Horseback Riding with Wine Tour from Florence

If you’re dreaming of a day where you can combine scenic horseback riding, visits to charming medieval towns, and indulging in some of Italy’s finest wines, this Horseback Riding with Wine Tour from Florence might just be what you’re looking for. It’s a carefully curated experience that promises both adventure and relaxation, all wrapped into one full-day package.

What we love most about this tour is the way it balances authentic Tuscan countryside with cultural highlights like San Gimignano’s iconic towers and a visit to a traditional winery. Plus, the small group setting (max 8 people) ensures a more personalized experience, often praised for guides’ friendliness and expertise. A potential consideration could be the length—an 8-hour day might feel quite packed if you prefer slower-paced travel. Still, it’s ideal for those who want a comprehensive taste of Tuscany’s sights and flavors in a single day.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, love discovering local wine, and are eager to explore historic towns without the hassle of organizing transport or logistics. It’s perfect for small groups, couples, or solo travelers who want a memorable, well-rounded day with a knowledgeable guide leading the way.

Key Points

• No experience needed for horseback riding, making it accessible to all skill levels.
• Small group size guarantees personalized attention and a more intimate atmosphere.
• Includes a delicious Tuscan lunch and wine tasting, offering great value for food and drink lovers.
• Visiting San Gimignano provides a glimpse into medieval Italy, with its famous towers and scenic streets.
• Breathtaking views from Piazzale Michelangelo cap off the day, perfect for romantic photos.
• Flexible options for private pick-up and drop-off can be arranged for convenience.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

This tour combines the best highlights of Tuscany into one seamless day. It begins with a pickup from Florence and a short drive to the countryside, where your adventure kicks off with a horseback ride through vineyards and olive groves. According to reviews, the horses are gentle and well-selected, making it suitable even for those without riding experience. One seasoned rider noted that the views during the ride were truly picturesque, with some reviewers mentioning the tranquility of riding amid rolling hills and lush landscapes.

Expect about two hours of horseback riding—a well-paced segment that balances activity with enough time to enjoy the scenery and take photos. The guides are credited for making everyone feel comfortable, which is especially appreciated if you’re new to riding.

Next, you head to San Gimignano, a town often called the “medieval Manhattan” thanks to its skyline of towers. Wander through narrow alleyways, admire the Piazza della Cisterna and Piazza del Duomo, and soak in the medieval atmosphere. Reviewers rave about the town’s well-preserved architecture and the stunning views from its vantage points. One comment highlights how the town’s scenery and medieval charm make it a must-see.

For a sweet treat, you might want to stop at Dondoli Gelato, a world-renowned gelateria famous for its inventive flavors. Many guests found this a delightful break in their exploration and appreciated the chance to indulge in authentic Italian gelato.

The afternoon shifts to visiting a local winery, where you can enjoy a guided wine tasting paired with a traditional Tuscan lunch. The wine selection includes some of Italy’s most famous varieties, like Chianti, complemented by high-quality extra virgin olive oil. Guests describe the lunch as generous and delicious, with plenty of food to satisfy even hearty appetites. The winery experience is praised for its hospitality and the opportunity to learn about regional wine production.

Finally, the tour ends with a visit to Piazzale Michelangelo, offering sweeping views over Florence. This spot is perfect for capturing memories and soaking in the city’s skyline. It’s a quiet, romantic way to close out a busy day, and many reviewers mention the breathtaking vistas as a highlight.

What the Tour Includes and Excludes

This experience is designed to be smooth and hassle-free. Included are lunch with wine tastings, a one-hour horseback ride, and entry to San Gimignano. The small group size (up to 8 people) fosters a friendly environment, enabling guides to tailor the experience to your interests.

Additional extras like private transportation are available upon request, making it easier for those staying outside the immediate Florence area. The tour’s price of $220.60 per person seems reasonable considering the comprehensive nature of the experience, the quality of food and wine, and the personalized attention.

