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The Best Wineries to Visit in Tuscany

Few wine regions have the instant name recognition of Tuscany 's Chianti, first legally defined in 1716 (but recognized as a wine region as early as the 13th century). Some of Chianti's most acclaimed wines, however, don't carry its name. Only reds based on the Sangiovese grape can be called Chianti. Ambitious, rule-breaking Super-Tuscans, most often based on international grapes such as Cabernet, Merlot, and Syrah, carry the humbler IGT Toscana designation. Vintners near the town of Montalcino make Tuscany's greatest wine, Brunello di Montalcino, from a local Sangiovese clone, Brunello. Here, the best wineries to visit throughout the region. — Richard Nalley

Antinori Chianti Classico

Arguably the most widely known name in Tuscan wine around the world, Antinori's showplace winery in Bargino offers a wealth of visitor experiences, in addition to a "taste-your-way across Tuscany" lineup of wines in the tasting room. Book ahead for the various levels of guided tours and tastings, which include a short film, cellar visits, the art museum, and of course, wine tasting. The rooftop Rinuccio 1180 restaurant offers glass-wrapped views of the countryside. antinori.it

One of Italy's oldest wineries, dating to the mid-16th century, Montepulciano's Avignonesi has been rejuvenated since coming under new ownership in 2009 (among other things, the estate's 345 acres have converted to organic farming). The winery offers a broad range of bottlings — including its famous Vin Santo and Vino Nobile — plus a slate of tour, tasting, and dining opportunities. Closed January and February. avignonesi.it

Badia a Coltibuono

A former monastery, this impressive Chianti Classico estate is devoted now to the secular pursuits of wine and food (among other things, producing wonderful olive oil). Visitors here can choose from a menu of agro-tourism options, including stays in the comfortably refurbished ancient monastery (with a pool), wine courses, and a cooking school. The formal gardens are worth a stroll, too. coltibuono.com

Barone Ricasoli

Italy's oldest wine estate — 900 years and counting — is the one that essentially invented Chianti wine as we know it: The "Iron Baron" Bettino Ricasoli proposed it as a Sangiovese-based wine back in 1872. The Ricasoli family's imposing Brolio castle opens its gates these days for a variety of experiences, from drop-in tastings at the wine shop to elaborate tours and gourmet dinners. There is also a lovely and private house on the estate for two-night minimum stays. ricasoli.com

Biondi Santi, Tenuta Il Greppo

The history of the noble Biondi Santi family is inextricably bound up with the Brunello wines of Montalcino — it was an ancestor of the current proprietor, Jacopo, who isolated its revered Sangiovese Grosso grape clone in the 19th century. This most famous of Montalcino estates comes down on the side of tradition, producing monumental, long-lived wines for collectors. This extraordinary estate offers a range of tasting options with cellar visits, but it's a must to book ahead. biondisanti.it

This is the flagship property of Carmignano, and often its trendsetter — the first to introduce Cabernet Sauvignon to its blends, for instance. The excellent wine lineup here ranges from affordable everyday drinking, like the Barco Reale, to the muscular Super-Tuscan Ghiaie della Furba. The noble Bonacossi family offer their visitors an array of options, including guided tours with a tasting and lunch (book a terrace table at the Vinsantaia restaurant), and a culinary school. The estate also offers accommodations in two historic buildings, one a former hunting retreat of the Medicis. capezzana.it

Capo d'Uomo

These vineyards, painstakingly terraced on the sea cliffs of the Argentario promontory, are among the most spectacular anywhere. The wines are proprietary blends, two reds and a white, named for the winds that sweep across the vineyards. A stylish, personal-scale winery that also offers sea-view accommodations. grimaldisavelli.com

Castellare di Castellina

Media magnate Paolo Panerai's Chianti winery is one of Tuscany's most acclaimed estates, for its top-of-the-line Super-Tuscan I Sodi di S. Nicolo, its Chianti Classicos, and Vin Santos. Its vineyards are located in a natural amphitheater at some of Tuscany's highest altitudes. Book ahead for customized tours and picnics that take advantage of the estate's grounds and commitment to biodiversity. castellare.it

Castello Banfi

The Long Island-based Mariani family imports Italian wine to the U.S. — including such stalwarts as Riunite, Cella, and Bolla — and became vintners themselves 1978, buying up major holdings in Montalcino and across Tuscany. Today their portofilio includes an entire hamlet surrounding a medieval fortress they named Castello Banfi. This is a major wine tourism destination, which provides tasting opportunities for Banfi's extensive range of wines, plus restaurants, a boutique hotel, a glass museum, and a balsameria, where fine vinegar is made according to ancient methods. castellobanfiwineresort.it

Castello di Ama

Book ahead, and allow plenty of time, for a tour and tasting at this grand, deep-pocketed estate near Siena and its charming village. These wines, including the high-end Merlot L'Apparita and the Chianti Classicos, are highly regarded, with prices to match. You can also taste them at the wine bar L'Enoteca, in the village, or at a terrace table at Il Ristoro di Ama for lunch, but then you'd miss the impressive gardens, buildings, and 14 art installations on the estate's grounds. castellodiama.com

Castello di Nippozano/Frescobaldi

One of five Tuscan estates owned by the 30th generation of the Frescobaldi family, a Tuscan wine dynasty, and the region's largest vineyard owners. Wines like the wonderful Chianti Classico Riserva and the Mormoreto blend are enough of a draw here, but the atmospheric castle's picturesque perch above Pelago is added incentive, as are the comprehensive tours, tastings, and customizable private events. All of the Frescobaldi estates are open to visits (book ahead for tours). frescobaldi.com

Castigion del Bosco

The Ferragamo family (of fashion fame) founded this luxury resort on a 5,000-acre property in Montalcino's Val d'Orcia, whose history stretches back to 600 BC. Things have been considerably updated, with a top-notch Brunello di Montalcino winery, restaurants that source from the estate's own gardens, high-end accommodations (the resort is managed by Rosewood), and an 18-hole Tom Weiskopf golf course that takes full advantage of the rolling terrain. castigliondelbosco.com

Fattoria dei Barbi

The Colombini family has been making wine in Montalcino for 700 years, and its Brunellos and Morellino di Scansanos are among the region's best. A visit to the hilltop winery includes a museum devoted to the family and the wines of Montalcino. Stay on for a meal at the taverna, which serves local specialties, including the roasts that so perfectly complement these wines. fattoriadeibarbi.it

Fattoria La Loggia

Just south of Florence, this one-time Medici estate dating to 1427 is a complex of ancient stone buildings, walls, towers, and cellars overlooking a panoramic view of the Chianti hills. The estate's wines, including the Nearco Super-Tuscan and a celebratory spumante, share pride of place at this stylish agro-tourism destination with the owners' notable art collection. fattorialaloggia.com

Fattoria di Lamole

Welcoming and rustic, this non-boutique-ified winery and farm complex outside Greve occupies a lovely hillside surrounded by painstakingly stone-terraced vine-rows, silvery olive trees, and deep forests of chestnut and oak. The Chianti here, like the agro-tourism accommodations, is traditional and easy to enjoy. fattoriadilamole.it

Nestled in a picture-book setting in Chianti Classico's amphitheater-like Conca d'Oro (Golden Shell) valley, this is a large estate in Chianti terms, practicing organic and sustainable agriculture that extends not only to its vineyards, but to olive oil and cattle as well. The all-Sangiovese Flaccianello IGT is deservedly the star here, but the relatively more affordable wines down the line are sought-after, too. There are three guesthouses available for wine-country stays. fontodi.com

One of Tuscany's most familiar labels, Ruffino is also one of the most consistent of the large Chianti producers, turning out a vast selection of wines sourced from growers across the region. The firm owns numerous estates in Tuscany and typically receives visitors at Poggio Casciano, a 14th-century Tuscan villa just outside Florence with lovely grounds and a showplace barrel tunnel. Open weekdays only, by appointment. ruffino.com

Visitors interested in biodynamics and sustainability — not to mention soft-textured, full-flavored Vino Nobile di Montepulciano — should prioritize this exceptional estate southeast of Siena. It is open year-round for tours and tastings, with a kitchen that serves locavore lunches — the seasonal black truffles are from the estate — at the lovely terrace restaurant with its picture-window views. Another bonus: the multi-lingual guide staff. salcheto.it

Tenuta San Guido

The Marchese Mario Incisa's odd desire to duplicate First Growth Bordeaux on his swampy backwater estate in western Tuscany in the 1940s not only lead to arguably Italy's most famous wine, the much-imitated Cabernet Sauvignon-Cabernet Franc Sassicaia, but also touched off a land rush to the once-obscure northern Maremma reaches of Bolgheri. An appointment here is something of a pilgrimage for wine lovers, and there is also the allure of Italy's oldest nature sanctuary and the estate's historic buildings. tenutasanguido.com

Val delle Corti

Owner Roberto Bianchi is known as a traditionalist and Sangiovese loyalist — no Merlot here — and his organically farmed vineyards near Radda are at some of Chianti's highest elevations. "The Hut," a charming and well-appointed guesthouse on the property, offers both privacy and proximity for area touring. valdellecorti.it

Villa Pomona

A "heart of Tuscany" experience near Castellina, this lovely property produces worthy Chianti Classico (and fine olive oil) but enchants visitors with its age-old, rambling stone buildings and acres of diverse woodlands. Two guesthouses allow visitors to marinate in it all and to swim in the panoramic-view pool. fattoriapomona.it

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1. Icario Winery

2. Poggio Amorelli

3. Azienda Agricola Ercolani

4. Castello di Verrazzano

5. Ciacci Piccolomini d'Aragona

6. Tenuta Torciano

7. Montefioralle Winery

8. Guardastelle Winery

9. Podere La Marronaia- Le Colonne Biodynamic Winery & Farm

10. Fattoria al Dotto

11. Cantina de' Ricci

12. Terre del Marchesato

13. Casa Emma

14. Castello del Trebbio

15. Casa Sola Chianti Winery

16. Tenuta Casanova

17. Avignonesi

18. Fattoria Il Piano

19. Villa La Ripa

20. Azienda Agricola La Lastra

21. A Solatio Organic Farm

22. Cantina Baldetti

23. Castello di Volpaia

24. Castello di Brolio

25. Castello Monterinaldi

26. Castiglion del Bosco Winery

27. Sant'Agnese Farm

28. Poggio al Bosco

29. Antinori nel Chianti Classico

30. Fattoria di Montemaggio

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Best Wineries

The 15 Best Wineries in Tuscany

Tuscany often seems to epitomize all the best things about Italy, and its wineries are no exception. As one of the first regions of Italy to really capitalize on wine tourism, hundreds of wineries in Tuscany are open to visitors for tours, tastings and, of course, shopping. Almost all of them offer a free bonus—enchanting views of the Tuscan countryside.

Though it was difficult to narrow it down, here's our unranked list of the best wineries in Tuscany. Some are familiar names and others are up-and-coming boutique wineries. Though some are open for walk-up tastings and tours, in all cases, we recommend that you call, email or book to avoid disappointment.

Antinori nel Chianti Classico

Courtesy of Antinori nel Chianti Classico

Though the Antinori family has been producing wines since 1385, their Antinori nel Chianti Classico winery smacks of modernity. Seemingly built into the landscape just outside Florence, the winery, which includes tasting rooms, wine bar, restaurant, wine museum, and shop were opened in 2013. Tastings include a tour that covers the history of the Antinori family, plus a sampling of three wines.

MonteRosola Winery

Courtesy of MonteRosola Winery

As one of Tuscany's newest wineries, MonteRosola promises visitors a "wine experience" from start to finish. The avant-garde cantina, visitor's center, and cellars opened in 2019—though they've been producing wine for several years—with a focus on sustainability and technology, albeit with respect to Tuscany's centuries-long winemaking traditions. One of their signature wines, spicy, garnet-red Crescendo, is already garnering attention from wine critics.

Barone Ricasoli

Courtesy of Barone Ricasoli 

Legendary is a word often used to describe Barone Ricasoli . Set near Gaiole in Chianti, the oldest winery in Italy is the alleged birthplace of Chianti wine, which only emerged in the late 1800s. The visitor experience here is a full-court press, with a wine shop open for walk-in tastings, to gardens, a thousand-year-old castle, winery tours, and more in-depth tastings. The high-end Osteria di Brolio restaurant is open from May to early November. Walk-in tastings include a garden visit while the Classic tour includes the castle, winery and cellars, followed by a private tasting.

Castello Banfi

Courtesy of Castello Banfi

This isn't just a winery—it's a whole town. Located south of Siena, the winemaking village that surrounds Castello Banfi, a medieval fortress, includes Michelin-starred restaurant Sala dei Grappoli , a luxury boutique hotel, a glass museum, balsamic vinegar cellars, and a broad menu of winery tours. Two Tuscan heavy hitters—Brunello di Montalcino and Rosso di Montalcino—are produced at the Castello. The entry-level Banfi Tour includes a visit to the balsamic vinegar cellar, the vineyards, and the winery, plus an aperitif at the wine shop and a tasting of three Castello Banfi wines.

Set near the border with Umbria, venerable winery Avignonesi dates to the 1500s but converted to organic, biodynamic farming in 2009. Its sweet Vin Santo and robust Vino Nobile di Montepulciano are among its best-known wines. The Tour and Taste visit includes a tour of two vineyards and a lesson in biodynamic winemaking, followed by four tastings. Tasting tours including a gourmet lunch are also popular.

Capo d'Uomo

Courtesy of Capo d'Uomo

Climbing precipitously above the Tyrrhenian Sea on Tuscany's Argentario promontory, small-scale winery Capo d'Uomo has long been held by the Grimaldi family and is famous for its one-of-a-kind wines, including Maisto, Rosso di Capo d’Uomo, Africo, Bianco di Capo d’Uomo, Pinkus, and Duncan. Olive oil, artichokes, and tomatoes are also produced on the estate, and there's a sea-view villa for rent, as well as simpler cantina accommodations. The wine shop is open most days but definitely call ahead to book a visit here.

Col d'Orcia

Courtesy of Col d'Orcia

Despite being the largest organic winery in Tuscany, Col d'Orcia retains an old-school, family feel that has endeared it to countless visitors. The affordably-priced tastings include a tour of the organic farm, a cellar visit, and a guided tasting of three wines, including their famous Brunello di Montalcino. The winery is located southeast of the town of Montalcino.

Tenute Ruffino-Poggio Casciano

If you've ever had a bottle of Chianti in the US, chances are good that it was from Ruffino, one of the largest producers and exporters of Chianti. While the vintner has wine estates across Tuscany and the rest of Italy and produces dozens of wines, its main visitor center is at Poggio Casciano, a 1300s villa not far from Florence. A dramatic tunnel lined with wine barrels is the highlight of tours here. Tasting tours include a tour of the grounds, the villa halls, and the aforementioned tunnel, with tastings along the way. Appointments are a must.

Fattoria La Loggia

Courtesy of Fattoria La Loggia

In a Tuscan-dream-come-true setting that combines, wine, food, and a significant modern art collection, Fattoria La Loggia occupies a 15th-century estate once owned by the Medicis. The estate is as much about hospitality as it is about wine, but its Super-Tuscan blend is noteworthy. Call to arrange a tasting accompanied by bruschetta and farm-made olive oil, a tasting with lunch, or an overnight. Soaring views of the Chianti hills are included.

Villa Pomona

Monica Raspi took over her family vineyard in 2007, and her labor of love is evident everywhere at Villa Pomona. Set in the Chianti Classico area near Castellina, Villa Pomona produces high-quality Chiantis, as well as other Sangiovese-based reds and a few white wines. A rustic, friendly vibe pervades in this all-organic winery, which also produces olive oil and has two guesthouses on the grounds. Call ahead to schedule a visit.

Tenuta Sanoner

Courtesy of Tenuta Sanoner

Still a relative newcomer on the Tuscany wine map, Tenuta Sanoner has been producing organic, biodynamically grown wine since 2016. Its architecturally stunning and state-of-the-art winery and tasting room blends with the Tuscan landscape. The majority of wines produced here are 100 percent Sangiovese reds, but Sanoner also makes a rose and a few sparkling wines. The winery is affiliated with ADLER Spa Resort Thermae , a luxury thermal spa hotel just down the hill in Bagno Vignoni.

Montenidoli

Courtesy of Montenidoli

In a region known for its hearty red wines, Montenidoli stands out as a top producer of Vernaccia di San Gimignano, the aromatic white associated with the town of San Gimignano, a favorite stop on many a tour of Tuscany. This family-held winery also produces a stellar rosé, and visits to this earthy, lovingly cared-for estate rank among the top wine experiences in the area. Book ahead for a casual walk through the vineyards and a guided tasting.

Castello di Nippozano/Frescobaldi

Courtesy of Castello Nippozano

Just east of Florence, Castello di Nippozano has been producing wines since at least the Renaissance, when Donatello was apparently a loyal customer. Today, the imposing 11th-century castle is part of the Frescobaldi wine dynasty—the storied Florentine family has been producing wine since the 1300s. Their Chianti Classico Riserva and Mormoreto are signature wines, but as many visitors come for the castle perched high on the edge of the Tuscan Appennines. Wine tours are customizable and must be booked ahead.

Tenuta Ripalte Elba

Courtesy of Tenuta Ripalte

Aleatico grapes are grown throughout Italy but they're most closely associated with Elba, the largest island of the Tuscany archipelago and the site of Napoleon's short-lived exile. It's a signature wine of Elba's Tenuta Ripalte, located on the island's rugged southeastern promontory, along with sweet, strong Passito, and lighter Vermentino and Rosato. Tours include a visit to the dramatically sited vineyard, plus tastings on the equally enchanting outdoor terrace.

Courtesy of Fontuccia

Scrappy, low-lying Ansonaco grapes thrive in the Isola di Giglio 's dry, rocky, windswept climate, and produce both dry Ansonaco table wines and sweet Passito dessert wines. To see these hearty vines in their element, make an appointment for a tour and tasting at Fontuccia, or contact Visit Giglio Island to book a wine and food experience on the island.

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Wine Tasting in Tuscany

Discover the flavors in the tuscan vineyards.

all of Tuscany has something special to offer

Tuscany provides several wonderful opportunities to discover why its wines are so good - through organized wine tours , cooking lessons, wine tasting and wine cellar tours. The true beauty is you can discover Tuscany and its wines on your own , wandering the many zones in the four corners of the region, to find the mix of grapes, the style of vinification or even just the “ look ” of the wine that best suits your taste buds .

