Florence, Chianti Wine Tasting & Tour, Medici Villa

A Taste of Tuscany: Florence, Chianti Wine Tasting & Tour, Medici Villa

When it comes to experiencing Tuscany’s legendary wine scene, this Florence-based Chianti wine tour offers a charming and authentic peek into the region’s wine-making heritage. For just over $45 per person, you get a carefully curated 2-hour experience that includes a guided walk through a Medici Villa, exploration of centuries-old cellars, and a tasting of three stellar organic wines. It’s a short but immersive journey designed for those who love wine, history, or simply want a beautiful escape from the city without spending the entire day in transit.

What really makes this tour special is the combination of outdoor elegance and historical depth. The guided tour covers the lush Renaissance gardens, the panoramic terrace with views of Florence, and the ancient cellars where wine has been crafted for centuries. Plus, the tasting of three wines — praised for their quality and organic roots — means you’ll leave with more than just memories; you’ll probably want to bring home a bottle or two.

One consideration? The tour is quite short, so if you’re craving a full-day experience or a deeper dive into winemaking, this might feel a bit limited. However, for those seeking a compact, engaging, and value-packed experience, it’s a perfect fit. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who appreciate authentic settings, picturesque views, and expert guides who can share their knowledge with enthusiasm and warmth.

Key Points

• Authentic Tuscan Setting: The tour takes place at Medici Villa, offering a glimpse into Italy’s noble past and its relationship with winemaking.
• Beautiful Outdoor Spaces: Visitors enjoy exploring Renaissance gardens, terraces overlooking Florence, and historic outdoor areas.
• Historic Cellars & Orciaia: The visit includes a walk through centuries-old wine cellars and the traditional 17th-century olive oil storage.
• Expert-Led Tasting: You’ll sample three carefully selected organic wines, accompanied by bruschetta topped with local extra virgin olive oil.
• Small Group Format: Limited to 7 participants, ensuring an intimate experience and plenty of personal attention.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance with no penalty, offering peace of mind in planning.

A Closer Look at the Experience

The Location: Medici Villa of Lilliano

This tour begins at the Medici Villa of Lilliano, a property steeped in history and surrounded by scenic Tuscan landscapes. The villa’s gardens and terraces provide a perfect setting for a relaxed, scenic walk. According to visitors, the views are a highlight — especially the terrace overlooking Florence, which captures the essence of Tuscany’s rolling hills and charming rooftops.

One review describes it as “an incredible experience,” noting that the villa’s outdoor spaces are “breathtaking,” and the guide Monica makes the visit especially memorable with her extensive knowledge. It’s clear that the setting isn’t just a backdrop but an integral part of the experience.

Guided Tour of Outdoor Spaces and Gardens

The tour kicks off with a walk through the villa’s courtyard, Renaissance garden, and terrace. Here, you’ll learn about the history of the estate and its connection to the Medici family, who once owned this land. The gardens are lush and well-maintained, offering plenty of photo opportunities, and the panoramic terrace provides a sweeping view of Florence — a picture-perfect moment that many guests mention as a standout.

Exploring the Cellars and Orciaia

Next, the group moves inside to explore the historic wine cellars and the Orciaia, a traditional 17th-century olive oil storage cellar. Visitors appreciate the chance to see the centuries-old concrete and stone structures where wine and oil have been stored and aged for generations. A reviewer called the visit to the cellars “fascinating,” emphasizing the authenticity and timelessness of the space.

Walking through these underground vaults, you get a palpable sense of history — the cool, dark environment contrasts nicely with the warm Tuscan sun above. Guides often share stories about the winemaking process and how the region’s climate and soil produce exceptional wines that are now organic.

The Wine Tasting

The highlight? The tasting of three organic wines representing the winery’s best. Reviewers describe the wines as “wonderful,” with one saying they would have loved to buy “ten bottles of the white wine” if possible. The wines are paired with bruschetta topped with the estate’s extra virgin olive oil, adding to the authenticity of this small, local production.

The tasting is described as guided, allowing guests to learn about the grape varieties, production methods, and what makes these wines unique. The small group setting ensures plenty of opportunity to ask questions and get personal recommendations from the knowledgeable guides.

Practical Details

• Duration: At just 2 hours, this tour is perfect for fitting into a busy Florence itinerary. It’s a quick but meaningful break from the city.
• Price: At around $45.55 per person, the experience offers excellent value, especially considering the guided outdoor tours, cellar exploration, and wine tasting included.
• Transport & Accessibility: The meeting point is at the villa’s wine shop, and the experience ends there as well. Reviewers mention that the walk from Florence can be hilly and takes about 20 minutes, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
• Group Size & Guides: Limited to 7 participants, the tour feels intimate and personalized. Guides speak both English and Italian, making it accessible for a wide range of visitors.

Real Traveler Insights

One guest noted that they paid for a taxi from Florence, which delivered them straight into “a magical Tuscan villa,” emphasizing the convenience of the location. Others appreciated the knowledgeable guide Monica, who made the experience engaging and insightful.

Another reviewer remarked that the views and the wines were “amazing,” and the experience was “only 30 minutes from Florence,” making it a convenient escape when time is tight. The fact that the tour was booked just three hours beforehand and still managed to deliver a private, high-quality experience speaks to its flexibility and efficiency.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you enjoy wine, history, and stunning scenery, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a short, informative, and beautiful glimpse into Tuscany’s wine tradition without the need for a full-day commitment. The small-group format and knowledgeable guides make it especially suitable for those who appreciate a more personal touch.

It’s also perfect for romantic getaways, first-time visitors to Florence wanting a quick countryside escape, or anyone interested in organic wines and traditional production methods. Just remember, if you’re looking for a long, in-depth tour or want to visit multiple wineries, you might want to explore other options.

The Sum Up

This Florence, Chianti Wine Tasting & Tour at the Medici Villa offers a well-rounded taste of Tuscany’s wine culture combined with historical charm and breathtaking views. For just over $45, you get a guided journey through beautiful outdoor spaces, historic cellars, and a tasting of three excellent organic wines — all in a cozy, small-group environment. It’s a perfect choice for travelers who want a quick yet authentic experience, with plenty of photo-worthy moments and expert insights.

While it’s a relatively short tour, it delivers good value, memorable scenery, and a genuine taste of Tuscany. It’s especially suited for those who want a manageable, engaging introduction to the region’s wine heritage, complemented by beautiful outdoor settings and local stories.

In short, if you’re in Florence and craving a genuine, intimate look at Tuscany’s wine-making tradition with spectacular views, this tour should definitely be on your list.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers?
While the focus is on wine tasting, the tour is mainly about exploring the villa and cellars—non-drinkers can still enjoy the outdoor spaces and learning about the history and production process.

How long does the walk from Florence to the villa take?
Guests have reported it takes about 20 minutes to walk from Florence, and the route is hilly. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak both English and Italian, ensuring clear communication for a diverse group.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans shift.

Is this experience suitable for children?
The tour is designed for adults interested in wine and history; children might not find it as engaging but should check with the provider for specific policies.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers the guided visit to the villa and cellars, tasting of three organic wines, and bruschetta with local olive oil.

The Florence Chianti wine tour at the Medici Villa offers a beautifully balanced experience of scenery, history, and authentic wine tasting — perfect for a brief but meaningful escape into Tuscany’s soul.