Golf and wine: in the heart of Florence

If you’re craving an unusual way to enjoy Florence—combining a relaxing round of golf with fine Tuscany wines and gourmet food—this Golf and Wine tour might catch your eye. It’s designed as a private half-day experience, promising a personal touch with tailored activities that blend sport, gastronomy, and scenic Italian charm. We’ve looked into the details to give you a clear picture of what to expect, including some honest insights from travelers who’ve already tried it.

What appeals most about this tour? For us, it’s the chance to play golf right in the city’s heart—a rare find in a city more famous for art and history—and then unwind with a sumptuous Tuscan lunch paired with exceptional wines. It’s an elegant way to enjoy Florence beyond its usual attractions, especially if you’re a fan of both golf and good wine.

The main caveat? Some reviews suggest that the experience might not meet all expectations or could feel a bit rushed or over-promised in terms of what’s delivered versus what’s advertised. If you’re seeking a highly structured, all-day golf experience, you might want to consider how this shorter, more curated tour fits your plans. Overall, it’s best suited for travelers who appreciate personalized, relaxed experiences that combine activity with culinary delights.

This experience is particularly suitable for those looking for something different—a mix of leisure, gourmet food, and scenic views—without straying too far from the city center. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting to sample Florence’s unique lifestyle in a half-day adventure.

Key takeaways

• Personalized Private Tour: The experience is tailored exclusively for your group, ensuring a more intimate and flexible outing.
• Combines Golf & Gastronomy: Play 9 holes at a scenic course and indulge in a 4-course Tuscan lunch with wine pairings.
• All Equipment Provided: Golf gear, including bags, shoes, and gloves, are included, removing the hassle of packing or renting.
• Convenient Transportation: A luxury van whisks you from Florence’s city center to the golf course and restaurant.
• Expert Guidance & Tastings: A knowledgeable guide and a master sommelier ensure a smooth, educational experience.
• Timing & Flexibility: The tour starts at 8:30 am, fitting into a morning schedule perfect for a relaxed yet fulfilling day.

An in-depth look at what this tour offers

Starting point and transportation

Your day kicks off at Stazione Leopolda in Florence, where you’ll meet your guide. The guide’s professionalism appears consistent, with the tour’s logistical flow making it easy to start your morning without stress. From here, a luxury van whisks you out of the city hustle to the Parco di Firenze golf course – a peaceful green oasis in the outskirts of Florence.

The van’s air conditioning and the relatively short transfer time mean you can settle in comfortably, ready for your golf session. The tour’s inclusion of unlimited driving range balls allows guests to warm up or practice shots before hitting the course, which is especially welcoming for beginners or those wanting to sharpen their skills.

Playing golf in Florence

The golf component is at a nine-hole course—a manageable size that offers enough challenge and scenic variety without being overwhelming. During the game, the guide is available to assist, ensuring your experience is smooth and enjoyable. One reviewer shared that the guide helped make the game comfortable, especially for less experienced players.

However, it’s worth noting that golf shoes and gloves are not provided, so if you prefer to use your own or want to rent them locally, plan accordingly. The golf gear is complete for most, but details like footwear can be a consideration for some.

The culinary journey in Florence

After your game, the tour transitions to a top-rated restaurant in Florence where the real highlight begins—a 4-course lunch with wine pairings. The owner, Caterina, a master sommelier, guides guests through a sensory exploration of Tuscany’s best organic and natural products. Expect to taste four specially selected wines during the meal, each paired with dishes designed to showcase regional flavors.

Reviews indicate that the quality of the food and wines is a standout feature. Guests enjoyed the delicious, well-curated menu, describing it as a perfect blend of taste, presentation, and local authenticity. One reviewer noted the “excellent wine selection and good value for money,” suggesting that this part of the experience is genuinely satisfying.

The wine tasting experience

The wine tasting isn’t just about drinking—it’s about learning. Your sommelier guide helps you understand the nuances of each wine, how they complement the dishes, and the organic, natural characteristics of Tuscan wines. This elevates the meal from simply eating to a more immersive sensory journey.

Ending the tour

Once lunch concludes, your guide will escort you back to the initial meeting point, ensuring a seamless, relaxed finish to your experience. The whole tour lasts about 6 hours, making it a perfect option for travelers who want a fulfilling yet not overly time-consuming activity.

