From Florence: Small-Group Tuscany Wine & Oil Tour with typical Tuscan Meal

A Taste of Tuscany: Small-Group Wine & Olive Oil Tour from Florence

If you’re dreaming of winding vineyards, rolling hills, and that unmistakably rustic charm of Tuscany, this small-group wine and olive oil tour from Florence might just be the perfect way to experience it all. With a mix of carefully curated winery visits, engaging tastings, and a hearty Tuscan meal, this experience offers a well-rounded glimpse into Italy’s most famous wine region.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the knowledgeable guides who share interesting insights without overwhelming; second, the beautiful scenery that feels like stepping into a postcard; and third, the tastings of both wines and olive oils that give you a real appreciation for local flavors. That said, it’s worth noting that the tour is about 7 hours long, so if you’re not a fan of long days or tight schedules, that’s something to keep in mind.

This experience suits those who love wine, food, and scenic drives—perfect for couples, friends, or anyone wanting an authentic taste of Tuscany without the hassle of planning. However, if you’re sensitive to busy itineraries or prefer more personalized, private experiences, this might not be your ideal fit. Still, for many, this tour hits the sweet spot of value and genuine culture.

Key Points

• Expert guides enhance the experience with friendly, informative commentary
• Scenic drives through Chianti’s picturesque landscapes are an absolute highlight
• Multiple winery visits provide diverse tastings and insights into local wine-making
• Olive oil tasting adds a flavorful twist to the wine-focused day
• Hearty Tuscan lunch with wine included offers a true local culinary experience
• Comfortable transport ensures a stress-free journey from Florence
• Small-group setting creates an intimate and friendly atmosphere
• Rain or shine, the tour goes on, offering flexibility regardless of weather

Exploring the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Pickup and Scenic Drive to Chianti

The day kicks off at a central Florence meeting point, where you’ll hop into a comfortable Mercedes minibus with a friendly, English-speaking driver. The roughly one-hour drive is a treat in itself, transforming the city buzz into the lush, rolling vineyards and cypress-lined roads that define Tuscany. Reviewers often mention how the views are “gorgeous,” with some describing the landscape as “like being in a movie.” The early part of the journey sets a relaxed tone, giving you plenty of time to chat with your guide or simply soak in the scenery.

Malenchini Wine Estate: First Stop

Your first winery visit is at Malenchini, where you’ll explore the cellar and enjoy a tasting session that includes some of the region’s best wines. The tour lasts about 40 minutes and is designed to be accessible and engaging, even for those new to wine tasting. The guide’s commentary helps decode the complexities of Chianti wines and how the grapes are grown, making the experience much more than just sipping.

Diadema Wine & EVO: Second Winery

Next, you’ll head to Diadema, a boutique winery that offers another perspective on local wine production. Here, you’ll visit the cellar, taste a variety of wines (up to six at both wineries), and browse their wine shop. The reviews highlight how much attendees appreciated the variety—many remarked on the “amazing wine at all of them,” with some even buying bottles to take home. The guided tasting emphasizes the regional characteristics of Canaiolo and Sangiovese grapes, which are central to Chianti.

Greve in Chianti: Picturesque Stop and Free Time

After the winery tours, the bus takes you on a scenic drive through the famous Via Chiantigiana toward Greve. Expect a roughly 50-minute exploration of this charming town, known for its vibrant piazza and beautiful surroundings. Reviewers love mentioning the “spectacular views,” castles like Vicchiomaggio and Verrazzano, and the opportunity to soak in the Tuscan vibe. This stop provides some free time for photos, wandering, or just enjoying the local atmosphere.

Olive Oil Mill and Tastings

Included in the tour is a guided visit to an olive oil mill. This is a highlight for many, who appreciate seeing how the olive oil is made and tasting fresh, flavorful oils. The guides are praised for their expertise, making the process accessible and interesting for all levels of knowledge. Tasting high-quality Tuscan olive oils complements the wine experience perfectly, and many reviewers mention they left with bottles to bring home.