Undoubtedly, Chianti classico and the neighboring area of Chianti, just south of Florence , is one of the best known valleys and wine producing areas. Offering a wide selection of labels, production styles and recipes that exalt the Sangiovese grape which date all the way back to 1716 and beyond.

But the choices expand from here to include other zones in the south which are just as noteworthy for their award winning fragrance, colors and above all their flavour . Just think of Brunello around the small hamlet of Montalcino , a rich full-bodied wine with a distinct personality and longevity. Further east, one enters into the zone of Vino Nobile, which is produced near Montepulciano . The Orcia DOC , the newest addition to a long list of spectacular flavors, is nestled between the two above mentioned greats, working on establishing a reputation.

And it doesn’t stop here, travel the full length of Tuscany north to south, east to west and you will meet with several variations on a theme, where grapes are the theme and the variations include the wines of Morellino Scansano, Lucca and Montecarlo, Cortona and even along the coast in the area of Bolgheri . Many of these areas are well organized with itineraries mixing traditional flavors and wines with the " Strada del vino ".

Browse our articles below for some helpful ideas when planning your wine tasting itinerary while visiting Tuscany.

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Arrigoni 1913

From 25,00 €

Castello Di Radda

From 10,00 €

Castello Di Albola

From 15,00 €

Croce Di Febo

From 35,00 €

Tenuta Casenuove

Villa Travignoli

From 20,00 €

Le Cinciole

Fattoria Di Romignano

Fattoria Carpineta Fontalpino

From 18,00 €

Malenchini Wine Estate

From 40,00 €

Castello Di Oliveto

From 22,00 €

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Travel the Tuscan wine route : Chianti, Montepulciano, Brunello di Montalcino or Morellino di Scansano, all these sumptuous red wines will delight your palates and your gastronomic discoveries. The Italy Vineyard Map lets you locate the best wine tours in Tuscany easily! Our Tuscan wine estates will be keen to help you discover their know-how through a visit to the cellars, a wine tasting, or an unusual wine tourism activity. Enjoy a Tuscan wine tasting experience by booking online.

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The best time to go wine tasting in Tuscany is between spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the vineyards are in full bloom. During these months, the wineries are open for tastings, and the grapes are in the process of being harvested, giving visitors a unique and intimate look at the winemaking process.

During a wine tasting in Tuscany, you can expect to sample several different wines made by the winery, typically accompanied by a knowledgeable guide who will provide information about each wine and the winemaking process. Tastings typically last between 30 minutes and an hour, and you may have the opportunity to tour the winery and see the wine-making facilities.

It is recommended to visit no more than 2-3 wineries in one day to ensure that you have enough time to fully enjoy each experience. Keep in mind that some wineries may require advanced reservations, so be sure to plan your itinerary accordingly.

It is recommended to make a reservation for a wine tasting in Tuscany, especially during peak tourist season, to ensure that you have access to the wineries and vineyards you want to visit. Some wineries may require advanced reservations, so be sure to check in advance.

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The 23 Best Wineries In Chianti - A Local Guide To Tuscany

Where do local italians go for the best chianti classico wine our local tuscan expert guides the way.

Nathan Heinrich

• June 9, 2023
• Rome, Italy

If you’re searching for the best wineries in Chianti, this is the only article you will ever need on the topic.   

While recently planning a trip to the Chianti Classico wine region of Tuscany, I reached out to my dear Italian friend Vera Sarzano , who lives in the heart of this beautiful part of Italy.  

For years, Vera worked for several local Chianti Classico wineries as an exclusive guide on private wine tours, before starting her own virtual Italian language coaching company.   

In This Article:

Chianti Wine Trivia

Largest & Most Iconic Chianti Classico Wineries

Medium-Sized Chianti Classico Wineries

Family-Owned “Hidden Gem” Chianti Classico Wineries

History Of The Chianti Area

DOCG Classification

Our local guide to chianti.

Since I moved to Italy several years ago, Vera has been my personal Italian language coach.   She is also a co-host on the top-5 travel podcast  I’m Moving To Italy.

Her home, for the past 15 years, is just a short drive from most of the 23 wineries which she recommends on this list.  

Being a native Italian, with knowledge of the very best wines in the Chianti region, Vera is a highly sought-after local wine expert and I am grateful she agreed to share her time to help create this local guide to the best wineries of Chianti.

Chianti Wine Region Trivia

This article is designed for those who want to design their own self-guided tour of the best Chianti wineries and taste some of Italy’s finest red wines on their terms.

Wine Lover’s Trivia:   

A.) Where is the oldest winery in Italy located?  

B.) Which winery is the 2nd oldest winery in the world as well as the 4th oldest business in the world?  

C.) Who is the most famous historical person who was also the first agronomist, oenologist, and sommelier from the greater Chianti area?

Continue reading for answers to these questions and more information on some of Italy’s most famous wines.  

*Answers at the end of the article.

The 10 Largest & Most Iconic Chianti Classico Wineries

​ This article is organized by  Large,   Medium,  and  Small “Hidden Gem” Wineries

1.) Ricasoli 1141 Winery At Castello di Brolio

Of all the wineries in the Chianti Classico region, there is none more iconic than the Ricasoli 1141 winery at the Castello di Brolio estate.  

This winery is Italy’s oldest and its long history makes it the 2nd oldest operational winery in the world (after the Château de Goulaine in France).  

It is also the world’s 4th oldest continuously operational business (a Japanese Construction company Kongo Gumi which dates back to the year 578 AD is the oldest).

The Chianti vineyards at Ricasoli 1141 winery cover 240 hectares (approx 600 acres) with an additional 26 hectares (approx 70 acres) planted in olive groves for oil production.

The name “Ricasoli 1141” comes from the Risasoli family who have been making wine in the Chianti Classico area since 1141 in this exact location for nearly 900 years.  

The current owner of Castello di Brolio and Ricasoli 1141 Winery is Baron Francesco Ricasoli, he is part of the 32nd generation of the family.  

Francesco Ricasoli has been continuing his family’s long history of producing some of the best Chianti wines since taking over in 1993.   

The sprawling estate, which covers approx 3,000 acres, includes a world-class restaurant, villas for vacation rentals, the medieval Brolio Castle dating back to the Middle Ages, and many events throughout the year – including olive oil tasting.   

No visit to the rolling hills of the Chianti wine region would be complete without a visit to Italy’s oldest and most impressive winery and the birthplace of Chianti Classico wine.

https://www.ricasoli.com/en/

2.) Marchesi Antinori

For 26 generations, since 1385, the Antinori family has been producing wine in the Chianti wine region.  

Any visit to the Chianti Classico wine region should include this winery which is the 2nd oldest in the area.  

Antinori Winery is a member of the “Arte Fiorentina dei Vinattieri”, the prestigious Florentine Winemakers’ Guild.

The Antorini Family owns 7 wine estates in Tuscany and one in Umbria, which are all truly beautiful and each deserving of a visit. 

https://www.antinori.it/en/vino/marchese-antinori-en/

3.) Marchesi Frescobaldi

With more than 700 years spanning 30 generations, the Marchesi de’Frescobaldi has been making wine history in Italy.  

Besides exclusive restaurants in Florence and London, the winery now has 11 unique estates which produce some of the region’s most sought-after wines.   

Many of the Frescobaldi estates have native forests established on their land.  

The beautiful estates of Castello Nipozzano and Castello Pomino were the very first in Tuscany to be awarded the PEFC certification (‘Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification’) which certifies the sustainable management of Tuscan forests.  

The Frescobaldi Family wine empire represents one of the most impressive in all of Italy.  

If you are planning a visit to Tuscany, some of the 11 elegant wine estates in the Frescobaldi portfolio are certainly worth exploring.   

https://www.frescobaldi.com/en

In 1978, two Italian-American brothers, John and Harry Mariani, founded a winery in the Chianti Classico wine region.  

With the expert help of one of Italy’s most celebrated enologists, Ezio Rivella, Banfi Winery has been built into one of Chianti’s most impressive wineries.  

Another proud moment for the brothers and their families was when they acquired the historic Bruzzone winery in Piedmont.

The Banfi Piemonte location specializes in the production of impressive sparkling wines which can be tasted and purchased at the Chianti location along with their impressive collection of Chianti Classico riserva blends.

https://www.banfi.it/en/

5.) Castello di Ama

Castello di Ama is yet another fantastic Chianti winery with a rich history involving a castle.

The village of Ama has Etruscan origins which predate the Holy Roman Empire.  

Although the castle was destroyed in the fifteenth century, during the Aragonese invasions in the Chianti area, the current headquarters of the Castello Winery were rebuilt from the stones of the original castle, during the 1700s.  

Add this fantastic winery to your Tuscan wine tour for some of the region’s best Chianti Classicos.

https://castellodiama.com/en/

6.) Fonterutoli Mazzei

If you are interested in a true “Wine Resort” then Fonterutoli Mazzei might be just the place for you.  The guest rooms and suites at this winery are so lovely you won’t ever want to leave.   

The Mazzei family has owned Castello di Fonterutoli since 1435 – that’s nearly 600 years of experience making their incredible full-bodied wine in the Chianti Classico area.   

This winery leads the pack when it comes to an environmentally conscious wine-making process and is certainly one you should visit on your winery tour of the Chianti region.

https://us.mazzei.it/pages/castello-di-fonterutoli

7.) Dievole

The Dievole winery is one of the best wineries in the Tuscan countryside.  

If you’re looking for a catered vineyard picnic with some good food and wine, olive oil tasting from trees in the estate, wine tasting, and vineyard visits to some of the most unique locations in the Chianti Classico region, then a visit to Dievole is in order.

Dievole’s restaurant  Ristorante Novecento,  which is located on the ground floor of the winery, was established in 1990 to commemorate the estate’s 900th anniversary.  

During the summer season, guests can enjoy their meals in the historic tiled courtyard surrounded by the fragrant rose garden.  

While in the fall and winter months dining is enjoyed inside the 18th-century villa.

https://dievole.it/en/

8.) San Felice

Borgo San Felice is so much more than a fabulous Chianti Classico winery.  

This completely unique location is actually an entire medieval village including a chapel, historical cellars, a wellness center, and dozens of villas that have been converted into private vacation residences.   

The winery is surrounded by hectares of vineyards, bike trails, and the most beautiful hills in the Chianti region.  

The perfect location for a destination wedding, small groups, or a 100-guest special retreat.  

Many feel that a stay at Borgo San Felice is the best way to unwind and soak up the Chianti countryside.

Of all the locations on our list of the 10 biggest and best Chianti Classico fine wine producers, this one is a total stand-out from all the rest – not to be missed.

https://sanfelice.com/en

9.) Tolaini

Of all the wineries on this list of 23 Chianti Classico wineries, Tolaini is the only one owned and operated by a woman.  

Lia Tolaini took over this beautiful winery when her father, Pierluigi Tolaini, passed away in 2020.  

Not only does Lia Tolaini produce wine but she also owns a major wine import company in New York, Banville Wine Merchants.   

While you can buy Tolaini wines in the USA, Canada, and locations worldwide, a cellar visit to the Chianti region is the best way to taste wines from this very special winery.

https://m.tolaini.it/en/

10.) Vallepicciola

Just 10 minutes from the famous Chianti city of Siena is this fabulous 107-hectares (264-acre) winery.  

Our local expert, Vera Sarzano , called this particular winery a “hidden gem in the category of larger Chianti Classico wineries.   

Not only are the wine cellar and tasting room at this beautiful winery stunning, but the unique soil type, the elevation, the special rootstock, and the exposure contribute to wine production that is unmatched.

Although this is one of the smallest in the category of larger wineries in the Chianti region the wines produced at Vallepicciola are anything but small.  

Be sure to add Vallepicciola to your list of Chianti Classico winery visits.​ ​ ​

https://www.vallepicciola.com/en/

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7 Of The Best Medium-Sized Chianti Classico Wineries

11.) fattoria di montemaggio.

Fattoria di Montemaggio is a family-owned organic winery well-known for its excellent wines – definitely worth an in-depth tour and wine-tasting excursion. 

https://www.montemaggio.com/

12.) Fattoria di Fèlsina

Fattoria di Fèlsina is a very special winery located in the Chianti Classico region of Castelnuovo.  

This boutique winery is known for its Chianti Classico Riserva, Vigneto Rancia, and Sangiovese wines.

https://www.felsina.it/en/

13.) Castello di Verrazzano

Castello di Verrazzano is a romantic and rugged winery in the hills of the Chianti Region which is well worth a visit.

https://www.verrazzano.com/en/

14.) Castello di Bossi

The castle with its beautiful vineyards and delicious wines at Castello di Bossi winery, has wonderful guest suites and a private swimming pool with views of Siena.

https://bacciwines.it/it/castello-di-bossi/

15.) Lamole di Lamole

“Lamole di Lamole” is a small family winery.

 If you’re looking for a lovely quiet spot with delicious food and wine during your tour of the Chianti Region, this just might be the place for you.

https://www.lamole.com/

16.) Azienda Agraria Miscianello

Miscianello is an agriturismo that produces wine and olive oil.  

The pool, guest rooms, and estate are a fantastic spot to unwind just a 15 min drive from Siena.  

The hosts are friendly and welcoming and guests love the food and wine served in a beautiful setting surrounded by vineyards and lemon trees.

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Azienda Agraria Miscianello

17.) Arceno

Arceno Winery is a boutique wine producer in Chianti Classico whose wines can be tasted in Tuscany as well as Napa Valley in California.

https://www.tenutadiarceno.com/en

6 Family-Owned "Hidden Gem" Chianti Classico Wineries

18.) scheggiolla.

Podere Scheggiolla is the first on our list of small family-owned “hidden gem” wineries that tourists rarely visit – but you should consider visiting.

Located on the top of the hill in the community of Castelnuovo Berardenga  in Chianti, Tuscany.

https://www.scheggiolla.com/

19.) La Lama

La Lama Winery is another excellent family-owned producer of wine and olive oil in the Chianti hills.  

Some of the wines you should consider buying from La Lama are –  Chianti Classico Sottolaia, Chianti Classico Riserva Terzo Movimento, and I.G.T. Caliptra.

La Lama uses cutting-edge processing techniques in their winemaking and olive oil production.   These techniques are carefully managed by the Campani family.   

Duccio Campani, along with his hard-working wife Tiziana and their daughter Sarah, are passionate winemakers and olive oil producers.

Our local Chianti Classico wine expert, Vera Sarzano , lives just a few minutes away from this charming winery and she happens to love the wine and olive oil produced by this lovely little winery.

https://www.aziendaagricolalalama.it/en/

20.) Pacina

Pācina Winery not only produces some of the Chianti Region’s best organic wine, but they are also one of the most beautiful locations in all of Tuscany.   

Check out their website to see the gorgeous images of the 65-hectare estate.  

This lovely family-owned farm is renowned for its quality wines and commitment to sustainability.  

Be sure to add this location to your tour of Tuscany.

https://www.pacina.it/?lang=en

21.) San Giusto a Rentennano

The Martini Family who owns and operates this Chianti Classico winery are well-known for their fabulous local wines. 

This wonderful family-owned winemaker is committed to producing some of the best wines from robust local grapes.  

Be sure to add this winery to your tour of the Chianti wine region.

https://www.fattoriasangiusto.it/it/

22.) Podere Le Trosce

You will not find better olive oil or wine anywhere in the Chianti area.  

This family-owned wine and olive oil estate is so small they don’t even have a website.  

Click on the link below to visit their Instagram page.

https://www.instagram.com/cantinaletrosce/

23.) Sant'Agnese Farm

This family-owned and operated winery is located just outside the town of Castellina in Chianti.  

The name of this boutique family farm comes from the local forest  “Bosco Sant’Agnese”.  

Not only can you taste some of the region’s most boutique wines here, but you can also take part in a cooking class taught by a member of the family.   Be sure to add this beautiful location to your tour of Chianti.

​​ https://www.santagnesefarm.com/

A Brief History Of The Chianti Area

Modern-day Chianti is dotted with elegant wine estates and lovely groves of olive trees but this region  was not always such a peaceful and picturesque location.  

For thousands of years, this area was populated by warring kingdoms that constantly attacked one another tipping the balance of power back and forth from one century to the next.  

Despite the constant attempts to topple each other’s power, ancient Etruscans and Italians were also busy honing their skills as farmers and winemakers.   

The Etruscan people were the first to make wine in Tuscany during the 5th century before Christ.  

However, it wasn’t until about 1500 years later that wine-making began to evolve into the art form that it is today.   

Where Did The Name "Chianti" Come From?

  The first recorded use of the term “Clanti” (origin of the modern-day Italian word “Chianti”), attributed to the powerful “Clante” family, was in the 11th century, and the name was eventually used to describe the area that includes Florence, Arezzo, Siena, and Pisa.  

In the 15th century, the Sangiovese grape variety was first used by local winemakers to make a local red wine that gained popularity with each passing generation.  

In 1716, Cosimo III de Medici, the grand duke of Tuscany, published the first book dedicated to winemaking.  

In this book, he declared that the Chianti region was the only area suitable for making the early Chianti type of wine.  Cosimo was hundreds of years ahead of his time by creating a designated area for wine in Italy – like the modern-day DOCG.

The Father Of Chianti

In the mid-1800s Bettino Ricasoli, a true Renaissance man involved in the political Unification of Italy, retired from politics to focus on agriculture.  

Ricasoli  studied soil agriculture and made it a true science and he developed a unique understanding of the local “terroir”.  

He developed different blends of 80% Sangiovese and 20% of other local varietals until he developed what he considered the “best blend” for the area.  

Bettino  called this unique mix of grape varietals his “formula”.   He was also among the first to age wines in wooden barrels in Italy.  

His techniques started to be followed by other local winemakers and his methods are what are still used today to create modern Chianti Classico.  

In his day this wine was called “Chianti” or “red wine” from the area.  

In the 1900s a consortium was established to organize the Chianti wine region.

In 1984 the DOCG classification was added by the Italian government to certify the wine from this unique wine region of Italy.  

Winemakers must follow all the DOCG rules for blending and handling Chianti Classico wines in order to gain the coveted certification.  

There are now over 300 wineries that are part of the Chianti Classico DOCG area.   When shopping for wine in a shop or retailer,  the best Chianti Classico wines will always have the famous Black Rooster on the label. 

A secret best known by locals, like my friend Vera Sarzano, is that some of the best little family-owned wineries choose not to pay for the expensive Chianti DOCG certification label.

But their wines are no less fabulous than the most famous Chianti Classico producers.

The world-famous Chianti wine region with its manicured vineyards edged by cypress trees and its stone churches and Etruscan villas is one of the world’s best locations for wine lovers.  

