Florence: Horseback Riding, Wine Tasting & Cooking Class

Planning a day in Tuscany that combines scenic beauty, authentic cuisine, and a taste of local traditions? This full-day tour from Florence offers exactly that—an engaging mix of horseback riding, wine and olive oil tastings, and a lively outdoor cooking class. With a small group setting, you’ll get plenty of personalized attention, making it a fantastic way to explore Italy’s heartland beyond the usual tourist spots.

What we love about this experience are the stunning panoramic views from the horseback ride, the chance to learn and cook authentic Tuscan dishes, and the opportunity to taste local wines paired perfectly with your meal. Plus, visiting the medieval town of San Gimignano adds a charming historical touch. The only thing to consider is that the tour’s schedule is quite packed, which might feel rushed for some.

This experience suits wine and foodies, adventure lovers, and anyone eager to get off the beaten path for a taste of Tuscany’s vibrant culture. It’s especially great if you want a full, authentic day that blends outdoor activity, culinary skills, and sightseeing—all in one.

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Key Points

Scenic horseback riding through Chianti hills offers breathtaking views and photo opportunities.
Hands-on outdoor cooking with fresh local ingredients delivers authentic Tuscan recipes.
Wine and olive oil tastings are thoughtfully paired with the dishes you prepare.
Small group size ensures more personal guidance and a relaxed atmosphere.
Visit to San Gimignano provides a picturesque medieval backdrop and cultural insight.
Transportation is included from Florence, simplifying logistics and maximizing your time.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Tour

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Starting Point and Transportation

The day kicks off at a meeting point in Florence—specifically in front of Burger King—where your guide will ensure everyone is ready to go. The tour includes transportation to and from the winery, which is a significant advantage, freeing you from the hassle of navigating Tuscany’s roads. With a group limited to 15 participants, it’s intimate enough for personalized attention but lively enough to make new friends.

The Horseback Ride: Exploring Chianti’s Beauty

One of the standout parts of this tour is the horseback riding experience through the vineyards of Chianti and the hills surrounding San Gimignano. The ride is designed to cater to all levels, so even beginners can feel comfortable, thanks to the professional guidance. Guests have noted the stunning views and the chance to see the countryside from a different perspective, making this a highlight for many.

Reviewers described it as “a gentle, scenic ride that gives you a real sense of Tuscany’s landscape,” and appreciated the photo stops that allow capturing those postcard-perfect views. The ride not only offers a break from sightseeing but also a chance to connect with the land in a more authentic way.

Visiting San Gimignano

After the ride, you’ll pause in San Gimignano, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its medieval towers and charming streets. Here, you can stroll, take photos, and soak in the atmosphere of a true Tuscan jewel. Guests often mention how picturesque the town is and enjoy the free time to explore on their own before heading back to the winery.

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The Culinary Experience: Outdoor Cooking Class

Back at the winery, the real fun begins. The outdoor cooking class is a hands-on session where you’ll learn to prepare a full Tuscan meal, including appetizer, first course, second course, and dessert. The instructors are friendly and knowledgeable, guiding you through each step while sharing stories about local ingredients and culinary traditions.

Reviewers have praised the authenticity of the recipes, noting how they used fresh, local ingredients. One guest shared, “It felt like cooking with a friend, and the dishes were surprisingly simple but incredibly flavorful.” Completing the meal with a glass of local wine, you’ll truly experience the essence of Tuscan farm-to-table cuisine.

Feeling inspired to cook? Check out these other hands-on experiences in San Gimignano

Wine and Olive Oil Tastings

Throughout the day, the tour incorporates multiple tastings. The wine and olive oil pairings are carefully chosen to enhance the flavors of your homemade dishes. The wine pairing class adds an educational element, helping you understand different types of wines from the region and how they complement Tuscan cuisine.

Guests appreciated the quality and variety of the wines, with some noting that the tasting was more than just a quick sip—each was thoughtfully paired and explained by knowledgeable guides.

Dinner: Savoring Your Creations

The meal isn’t just a cooking demo; it’s a dinner of your own making, finished by the chef for a polished presentation. You’ll sit down with your group to enjoy the fruits of your labor, often with additional wine to enhance the experience. The atmosphere is relaxed, with plenty of time to chat, taste, and reflect on the day’s adventures.

Overall Experience

Many reviews commend the well-organized itinerary and the balance of activities. The tour lasts about 12 hours, which allows ample time to enjoy each part without feeling rushed. The guides, often praised for their friendliness and knowledge, make the experience engaging and informative.

Practical Details and Considerations

Pricing and Value

While the tour isn’t inexpensive, the all-inclusive nature—horseback riding, tastings, cooking class, and transportation—makes it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a comprehensive Tuscan experience. Guests have mentioned that the quality of food and wine, combined with the personalized guidance, adds value beyond the moderate price point.

What to Bring

Comfortable shoes are a must—especially for the horseback ride and walking through San Gimignano. A hat, sunscreen, and water will keep you comfortable in the sun, and a camera is essential to capture those breathtaking views. Dress appropriately for outdoor activities and be prepared for varying weather conditions, as the tour might change locations based on weather.

Who Should Avoid It?

This tour isn’t suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues or back problems, due to the physical nature of horseback riding and outdoor cooking. Also, smoking is not permitted during the outdoor activities, maintaining a pleasant environment for all.

Final Thoughts

This full-day tour of Tuscany strikes a balance between adventure, education, and relaxation. The horseback ride offers unbeatable views, while the cooking class provides a genuine taste of local life. The shared meals and tastings make it a social, engaging experience—perfect for those who want to go beyond the standard day-trips.

If you’re after a mix of outdoor activity, cultural exploration, and culinary discovery, this tour offers excellent value. It’s especially suited for travelers eager to get a real sense of Tuscany’s landscape, flavors, and traditions in one memorable day.

Who it’s best for:

Food lovers and home cooks looking to learn authentic Tuscan recipes
Adventure seekers interested in horseback riding
Sightseers eager to visit San Gimignano’s picturesque streets
Travelers wanting an intimate, small-group experience that feels personal and engaging

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour provides round-trip transportation from Florence to the winery, which simplifies logistics and allows you to relax.

Do I need any riding experience? No, the horseback ride is suitable for all levels, including beginners, thanks to guidance from professional instructors.

What kind of meals will I learn to cook? You’ll prepare a complete Tuscan meal, including an appetizer, a first dish, a second course, and dessert, all using fresh local ingredients.

Can I taste wines other than those paired with my meal? The tour includes a wine tasting and pairing class, so you’ll sample a selection of local wines as part of the experience.

Is the tour suitable for children? Children under 12 are not permitted, mainly for safety reasons related to horseback riding and outdoor activities.

What should I wear? Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and outdoor-appropriate clothing are recommended, especially since part of the tour is outdoors.

What happens if the weather is bad? The location may change due to weather conditions, and reservations are non-amendable. No refunds are provided if you decline the alternative.

How long does the tour last? Approximately 12 hours, with a flexible start time based on availability.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

To sum it up, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of Tuscany’s scenic beauty and culinary heritage, presented in a friendly, small-group setting. It’s perfect for those who want more than just sightseeing—an authentic, engaging day that combines adventure, culture, and food in one memorable package.