Traditional Tuscan Lunch at a Cooking School

The day wraps up with a hearty, three-course meal at a local cooking school, paired with even more wine tastings. The lunch includes classic Tuscan dishes like pasta, cheese, and local meats or desserts, creating a rich flavor profile that captures the essence of the region. Guests often mention the “delicious” food, with some noting the generous wine pours included with the meal. The relaxed, friendly atmosphere at the cooking school makes it a memorable part of the day.

Transportation and Group Size: What It Means for You

Traveling in a Mercedes minibus, you’ll enjoy comfort and convenience, especially after a day of tastings. The small-group setting (up to 8 if you opt for the upgrade) fosters a more personalized experience, allowing guides to tailor their commentary and pay closer attention to individual questions. Reviewers consistently praise the guides—names like Francesca, Cristina, and Chiara come up often—highlighting their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to make everyone feel at home.

While most reviews note that the vans are cozy but comfortable, one minor point is the potential for splitting into multiple vehicles if your group is larger than 8. This isn’t necessarily a drawback but something to consider if you want to stay together at all times.

Duration and Pacing

The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, which means careful planning is needed if you’re on a tight schedule. Some reviews express that it’s a full day but worth every minute—especially those who love savoring wine, food, and views without feeling rushed. The tour operates rain or shine, so be prepared for weather variations. The inclusion of free WiFi in the vehicle helps pass the time as you travel.

The Value of the Experience

At $93.61 per person, this tour offers a lot for the price. You get guided visits to two wineries, a mill for olive oil, a traditional Tuscan lunch, and transportation—an efficient way to cover a lot of ground without the hassle of organizing your own day trip.

One of the best parts? The small-group setup and the expert guides make it feel intimate, not rushed, with plenty of opportunity to ask questions and make friends. Multiple reviewers mention how knowledgeable and friendly their guides, like Francesca and Chiara, made the day memorable.

Many guests left with new insights about wine and olive oil production, as well as bottles to enjoy back home—adding tangible keepsakes from their Tuscan adventure. The combination of scenic drives, tastings, and local cuisine creates an experience that’s both educational and indulgent.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Tuscany in a day—covering wine, olive oil, scenery, and food. It appeals to those looking for a small-group experience with expert guides, rather than a large bus tour. It’s perfect if you enjoy guided tastings and want to learn about regional products in an engaging way.

If you’re seeking a relaxed pace and a chance to ask questions, this tour delivers. It’s also great for food lovers eager to sample authentic Tuscan dishes paired with local wines. However, if you prefer private, tailor-made experiences or have limited mobility, you might want to explore other options.

FAQ: Practical Questions About the Tour

Does this tour include hotel pickup?
No, it starts at a specified meeting point in Florence, but it’s near public transportation, making it accessible.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 7 hours, including travel, tastings, and lunch.

Is alcohol served to minors?
No, guests under 18 will not be served alcohol, in accordance with Italy’s legal drinking age.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended, especially for walking around wineries and the town.

What if it rains?
The tour goes ahead rain or shine, so bring suitable rain gear if needed.

Are the winery visits guided?
Yes, guides provide insights during cellar visits and tastings, making the experience educational and engaging.

Can I buy wine and olive oil to take home?
Absolutely, most wineries have shops where you can purchase bottles and oils as souvenirs.

Is the tour suitable for large groups?
The maximum group size for the upgraded semi-private experience is 8, making it ideal for a more intimate outing.

What is included in the price?
Transportation, guided visits, tastings, a three-course Tuscan lunch, and WiFi are included. Optional upgrades focus on Supertuscan wines.

Wrapping Up

This small-group tour from Florence offers a well-balanced blend of scenic beauty, expert-guided tastings, and authentic Tuscan cuisine. The chance to visit two wineries, taste quality wines and oils, and enjoy a hearty meal—all in one day—is a fantastic value that captures the true spirit of Tuscany.

It’s particularly suited for those who want a relaxed, friendly environment with knowledgeable guides, and plenty of opportunities to learn and indulge. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply looking to experience Italy’s countryside charm, this tour delivers a memorable day out.

For travelers eager to explore beyond Florence’s museums and streets, this experience is a perfect way to connect with Tuscany’s flavors and landscapes without the stress of self-guided planning.

Enjoy your trip, and remember—every sip of wine and spoonful of olive oil has a story to tell. Cheers to Tuscan adventures!