One of the best things about the Chianti Classico region, with its many different wineries that have been producing some of Italy’s best wines for a very long time, is that you get an opportunity to actually meet the families that produce the wine and olive oil.   

Especially at the 6 “hidden gem” family-owned wineries included in this article, visitors are able to meet the people whose hearts and souls are poured into the bottles of wine they make.  

That’s a rare experience, as you well know if you are a regular visitor to wineries in places like Napa Valley.

Although Italy has many different wine regions traversing the peninsula and islands of the country, the Chianti Wine region is the oldest.  

Chianti Has Something For Everyone

Whether you prefer Vin Santo, Chianti Classico Gran Selezione made from 100% Sangiovese grapes, this very special wine region has something for everyone.  

If you don’t like Chianti Classico wines or want to try something different, most wineries in the area also produce amazing reds, whites, roses, and grappa!

Even though I live in Italy , I’m not a wine connoisseur or expert – yet.

But even if you’re not a wine snob, the Chianti area has plenty to offer like cooking classes in a 16th century villa or learning how to turn olives into (liquid gold) olive oil.

The best thing you can do, especially if you’ve never visited, is to take this list of the Best Wineries in Chianti and eat and drink your way across the region at your own pace.  

You will return home a changed person and before you know it, you’ll be planning your next visit to Italy’s oldest wine region.

I hope this article has helped you to plan your next Tuscan excursion.   

As an American with dual Italian citizenship , I love learning about Italy from locals like Vera because they are the best guides to all things Italian.

Wine Lover’s Trivia Answers:   

A.) The oldest winery in Italy is located in:  T he   Chianti Classico region – the Ricasoli 1141 Winery

B.) The 2nd oldest winery and the 4th oldest business in the world: Ricasoli 1141 Winery at Castello di Brolio

C.) The most famous historical person who was also the first agronomist, oenologist, and sommelier from the greater Chianti area: Leonardo da Vinci who was born in the Comune of Vinci in the village of Anchiano

Official Websites For All Wineries in the Chianti Classico Wine Region:

https://www.chianticlassico.com/aziende/

Email Address:

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Nathan is a writer, designer & horticulturist. He is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of "All Roads Lead to Italy" Magazine & host of the Top-10 Travel Podcast, "I'm Moving To Italy!". Nathan was born and raised in a 6th generation farming family in Northern California, he is currently, a dual Italian citizen, living in the Prosecco Valley of Northern Italy, near Venice.

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Best Wineries to Visit in Tuscany

19 Apr, 2022

Read on the best wineries to visit in Tuscany.

Is it possible to look at Tuscany objectively? We must warn you – unsuspecting visitors are almost guaranteed to lose their hearts to this most iconic and beautiful of Italian wine regions. To the west lies the turquoise Mediterranean Sea, where you can spot the island of Elba basking prettily in the Italian sun. To the east are the majestic Apennines, arching grandly round to the north; while to the south there’s Lazio, Rome and finally, if you travel far enough, you’ll reach the Mezzogiorno, the proud Southern Kingdom of Italy. It’s all incredibly romantic and completely enchanting, and a visit to the rolling hills of Tuscan wine country is a truly unforgettable experience. Visitors are spoilt for choice with the quality and quantity of Tuscan winery tours, and so we’re going to take you on a journey through our favourites with Winerist’s best wineries to visit in Tuscany.

The instantly recognisable landscape of Tuscany dates back thousands of years to the Etruscan people, who brought the cypress and the vine from the East; these were preserved and curated also the Greeks and then by the Romans, creating a truly ancient and remarkable heritage. We wonder what stories the ancient cypress trees could tell!

Castello di Vicchiomaggio

Read more and book your wine tour and tasting in Castello di Vicchiomaggio today!

Castello di Fonterutoli

If you don’t wish to leave (and we wouldn’t blame you) there is also gorgeous luxury accommodation available in the castle alongside an authentic Tuscan restaurant and various non-vinous activities available such as hiking and horse riding – a great way to work off some of that excess! Wine holidays that include a visit here will allow you to truly experience Tuscany at its best, sipping elegant wines and indulging in fresh regional cuisine surrounded by soft, green rolling hills and lush vineyards.

For winery tours and wine tastings in Castello di Fonterutoli, book with Winerist today.

Querciabella

Querciabella is a biodynamic producer of exquisite, delicate wines from both the indigenous Sangiovese grape and some more international varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay. Since 1974, the estate has grown from a single hectare to over 100 – the Castiglioni family have worked tirelessly to perfect their craft and have been trailblazers in many respects, being one of the first wineries in Italy to adopt first organic and then biodynamic practices.

Visitors to this amazing place must book in advance, but are assured of a warm welcome and a wine tasting no other, discovering first-hand how honouring the diversity of nature can result in beautiful, balanced wines overflowing with elegance and poise.

For winery tours and tastings in Querciabella – book with Winerist today.

Wine and olive oil are both produced here, and wine tours and tastings usually involve some of both! Once you’ve strolled through the serene vineyards with your guide and learned more about the heritage of both the estate and the wider region, there is a pretty, cosy wine tasting room with inviting views over the Montepulciano landscape which is best enjoyed with a delicious red in hand.

For wine tastings and cellar and winery tours in Bindella – book with Winerist today.

Loacker Corte Pavone

The Corte Pavone farm in Montalcino has been home to the Loacker family since 1996 and is an idyllic location where the smell of wild herbs hangs in the air and the breath-taking views extend for miles across the Tuscan hills.

Part of the certified Italian Organic Wine Route, Corte Pavone adheres to the highest standards in everything they do thanks to the expertise of head winemaker Hayo Loacker, who has built his knowledge in vineyards across the world from Burgundy to California. The estate is particularly proud of its ‘bio-architectural’ cellar, and there are a number of wine tours to choose from to allow you to experience the cellar and winery for yourself. Learn more about the philosophies of organics and biodynamics in winemaking and conclude with a delicious Tuscan lunch made from the best organic local produce.

For wine tastings and winery tours in Loacker Corte Pavone – book with Winerist today.

Poggio al Casone

For wine tastings and wine tours in Poggio al Casone – book with Winerist today.

Baracchi Estate

Situated in the commune of Cortona at the very heart of Tuscany, Baracchi winery is a wonderful example of dedication to quality, conscientious viticulture, assured by the selection of the best grapes in the vineyard and sympathetic vinification techniques which enhance the unique characteristics of the terroir.

This is a small, family-run winery which goes above and beyond to make visitors feel welcome. Alongside the usual wine tastings and cellar tours, the winery boasts Il Falconiere, its own Michelin-starred restaurant, alongside a jaw-dropping spa which offers a unique relaxation experience. Make sure you try a spot of Wine Therapy, which involves using different parts of the grapevine in luxurious purifying treatments!

For wine tastings and more in Baracchi winery – book with Winerist today.

If our best wineries to visit in Tuscany have caught your imagination, get in touch with the Winerist team today to plan the Italian wine trip of your dreams to this most idyllic and unforgettable of destinations. To find out more about the region, why not meet one of our partners in Chianti or read the amazing story of Sassicaia , the iconic Italian wine that broke all the rules.

Tags: Italy , Travel guide , Tuscany , wineries

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Experience the Best of Italian Wines Through Wineries in Tuscany

Italy is known for its wine, and Tuscany is one of the premier locations to enjoy world-renowned wine options. There is nothing better than experiencing a delightful wine first hand from the wineries in Tuscany that produce some of the best out there.

There are plenty of vineyards throughout the wine regions of Tuscany that you can explore and enjoy the different varieties.

As you’re planning your itinerary, keep wine tastings or even a wine tour on your radar. Whether you want a delicious Cabernet Sauvignon or you want something utterly spectacular like the Chianti Classico or Brunello di Montalcino, you can find all of these and more at the best producers in the area.

In this guide, we will cover some of the best vineyards in Tuscany to explore and share details about the best wineries to visit.

Find everything you need to know right here!

Table of Contents

The 11 Best Wineries in Tuscany for Wine Tour or Wine Tasting Experiences

Most wineries will offer tours or tastings so that you can experience all that they have to offer. Some wineries even go beyond tours or tastings, and you can find vineyard hotels in Tuscany to add to your adventure if you wish.

For most of these locations, it’s all about the production process and creating some of the finest options that this wine country has to offer.

From guided tours to private tours or tastings, you will have plenty of choices.

These are our highly recommended best vineyards to visit in Tuscany:

• Castello di Meleto
• Poggio di Sotto
• Montefioralle
• Castello di Ama
• Tenuta Prima Pietra
• Rocca di Frassinello
• Castello Banfi

1. Castello di Meleto

Castello di Meleto is a major wine tourism destination in Tuscany. These wine producers really know how to make the wine bar experience completely magical, where their organically farmed vineyards contribute to some of the finest wines of the region.

Part of the Chianti region, the castle has been welcoming tourists since 1256, and they’ve got it down perfectly.

They are known for their Chianti Classico, among other fine wines. They are not just a great winery but also one of the best vineyards to stay in Tuscany. It’s a pleasant experience from the time you enter this Tuscany vineyard, with rolling hills, scenic views, and an elegant castle to boot.

Enjoy a guided tour, stay in the countryside, and explore the long history of winemaking with a vast selection to choose from.

2. Poggio di Sotto

Poggio di Sotto might be the best winery in Tuscany for its high-quality wine and magnificent location. This Tuscan winery is known for its Brunello di Montalcino, which is alluring and flavorful, all in the same bottle. They make it from Sangiovese grapes.

This winery is set on a hill that overlooks the wine regions of Tuscany with ease.

The wine estate is sizable, and any wine enthusiast will enjoy trekking through the Tuscan countryside to get a taste of their fine wine in its splendor. Another fan-favorite wine is the Rosso di Montalcino, and their generous pours so you can truly taste the notes and choose your wine wisely.

This location also makes olive oils and some other items as well.

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If you’re looking for something like a Tuscany bed and breakfast vineyard, check out Argiano. This charming little villa is regal, and their Tuscany winery tours are a production to remember.

With impressive gardens, tasteful cheeses, and all of the tasting opportunities, you simply can’t go wrong. Their wine list is also impressive.

A longstanding winemaking family, Argiano has been around since 1580.

The Tuscany winery hotel produces various tasteful wines, standing out against many other wineries in their quality and production.

While they are most known for their Brunello, they have some other winning wines too. From white wine to red wine, they’ve got you covered. Enjoy the best of Tuscan wines, including their dessert wine with notes of seasonal black truffles.

This is the first winery in Montalcino that went to a plastic-free facility, which is something to remember.

4. Montefioralle

Rather than sticking to the largest wineries, check out this small operation owned by the Antinori family. Located in the heart of the Chianti countryside, their Chianti Classicos are the wine selections that have made them famous. The estate’s wines are tasteful and simple, but definitely stand out.

Enjoy a private tasting or take a tour, visiting vineyards that are thriving in the background of the villa grounds. Sit on the terrace table and enjoy the views of the grape vineyard. When you’re ready, move on to tasting their Chianti wine delights, touring the cellar, and tasting their winemaking skills for yourself.

The Chianti Classico is the winning choice, but you can also enjoy Vin Santo, made from these lovely Tuscany vineyards.

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5. Avignonesi

Wine connoisseurs looking for more than just popular Tuscany wineries and estate vineyards may be impressed with this old gem. It’s one of the oldest Tuscany wineries still in operation and they impress people with their wine cellars as well as the balsamic vinegar cellar they have on site.

While this wine business is no longer owned by the original family as of 2009, they continue to have some of the best wines produced. They’ve made a few changes, like updating the entire 345 acres to organic farming practices.

However, their Vino Nobile and Vino Santo continue to be popular choices for the wine estate.

Their wine tours and tasting room are warm and welcoming. You can also enjoy the lovely terrace restaurant with delicious cuisine before you wrap up your cellar tour and take home some of the best Tuscan wines in the region.

The winery boasts a wide variety from Cabernet Franc to Chianti and everything in between as well from this winery.

6. Ricasoli

The best winery tour in Tuscany might just be calling your name at the oldest establishment in Chianti. This Chianti location, of course, has the incredible Chianti Classico, but they have many other tasteful options too. This choice of Chianti wineries in Tuscany has had a wine shop for more than 900 years now.

Chianti Classico and other Chianti favorites were actually invented here in their tasting room, making it one of the best wineries with historical prominence. From the Tuscan vineyards to the decadent wines and even olive trees on the property, you simply can’t go wrong here.

They are well-known for their elegant estate and cellar tours, top-of-the-line grapes vineyard, cooking class options, delightful meals, and wines, and their Chianti tasting rooms to present their excellent wines.

The super Tuscan hotspot is a fan favorite, so be sure to book ahead.

7. Capezzana

Capezzana is one of the best wineries to visit in Tuscany if you want a top-tier Cabernet Sauvignon wine. This is what they are known for, although their vineyards and grapes produce plenty of other really great choices too, including the Super Tuscan Ghiaie della Furba.

You can head into the cellars for tours, explore the entire region and grape vineyard, or enjoy a tasting and lunch at their terrace tables. Book ahead if you want to sit on the terrace. They also have a culinary school here with classes and delicious food. Your tasting goes well beyond just wine!

The cellar tours here are stunning as well, with a rustic, historical setting that displays all of their traditional wines. Enjoy the Vino Nobile, Cab Sav, fine vinegar wines, and more. They also make their own olive oil on-site.

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8. Castello di Ama

The Castello di Ama is home to Il Ristoro di Ama wines with quite a reputation. This winery has only been operating for about 40 years now, but they’ve replenished a previous estate with olive groves, vineyards, and a hamlet that were previously abandoned. Not many wineries get restored after abandonment, but they brought the vineyards back to life here.

The winery is known for its one-of-a-kind wines, but they also produce olive oil. The olive oil is made using their state-of-the-art olive press and is some of the best you will find at wineries across Tuscany.

The castle on the winery grounds is breathtaking, and you can enjoy a tasting and tour of their wine collection. Taste the unique creations and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere. They also have a lot of artwork, which many wineries simply cannot compete with.

9. Tenuta Prima Pietra

If you’re looking for wineries in Tuscany that are more remote and quiet, check out Tenuta Prima Pietra. It is one of the finest wineries in the region, and it’s known for being calm, tranquil, and serene even when they are busy. Break away from the tourist groups for a pleasant tasting in the Riparbella region.

They are known for their Bordeaux blends, among other things. They’ve been working hard on the creation, and unlike other wineries, they just recently started offering tours and wine tasting options. They wanted to perfect their offerings first.

Of the wineries to visit, this one is gracious and quiet, with a boutique hotel nearby. They do have olive groves, Chianti Classico, and it’s one of the most stunning Tuscany wineries you will find in the region.

10. Rocca di Frassinello

Take yourself beyond just wine tasting and immerse your taste buds in one of the most scenic wineries in Tuscany. They are open every single day of the year, so you can go any time that you want to. This unique option makes 50% Italian and 50% French wines, which sets them apart from several wineries in Tuscany.

And the experience here is about far more than just wine tasting. They take you through a complete journey of winemaking, history, cellar architecture, vineyard, grape, and wine tasting too.

The winery has made several different wines, including reds, whites, grappa, and more. You can spend the entire day just soaking it in and enjoying what they have to offer.

11. Castello Banfi

Experience one of the most unique wineries to visit at Castello Banfi. From a full tour to a tasting, you enjoy the normal activities of wineries in Tuscany. But they have one more surprise for you here. The glass museum is a fun find that is made up of glasses and bottles, with history and craftsmanship from all over Tuscany.

There are plenty of things to experience on the grounds, and the wine is amazing, but this is one detail about them that really stands out. It’s a top reason people visit the winery and it’s nice to have something more than just tasting and tour selections.

Choosing the Best Wineries in Tuscany to Visit

It’s no secret that there are more wineries in Tuscany than you will ever be able to visit on a single trip. Some of these wineries have many similar wines, although they will each be uniquely made by that company itself.

So how do you choose where to go?

Here are a few simple tips you can look at as you select wineries in Tuscany to visit:

Accommodations

• Tour and Tasting Choices

Types of Wine

Some people head out to these wineries in Tuscany because they want to be able to stay on the estate and get the full experience of the region. Others simply take the tours or the tasting accommodations and then return to their resort or hotel off-site.

It’s up to you to choose which you prefer!

Tour and Wine Tastings

Something that might affect your decision is what the tours and tastings look like. There are wineries known for their generous pouring, while others charge heftily for their tastings or limit your choices to try.

Look at the details and learn what your tour or tasting might look like as you go.

With all that wine, you may also need a meal. While meals are not required, many of the local wineries will offer meals or even just sides like cheese.

Some of the top wineries in Tuscany have world-class chefs and kitchens, so you should plan to experience their restaurants or sample some food while you are there to get the full experience!

Finally, if you’re looking for certain types of wine, you might want to check out what the different wineries specialize in or even have available in their region. Every winery has its niche, so you may want to look for that niche to choose the place you go.

Otherwise, just keep an open mind and enjoy the flavors they present. We can guarantee that in Tuscany, you won’t be drinking bad wine anywhere.

Explore the Vineyards in Tuscany

There are many wonderful wineries in the Tuscany region . While we’ve picked a few of the top choices in the region, there are plenty more to choose from as well.

Tuscany is known for its wine selections and the many vineyards and olive groves that have really great choices for people to enjoy. Choose from simple tours and tasting options or book a room on the stunning estate of your choice.

Which vineyards do you hope to visit in Tuscany?

While in Tuscany, make sure to also include some of the villages of Tuscany on your trip.

Wineries & Vineyards in Tuscany on Map

What is the Most Famous Wine of Tuscany?

There are several famous wines from here, including Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile, at the top of the list.

How Many Wineries are there in Tuscany?

There are more than 100 wineries across the Tuscany region, many with varying grapes and varieties of wine.

Can You Visit Wineries in Tuscany Without a Tour?

This could vary at different wineries. However, most of them allow you to wander certain areas solo if you don’t wish to join a tour.

Do You Need Reservations for Wineries in Tuscany?

If you plan to take a tour or even want to stay on the grounds, it’s a good idea to reserve to ensure there will be space.

What is the Signature Grape of Tuscany?

Sangiovese is one of the most popular grapes that you will find. This red grape is just one top choice.

The 8 Best Vineyards to Visit in Tuscany

Home > Blog > The 8 Best Vineyards to Visit in Tuscany

As one of the most beautiful regions in Italy,  Tuscany  is known for its gorgeous scenery and world-class wineries. In its magical landscapes of rolling hills and scenic roads, you will find ancient olive groves, breath-taking sunflower fields, medieval ruins, and, of course, the world’s most beautiful vineyards. 

