San Gimignano and Vernaccia Wine Tour with Lunch at Farm

This San Gimignano and Vernaccia wine tour offers a unique blend of active exploration, cultural discovery, and indulgence in Tuscany’s famed wines. Although the itinerary packs a lot into just 7 hours, the real highlight is how seamlessly it combines physical activity with immersive local experiences. From a morning jog through Florence’s historic streets to wandering the medieval towers of San Gimignano and sampling exceptional regional wines, this tour is geared towards travelers who want more than just sightseeing.

What really caught our attention is the guided morning run—a rare opportunity to see Florence before the crowds, led by a knowledgeable guide who shares fascinating stories along the way. Plus, the visit to San Gimignano, often called the ‘Manhattan of Tuscany,’ offers a glimpse into Italy’s medieval past with minimal tourist congestion. That said, the physical activity might not suit everyone, so it’s best for those comfortable with light exercise and looking to start their day actively.

This tour will appeal most to active travelers, food and wine lovers, and those craving a more authentic experience away from the bustling tourist hotspots. It’s a well-rounded option if you’re seeking a truly immersive taste of Tuscany’s history, landscape, and flavors—all wrapped into a manageable day trip.

Key Points

• Early morning jog: A unique way to explore Florence’s streets before they fill up.
• Expert-guided experience: Knowledgeable guides share local legends and historical insights.
• Medieval charm: San Gimignano’s towers and streets offer a genuine step back in time.
• Wine tastings: Two visits to local estates highlight Tuscany’s renowned Vernaccia wine.
• Authentic lunch: A traditional Tuscan meal paired with regional wines at a farm.
• Limited group size: Small groups (max 8) ensure a personalized experience.

A Closer Look at the Tour Components

The Morning Jog in Florence

Starting from the Oltrarno area, the tour kicks off at 9:30 am with a guided 1.5-hour morning run. This isn’t a high-intensity workout but a moderate-paced trot suitable for most fitness levels. What makes this really compelling is how it allows you to see Florence through a different lens—quieter streets, stunning early light, and a sense of connection with the city’s rhythm.

The guide, whose knowledge clearly impressed past participants, points out key highlights, shares local legends, and takes routes that avoid the usual tourist hordes. One reviewer highlighted the guide as “very knowledgeable,” making the experience even more enriching. The run finishes back at the meeting point, where you’ll feel energized and ready for the day ahead.

Visit to San Gimignano

After the run, the tour transports you to San Gimignano, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its medieval skyscrapers and well-preserved historic center. Spending about an hour wandering the streets, you get to experience the authentic charm of this “Manhattan of Tuscany.” The towers, which once symbolized wealth and power, now serve as a captivating backdrop for photos and a stroll through history.

One reviewer noted how the visit provided a “genuine step back in time,” and appreciated that the tour allows for flexible exploration rather than a rushed sightseeing stop. The small-group setting ensures you can absorb the atmosphere without feeling overwhelmed by crowds.

Wine Tasting and Visits to Two Estates

The core of the afternoon revolves around tasting regional wines, specifically Vernaccia di San Gimignano, a white wine celebrated for its crisp, mineral qualities. The tour includes visits to two separate wine estates, where knowledgeable staff guide you through tastings. These visits often include explanations of the wine-making process and what makes Vernaccia unique in Tuscany.

Guests frequently mention the quality of the wines—“excellent,” “well-selected,” and “richly expressive”—and the guides’ enthusiasm in sharing their expertise. This isn’t just about drinking; it’s an educational experience that deepens appreciation for the region’s viticulture.

Traditional Tuscan Lunch at a Farm

Following the tastings, everyone sits down to a typical Tuscan lunch at a farm, often featuring local ingredients and regional specialties. The meal is paired with the wines sampled earlier, creating a delightful harmony of flavors. Vegetarian options are available, which adds flexibility for dietary needs.

Guests have praised the authenticity and hearty nature of the meal, making it not just a taste experience but a true immersion into Tuscan rural life. It’s a chance to relax, chat, and soak up the countryside ambiance.

Practical Details and Considerations

Transportation and Timing

Transportation from Florence to San Gimignano is included, making logistics straightforward. The tour begins at 9:30 am from Via del Campuccio, 90, in Florence, and concludes back at the starting point, making it convenient for those staying nearby or planning to continue exploring Florence later in the day.

Group Size and Booking

With a maximum of 8 travelers, this tour maintains an intimate feel, allowing for personalized attention from guides. Past reviews highlight how guides like Lapo make the experience engaging and informative, often sharing little-known facts and local legends.

Cost and Value

Priced at $288, the tour offers a comprehensive experience—active exploration, wine tastings, a traditional meal, and visits to two estates. When considering Tuscany’s typical tour prices, this package delivers good value, especially given the small group size and inclusions. The experience is designed for those who are eager to combine physical activity with cultural and gastronomic indulgence.

Weather and Clothing

The tour runs regardless of weather, so dress appropriately for outdoor activity and potential rain. Comfortable shoes are a must, especially for the jog and walking through San Gimignano’s cobbled streets.

Authentic Experiences Highlighted by Past Travelers

One customer remarked, “Lapo was an awesome guide. He was very knowledgeable and gave us informative and interesting facts.” This highlights the importance of a guide’s insight, which elevates the experience beyond just the physical activity. Another reviewer called it “one of the best things they did in Florence,” emphasizing how the tour’s combination of exercise, culture, and wine made it stand out.

Travelers also appreciated the chance to avoid the crowds by starting early, which allowed for more relaxed exploration and better photos. The small group size meant everyone had space to ask questions and engage with the guide, making the experience feel personalized rather than commercial.

The Sum Up

This San Gimignano and Vernaccia wine tour offers a balanced mix of active adventure, culture, and culinary delight. It’s perfect for travelers who want to kick off their day with a bit of exercise while soaking in Florence’s early-morning quiet, then enjoy the medieval charm of San Gimignano complemented by exceptional regional wines and a hearty Tuscan meal.

The small group size and knowledgeable guides ensure an intimate, educational, and fun experience. While the physical activity might not suit everyone, those who enjoy a light workout combined with cultural exploration will find this tour especially rewarding. The price reflects the quality of experiences, personalized service, and inclusions—making it a memorable way to connect with Tuscany’s heritage.

If you’re after an authentic, active, and delicious day out that moves beyond typical sightseeing, this tour stands as a compelling choice. It’s particularly suited to curious, active travelers eager to deepen their appreciation of Tuscany’s history, landscapes, and flavors.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate. However, note that alcoholic beverages are not served to kids below 16, and alternative drinks are provided for minors.

What should I wear?
Dress for outdoor activity—comfortable shoes are a must. The tour operates in all weather, so bring a rain jacket if needed.

How long is the guided jog?
The jog lasts approximately 1.5 hours, at a moderate pace suitable for most fitness levels.

What is included in the price?
Transportation between Florence and San Gimignano, the guided jog, visits to two wine estates, two wine tastings, and a traditional Tuscan lunch.

Can I customize dietary requirements?
Vegetarian options are available; please advise at booking if needed.

What happens if there aren’t enough participants?
The tour requires a minimum of 2 people. If canceled for this reason, you’ll receive a full refund or an alternative.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
It operates in all weather conditions, so dress accordingly.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience with plenty of interaction.