About this experience
Tuscany is known for its vast expanses, picturesque hills covered with olive trees and vineyards. And, of course, its robust Chianti wine. During the trip, you will taste the famous wines of Tuscany, learn about the wine production process, visit cozy and mysterious medieval towns of San Gimignano and Certaldo. And, of course, you will enjoy the best views of the region in a friendly, informal atmosphere.
What to Expect
San Gimignano
A unique medieval town, protected by UNESCO, known for its towers and special atmosphere. It is very important to visit it to learn how the Tuscan region lived in the 15th century.
Visit to a family winery
Here I will explain what Chianti is, why this wine is so famous, and how to choose it correctly. And the hosts, in turn, will show the process of producing Tuscan wine from growing the vines to bottling the finished product and offer to taste several types of wine.
Certaldo Alto
This small town will allow you to immerse yourself in the spirit of the Middle Ages, enjoy the tranquility before plunging back into the hustle and bustle of city life. This cozy little town has preserved its original look to this day. It is associated with the name of Giovanni Boccaccio, a famous writer of the Italian Renaissance, author of the novel 'The Decameron,' who was born and died here.
Guicciardini-Strozzi Winery
Additionally (not included in the standard tour, must be booked in advance) you can visit the winery of one of the oldest aristocratic families in Tuscany - Guicciardini-Strozzi (about whom Vladimir Pozner filmed 'Their Italy'). Prince Strozzi is a true Florentine, a representative of an ancient aristocratic family. His ancestors influenced the history of not only Tuscany and Italy, but the whole of Europe. The Strozzi-Guicciardini family has been involved in winemaking since the 15th century, and Dante and Petrarch wrote about the vineyards of the estate.
I would like you to enjoy as much pleasure as possible during the walk, both aesthetic and gastronomic, because Italians, like no one else, know how to enjoy life! Admire the landscapes, architectural monuments, and drink wine - the best way to feel like a local for a while.
Organizational Details
The tour starts from the town of Certaldo, which you can reach by train (about 50 minutes, 6 euros one way from Florence), I will meet you right at the train station, and we will go to all the places described in the tour in my car.
Additional Expenses
- Tasting of 4-5 wines with typical Tuscan snacks (cheese, prosciutto, bruschetta) at a family winery or a medieval castle-winery - 20-25 euros per person
- Visiting the ancient wine cellar and tasting 4-5 wines of the famous Guicciardini-Strozzi family - 20 euros/person
- Visiting the city museums of San Gimignano and Certaldo Alto (if desired and time allows) Entrance ticket - from 4 to 12 euros per person
- You can add a visit to a family cheese factory with a tasting of handmade Tuscan cheeses - cost 18 euros per person