Tuscany is a wine haven and a must-visit for every wine lover out there. It’s home to many different winemakers, and some of the world’s most exquisite wines are produced here.

Wine tasting in Tuscany  is an immersive experience that includes learning about the history and culture behind winemaking in Italy, sampling estate-made wines and olive oils while surrounded by the most stunning scenery. In addition, many of these vineyards are owned by the same families for many centuries, giving you a chance to visit historic homes during your tour and learn more about the origin of winemaking in Tuscany.

If you plan on visiting vineyards in  Tuscany  but don’t know where to start, check out our list of the best vineyards to visit.

1. BARONE RICASOLI, CHIANTI CLASSICO

If you love Chianti and are curious about its history, this is the best place to be. As one of the largest wine estates in the Chianti Classico region, Barone Ricasoli is set in 1,200 hectares of property and home to 64 acres of olive groves and almost 240 hectares of vineyards. At the heart of the estate is  an imposing castle  that dates back over 900 years.

Barone Ricasoli is one of the oldest  wineries in Tuscany  and is believed to be the second oldest continuously running wineries in the world. Established in 1872 by Baron Bettino Ricasoli, also known as the “Iron Baron” who wrote the formula for Chianti Classico wine, Barone Ricasoli is the largest winery in Chianti Classico. Today, the winery uses innovative winemaking facilities to produce more than three million wine bottles each year.

Although they offer guided tours, visitors can explore the vineyards without a guide. Be sure to check out the chapel by the castle and the English woods leading to the castle, both of which can be explored for free. Of course, wine tasting is also available at the wine shop, and visitors can taste up to three different wines for a small fee.

2. AVIGNONESI, MONTEPULCIANO

Located close to the border with Umbria, Avignonesi dates back to the 1500s, but it was only in 2009 that it adopted organic, biodynamic farming. Some of its best-known wines are the robust Vino Nobile di Montepulciano and the sweet tasting Vin Santo.

Named after the founders of the wine estate, the Avignonesi family, the winery has gone through an exciting journey since it was established in the 1500s. Today, the Avignonesi has more than 170 hectares of vineyards and has recently applied a state-of-the-art winemaking facility, which helps to enhance the richness and elegance of the Avignonesi wines.

There are various ways to experience the richness of Avignonesi’s vast landscape during your visit. Aside from the classic wine tasting tour, visitors can also go on a hot-air balloon tour and marvel at the scenic views of the vineyards from above!

3. ANTINORI, CHIANTI CLASSICO

Although the Antinori family has been producing wines since 1300, their winery boasts of modernity. Designed by famous Italian architect Marco Casamonti, the architecture is based mainly on the Antinori family’s original concept. 

After a seven-year construction, Antinori nel Chianti Classico opened in 2012. Locally-sourced materials were used for the construction, such as glass, wood, and terracotta, meaning that the modern building blends well into the stunning landscape.

Run by Albiera Antinori along with her two sisters Alessia and Allegra, the winery also houses much of the Antinori family’s extensive art collections. Aside from preserving and restoring historical works of art, the family has also commissioned new ones and hosted various exhibitions and seminars that celebrate all forms of art reflecting the Tuscan culture.

Seemingly built into a vast landscape just outside of  Florence , the Antinori nel Chianti Classico winery features tasting rooms, wine bars and restaurants, museums, and shops. Tours include wine tasting and a glimpse into the history of the winery and the Antinori family.

4. CASTELLO BANFI, BRUNELLO

Castello Banfi is not just a vineyard – it is a whole  town . Located south of Siena, the Castello Banfi is set in a winemaking village with a medieval fortress, Michelin-starred restaurant, glass museum, and wine cellars. Offering a broad menu of winery tours, Castello Banfi is definitely one of the best vineyards in Tuscany.

Run by the Mariani family that imports Italian wines to the United States, Castello Banfi produces an extensive range of wines and is recognized as a pioneer in elevating the standards of Italian winemaking. Two of the most popular Tuscan wines, Rosso di  Montalcino  and Brunello di Montalcino, are produced here.

Castello Banfi is now a major wine tourism destination in Tuscany that offers tasting opportunities for their extensive range of wines, including a visit to their balsamic vinegar cellar, where fine vinegar is produced according to ancient methods. There’s also a boutique hotel within this wine estate, making it one of the best vineyards to stay at in Tuscany.

5. ROCCA DI FRASSINELLO, MAREMMA

Designed by Italy’s well-renowned architect, Renzo Piano, Rocca di Frassinello is a   winery open for  visits 365 days a year . As a French-Italian winemaking venture, this vineyard produces equally divided wine varieties – 50% French and 50% Italian.

At Rocca di Frassinello, guests will be treated to an exciting journey through time, from the history of winemaking on this site dating back to three millennia ago to the futuristic architecture of the cellar. From the cellar,  a short walk  will take visitors to Rocca di Frassinello’s Etruscan archaeological site in San Germano, which is accessible from within the winery.

From their first vintage production of 2004 until today, Rocca di Frassinello has successfully produced several different varieties of wine, including reds, white wine, and grappa, all of which are well appreciated by wine connoisseurs around the world. Featuring almost 90 hectares of vineyards, guests can spend hours exploring the entirety of Rocca di Frassinello winery, although the highlight would be the wine tasting.

6. CASTELLO DI AMA, CHIANTI CLASSICO

Castello di Ama is a gorgeous wine estate located close to  Siena  in the hills of Gaiole. The modern era of this winery started about 35 years ago when the estate vineyard was replanted.

Established in 1972 by four families who hail from Rome, the vineyard has since grown to 250 hectares. From the 250 hectares of land, almost 90 hectares were planted with vines while 40 hectares with olives. In 2005, Castello di Ama was awarded Winery of the Year by the Wine Guide Gambero Rosso International.

Castello di Ama offers some of the most popular  Tuscany vineyards tours,  so book your tour ahead and allow plenty of time for wine tastings. They have some of the finest wines in the region, which include the Chianti Classicos and the high-end Merlot L’Apparita.

It’s also possible to sample these wines from their wine bar at the village, L’Enoteca, or at a terrace table at Il Ristoro di Ama. Aside from wine tastings, visitors will have the opportunity to explore impressive gardens and various art installations within the grounds of the wine estate.

7. CASTELLO DI VICCHIOMAGGIO, CHIANTI CLASSICO

Castello di Vicchiomaggio is a 140-hectare wine estate tucked between the  cities  of Siena and Florence. It falls within the centre of Chianti Classico and produces a wide range of wines, including an exquisite collection of Toscana IGT and Maremma Toscana wines.

Within the estate is a stone tower dating back to the 1100s, while the castle was first recorded in official documentation to have come from the 15th century. Due to its strategic location, which was close to the  town  of Greve, the castle was used as a defensive fortress during the Middle Ages. 

The winery’s name, Castello Vicchiomaggio, was adopted from the Renaissance period in honour of the Maggiolate of Calendimaggio. In its long and complex history, Castello Vicchiomaggio has hosted several historical figures, including the famous Italian painter, Leonardo da Vinci.

Nowadays, Castello Vicchiomaggio consists of 82-acres vineyards with 25 acres of olive groves. It’s one of the Tuscany vineyards that have an abundant variety of Sangiovese, complemented by native varieties like Colorino and Canaiolo, as well as some international varieties including Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. These vines are grown at the south-facing slopes of the vineyard to ensure maximum sun exposure resulting in optimal grape ripening.

8. SALCHETO, MONTEPULCIANO

If you’re keen on learning about biodynamics and sustainability, you should visit Salcheto, an exceptional wine estate located southeast of Siena. Enjoying an unobstructed view of Tuscany’s most dramatic hill town, Salcheto produces truly interesting wines, including soft-textured and full-flavoured Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.

What makes Salcheto even more commendable is that it produces wine in the most environmentally responsible manner. Because of its environment-friendly efforts, Salcheto has been awarded the prestigious Gambero Rosso Award for Sustainability in 2014.

Aside from offering wine tasting in Tuscany, Salcheto has a kitchen that serves sumptuous lunches, including the seasonal black truffles gathered from within the estate. Guests can enjoy their lunch at the lovely terrace restaurant overlooking the picturesque views of the vineyards. And the best part is, Salcheto has a team of multilingual guides!

Tuscany represents all the best things about Italy, and its vineyards are no exception. As one of the first Italian regions to have capitalised on wine tourism, it’s easy to see why Tuscany is home to hundreds of vineyards. These vineyards are open to tours and tastings all year round amidst the enchanting views of the Tuscan countryside.

While it’s difficult to narrow down the best vineyards in Tuscany, the list above should help you to decide which of these vineyards you should visit. And although some of these Tuscany vineyards are open for walk-ins, it’s highly recommended that you book in advance, either through email or call, to avoid any disappointment.

If you’re looking to book a wine tour of Tuscany and need help choosing which Tuscan vineyards to visit,  get in touch with Italy4Real  and speak to one of our expert guides.

About the Author

Rem Malloy started Italy4real back in 1995 with his mother, Deborah de Maio.

He specialises in Italian tours as well as customised tours to France, England, Ireland, Germany, Switzerland, Greece and Spain. He was also featured in the Travel Channel show Mysteries at The Museum in 2016.

Rem has family in Italy and his mothers home town is Cava di Terrani, near the Amalfi Coast. The family has a street named after them in Sorrento, Via Luigi de Maio; a relative who was mayor of Sorrento.

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15 Best Tuscany Wine Tours & Wine Tastings for 2024

Thinking About Visiting Tuscany in 2024? Book Some of the Best Tuscany Wine Tours to Experience the Region Like a Local

Italy has been a popular destination for #Winetravelers this year. We’re frequently asked how to best navigate popular regions such as Tuscany , and there really is no better way to fully immerse yourself in the region than by using a guided wine tour or tasting experience that’s operated by a local. With insider knowledge, not worrying about planning, logistics or driving, you can have a much more fulfilling time exploring the region, and usually save yourself a lot of stress and time.

RELATED: Table for Two in Tuscany: Romantic Itinerary for Places to Eat, Stay, Drink & Explore

All of that being said, we’ve compiled a list of the top wine tours in Tuscany based on reader feedback and ratings. These tours include both group experiences, as well as options for private wine tastings and excursions throughout Tuscany. Whether you’re staying within the Tuscan countryside or you’re looking for a day trip from Florence , Rome or Siena , we have you covered below.

Note that for a limited time, we’ve partnered with Viator to provide our readers with secure advanced booking, free cancellation as well as an exclusive 15% discount on any wine tours that are booked via Winetraveler.com . Simply use code WINETRAVELER15 at check out.

RECOMMENDED: Stay at These Luxury Tuscan Vineyard Resorts While You Visit Tuscany

Horseback Ride and Poolside Day Chillout with Tuscan Lunch

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Florence serves as an ideal base for Tuscany wine tours due to its central location within the region, providing easy access to renowned wine areas such as Chianti, Montepulciano, and Montalcino. Its well-connected transportation system, including train routes and bus lines, ensures hassle-free travel to various vineyards and wineries.

RELATED: The Best Tuscany Wineries, Hotels & Vineyard Resorts to Experience

Additionally, numerous tour operators within Florence offer curated wine experiences that cater to a range of preferences, from small boutique wineries to larger renowned estates. This, combined with the city’s own rich cultural and culinary scenes, makes Florence the perfect starting point for exploring Tuscany’s wine country.

Tuscan Safari: Tuscan Villas with Vineyards, Cheese, Wine & Lunch from Florence

Winetraveler Rating (over 2,213 reviews):

Italy’s iconic Tuscany region is more than just a destination – it’s a feast for all your senses. This full-day Tuscany wine and food tour, departing from Florence, offers you the chance to taste the region’s finest offerings, guided by experts with in-depth local knowledge.

Navigate the enchanting Tuscan countryside in a comfortable 4×4 minibus, stopping to explore a historic wine estate and villa, and a cellar filled with delectable Chianti Classico. Each stop on your journey is an opportunity to learn more about wine and olive oil production, and to indulge in locally-sourced cheese and other Tuscan delicacies.

This unique journey culminates in a traditional 3-course Tuscan lunch at a winery restaurant with breathtaking views. Experience the magic of the Chianti region as you dine amidst vineyards under the Tuscan sun.

This particular tour, operated by Walkabout Tours, has been designed to ensure a seamless and enriching experience for our #Winetravelers.

Highlights:

• Full-day wine and food tour from Florence, with 4×4 off-road minibus transportation.
• Traverse the scenic Tuscan countryside on an off-road adventure.
• Delight in a traditional Tuscan lunch at a picturesque winery restaurant.
• Explore a historic wine estate, with a guided tour of wine, extra-virgin olive oil, and cheese tastings.
• Visit a second winery for a deeper dive into the renowned Chianti Classico wine.

15% Off With Code WINETRAVELER15

Florence Vespa Tour: Tuscan Hills and Italian Cuisine

Winetraveler Rating (over 2,165 reviews):

Venture off the beaten path and explore the heart of Tuscany on a classic Vespa scooter. This unique tour, offered by Walkabout Tours, takes you on a scenic ride through the Tuscan hills, starting from the Renaissance city of Florence. With a knowledgeable local guide leading the way, you’ll discover hidden gems such as the Piazzale Michelangelo and the Church of San Miniato al Monte.

RELATED: 25 Best Things To Do in Florence Italy: Visitor’s City Guide

The adventure doesn’t end there. After exploring the picturesque countryside, head back to a welcoming country estate to indulge in a delicious traditional Italian meal. Feast on a menu of mouth-watering bruschetta, perfectly cooked pasta, and a flavorful cheese and salami board. Experience the authenticity of Tuscany as you dine surrounded by its natural beauty.

To ensure a truly personalized and intimate experience, this tour is limited to 15 travelers.

• Explore the Tuscan hills on your own Vespa scooter, led by a local guide.
• Discover lesser-known sights such as the Piazzale Michelangelo and the Church of San Miniato al Monte.
• Delight in a traditional Tuscan meal at our country estate, featuring local favorites like bruschetta, pasta, and a cheese and salami board.
• Enjoy the personalized attention offered by small-group tours with a maximum of 15 participants.

This Vespa tour in Tuscany, presented by Walkabout Tours, gives you a unique opportunity to experience Tuscany’s charming countryside in an authentic and memorable way. Don’t just visit Tuscany, live it like a local!

Grab this opportunity to explore Tuscany in the most Italian way possible. Reserve your spot now as this is one of the best selling Tuscany wine tours currently.

Tuscany Bike Tours: One Day Bike Tour through the Hills of Tuscany

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Escape the bustling city of Florence and immerse yourself in the natural splendor of the renowned Tuscan countryside. Offered by Tuscany Bike Tours, this top-rated bike tour combines the awe-inspiring scenery of Tuscany, a rich history that spans centuries, and an authentic taste of the region’s flavors in an exciting and active way.

Pedal across fertile valleys and hilly landscapes adorned with olive trees and vineyards, stopping to explore a 12th-century villa and indulge in a traditional Italian restaurant for a mid-day meal. Recharge and enhance your journey with tastings of Chianti wine and local olive oil – the signature flavors of Tuscany.

• Cycle through the beautiful Tuscan countryside, leaving the city behind.
• Enjoy a wine tasting at a medieval castle and savor a delectable lunch at a local restaurant.
• Engage in an active and refreshing journey, a welcome alternative to being confined on a bus.
• Join the ranks of satisfied travelers who’ve showered this bike tour with hundreds of 5-star reviews.

Experience the Tuscan region in a refreshing and dynamic way. The inviting landscape, the ancient history, the flavors of the region – all come together on this journey to provide an unforgettable Tuscan experience.

Ready for the ride of a lifetime? Secure your spot on this Tuscany Bike Tour today.

Pizza and Gelato Cooking Class at a Tuscan Farmhouse from Florence (with wine, of course)

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Embark on a delightful culinary adventure near Florence, nestled within a picturesque Tuscan estate. Ideal for culinary enthusiasts and culture lovers, this unique experience allows you to learn the art of crafting two of Italy’s culinary treasures – pizza and gelato, guided by a professional Italian chef.

This interactive, hands-on cooking lesson culminates in a delicious 3-course feast of appetizers, freshly made pizza, and delectable gelato, all paired with a selection of fine wine and beer. To keep the magic of this culinary adventure alive, you’ll also receive a recipe booklet to take home and hone your new skills.

• Participate in a pizza and gelato cooking lesson, right in the heart of Tuscany.
• Learn the art of crafting two iconic Italian delights under the guidance of a professional chef.
• Relish a 3-course meal accompanied by wine or beer, all set within a charming Tuscan estate.
• Enjoy round-trip transportation from central Florence for a hassle-free experience.

Why Choose this Tour? This gourmet cooking class pairs two beloved Italian classics with the unbeatable scenery of Tuscany, creating an immersive experience that surpasses any restaurant setting.

Ready to create some delicious memories? Book this culinary adventure now and add a slice of Tuscan flavor to your journey. Unleash your inner chef and bring a piece of Italy back home with you.

Tuscan Wine Tour with Lunch, Visit to San Gimignano & Organic Wineries

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Take a break from the energetic pace of Florence and set off on a journey into the heart of the Tuscany wine region. This day trip includes round-trip transport from a central Florence location, making your adventure as comfortable as possible.

In the company of your knowledgeable guide, you’ll gain valuable insights into the intricate winemaking process at local vineyards, typically overlooked by many visitors to Tuscany. The day’s schedule is thoughtfully designed to include wine tastings, an authentic Tuscan lunch, and ample opportunities for capturing beautiful photographs against the backdrop of Tuscany’s scenic landscapes.

• Savor tastings of Chianti wines and relish a traditional Tuscan lunch.
• Benefit from the expertise of a guide, ensuring a stress-free exploration without the need for navigation.
• Gain insights into the winemaking process unique to the Chianti region.
• Enjoy hassle-free, round-trip transportation from a central Florence location.

Discover the serenity and charm of Tuscany’s renowned wine region with this insightful Chianti day trip. Immerse yourself in the winemaking heritage, savor authentic Tuscan cuisine, and capture memories set against Tuscany’s breathtaking vistas.

Ready to uncork the magic of Tuscany & Chianti? Book this day trip now and delve into a world where the essence of Tuscany comes alive in every vineyard, every glass of wine, and every plate of food.

Self-Drive Vintage Fiat 500 Tour from Florence: Tuscan Wine Experience

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Embark on an Italian adventure like no other as you couple a wine tasting experience with a classic Fiat 500 tour. Departing from Florence, step into the driver’s seat of a beautiful 1960s Fiat 500 model, and journey through the Tuscan hills as part of a scenic convoy. The tour reaches its crescendo as you park your vintage ride at a stunning 15th-century wine estate and villa.

