Tuscany’s charming medieval towns and renowned Chianti wine region await adventurous travelers on this full-day excursion from Florence. Explore the iconic towers of San Gimignano, stroll the enchanting streets of Monteriggioni, and savor a delicious Tuscan lunch paired with local wine. But the day’s highlights don’t end there – the stunning Siena Duomo and historic Piazza del Campo promise to captivate your senses and leave you yearning to uncover more of this remarkable region.

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Key Points

This full-day group tour from Florence visits the medieval towns of San Gimignano, Monteriggioni, and Siena, as well as the Chianti wine region.
Highlights include exploring the UNESCO-recognized historic center of San Gimignano, strolling along the 14th-century walls of Monteriggioni, and experiencing the Duomo and Piazza del Campo in Siena.
Participants will enjoy a 3-course Tuscan lunch and wine tasting at a Chianti winery, featuring local specialties and three distinct Tuscan wines.
The tour has received over 3,600 reviews with a Badge of Excellence, indicating a high level of customer satisfaction.
The tour departs at 8 AM from Florence and returns to the same city, making it a convenient day trip option.

Tour Overview

This full-day group tour from Florence takes visitors to explore some of Tuscany’s most captivating gems: the medieval town of San Gimignano, the historic city of Siena, the walled village of Monteriggioni, and the renowned Chianti wine region.

The tour lasts all day, departing at 8 AM from Florence and returning to the starting point. Along the way, guests will discover the iconic towers of San Gimignano, the medieval walls of Monteriggioni, and enjoy a 3-course Tuscan lunch and wine tasting at a Chianti winery.

With over 3,600 reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this tour promises an immersive Tuscan experience.

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Highlights of the Itinerary

The tour begins with a visit to the medieval town of San Gimignano, known for its iconic towers that rise above the surrounding countryside.

Guests will explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site for two hours, taking in the historic buildings, frescoes, and charming atmosphere.

Next, the tour heads to the walled town of Monteriggioni, where visitors can admire the intact medieval walls (except during the winter months).

After, the group travels to a scenic Chianti winery for a three-course Tuscan lunch and wine tasting, sampling the region’s renowned vintages.

The final stop is the historic city of Siena, known for its impressive Duomo and Piazza del Campo.

Exploring San Gimignano

As visitors arrive in San Gimignano, they’ll be immediately captivated by the iconic skyline of medieval towers that pierce the rolling Tuscan landscape.

This charming hilltop town, known as the "Manhattan of the Middle Ages," boasts a well-preserved historic center and a wealth of cultural treasures.

Highlights of the visit include:

Exploring the narrow cobblestone streets and admiring the unique architecture of the town’s 14 remaining towers.
Visiting the Collegiate Church, a stunning example of Romanesque-Gothic style, and marveling at its intricate frescoes.
Indulging in the town’s renowned gelato and artisanal products, like the crisp Vernaccia white wine.

Discovering Monteriggioni

After exploring the captivating town of San Gimignano, the tour moves on to the next Tuscan gem – Monteriggioni.

This medieval walled town is known for its intact 14th-century walls and towers. Visitors can take a 40-minute stroll along the town’s perimeter, admiring the well-preserved fortifications.

However, please note that the walls aren’t accessible from November to March. Inside the town, travelers can wander the charming streets and stop at local shops and cafes.

Monteriggioni’s compact size and stunning architecture make it a delightful addition to the Tuscan tour.

Indulging in the Chianti Experience

Next, the tour takes guests to a Chianti winery perched atop a hill.

Here, they’ll savor a 3-course Tuscan lunch and indulge in a wine tasting.

The culinary experience includes:

Starter of cold cuts, bruschetta, and pecorino cheese.
Main course of penne with meat ragout.
Homemade tart with jam and vinsanto for dessert.

Guests will sample three distinct Tuscan wines, extra virgin olive oil, and the famous "vin santo."

This immersive Chianti experience provides a true taste of the region’s renowned food and wine heritage.

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Unveiling the Charms of Siena

What awaits visitors in Siena, the historic city at the heart of Tuscany? A 2.5-hour visit to explore the city’s vibrant core.

Admire the striking Duomo, an impressive example of Italian Gothic architecture. Stroll through the iconic Piazza del Campo, the unique shell-shaped square and site of the famous Palio horse race.

Discover the Biblioteca Piccolomini, a stunning Renaissance library adorned with frescoes. With ample time to wander, visitors can soak in Siena’s medieval atmosphere and charming character.

This stop showcases the city’s enduring cultural heritage and why it’s a must-see on any Tuscan adventure.

The Culinary Journey

As part of the day’s culinary adventure, travelers indulge in a 3-course Tuscan lunch at a renowned Chianti winery.

The meal begins with a selection of cold cuts, bruschetta, and pecorino cheese. The main course features penne with a hearty meat ragout. For dessert, guests savor a homemade tart with jam and vinsanto.

The experience is complemented by a wine tasting of three distinct Tuscan wines, extra virgin olive oil, and the regional "vin santo." These delectable offerings provide a true taste of Tuscany, perfectly pairing with the stunning countryside vistas.

Tour Logistics and Accessibility

The tour is conveniently accessible by a G.T. air-conditioned coach, which departs from Piazzale Montelungo in Florence at 8:00 am.

Throughout the day, a licensed tour leader provides live commentary, ensuring guests are informed about the history and significance of each destination.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, a moderate level of physical fitness is required. Guests should dress appropriately, covering their knees and shoulders, especially when visiting places of worship.

The tour ends back at the meeting point, providing a seamless start and finish to the Tuscan exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

No, you can’t bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The package includes a 3-course Tuscan meal and wine tasting at a Chianti winery, so bringing outside food is not permitted.

Is There a Discount for Students or Seniors?

There’s no mention of student or senior discounts for this tour. However, the tour provider may offer discounts for certain age groups or groups. It’s best to check with them directly for any available discount options.

Can I Opt-Out of Certain Stops During the Tour?

The tour operator typically doesn’t allow guests to opt-out of specific stops. However, they may accommodate special requests if communicated in advance. It’s best to discuss any preference changes directly with the tour staff before the tour begins.

How Much Free Time Is Allocated at Each Location?

The amount of free time at each location varies, typically ranging from 40 minutes to 2.5 hours. Visitors can expect guided tours followed by time to explore independently, though the specific durations may differ across the various stops on the itinerary.

Are There Any Restroom Breaks During the Tour?

The tour provides scheduled restroom breaks at the various stops, allowing participants to refresh themselves during the day. Restroom facilities are available at the winery, as well as in the historic towns visited.

The Sum Up

This Tuscan day trip offers a delightful blend of medieval towns, picturesque landscapes, and local culinary delights. Explore the iconic towers of San Gimignano, the charming streets of Monteriggioni, and the stunning Siena Duomo, while savoring a Tuscan lunch and wine tasting. With convenient transportation and an immersive itinerary, this tour provides an authentic Tuscan experience perfect for history buffs and food/wine enthusiasts alike.