Evaluating the value for money

At a price of roughly $322.67 per person, the tour offers a lot—golf, transportation, a gourmet lunch, and wine tastings. When considering the inclusion of all golf gear and the personalized service, many might find it a fair price for a luxurious, curated experience. That said, some reviews point out that expectations may not always align with delivery, so it’s wise to consider what’s most important for your travel goals.

The small group or private nature of the tour enhances its value—more attention from guides and a more relaxed atmosphere. However, the experience’s success depends heavily on weather conditions and group expectations about the golf or culinary aspects.

Authentic insights from reviews

While the majority of feedback is positive about the quality of the wines and the lunch, some reviews highlight issues with over-promising or feeling that the experience didn’t quite meet their expectations. For instance, one guest felt like it was “over-promised and under-delivered,” suggesting that expectations should be managed and that the experience might not be suitable for those wanting an extensive golf holiday or a full-day activity.

Others appreciated the delicious food and excellent wine selection, emphasizing that the experience offered good value and memorable tastes. It’s clear that the culinary component is a major highlight, and those who enjoy wine tastings and fine dining will likely find this tour satisfying.

Practical details and tips

• Start time is at 8:30 am, fitting well into a morning schedule.
• Meeting point is at Stazione Leopolda, easily accessible via public transport.
• The tour ends back at the starting point, so plan your day accordingly.
• Weather considerations are important; if rain or poor weather cancels the activity, a full refund or alternative date is offered.
• What to bring: golf shoes and gloves if you prefer to use your own, although gear is provided.
• For dietary restrictions or preferences, it’s best to communicate in advance—especially considering the gourmet lunch is a fixed menu.

Who will love this experience?

This tour is an excellent choice for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who want a taste of Florence’s luxurious side—combining sport, food, and wine. It’s especially appealing if you’re a golfer or a wine enthusiast eager to explore Tuscany’s organic offerings. Those seeking a relaxed, personalized experience that balances activity with culinary indulgence will find it particularly rewarding.

If you’re after a full-day golf holiday or highly structured activity, this might feel a bit light. But if your goal is to enjoy a short, stylish escape with authentic flavors and scenic views, this tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This Golf and Wine in Florence experience offers a delightful way to combine leisure, gastronomy, and scenic beauty in a compact, private format. The inclusion of all golf gear, a scenic course, expert-guided wine tastings, and a gourmet lunch makes it a well-rounded, luxurious option.

While it’s not without its minor drawbacks—some feeling it might be over-promised—the overall value, especially for those who love good wine and a relaxed pace, is quite strong. The experience is best suited for travelers looking for something intimate, refined, and distinctly Florentine, blending sport and culture in a memorable half-day outing.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners or only experienced golfers?
The tour provides golf gear and assistance from the guide, making it accessible to all skill levels, including beginners. The nine-hole course isn’t overly challenging, and the guide helps ensure comfort.

What is included in the price?
The price covers all golf equipment (bag, clubs, balls), access to the golf course, the golf game itself, transportation via luxury van, a 4-course lunch, bottled water, coffee/tea, and four wines during lunch led by a sommelier.

Are golf shoes and gloves provided?
No, these are not included. You should bring your own golf shoes and gloves if you prefer to use them.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes around 6 hours, starting at 8:30 am and concluding back at the meeting point.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour has a flexible cancellation policy with free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s a private experience only for your group, which allows for a more personalized and relaxed environment.

What if I have dietary restrictions?
It’s advisable to communicate your dietary needs in advance, especially since the lunch menu is fixed and designed to showcase Tuscan organic products.

Are there additional costs?
You might want to bring extra for souvenirs, additional drinks, or personal items not included in the package.

How easy is it to access the meeting point?
Stazione Leopolda is near public transportation, making it easy to reach from central Florence.

Is there a minimum number of travelers needed?
While not explicitly stated, tours like this often require a minimum to run. Check with the provider if you’re booking solo or in a small group.

This experience offers a distinctive way to enjoy Florence—sports, food, and wine wrapped into one memorable half-day. If those are your passions, and you’re looking for a private, relaxed outing, this tour might just be what you need.