• Enjoy a self-driven Fiat 500 tour from Florence, highlighting the esteemed wines of Tuscany.
• Visit a captivating 15th-century Renaissance villa and wine estate nestled in the Tuscan countryside.
• Immerse yourself in the estate’s vineyards and cellars, indulging in tastings of several locally produced wines.
• Travel through the scenic Tuscan hills with confidence, guided every step of the way.

Explore the splendors of Tuscany in an unforgettable way. From the thrill of driving a classic Fiat 500 through the picturesque hills, to the rich taste of Tuscan wines in a historic setting – this tour promises a feast for the senses.

Ready to drive into a day of Tuscan delights? Reserve your spot now and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Private Tuscany Wine Tour Experience from Florence

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Delve into the heart of Tuscany’s world-renowned flavors and stunning landscapes on a private wine tour from Florence. Journey through the picturesque hills and vineyards in the company of a knowledgeable sommelier guide, visiting three distinctive estates to sample top-notch regional wines and olive oil.

The journey includes a visit to a family-owned winery, where a traditional Tuscan lunch, paired with an array of fresh local products and wine, awaits you. Gain insights into traditional winemaking processes through a cellar tour and engaging conversations with winemakers.

• Full-day private wine tour from Florence, removing any uncertainty about selecting wineries, thanks to your expert sommelier guide.
• Explore three diverse wineries, including quaint family-run and organic estates.
• Discover the winemaking process through an immersive cellar tour.
• Savor a range of the region’s best varietals.
• Enjoy an authentic Tuscan lunch crafted from locally produced ingredients.
• Benefit from the flexibility to tailor your itinerary to your preferences.

Embark on a journey of flavor and beauty in the Tuscan region. From the quaint charm of family-run vineyards to the vibrant taste of Tuscan wines and the warm hospitality of the locals, this tour promises a truly enriching experience.

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Trade the bustling streets of Florence for a day of tranquility immersed in nature. Experience a horseback riding adventure through the picturesque Tuscan countryside, capped off with downtime at an elegant country resort nestled within the verdant Florentine hills. Indulge in a delightful Tuscan lunch served poolside and complemented by local Chianti wine.

• Escape the crowds of Florence and embrace the tranquility of the Tuscan countryside.
• Absorb the lush landscapes from the unique perspective of horseback riding, suitable for all levels.
• Enjoy a private experience tailored exclusively for your party.
• Benefit from round-trip transfers from Florence for a hassle-free day.

Immerse yourself in the calming serenity of Tuscany’s nature. From the thrill of horseback riding through picturesque landscapes to relaxing at an elegant resort with a refreshing poolside lunch, this day promises a rejuvenating escape from the hustle and bustle.

Tuscany Wine Tours from Rome

While Rome is not located in Tuscany, its position and connectivity make it a viable alternative base for Tuscany wine tours. Rome’s strategic location allows for comfortable day trips to southern Tuscan areas like Montepulciano and Montalcino, both renowned for their exceptional wines. The Italian capital boasts excellent high-speed rail links and highway networks that can transport you to the heart of Tuscany in just a couple of hours. This flexibility allows you to explore Tuscany’s world-class vineyards and return to Rome’s vibrant nightlife and historical attractions all in one day, offering a rich, balanced travel experience.

Tuscany Wine Tour from Rome with Private Driver

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Make the most of your time with this private tour that covers three enchanting hill towns in Tuscany and Umbria in just one day. With the convenience of hotel pickup in Rome and a full day’s transport, you can indulge in wine tasting in Montepulciano, savor the renowned pecorino cheese in Pienza, and admire the breathtaking views from the cliffside town of Orvieto.

• Benefit from round-trip private transportation from your hotel or chosen location in Rome.
• Enjoy ample free time to explore and shop in the beautiful towns of Montepulciano, Pienza, and Orvieto.
• Experience the unique flavors of Tuscan wines, cheeses, and other gourmet delights.
• Take advantage of a private day trip for greater flexibility and personalized attention.

Embark on a journey through the scenic landscapes of Tuscany and Umbria. Savor the exquisite flavors of the region, marvel at the panoramic views, and soak up the unique charm of these picturesque hill towns.

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Trace the footsteps of the Etruscans as you visit the picturesque medieval settlements of Montepulciano and UNESCO–listed Pienza, two of Tuscany’s most charming hilltop towns. Starting from Rome, this tour offers a comfortable journey in an air-conditioned minivan, giving you ample time to explore the historical streets at your own pace. Revel in the magnificent panoramas over the Val d’Orcia, with round-trip transport from your Rome hotel included.

• Explore the enchanting towns of Montepulciano and UNESCO–listed Pienza in a single day.
• Enjoy ample free time to discover the rich history and culture of these sites at your own pace.
• Be captivated by the panoramic views of the Val d’Orcia from the vantage point of Pienza.
• Benefit from round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned minivan from your Rome hotel.

Step back in time and explore the medieval charm of Tuscany. From the Etruscan roots of Montepulciano to the UNESCO-listed beauty of Pienza, this tour offers a captivating look into Tuscany’s past.

Tuscany Wine Tours from Siena

Tuscany hiking tour from siena including wine tasting.

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Join us as we step back in time, tracing the footsteps of ancient pilgrims along the Via Francigena, a historic route that connected Canterbury, England, to Rome. This rural path winds through charming villages, vineyards, and some of Tuscany’s most picturesque landscapes. The journey concludes in the enchanting medieval village of Monteriggioni, where you’ll be rewarded with a curated wine tasting. To wrap up your adventure, we’ll provide a train ticket for a comfortable return to Siena.

RELATED: Here’s Why You Should Include Siena on Your Next Trip to Italy

• Enjoy a half-day hiking tour from Siena coupled with a delightful wine tasting.
• Follow sections of the historic Via Francigena, a key pilgrimage route leading to Rome.
• Absorb the history of the route from our expert guide.
• Traverse between Siena and the medieval walled village of Monteriggioni.
• Bask in the captivating Tuscan vistas of rolling hills blanketed in vineyards and olive groves.
• Immerse yourself in local flavors during an educational wine tasting session in Monteriggioni.
• Take advantage of the included train ticket for a convenient return to Siena.

This is more than just a hike; it’s an invigorating journey through history and a celebration of Tuscany’s beautiful landscapes and rich flavors. Ready to walk the ancient paths and savor the local wines? Book your spot today!

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Tuscany is famed worldwide for its exceptional wines. Get an insider’s view into this illustrious industry with a tasting tour in the vineyards close to Siena. This intimate tour, limited to just 12 participants, takes you to a historic cellar where you’ll refine your palate and learn to distinguish delicate flavors under the guidance of a sommelier. With a choice of morning or afternoon departure, you can conveniently fit this experience into even the most packed sightseeing agenda.

• Break away from the city and effortlessly explore the vineyards surrounding Siena.
• Sharpen your palate to discern subtle flavors under the guidance of a trained sommelier.
• Choose from two departure times throughout the day for your convenience.
• Benefit from personalized attention in a small group limited to 12 participants.

Unleash your inner wine connoisseur on this exclusive tasting tour. From exploring historic cellars to learning from a knowledgeable sommelier, this experience brings you closer to Tuscany’s rich wine culture.

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Experience the unique thrill of hunting for Italy’s coveted tubers in the Tuscany countryside during an authentic truffle hunt near San Miniato. Join Francesca, a seasoned forager, and her truffle-hunting dog for a leisurely stroll through the woods in search of fresh truffles. After the hunt, unwind at her family farmhouse, where a mouth-watering lunch featuring the day’s truffle harvest awaits.

• Engage in the age-old tradition of truffle hunting with an experienced local “tartufaio” in Tuscany.
• Enjoy a walk through the woodlands near San Miniato with a specially trained truffle dog.
• Relish a satisfying lunch featuring bruschetta and pasta adorned with freshly found truffles, followed by dessert.
• Enjoy the warmth of local hospitality during this immersive experience at a family-run farm.

Embark on a truly unique Tuscan journey. From the exciting pursuit of truffles to the exquisite flavors of a truffle-infused lunch, this experience offers a deep dive into the tradition and culinary richness of Tuscany.

Tuscany Travel Logistics

Getting to tuscany.

Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR): Known as Amerigo Vespucci Airport, it’s the closest airport to the heart of Florence and Tuscany. It’s relatively small and offers fewer international connections, but it’s a popular choice due to its proximity to Tuscany’s major cities. Browse current flight deals and book as the best rates arise using Kayak.

Pisa International Airport (PSA): Also known as Galileo Galilei Airport, this is the largest airport in Tuscany with more international flight connections. Pisa airport is well-connected to Florence and other Tuscan cities by both train and bus services.

Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ): Although not located within Tuscany, it’s another good option to consider as it has strong flight connections, both domestic and international. It’s roughly an hour and a half’s train ride to Florence.

RECOMMENDED: Visit Cinque Terre: Wine Tasting Itinerary & Travel Guide For Wine Lovers

Arriving from Other Parts of Italy

Tuscany is well-served by Italy’s extensive train network. The high-speed trains from cities like Rome, Milan , and Venice make getting to Tuscany both quick and convenient. Florence’s main station, Firenze Santa Maria Novella, is a major hub connecting Tuscany to the rest of Italy.

Getting Around Tuscany

Public transportation.

Trains: The train network in Tuscany is quite extensive, connecting not only the major cities but also smaller towns. They are generally punctual, affordable, and efficient.

Buses: For some of the smaller towns and villages, bus is the only public transport available. Although they can be less predictable than trains, buses can get you to places trains can’t reach.

Renting a car can be an excellent option if you wish to explore the countryside or visit vineyards at your own pace. Do remember that driving in Italy requires an International Driving Permit along with your regular driver’s license for non-EU citizens. Also, many city centers in Tuscany are limited traffic zones (ZTLs) and are camera-controlled. Driving into these zones without a permit will result in a fine.

Taxis are readily available in cities and larger towns. Uber operates in Florence and is another convenient option for getting around.

Best Time to Visit: Tuscany is a year-round destination, but the ideal times to visit are between April and June, and September and October when the weather is comfortable and the countryside is at its most vibrant.

Language: Italian is the official language. However, English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.

Currency: Euro (€) is the official currency of Italy.

Safety: Tuscany is generally safe for tourists, but like any other tourist destination, be aware of your surroundings, particularly in crowded places.

Electricity: Italy operates on a 220V supply voltage and 50Hz. The power plugs and sockets are of type F and L.

Cities, Towns and Villages within Tuscany

As the capital of Tuscany, Florence is an incredible mix of art, history, and culture. It’s the birthplace of the Renaissance, and home to world-class museums such as the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia Gallery, where you can admire Michelangelo’s David. The city also has a rich culinary scene, with countless trattorias serving classic Tuscan cuisine. Florence is an ideal base for day trips throughout the region, thanks to its central location and excellent transportation links.

Famous for its medieval cityscape and the historic Palio horse race, Siena is a must-visit. The city’s heart is the Piazza del Campo, a shell-shaped square that hosts the Palio twice every summer. The Siena Cathedral (Duomo di Siena) is another highlight, featuring intricate Gothic architecture. Siena’s historical center has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its preserved medieval city planning and architectural splendor.

RELATED: Top Small Towns in Italy to Visit Famous for Wine [Wineries & Wine Tour Options Included]

Known worldwide for its leaning tower, Pisa has much more to offer. The city hosts a wealth of historic sites, including the Piazza dei Miracoli, where you’ll find the Leaning Tower, the Pisa Cathedral, and the Baptistery. For an authentic Tuscan experience, visit during June when the city celebrates the Luminara di San Ranieri festival with thousands of candles lighting up the riverside.

Enclosed by well-preserved Renaissance walls, Lucca is a charming town ideal for leisurely exploration. Its cobblestone streets, beautiful piazzas, and numerous churches, including the Lucca Cathedral, offer a snapshot of its rich history. One fun fact is that the town’s intact city walls have been transformed into a pedestrian promenade, perfect for biking or a leisurely walk.

San Gimignano

Known as the “Town of Fine Towers”, San Gimignano is famed for its 14 medieval towers that dominate the skyline. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers fantastic art, great dining, and world-class gelato at the Gelateria Dondoli, a two-time champion of the Gelato World Cup. Its proximity to Chianti makes it an excellent stop on a Tuscan wine tour.

Montepulciano

This medieval and Renaissance hill town is known for its Vino Nobile wines. Stroll along the Corso, a grand avenue packed with Renaissance palazzi and churches, or visit the impressive Tempio di San Biagio. The town also offers panoramic views over the surrounding vineyards and Val d’Orcia.

Best known for its Brunello di Montalcino wines, this hilltop town is a favorite among wine lovers. Besides its wine, the town boasts a stunning fortress offering panoramic views, a charming historical center, and the beautiful Romanesque Abbey of Sant’Antimo.

RELATED: Read Recent Articles and Travel Guides for Exploring Italy

A true hidden gem, Volterra offers Etruscan, Roman, and medieval sites, including the Roman Theatre and the Etruscan Acropolis. Volterra is also renowned for its alabaster craftsmanship, a tradition that dates back to the Etruscan period.

Set on a hill overlooking Lake Trasimeno, Cortona is one of Tuscany’s oldest towns with a history dating back to the Etruscans. Visit the Museo dell’Accademia Etrusca, or explore the town’s charming narrow streets and squares. The town is also known from the book and movie “Under the Tuscan Sun.”

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Frequently Asked Questions about Wine Tours in Tuscany

What kinds of tuscany wine tours and wine tasting experiences are there.

Tuscany offers a rich variety of wine tours and tastings that cater to all tastes and preferences. For instance, there are full day private tours from Florence, led by a knowledgeable sommelier, offering the chance to visit three different wineries and enjoy an authentic Tuscan lunch. For those looking to combine scenic drives with wine, consider the excursion that pairs a Fiat 500 tour with a visit to a 15th-century wine estate. Alternatively, you can delve into Siena’s surrounding vineyards on a small group tasting tour that educates your palate with the help of a sommelier. For those seeking a unique countryside experience, a horseback riding tour in the Tuscan countryside lets you unwind at a country resort with a full Tuscan lunch and local Chianti wine. These are just a few examples of the range of experiences Tuscany has to offer. Each tour provides a unique way to explore the region’s world-renowned wine culture. To learn more and book a wine tour that suits your preference, please check our detailed guide.

When is the best time of year for a wine tour in Tuscany?

The best time to visit Tuscany for a wine tour largely depends on your personal preferences, but there are a few peak periods that are particularly popular. Spring (April to June) and Fall (September and October) are often considered the ideal times for a Tuscan wine tour. The weather during these seasons is typically mild and pleasant, and the landscape is at its most vibrant – with blooming flowers in spring, and changing leaves in the fall. Fall is also the time of the grape harvest (known as “vendemmia”), which can be a fascinating process to witness. Some wineries even allow visitors to participate in the harvest. Summer (July and August) in Tuscany can be quite hot, and many Italians go on vacation in August, which means some wineries might be closed. However, the region is still beautiful during this time and the wine tours are certainly still operational. Winter (November to March) is the low tourist season in Tuscany. While the weather can be cooler and wetter, there are fewer tourists, making it a good time to visit if you prefer to avoid crowds. Regardless of when you choose to visit, it’s always a good idea to check with individual wineries or tour companies in advance for their operating hours and to book your tour.

What is the main wine region in Tuscany?

The most renowned wine region in Tuscany is the Chianti region, famous for producing Chianti and Chianti Classico wines. It’s characterized by its idyllic rolling hills, historic vineyards, and scenic villages. The Chianti region is situated between Florence and Siena, making it conveniently accessible for tourists and wine lovers. However, Tuscany boasts several other notable wine-producing areas. For example, Montalcino, located south of the Chianti region, is renowned for its Brunello di Montalcino wines. Nearby, Montepulciano produces the famous Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. Further west towards the coast, you’ll find the Bolgheri region, known for its superb “Super Tuscan” wines, a term referring to high-quality wines that don’t adhere to traditional Italian wine regulations but have nonetheless achieved worldwide recognition. Each of these areas offers unique variations in climate, soil, and winemaking traditions, contributing to the diversity and richness of Tuscan wines.

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Tuscany wine region

Explore the best wineries in tuscany.

Just getting started on your wine journey, or jumping back in? Taste through a selection of a great local wines.

Displaying 1-3 of 290 wineries

Azienda Agricola Purovino

Explore Maremma's wines at Azienda Agricola Purovino: sustainable practices, sulfite-free wines, and immersive sensorial experiences in the Tuscany wine region

An organic winery that tells the tales of its timeless wines throughout seven generations and family passion and skills

Podere La Pace

Podere La Pace Winery in Tuscany: Creativity, quality, and transparency from the roots

Travel Guide to Tuscany Wine Region

Vineyards and olive groves reach out across rolling hills, distant landscapes dotted with farmhouses and castles, and ancient roads lined by cypress trees! This is what surrounds you as you breeze through the Tuscan hills on your cerise-coloured Vespa! Is this what your Tuscan dream looks like? Then let me tell you, this is not a dream; the Tuscany wine region has all this and more to offer! From world-class wines to refined gastronomy, a rich history and cultural heritage, Tuscany vineyards are a microcosm of all Italy 's delights.

Are you starting to plan your trip to Tuscany wine region? Check out our wine tastings & tours in Tuscany !

Discover Tuscany wine region through our travel guide:

Tuscan wines

Where to taste them

Where to go

What to eat

Tuscany Wine Region - Home to Some of the World's Most Iconic Wines

Surrounding the city of Florence, the heart of Tuscany, lie the distinguished wine regions of Chianti Colli Fiorentini and Chianti Rufina. These areas, steeped in a rich winemaking tradition, produce some of the most appreciated wines in the world. With vineyards that stretch across rolling hills and ancient wineries nestled amidst stunning landscapes, these regions offer an unparalleled wine experience. The wine estates near Florence blend centuries-old winemaking techniques with the charm of Tuscan hospitality, presenting not just remarkable wines but also a journey into Italy's rich cultural heritage.

Tuscany wine region stretches picturesquely along the Ligurian coast in Italy and is one of the most prestigious wine-growing regions in the world. Tuscany vineyards borders the regions of Liguria to the northwest, Emilia-Romagna to the north, Marche to the northeast, Umbria to the east and Lazio to the southeast. Owing to optimal geological and climatic conditions, the wineries of the region produce high-quality Tuscan wines with a unique touch. On the barren limestone soils of Tuscany vineyards, the vines are spoiled with plenty of sun and rain. Internationally popular wines such as Brunello di Montalcino , Chianti or Vino Nobile from Montepulciano and Super Tuscans thrive here and they are on the list of every wine collector.

