into manageable segments, all while maintaining a personal touch thanks to the small group size.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for art and history lovers eager to see Leonardo’s hometown and Pisa’s famous tower. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the curated tasting and vineyard views, while those seeking a well-organized, intimate day outside Florence will find this trip suits their needs perfectly. It’s also perfect for first-time visitors who want an easy, hassle-free way to experience Tuscany’s highlights without the stress of planning multiple independent excursions.

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FAQs

Do I need to buy tickets for the Leaning Tower?
No, the tour does not include tickets for climbing the Leaning Tower. You’ll have time to view the square and take photos, but if you want to go up, you’ll need to purchase tickets separately.

What’s the meeting point?
You meet your guide wearing a purple T-shirt at Piazza della Calza, in front of Porta Romana, near the blue P parking sign and “San Giovanni Battista della Calza” church.

How long is the drive between stops?
The ride between Vinci, the winery, and Pisa is comfortable and scenic, with no specific travel times mentioned, but the entire day lasts approximately 8.5 hours, including transit.

Can I join this tour if I have mobility issues?
Unfortunately, this tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments, as it involves walking around sites and possibly uneven surfaces.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant women?
It’s not recommended for pregnant travelers, mainly due to the physical demands of walking and the overall structure of the day.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your schedule shifts.

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Wrapping It Up

This From Florence: Pisa, Vinci, and Tuscany with wine tasting tour offers a rich, balanced experience that combines Italy’s most beloved sights with the pleasures of local wine. The small-group vibe, guided insights, and scenic stops make it a fantastic option for those wanting to make the most of a single day in Tuscany.

Whether you’re a history buff eager to walk in Leonardo’s footsteps, a wine lover curious about Chianti’s flavors, or simply someone who enjoys beautiful landscapes and historic towns, this tour checks many boxes. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who value authentic experiences, expert guides, and good value. Just be prepared for a full day and some walking, and you’ll come away with memories—and maybe a few bottles of wine—that last a lifetime.