The Authenticity and Value

Based on reviews, the guides generally receive high praise for their friendliness, knowledge, and willingness to go above and beyond—playing music, taking photos, or adjusting the itinerary based on preferences. One reviewer mentioned that Christian was especially wonderful, highlighting the hospitality aspect.

Guests consistently mention the excellent wine, with some noting that the tasting included some of the best wines in the world. The lunch at the winery is described as substantial and full of traditional Tuscan flavors—ideal for those wanting a true local experience.

The horseback riding is not just a gimmick; many find it a genuine highlight, with the scenery and tranquility making it a memorable part of the day. However, a reviewer did express disappointment in the riding views not matching the promotional images, so keep your expectations flexible.

Practical Details and Tips

• The tour starts at 9:00 am from Via Curtatone in Florence, making it a good option for those aiming for a full day.
• It’s recommended to book 49 days in advance on average, indicating high demand.
• The maximum group size of 8 allows for a more personal experience, but the activity can accommodate up to 15 participants.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, with no specific experience needed for horseback riding.
• Free cancellation is available if you decide to change plans more than 24 hours in advance, which adds a layer of flexibility.

Transportation and Accessibility

Most travelers will find the meeting point accessible, as it’s near public transportation in Florence. While private pick-up and drop-off aren’t included by default, they can be arranged for added convenience, especially if you’re staying outside the city center.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those seeking a full day of diverse activities, blending outdoor adventure, cultural discovery, and wine indulgence. It’s perfect for small groups or couples who want a more intimate, personalized outing. If you love exploring historic towns and appreciate good wine paired with a scenic horseback ride, this tour hits the mark.

Travelers who enjoy authentic, hands-on experiences will also find this appealing—especially the chance to visit a traditional winery and learn about local wine-making. However, if you’re looking for a very relaxed, slow-paced day, some might find the schedule a bit tight.

Final Thoughts

This Horseback Riding with Wine Tour from Florence offers a well-rounded taste of Tuscany’s most beloved features—its rolling vineyards, medieval towns, and award-winning wines. The combination of a scenic horseback ride, a stroll through San Gimignano, and a generous wine tasting at a local winery makes for a memorable day that balances activity with relaxation.

The small group setting, friendly guides, and high-quality inclusions make this tour stand out. It’s a smart choice for travelers who want to see more than just Florence, with enough time to savor the landscape, history, and flavors of Tuscany.

If you’re looking for an experience that’s both authentic and fun—and don’t mind a full day in the saddle—this tour will deliver plenty of picturesque moments and delicious tastes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is horseback riding suitable for beginners?
Yes. The tour specifically mentions that no experience is needed, and the horses are described as gentle and well-selected.

What is included in the price?
You get a 1-hour horseback ride, a visit to San Gimignano, a Tuscan lunch with wine tasting, and a guided visit to a winery. The tour is designed to be comprehensive and convenient.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start time, giving flexibility if your plans change.

How many people are in the group?
The maximum group size is 8, fostering a more intimate and personalized experience. The tour can host up to 15 travelers in total.

What are the starting and ending points?
The tour begins at Via Curtatone, 9, in Florence, at 9:00 am, and returns back to the same point after the day’s activities.

Is transportation included?
Transportation is included from Florence to the countryside and back, but private pick-up and drop-off are available upon request at an extra cost.

What should I wear for the horseback riding?
While not explicitly stated, wearing comfortable, weather-appropriate clothes and closed-toe shoes suitable for riding is advisable.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions?
The description focuses on the wine and food experience at the winery, which is traditional Tuscan fare. If you have specific dietary needs, it’s best to contact the provider in advance.

How long is each stop?
The horseback ride is about 2 hours, the town visit around 1.5 hours, and the winery experience approximately 2 hours. The entire day is roughly 8 hours long, including transport.

What makes this tour stand out?
The blend of scenic horseback riding, medieval town exploration, and wine tasting at a traditional winery, combined with small group intimacy and excellent guides, makes it a special way to experience Tuscany beyond Florence.

This tour offers a fine balance of adventure, culture, and indulgence—perfect for travelers looking to make the most of a day in Tuscany without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.