Wines from The Land of Sangiovese

Among the best known and most important wines is the Chianti Classico . Originally served in its well-known straw-wrapped wine bottle, the fiasco , which had fallen out of favour but is now making a bit of a come-back. The grapes all come from the same region in Tuscany and are grown only in a strictly limited area between Siena and Florence. Sangiovese which forms the majority of the Chianti blend is a thin-skinned grape, so it makes translucent Tuscan wines. Chianti Classico wine can vary from light-bodied to full-bodied according to the producer and the terroir where it is produced. It is a robust yet fruity wine that displays among other things an aroma of sour cherries.

Brunello di Montalcino is one of the most famous red wine provinces in Italy and is also made from the Sangiovese grape ( Brunello , meaning "the little brown one" is the local Sangiovese clone) in strict accordance with DOCG rules. Thus, the wine must ripen for at least 24 months in the wood barrel and may not be released until the beginning of the 5th year after the harvest. It is not surprising that Brunello is the most expensive "classic" Tuscan wine.

Vin Santo is the typical dessert wine of Tuscany wine region. It is made from the white grape varieties Trebbiano and Malvasia . The grapes are hung on roof beams and dried. After pressing, the wine matures for at least three years in small oak barrels. Typically they give you almond biscuits called Cantucci to dip into the wine and taste it like this.

Tuscany Map

Discover the main wine growing areas on Tuscany map.

Super Tuscans - Revolutionary wines

The story of rebellious winemakers

Anyone who knows Italian bureaucracy, especially in viticulture and winemaking, will know that changing rules in Italy is not an easy task. However, In the 1970's several winemakers in Tuscany vineyards started a revolution in winemaking. The first step was the release of wine Sassicaia by Mario Incisa Della Rocchetta and later followed by famous Antinori with wines Tignanello, Solaia, Ornellaia, etc.

What was so special about Super Tuscan wines? winemakers went against the regulations and traditions by using international grape varieties in Super Tuscan wines, and even though the wines had superior quality, they were still classified as table wines (Il vino da Tavola). When the international press had to write about these unlawful wines, describing them as table wines could not do them justice. This is how the term "Super Tuscan" was born.

Eventually, winemakers reached their aim, and the classification system of wines went through some substantial changes. The popularity of Super Tuscan wines forced the government to create another acronym IGT(Indicazione Geografica Tipica) In 1992, which allowed winemakers to experiment more with grape and blending choices.

Currently, there are around 100 wineries experimenting around different international and local grape varieties. Check out the list of wineries in Tuscany and learn more about their wine story!

Grape Varieties of Tuscany Wine Region

The queen of Tuscan grape varieties is undoubtedly Sangiovese : with more than 100,000 hectares, it occupies more than 10% of the Italian vineyards. Tuscan wines contain a lot of tannin and acid, but relatively little colour. It is the main grape variety for Chianti or for Brunello di Montalcino, one of the most prestigious wines in Italy. For the Vino Nobile di Montepulciano also a Sangiovese clone is used, in this case, the grape Prugnollo Gentile. Also, Canaiolo and Merlot are represented in the region and since the advent of the Super Tuscans also Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc .

As for white grape varieties you will find:

Vermentino, Malvasia, Trebbiano, Chardonnay , Pinot Grigio , Moscato, Vernaccia

What to Expect from Tuscan Wines?

Typically, dry wines are produced in the Tuscany wine region, which appears rather light in the body. A freshly opened and not long-aged Tuscan wine reminds the nose of cherries, sometimes also sour cherries and red currants. On the palate, you can feel the racy acidity of young wines, which are reminiscent of red berries and have a more herbal character.

More concentrated wines can be found among the more highly classified Tuscan wines such as from Chianti and among the best riservas from Brunello and Vino Nobile. These combine a richer, fuller aroma with balanced tannins.

Top Wineries to taste wines in Tuscany Wine Region

An authentic wine experience should start from the wineries in Tuscany, where you will be given a taste of Tuscany vineyards in a glass of Sangiovese labelled and made according to regulations where you go. And of course, all these are accompanied by local specialities and a good storyteller, who will take you back to history.

Have a look at some of them bellow:

Azienda Agricola Malenchini

Located in the heart of Chianti, Colli Fiorentini, the Malenchini Farm is managed by Diletta Malenchini. The Malenchini Family has owned and managed the company since 1830 in the Medici Villa of Lilliano.

Azienda Agricola Villanoviana

Committed to producing one of the newest but most prestigious wine appellations in Italy, Azienda Agricola Villanoviana has been operating since the mid-2000s in Bolgheri near Livorno in Tuscany wine region. 

Camigliano Castle 

Camigliano is one of the old wineries located in Montalcino. The historical castle extends up to an area of 530 hectares, surrounded by lush vineyards and a beautiful countryside. 

Where to Stay in Tuscany?

Featuring a wellness centre with various swimming pools, a hot tub, and a sauna, Hotel Salus Terme is just outside the centre of Viterbo. It has a garden, elegant rooms and a gourmet restaurant.

Palazzo Catalani is a regal 17th century estate that invites Guests to unwind in the medieval village of Soriano nel Cimino. Relax amid the well-manicured gardens or spend the afternoon in the lounge with a good book.

Set within the Lake Vico Nature Reserve, 20 km from Viterbo and 66km from Rome, Cottage Beach Vico offers accommodation in Caprarola. Guests can enjoy a garden, as well as a private beach on the lake shore.

Palazzo Leopoldo is a former patrician villa built in 14 th century, situated in medieval centre of Radda in Chianti. At the wellness and fitness area you can enjoy massages, sauna, Turkish bath, sun terrace and a heated indoor swimming pool.

Places to Visit in Tuscany Wine Region

Val d'orcia - the essence of tuscany.

When you think of Tuscany wine region, do you also have that image of rolling hills, green vineyards, and picturesque Italian cities in mind? To realize that image, you need to go to Val d'Orcia. In this valley, which stretches from the hills of Siena to Monte Amiata, the famous hilltop towns of Montepulciano , Montalcino , San Gimignano , Pitigliano , Bagno, and Vignoni are strung like pearls on a chain. The entire area is part of the UNESCO World Heritage, and each of the small towns has its own special feature. For example, Vignoni offers the Bagno Vignoni monumental bath, which you can enjoy as a romantic trip for two or as a family fun activity. Let yourself drift back to Etruscan times.

Siena - Medieval Tuscany

This city, also a UNESCO World Heritage site, is best known for Palio, the hardest horse race in the world, held twice a year. Further, this charming town also offers characteristic narrow streets flanked by brick buildings. The Piazza del campo, as the heart of the city, is one of the largest medieval squares in the world and has an unmistakable peculiar shell-shape. In this place, you will find the Torre del Mangia from where you have a breath-taking view over the town.

Another must-do is a visit to the cathedral with its black and white facade. The special thing about the church hides inside: the floor is full of esoteric symbols and religious stories that are dedicated to the Assumption.

Check out our list of wineries near Siena to discover amazing wine experiences.

Volterra - a Medieval Gem

What to visit in Volterra?

The bell tower of the central Palazzo dei Priori , decorated with medieval frescoes, offers a panoramic view over the city and is thus a first good starting point for orientation. The city's ancient defensive walls are not only a great place to hike and take photos, but also have great views of the surrounding countryside.

Piazza Duomo is home to beautiful medieval buildings made of precious materials, including the famous Carrara marble. Inside these buildings are some magnificent works of art from the 16th and 17th centuries. In the archaeological area of Vallebuona , there is a magnificent theatre from the 1st century AD and is considered to be one of the most beautiful and best-preserved theatres of that time.

Tuscany's Nature - Stunning Views, Lush forests, Crystal Clear Water

Surrounded by mountain ranges and the Mediterranean, Tuscany wine region surprises with a multi-faceted nature. Formed cultural landscapes, dense forests, wetlands and Mediterranean scrubland characterize the face of Tuscany.

National Park of the Tuscan Archipelago - Heavenly Beaches and Crystal Clear Water

The seven Tuscan islands lie in the clear waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea and bear the beautiful names Elba, Giglio, Capraia, Gorgona, Pianosa, Giannutri and Montecristo. Large parts of the landmass and 60,000 ha of sea surface are under protection, the national park is the largest marine park in Europe. Elba, the third largest island in Italy, is a land of sights and attractions, making it worth a visit to the island for a few days. The remainder of the six islands each have their own characteristics, but they all share wild nature and characteristic landscapes.

Maremma Park - Mountain Paradise

Greenheart of the Maremma Natural Park, called by the Tuscans "Uccellina" (limestone cliffs dominating the southern and central parts), extends over 10,000 hectares between Principina a Mare (about 20 km south of Castiglione della Pescaia ) and Talamone. It was established in 1975 as a natural park and today is a nature reserve south of Grosseto, Magliano in Toscana and Orbetello. Within the park, you will find all the typical landscape features of the Maremma, such as dense forests, historical finds, pristine beaches, and vast pastures. More routes are possible to visit the Natural Park of Maremma. Even 16 routes on foot, 4 on the bike, 4 on horseback, 4 in the carriages, 2 in a kayak. Find your preferred way to explore the park.

20 minutes drive from Maremma Park, you will find Azienda Agricola Val di Tor run by a family, which has become a stellar example of environmental sustainability in wine production.

Azienda Agricola Val di Toro invites you to visit and experience the elegance of its territory and the tuscan wines produced here.

The Parks of Val di Cornia - Garden of Tuscany Wine Region

Val di Cornia also is known as the Garden of Tuscany because of the stunning beauty that thrives here in all its glory. Enjoy relaxing hikes through oak forests, olive groves, vineyards and along winding streams that splash in the undisturbed nature of the valley through the natural parks of Baratti and Populonia. Nature lovers will enjoy a hike through the pretty park of Montioni in Suvereto and the park Poggio Neri in Sassetta. Or go on a day trip along the coast and enjoy some relaxing hours in the sun on the beach of Spiaggia Lunga. Or participate in some water sports such as surfing or snorkelling in the Gulf of Baratti, Cala San Quirico or Buca Delle Fate; all within a short distance of Val di Cornia.

Discover the ultimate Tuscany Wine Tour experience with our expert guides , and embark on unforgettable Guided Wine Tours in the heart of Tuscany.

Taste the Refined Down to Earth Kitchen of Tuscany Wine Region

Cuisine of Tuscany wine region is very diverse due to the fact that Tuscany is situated by the sea, but also provides forests with game and meadows for animal husbandry. By comparison, Tuscany is considered a food rich region with a long tradition. There are many bean dishes available and also sweet chestnut dishes as chestnut trees are abundant in Tuscany wine region. Above all, the very high-quality Tuscan olive oil is very much used in the kitchen. Some regional wineries are able to propose you a perfect food and wine pairing.

Lampredotto Sandwich - Eat Like a Fiorentino

The dish is related to the tripe but does not consist of rumen like this but of the darker and more delicate abomasum of the cattle. The abomasum is cooked in a broth with tomatoes, onions, and parsley. Then it is either done in the style of Bollito misto or, typically Florentine, as a snack in a Sandwich eaten and is especially well-known in Florence.

Check out our list of wineries near Florence to discover amazing wine experiences.

Panzanella - Tuscan Bread Salad

This bread salad is eaten in Tuscany all summer long. The recipe of the Tuscan bread salad stands for the characteristics of Tuscan cuisine: high-quality, yet frugal ingredients (such as ripe tomatoes and good olive oil) and a mostly simple procedure. It is best to have a sciocco bread which means that no salt is added to the bread that is typical for Tuscany. You also need good, fresh products from the vegetable garden, such as fresh, ripe tomatoes, aromatic basil, red onions, and virgin olive oil. Everything is mixed and eaten cold. Such a dish is saturating without feeling stuffed and is very refreshing in Italian summer.

Bistecca alla Fiorentina - The Pure Steak Pleasure

Bistecca Alla Fiorentina is a grilled Porterhouse or T-bone steak. The meat is cut from the whole roast beef. It slices up to 1300 grams and up to six centimetres thick slices from the fillet, the bone and the flat roast beef so that a T-shaped piece of bone remains in the steak.

The preparation takes place exclusively on the grill, whereby the meat piece is sometimes pre-painted with olive oil. After a short roast time, the steak is turned and salted on the cooked side. After the other side has been grilled for as long, you also salt them. Now the meat is covered with a piece of fresh butter or drizzled with olive oil and seasoned as desired with black pepper from the mill. It goes well with rosemary potatoes and a strong red wine from Tuscany.

Insider Tips about Tuscany Wine Region

Tuscany wine region, which is a dream plays for many is visited by millions every year. One of the most famous wine regions in the world offers a diversity of authentic wine tourism experiences in their open cellars and not only. Below, you will find insider tips provided by locals and the answers to the most frequently asked questions about Tuscany wine region.

Where to eat in Tuscany wine region?

Ristorante Boccon Di Vino

• Address: Località Colombaio Tozzi, 201, 53024 Montalcino SI, Italy
• Menu: Italian, Tuscan, Central-Italian ,  vegetarian and vegan options
• Specialties: Pappa col Pomodoro, smoked Goose Carpaccio

Recommended by Tenute Corte Pavone

Pizzeria I Tigli

• Address: Via Camporosolo, 11, 37047 San Bonifacio VR, Italy
• Menu: Italian, Mediterranean, vegetarian options
• Specialty: Pizza

Recommended by Usiglian Del Vescovo

Osteria Le Panzanelle

• Address: Localita’ Lucarelli, 29, 53017 Radda in Chianti SI, Italy
• Specialties: Meat, Pasta

Recommended by Monteraponi

Where to stay in Tuscany wine region?

Hotel Vecchia Oliviera

• Address: Porta Cerbaia, 53024 Montalcino SI, Italy
• Facilities and services: Restaurant, Mini Bar, Swimming pool

Castello Dell Nero

• Address: Str. Spicciano, 7, 50028 Barberino Tavarnelle FI, Italy
• Facilities and services: Room-service, 3 restaurants, wine cellar, Pool, tennis court, gym, yoga classes, wellness area

Palazzo Leopoldo

• Address: Via Roma, 33, 53017 Radda in Chianti SI, Italy
• Facilities and services: Restaurant, pool, spa, jacuzzi, fitness room, cooking classes

The best wine bars in Tuscany wine region

Tre Filari Siena

• Address: Banchi di Sotto, 51, 53100 Siena SI, Italy
• Wine menu: Regional, national and international wines

Enoteca Le Volte

• A ddress:  Via Ferruccio, 12, 53011 Castellina in Chianti SI, Italy
• Wine menu: Local Tuscan wines

Le Volpi e l’Uva

• Address: Piazza dei Rossi, 1R, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy
• Wine menu: Italian wines

What to do in Tuscany wine region?

Visit Museum   Palazzo Pretorio

• Address: Piazza del Comune, 2, 59100 Prato PO, Italy

Take a thermal water treatment at Terme Di Saturnia

• Address: Piazza Garibaldi, 9, 56034 Casciana Terme PI, Italy

Go for Truffle experience at Savinitartufi

• Address: Piazza D’Ascanio Loc. MONTANELLI – 56036 FORCOLI (PISA)

Frequently Asked Questions about Tuscany Wine Region

1. where is the tuscany wine region located, 2. what are the most famous sub-regions and appellations in tuscany , 3. what are the main grape varieties in tuscany, 4. what is the best wine to try in tuscany, 5. what is a super tuscan red wine, discover tuscany with local wine guides.

Check out our local wine tour guides with their wine tour offers to have everything organized when visiting the Tuscany wine region.

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We are specialized on Private and Small Group Wine Tours in Tuscany, (Chianti region)

We have studied the best wine itineraries for you and know the best farmhouses in Tuscany. Last...

Antony or Ian

We are a multifaceted tour company based in Siena offering wine tours for 2-6 people in Chianti...

Aurea Travel

I am deeply passionate about Italian gastronomic culture and traditions. My colleagues at Aurea...

I grew up in Tuscany with my grandparents, farmers for generations who have taught me the love...

We are not yet another tour operator selling stock tourist packages. As our brand name implies,...

My Great Tour, has been accompanying our clients to the most fascinating places in Italy for many...

Katarina, your guide through the Italian wine world

Hi, I am Katarina, a Swedish gal in Italy. I have lived in Florence, Italy for about 20 years....

Hello! My name is Michel. I'm a professional English and French-speaking wine guide in Chianti...

My name is Simone. Florence, the hills of Fiesole, and Mugello are the places where I was born...

DiscoveryPisa

Discovery Pisa was born from the wish and desire of Andrea and Alessia, two authorized tourist...

I am a travel addict and I like sharing with my hosts my passion. I love nature and everything...

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Subregions in Tuscany

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The 7 Best Wineries in Tuscany

• January 4, 2023

Jack Baumann

Tuscany has long been associated with breathtaking scenery and some of Italy’s best made wines. In this enchanting landscape of rolling hills and winding roads, you’ll find glorious sunflower fields, ancient olive groves, medieval ruins, and wonderfully wild forests. And, of course, world-class wineries.

Wine touring here is not about a five-minute tasting at a roadside wine bar, but rather it is an immersive experience. At any of Tuscany’s wineries, you won’t just be served a glass of wine, you will learn about the history, culture, and innovations behind that wine while surrounded by the landscapes that inspired some of the world’s greatest artists.

Here is our pick for some of the best Tuscan wineries that you can’t miss on your tour of the gorgeous wine country.

What To Know About Wineries In Tuscany

• In Tuscany, you need to telephone the day before to book your tours.
• Tours last about one hour and cost about $10–$15 per person. You will often finish in a tasting room where, with expert guidance, you’ll develop a better appreciation for the fruit of these vines.
• If you’re paying for a wine tasting, you aren’t obligated to buy. But if a winery is doing a small tasting just for you, they’re hoping you’ll buy a bottle or two.

Tip:  If you’re looking for a home base, the town of  Siena  is a great base for discovering Tuscany and its wine country. A lovely medieval city, you are well placed to explore the region without the major tourist foot traffic of Florence.

This is only the start of the information you need to have the best experience in Tuscany. From specific opening hours, how to get there, making reservations, and more – your personal travel guide from Guidester  will ensure you’re equipped with the information you need (and leaves out the stuff you don’t), so you have the ultimate travel experience.

1.  Barone Ricasoli

2.  fattoria la loggia.

Just south of Florence, this once owned Medici estate dating to 1427 is a complex of ancient stone buildings, walls, towers and cellars overlooking a panoramic view of the Chianti hills.

Apart from just basking in the pure beauty of this place, you can enjoy a heated seawater swimming pool, horseback riding, and nearby tennis and golf facilities. 

Other activities include the occasional cooking or wine tasting lesson, and impromptu dinners in the cellar. The charming hostess Ivana personally takes care of guests’ needs – you will feel right at home. It will quickly become obvious why this is one of the best Tuscan wineries.

Nestled in the small village of Panzano is an organic farm boasting 30 hectares of olive trees and 80 hectares of vines. 

This beautiful winery offers the ultimate in Tuscany hospitality and doesn’t charge for tastings of the wine produced here or make visitors feel obligated to buy a bottle. There are three guesthouses available for wine-country stays.

Want to Visit Tuscany Today?

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4. Rocca di Frassinello

5. Salcheto

With an unobstructed view of the most dramatic hill town of Tuscany full of towers and spires, this winery produces truly interesting wines. Most commendably, it does so in the most environmentally-responsible fashion, for which it received the prestigious Gambero Rosso Award for Sustainability 2014 .  

Visitors interested in biodynamics and sustainability should visit this exceptional estate southeast of Siena. It is open year-round for tours and tastings, with a kitchen that serves delicious lunches at the lovely terrace restaurant with its picture-window views. Another bonus: the multi-lingual guide staff.

6. Villa Pomona

A “heart of Tuscany” experience near Castellina, this lovely property produces worthy Chianti Classico and fine olive oil.  The place enchants visitors with its age-old, rambling stone buildings and acres of diverse woodlands. Two guesthouses allow visitors to marinate in it all, and to swim in the panoramic-view pool.

7. Castello di Vicchiomaggio

Located at the top of a hill overlooking the valley of Greve in Chianti, Castello di Vicchiomaggio rounds out our list of of the best Tuscan wineries. It offers unforgettable experiences with stays in an ancient castle dating back to the 1400s.

Tours of the vineyard and historical cellars allow you to discover the secrets to the production of their award-winning wines. You can quickly see the opening times and prices in your personal travel guide by Guidester .

Tip: Visits are by appointment only and have an average duration of one hour and thirty minutes.

And That’s A Wrap!

In conclusion, Tuscany offers more than just a taste of fine wine; the region offers a full immersion into a rich, cultural tapestry woven through centuries of viticulture and scenic beauty.

Each winery presents a unique story through the evolution of Italian heritage. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, Tuscany’s wineries promise an enriching experience that pairs perfectly with every glass poured. 

So, raise your glass to the timeless appeal of Tuscany, where every sip captures the essence of the landscape and history.

President of Guidester

Jack Baumann has lived and traveled throughout Europe for over 15 years, creating Guidester in 2014. Over the years Guidester has developed into a unique travel concierge and tour company helping travelers make the most of their trip to Europe.

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4 thoughts on “the 7 best wineries in tuscany”.

My Wife and I was considering a wine tour for our honeymoon, so we’ll have to consider somewhere with a lot of options like Tuscan. Thanks for sharing such a great list of wineries.

Robert, you are most welcome. Thank you for following!

Thanks for this. There are so many great wineries in that area. Vicchiomaggio also has rooms/apartments you can stay and they aren’t very expensive either. Beautiful views.

Gary, thanks for following. You’re right there are so many amazing wineries in Tuscany it’s hard to get all the good ones on a single list!

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Top Tuscan wineries: Ten to visit

• Top Italy wine travel guides
• wine travel
• Wineries to visit

North Tuscany wineries to visit

Castello di nipozzano.

Nipozzano Estate Frescobaldi

Style:  What could be more Tuscan than tasting wine in a 1,000-year-old castle made from vines grown in the surrounding farm and owned by Florentine nobility?

Built to guard Florence, great artists such as Donatello and Michelozzo Michelozzi regularly purchased wine from the estate. It was destroyed in 1944, but has been partially rebuilt and you can still view the original cellar at the Renaissance villa.

Nipozzano is the real thing; a true working farm, and a big one at that with more than 600ha, including olive trees and an on-site olive press. Chianina and Angus cows can be seen roaming free in the fields.

A visit will include a tour of the monumental cellars used to age  Chianti Rùfina , the higher altitude appellation in the Chianti area. Other highlights include the tasting room in an old kitchen, as well as the views of perfectly maintained vineyards across the valley.

If you are there to buy, the old vintages start from 1864 but Marchese Lamberto Frescobaldi is very fond of the 1960, 1974 or 1981.

Hours and visits : Open on weekdays. Visits must be booked in advance.

Restaurant: There is no restaurant, but you can request that your visit includes a meal using products grown on the property.

Address and contact : Via di Nipozzano, 50060 Pelago, Florence; +39 055 8311050;  frescobaldi.com

Capezzana Cellar

Style:  Historic, rustic, cellar tour with all the traditional wines on show from the Carmignano DOCG .

Just a few miles from Florence, towards Prato, is Capezzana. The estate has been producing wine and extra-virgin olive oil since 804. More recently, the Contini Bonaccossi family has been running the estate since the 1920s.

The youngest members, Oscar, Ettore, Giulia and Duccio – all 25 years old – created the newest aspect of the winery; a wine bar called La Vinsantaia (open April–October) where guests can enjoy informal wine tastings, as well as food.

This is a large, diversified estate, with 650ha of forest, organic vineyards and olive groves, and a cookery school.

In summer, don’t miss the terrace with the view of Florence’s Duomo, and leave room to taste one of Tuscany’s greatest wines – vin santo, a dessert wine made from grapes left to turn to raisins on drying racks.

For those looking to buy, the winery has a great list of library vintages of the great Villa di Capezzana, starting from the 1930s. Still performing well is the 1968 or 1988.

Hours and visits: Open Monday to Saturday. Tours start from €20 per person for a tour and tasting that includes three wines. Booking in advance is recommended.

Restaurant:  The Vinsantaia wine bar offers food based on organic products, plus a range of the estate’s wines.

Address and Contact : Via Capezzana 100, 59015 Carmignano; +39 055 8706005;  capezzana.it

Central Tuscany wineries to visit

Antinori, chianti classico.

Rinuccio 1180 – The Roof Top Restaurant

Style:  Slick architecture and a modern wine tour from one of Tuscany’s most historic families.

Less than 20km from the heart of Florence, right off the main highway going to Siena, is the stunning new Antinori Chianti Classico winery.

Set among olive groves and geometrically aligned vineyards, the winery is almost hidden, as most of it lies underground.

The Antinori family has been in the wine business since 1385 and here you will find an active and prolific wine empire that boasts two of Italy’s top wines: Tignanello and Solaia , produced on a nearby Antinori estate.

First opened in August 2013, the new winery designed by leading Italian architect Marco Casamonti has more than 600 years of winemaking on display in its wine museum. There is a book shop, art collection and, of course, wine bar and tasting rooms.

All of this is housed within a structure using local terracotta, conceived to generate the perfect climatic conditions needed for the barrels.

An incredible iron spine to the building gives the sensation that the floor is actually suspended above the foundation.

Hours and visits: Every day from 9.30am to 6pm. Guided tours run every hour (10am–4pm) for €35 per person – booking essential if you would like the tour in English. Custom tour options are available. There are several casual tasting options for those visiting without reservations. The top tour, Bottaia Cru, takes two-and-a-half hours and includes lunch at the Rinuccio 1180 restaurant with wine matching.

Restaurant:  On the top floor, in Rinuccio 1180, chef Matteo Cambi cooks a perfect ‘Chianti burger’.

Address and Contact : Via Cassia per Siena 133, 50026 Bargino, San Casciano in Val di Pesa. +39 055 2359700; antinori.it

Castello di Ama

Style:  Legendary Chianti wine estate, full of history mixed with contemporary art

When Lorenza Sebasti and Marco Pallanti started Castello di Ama a little over 35 years ago, the hamlet and its vineyards and olive groves were in a state of abandon.

Today, the 12th-century castle is beautifully renovated and has one of the most important wine-related contemporary art installations, as well as fantastic fine wines, such as the Haiku Chianti Classico.

Visitors can enjoy artworks including Daniel Buren’s mirror wall, which reflects the vineyards, or Anish Kapoor’s ‘Aima’, with its pulsing red light in the tiny church of San Venanzio.

While many wine producers also make extra-virgin olive oil, Castello di Ama has a state-of-the-art olive press that allows the Pallantis to bottle one of the countryside’s best oils – a must-try!

If you’re looking to buy, see our article charting 30 years of Castello di Ama’s L’Apparita .

Hours and visits : Visits are private, for a fee and by appointment only.

Restaurant:  Il Ristoro di Ama is set in a Tuscan house with antique furniture and modern design elements. It’s a wonderful way to try the estate’s wines, paired with fantastic cuisine.

Address and Contact : Località Ama, 53013 Gaiole in Chianti. +39 0577 746069 or email [email protected] ;  castellodiama.com

Coastal Tuscany wineries to visit

Le macchiole, bolgheri.

Le Macchiole Vineyards

Style:  Polished, family-run Bolgheri winery where the focus is well and truly on international, single varietal wines.

Bolgheri has become world-famous for its ‘Super Tuscan’ wines. It is a must-visit area and, dare we say it, a welcome change from Sangiovese.

On your way there, as you cut inland from the coast, you’ll have to dodge Lycra-clad cyclists, before you find yourself at the imposing gate of the legendary estate Le Macchiole.

Run by Cinzia Merli and her two sons, Elia and Mattia Le Macchiole, this winery is less formal than the gate suggests. As you take the small, private tour around the organic Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Syrah and Merlot vineyards, you’ll notice a large mural by Italian street artist Ozmo – similar in style to Banksy – which hints at the family’s creativity.

A tour of the cellar is followed by a tasting in one of two rooms, where you can try one of the best Cabernet Francs Italy produces along with single-varietal Merlots and Syrah.

Hours and visits: Open Monday-Friday for wine tours. Reservations are needed and should be booked at least a week in advance. Tastings start at €35 per head.

Address and Contact : Strada Provinciale 16B Bolgherese, 189/A – 57022 Castagneto Carducci (LI) +39 0565 766092;  [email protected] ;  www.lemacchiole.it

Prima Pietra, Riparbella

Prima Pietra Tasting Room View

Style:  Remote, tranquil and a lovely setting to taste a vertical of Super Tuscan wines.

If the numbers of cyclists and tourists in and around Bolgheri is overwhelming, then Riparbella is your antidote.

This is the first winery bought by Massimo Ferragamo – see below for the second – and the team has been making Bordeaux blends here since 2007. A wine tour has recently been added to this small vineyard.

After a drive into the small town of Riparbella, you come to the gates of Prima Pietra and the first thing to hit you is the tranquil scene across the Tuscan coast from high up in the hills.

Our attentive host, Alice, took us around the vineyards with a glass of Chardonnay in-hand, followed by a tour of the cellar and a tasting of back-vintages in the tasting room, which is set outside and allows you to fully appreciate that view.

Hours and visits: Open daily for wine tours. The winery advises that you book ahead. But, because the tasting room is brand new, you might get away with booking on the day if you are lucky. Enquire for costs.

Restaurant:  There isn’t a restaurant, but if you book ahead then you can order a plate of Tuscan cheeses served with fresh bread, extra virgin olive oil from Castiglion del Bosco and honey.

Address and Contact : Loc. I Prati – 56046 – Riparbella (PI); +39 0586 1948 001;  [email protected];   www.tenutaprimapietra.com

Other information to note about visiting this area

Sassicaia only take bookings through trade partners. If you are in the UK, contact Armit Wines, and if you are visiting from the US, try Kobrand Wine and Spirits.

Ornellaia has started to do visits, but you’ll need to book several months in advance.

Uncovering the hidden gems of Bolgheri

South tuscany wineries to visit, castiglion del bosco, montalcino.

Campo del Drago Vineyard, Castiglion del Bosco

Style:  Slick, fashionable and indulgent, with 12 wine tour experts on-hand, two wonderful restaurants and their own truffle forests. What else would you expect from an estate owned by Massimo Ferragamo?

The ancient hamlet was built in 1100, right in the heart of the Orcia valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its breathtaking landscape.

Massimo Ferragamo bought the estate 15 years ago, complete with 13th-century church and frescos. Not only did he create a beautiful winery producing modern-style Brunello, he has also a built the splendid Rosewood resort with two great restaurants, a spa and one of Italy’s most sought-after golf courses, designed by Tom Weiskopf.

The wine tour, which is very well pitched for all levels of wine knowledge, takes you out to the vineyards to see the Campo del Drago plot, one of the most picturesque in Italy, before a trip to the barrel cellar in an impressive wooden amphitheatre. It finishes in the slick tasting room, complete with local cheeses and salami.

We would thoroughly recommend booking for lunch in either restaurant listed below; both are overseen by new head chef Matteo Temperini, who had previously earned a Michelin Star at La Sponda. All the ingredients are grown in the hamlet in a fantastic organic vegetable garden.

Hours and visits: Various types of visit that can be arranged at a time to suit, depending on your interests. Booking beforehand is required.

Restaurant: The main restaurant, Campo del Drago, is known for its excellent fare in elegant surroundings. For a more casual dining experience, there is a traditional trattoria and cosy wine bar with a stunning terrace overlooking the valley. And the wine list offers top Italian wines at great prices.

Address and Contact : Castiglion del Bosco, 53024 Montalcino Siena. +39 0577 1913750; castigliondelbosco.com ; [email protected]

Col d’Orcia, Montalcino

The front of Col d’Orcia’s tasting room

Style: Old fashioned and endearing organic farm with a tasting room that has a dining room table and family paintings on the wall.

Col d’Orcia is one of the largest wineries in the famed Montalcino area and it’s owned by the Cinzano family, of Vermouth fame.

A visit here is like taking a step back in time and is a world away from the slick Castiglion del Bosco above.

It’s located down the Montalcino hill and is opposite large-scale producer Banfi, which also has a lovely visitor offering that includes luxury accommodation in the castle complex.

A tasting at Col d’Orcia feels like a family affair, despite the scale of production.

A quick tour around the organic wine-producing farm is followed by a tasting in a space that feels like the Cinzano family’s dining room. A Tuscan Pinot Grigio, Sant’Antimo wines and, of course, Brunello are all up for tasting, including an array of back-vintages.

There’s also a small wine shop where you can purchase those amazing older vintages, as well as the farm’s olive oil.

Hours and visits: Various types of visit can be arranged starting from €15. Booking beforehand is recommended, especially for food options.

Restaurant:  Col d’Orcia does not have a restaurant but is happy to cook for parties who would like to visit. There is a kitchen next to the tasting room or plates of antipasto can be arranged. With an organic farm, ingredients are set to be fresh and local.

Address and Contact : Località Via Giuncheti, 53024 Montalcino SI, Italy. +39 0577 80891; coldorcia.com

Other information around Montalcino

Biondi Santi, Tenuta il Greppo,  has changed its visiting policy and only takes bookings through trade partners. If you are in the UK, contact Liberty Wines and if you are visiting from the US, try Wilson Daniels. You might be lucky if you email [email protected] . If you do get in, then look out for the  Biondi Santi, Tenuta il Greppo 1975 , one of Decanter’s  Wine Legends.

Salcheto, Montepulciano

Salcheto Enoteca

Style:  IGT wines from an organic estate with stunning views from the enoteca.

Salcheto said it had become self-sufficient in 2011, making it one of the first in Europe. Most of the energy comes from renewable sources and recycled winery materials. There are water reclamation practices, solar panels providing energy to the cellar and wine tanks that operate off the excess CO2 that is produced during fermentation.

Salcheto is also certified organic and produces top-notch wines.

Although Salcheto’s inaugural vintage was 1990, the new winery was only completed in 2011. Overlooking the stunning town of Montepulciano, Salcheto is one of the most beautiful wineries in Tuscany.

Its president, Michele Manelli, is the mastermind behind this ambitious project, which has culminated in Obvius, a supremely pure, new-release wine that offers an ‘all fruit experience’.

Visitors to the estate are given an insight into the incredible technology in-place as they tour the production facility and ageing room. A subsequent tasting is likely to make you a firm believer in both the high-tech and green principles espoused here.

Hours and visits: Open daily from 11am to 5pm. Tours can be arranged by appointment with a tasting of three wines, starting at €10 per person.

Restaurant: There’s an enoteca where you can taste Salcheto’s wines by the glass and enjoy a light lunch of cold cuts, cheeses and other simple dishes. The views from the terrace overlooking Montepulciano are beautiful.

Address and Contact : Via di Villa Bianca 15, 53045 Montepulciano. +39 0578 799031;  salcheto.it

See other wineries and restaurants to visit in the Montelpulciano area

Southern coast, maremma wineries to visit, monteverro, capalbio.

View from the Monteverro tasting suite over the barrel room

Style: New Tuscany meets Europe. Sparkling new, ambitious and exploratory; Monteverro is a relatively new project built around the owner’s love of Bordeaux varietals – can they make this Southern tip of Tuscany the new Bolgheri?

An hour south of Grosseto, close to Monte Argentario and many of Tuscany’s best beaches you find Capalbio which is home to a wine project, started in 2003 by Julia and Georg Weber.

After buzzing to get in through the large, cast iron gates, at first site the buildings are very Tuscan with a hommage to the local wild boar, which gives it’s name to the property. But once inside, you start to realise the scale of ambition with the emmaculate wine making facilities and barrel room. This attention to detail throughout finds it’s way through to the price of the wines, with the top wine commanding over €100 per bottle.

The wine tour itself can be arranged by contacting Rita at Monteverro and costs €65 for 6 wines. It starts with a quick tour of the bug hotel; a small structure designed to help bring friendly insects to the vineyards, a walk around the vines planted on the rolling hills, through the wine making facilities, including pictures of winemaker Matthieu Taunay and consulant Michel Rolland, onto the barrel room and and up into the tasting room.

This is not a tour for those looking for typical Tuscan wine-making but will intrigue those who have been to Bolgheri and those wanting to witness a families ambition to create a world class wine.

Hours and visits: The winery will offer hours but are flexible. Booking beforehand is required.

Food: For €15 extra, a plate of cheeses, hams and other delicious Tuscan fare can accompany your tasting; a great way to slow down experience and soak up some of the wine. You can purchase wine at the end.

Address and Contact : Monteverro Srl Società Agricola Strada Aurelia Capalbio 11 I-58011 Capalbio (GR). +39 564 890721; [email protected]

Other information around Maremma

In the north of Grosseto, there are new wineries from the Antinori and Frescobaldi families, as well as the Belguardo Estate by the Mazzei family. These are all well worth a visit.

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10 Tuscany Wineries To Visit Near Florence

If you are looking to discover Tuscan vineyards near Florence, consider booking wine tastings at one of these wineries that can be reached from the center of Florence on foot, by bus, or by a quick car ride. 

There are many great options, but here are ten of our favorites close to the city of Florence. From small family-owned operations to larger luxury estates, these wineries will give you a taste of Tuscany’s wine country without going too far.

How to Visit Wineries in Tuscany?

1. Villa Le Piazzole

Originally built as the ancient summer residence of the Acciaioli family,  Villa Le Piazzole sits on top of the Arcetri hill with a stunning view over the Carthusian Monastery Certosa di Firenze. 

The estate produces high-quality wine and extra virgin olive oil. The winery of Villa Le Piazzole offers the opportunity to taste and buy its products. 

I love that the wine tasting here is led by a professional oenologist.  A sip of wine will be accompanied by a selection of typical Tuscan bites.  

After the tasting, stay for Tuscan dinner served on the terrace where you can enjoy the famous Florentine steak or the delicious wood-oven pizza.

The villa was recently refurbished and also offers accommodation and serves as a wedding venue.

How to get there?

Located  about 4 kilometers away from the center of Florence,  this small paradise can be reached on foot or on public transport.  

A walk to Villa Le Piazzole will take approximately 50 minutes from the center of Florence, and a drive may be 15 to 25 minutes depending on traffic. You can also catch bus 366A from the Florence bus station.

Address:   Via Gherardo Silvani, 149, 50125 Firenze FI

2. Podere Ema

Podere Ema celebrates pure Tuscan wine,  “Puro Toscano”.

The company produces its wines using only local grapes. In cooperation with the University of Florence, Podere Ema rediscovered ancient autochthonous grape varieties of Tuscany.

At the winery, taste rose, reds and grappa made of Sangiovese,  Foglia Tonda, and Colorino – typical Tuscan native grapes.

Discover the unique Florentine wines by booking a tasting on the  website .  The winery is open for tastings in the mornings from Monday through Saturday. 

Get on a quick bus ride from the Florence bus station (bus  365A)  or drive for approximately 25 minutes.

Address: Strada Chiantigiana, 339, 50012 Grassina (Firenze)

Tuscany Wine Tours and Tastings

3. poggio la noce.

The Poggio La Noce wine estate is located only 15 minutes away from the city of Florence  in the hills of Fiesole.

This small estate making delicious hand-crafted wines was created by Claire and Enzo who returned from the United States to their roots in 1999. 

Gigiò, t he top wine of Poggio La Noce is made of Sangiovese planted by the couple in 2000.  The winery also produces t wo other reds Gigetto and Gigino, a rosé Pinko Pallino, along with pet-nat  rosé, white wine and grappa.

The estate was certified 100% organic in 2006.

If you are looking for a private visit and a tasting at a small winery, book an appointment at Poggio La Noce. The visit will include a walk through the vineyard as well as a tour of the brand-new winery. 

The best way to get to   Poggio La Noce from Florence is by car. R each the village of Montebeni, Fiesole. Once there, follow Via Ontignano to the bottom of the valley. Once you reach the unpaved section, drive up until you see the “Poggio La Noce” sign.

Address: Via Ontignano, 64, 50014 Fiesole FI, Italy

4. Poggio Casciano

Poggio Casciano is situated in the Tuscan hills, just outside of Grassina, a few miles from Florence. 

The fourteenth-century Renaissance villa overlooking the vineyards features beautiful Italian gardens, an infinity pool, Le Tre Rane restaurant, and the Enoteca wine store.  You can also stay a night at  Agriresort Tenute Ruffino . 

A short 25-minute car ride will get you from the center of Florence to Poggio Casciano.  You can also take bus 365A from Florence bus station and then change to bus 49.

Address:   Via Poggio al Mandorlo, 1, 50011 Bagno a Ripoli FI, Italy

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5. fattoria di bagnolo.

The estate founded in 1419, belonged to the Machiavelli family in the 15th and the 16th century. 

Since the 19th century, Fattoria di Bagnolo is run by the Bartolini Baldelli family. The high-quality wines are produced on the 25 acres planted mainly with Sangiovese, other native varieties, as well as Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.  The family also makes excellent olive oils.

You can book a visit to the estate by calling the owners +39 347 1808 494 (Luciana), +39 333 4865872 (Giovanna).

Take A1 highway and exit Firenze-Impruneta, follow signs for Impruneta. After the town of Tavarnuzze, turn left to find the sign “Fattoria di Bagnolo”.

You can also take a bus from Florence bus station, however, you will have to make a change, as there is no direct bus line. 

Address: Via Imprunetana per Tavarnuzze 48 – 50023 Impruneta – Firenze

6. Bibi Graetz

Bibi Graetz is not your typical Tuscan winery.  

Located just outside of Florence, the winery was wounded in 2000.    Bibi who grew up in a family of artists discovered his passion for wine and acquired a collection of old vines producing traditional local grapes.  

To craft red wines of elegance and finesse the winery uses a rare technique of n atural fermentation in open barriques with manual punch-downs a few times per day.

Besides his red wines, Bibi makes whites coming from a small vineyard overlooking the sea from 100% Ansonica grapes, as well as Brut rose.

Address:   Piazza Mino da Fiesole, 37, 50014 Fiesole FI, Italy

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7. torraccia di presura.

Located about 15 km south from Florence, Torraccia di Presura has  35 hectares of vineyards and 16 hectares of olive groves.   

The predominant grape is Sangiovese, but  Torraccia di Presura  also cultivates Canaiolo Nero, Colorino, Foglia Tonda, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon to make their award-winning wines.

It is possible to taste the winery’s products at a farmhouse Ulivello in Chianti, via della Montagnola 94 – 50027 Greve in Chianti.

Address:    Via della Montagnola, 130, 50027 Greve in Chianti FI, Italy

8. Fattoria Torre a Cona

Tucked away in the Florence hills, Fattoria Torre a Cona is owned by the Rossi di Montelera counts. Its 18th-century villa dominates the surrounding vineyards and olive groves.

Fattoria Torre a Cona is a working farm, with olive groves, grain fields and vegetable gardens. Visitors are welcome to wander the grounds, and there are also several hiking trails that wind through the property.  You can enjoy horse riding, truffle hunting, a cooking class, and even viewing bees with a local beekeper.

Of course, the highlight of any visit is the wine tasting. Guests can sample some of the estate’s award-winning wines, as well as enjoy a selection of appetizers made with locally sourced ingredients. 

Plus, you can stay in  Torre a Cona rooms and apartments  or stop for lunch or dinner at their newly opened restaurant.

Bus 351A from the Florence bus station or a 35-minute car ride will get you from central Florence to this Tuscan vineyard.

Address:  Località Torre a Cona, 49, 50067 Rignano sull’Arno FI, Italy

Tuscany Wineries

9. azienda agricola ottomani.

Located in Strada in Chianti, Ottomani is a winery found by four friends. Today, the estate is producing both fine wines and olive oils. The winery follows organic and biodynamic techniques.  Make sure you try their IGT Toscana wines aged in terracotta amphoras.

To get to Azienda Agricola Ottomani, take the A1 motorway from Florence to Greve in Chianti.  The drive will take approximately 30 minutes.

Alternatively, buses 366 A and 365A will get you here from Florence in 45 minutes.

Address:    Via di Pancole, 119,  50027 Strada in Chianti – Greve in Chianti (Firenze)

10. Fattoria di Luiano

Wine tasting is not to be taken too seriously.  This is why I love the approach at Luiano winery where wine is shared with friends in the philosophy of  Wine Entertainment.

Luiano winery is open every day from 11 am to 5 pm.  Guided visits are by appointment, but if you want to just drop in to their wine bar, you will be welcome.

For a more in-depth experience and to visit their 14th-century cellars, call ahead for a guided tour at 11 am, 1 pm, or 3 pm. 

After the tour, enjoy snacks, light lunch, dinner or a cooking class at this friendly and fun family winery. 

My favorite experience is a picnic lunch with a half bottle of Chianti Classico on a white and red blanket at any place you will find in Luiano vineyards.  Luiano offers unparalleled hospitality that will leave visitors feeling at home in Italy. 

“Santa Maria Novella” Station in Florence is located 21 km from Luiano. You will need a car to reach the winery from the train station.

On highway A1 drive towards Greve in Chianti. As you arrive at Falciani, continue towards Greve for 2 km, after which turn right and follow directions for Fattoria di Luiano.

Address:  Via di Luiano, 32, 50026 San Casciano in Val di pesa FI, Italy

To visit other wineries in Tuscany, check out my list of Tuscany wineries with a map.

I am a sommelier and a wine tour guide.

I travel for wine in Europe, collecting the best wineries to visit, best places to stay and eat.

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5 Tips for Planning a WINE TASTING on a Vineyard in Tuscany

Sean Finelli Last Updated: December 22, 2022

Heading to Tuscany and want to know more about wine tasting culture and how to organizing a wine tasting in Tuscany or Italy works? Start by not being intimidated or stressed about the process. Tuscans are super-welcoming and relaxed people so you’ll do fine. Visiting vineyards is not about who you know, it is simply about wearing a smile and being well-mannered.

Pro Tip: Planning to visit the wine regions of Tuscany? Bookmark this post in your browser so you can easily find it when you need it. Check out our guide to Tuscany for more planning resources, our best Florence and Tuscany tours for a memorable trip, and our guide to the Tuscany wine region .

How To Plan a Day of Wine Tasting in Tuscany

Before I had a family and tons of responsibility, I used to join many of my customers on wine tours to Tuscany. It was a great opportunity to see Tuscany and drink wine. We would even hire helicopters to jump around from one remote location to another.

One high-end customer kept asking, “Can you get us into this vineyard? What about that vineyard?” I couldn’t understand why he was so nervous about “getting in.” I kept replying, “yea, no problem,” and the day went well.

Tuscans work hard to produce great wine and love watching the reactions of people who drink it. They are wonderful people who want you to see their beautiful properties and drink their incredible wines just as badly as you do. Follow my advice and you’ll be welcome to any vineyard you like. Here’s how to plan for wine tasting in Tuscany.

Not ready to book a tour? See our best Florence tours to take and why .

1. What Type of Wine Drinker are You?

There are a few different types of wine drinkers. To keep things simple I’ll name three. Identifying which type of wine drinker you are will help you plan a day or more of wine tasting in Tuscany that best suits your interests.

The Casual Wine Lover

• Adores wine and is excited about visiting a vineyard.
• Wants to learn more about wine.
• Purchases a bottle or two at each vineyard they visit.
• 95% of people fall into this category.

The Wine Enthusiast

• A lot of knowledge of different types of wines produced.
• Familiar with many different wine regions, varietals, and are particular to certain producers.
• Can easily hold a conversation with the wine producer.
• Likely to ship 3 to 12 bottles back from each vineyard they visit shipping most back home.
• About 4% of wine drinkers fall into this category.

The Wine Connoisseur

• Plans their trips around visiting wine regions that have had a stellar year.
• Have contacts at the major vineyards and may communicate with them regularly.
• Vineyards likely remember these people and might even have them on a special list.
• Spreads their efforts out from region to region but has a particular favorite varietal or producer.
• Holds wine for years if not decades before consuming.
• Have a home wine cellar fit to store wine at varying temperatures with a catalog.
• Purchases anywhere from 12 to 100 bottles, shipping most to their home cellar.
• Represent the remaining 1% of wine drinkers.

Which Are You?

It is very likely you are a Casual Wine Lover or a Wine Enthusiast . Both can benefit from this article if they have never been to Tuscany or have been to Tuscany but feel like it could have been done better. If you are a Wine Connoisseur , email us at [email protected] if you’d like to find niche producers that your friends won’t know about.

2. Pick Your Destination in Tuscany

Tuscany is a large region so don’t expect to see the entire area. Pick a sub-region with a large number of producers, ideally a place whose wine you have drunk in the past, and start there. Not sure where? Here are some of our favorite areas:

• Montalcino and Val d’Orcia (near Siena and Pienza)
• Bolgheri (Sassicaia)
• Greve in Chianti (Chianti and Tignanello)
• San Gimignano (Between Siena and Florence)

I personally would pick one of these areas and stay one to two nights . You could stay at a vineyard or in a town. The advantage of staying at a vineyard is it is awesome to stay at a vineyard. Staying in a town, like San Gimignano, offers a little more variety and nightlife.

After a long day of indulging in the nectar of the gods, it is fun to stumble around a castle city. That said, a long day of wine tasting can leave you feeling much like a long day of skiing: tired and ready for bed!

If you want me to pick for you, I would pick Montalcino provided you’re ready to rent a car (no drinking and driving) and sleep there a few nights. Otherwise, consider staying near or in Florence and doing a day trip !

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Want to have an epic experience in Tuscany? Remove the guesswork and the hassle of transportation by joining us on a day trip to Chianti from Florence. You’ll enjoy time in the enchanting cities of Siena and San Gimignano with lunch and wine tastings too. Make your Tuscany day trip one to remember!

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Florence in a Day Combo Tour with David & Uffizi

This tour is your best value in Florence. See Michelangelo’s David statue in the Accademia Gallery with a licensed guide before exploring the Uffizi Gallery. You’ll also have plenty of time to see the outside of the Florence Cathedral, Baptistry Doors, Ponte Vecchio, and more. All your skip-the-line admissions are included along with an English-speaking guide.

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our article on the best Florence tours to take and why .

3. Start This Itinerary and Fill in the Blanks

Your structure for the day can be pretty simple. The good news is that most wine tastings don’t start until after 10 am, so you shouldn’t have to get up early. This structure assumes you are either renting a car and traveling with someone willing to restrain themselves from over-indulging or hiring a driver.

• 10 am—First Wine Tasting: I will spit or not finish most samples on my first tasting. It can make for a long day.
• 11:30 am—Second Wine Tasting: Pick a vineyard that also has a restaurant. This way you can finish this tasting and sit down to lunch.
• 12:30 am—Lunch
• 2:30 pm—Scenic Stop: Even connoisseurs of wine will mix in a little walking around to keep the blood flowing and prepare you for your final tasting.
• 4 pm—Last Call: Normally vineyards will close their enoteca or wine shop at 4:30 or 5 pm. Scheduling your last tasting at 4 or 4:30 will ensure you get three good tastings in.

From there, you’ll want to do some walking around and ideally get some dinner around 6:30 or 7 pm. Many of these “lazy” Tuscan towns start dinner around 6 or 7 and close pretty early unlike big cities such as Rome.

4. Pick Your Vineyards

Picking the right vineyards is important, but don’t feel like you have to be incredibly prepared. I normally have one very consistent vineyard that I absolutely must visit scheduled. For Montalcino, it might be Poggio di Sotto, Le Chiuse, or Casanova di Neri. From there I will fill in the blanks as I go.

You can ask the vineyard you are currently at things like, “What vineyards have done well with this vintage (year)?” These people all know each other and will send you in the right direction.

5. Follow Tasting Etiquette

Tuscans are fun people and aren’t going to scoff at you if your pinky isn’t out like some neighboring countries may. That said, there is a bit of etiquette involved. Follow these suggestions and you should be more than fine.

Calling 15 or 20 minutes ahead makes a big difference. I normally call myself, but you can always ask the vineyard you are leaving to call for you. Most are happy to do so. Showing up unannounced is not against the law—many smaller producers will be happy to receive you, but I try to avoid it as a courtesy.

Always Buy Something

I normally won’t ask how much wine tastings cost because I always buy wine. For this very reason, I’m normally not charged for the tasting. If I find something I like, I will make a larger purchase but I’ll always buy at least a bottle or two. In a place like Montalcino that could run you a pretty penny. You could pay €25 for a low-end Brunello to €150 or more per bottle for a riserva.

Don’t worry, every vineyard sells something called a Rosso di Montalcino . It just means “red from Montalcino”. It’s a reasonably priced but delicious bottle of wine that can go for as little as €8 to a max of €18 for special blends. Pick up one or two of these at least if nothing else strikes your fancy. That said, if I don’t like any wines and the vineyard does charge for the tasting, I’ll just pay for the tasting and not purchase bottles.

Ask Questions

Wine producers take great pride in their work. You should ask a lot of questions and you may find yourself paying for fewer tastings.

Ask To Explore the Grounds

The wine business is a lucrative one and many properties reflect that. You should most definitely enjoy their estate, but always ask to be polite.

Wine Tastings and Catina Tours Are Two Different Things

If you think a wine tasting always includes a tour of the grounds, think again. Vineyards these days expect all types of visitors and many of them have seen an operation before so they may simply want to taste the wine. If you want a tour of the compound, you should definitely schedule this well in advance.

From here, you should have everything you need to plan a killer wine tasting in Tuscany. We’ve added some more Tuscany info below, which will hopefully help!

Useful Information For Visiting Vineyards in Tuscany

How to get to wine regions with public transport.

We don’t recommend trying to visit vineyards by bus. It takes a lot away from the experience. That said, we won’t stop you from trying!

San Gimignano:

You can get here by train, bus, or car. The ride will take you about 3 hours from Rome and 1.5 hours from Florence with public transportation. Take the Italo or Trenitalia fast trains from Rome to Florence. From Florence Santa Maria Novella Station, take bus 131 to Poggibonsi. From there, take bus 130 to San Gimignano

Montalcino:

You can get here by train, bus, or by car. The ride will take you about 5 hours from Rome and 2 hours from Florence with public transportation. Take the Italo or Trenitalia fast trains from Rome to Florence. From Florence Santa Maria Novella station, take the Regional train to Siena. From Siena take bus 114 to Montalcino.

Chianti Region:

You can get here by train, bus, or car. The ride will take you about 3 hours from Rome and 1 hour from Florence with public transportation. Take the Italo or Trenitalia fast trains from Rome to Florence. From Florence Santa Maria Novella station, take bus 365 A to Greve in Chianti.

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  Guide to Florence and Tuscany for more resources.

What Kinds of Wine Are Made in Tuscany?

These are the types of wines you will find: Vernaccia, Chianti, Brunello, Rose Sparkling (spumante) Super Tuscan, and dessert wine.

Vernaccia wine:

With a fruity and revitalizing flavor, this wine has a DOCG designation, meaning it’s among Italy’s purest wines. This particular wine is the only white wine in Tuscany of this rank.

The most famous strain of Chianti wine is Chianti Classico . For a wine to classify as Chianti, it must be produced from at least 80% Sangiovese grapes. To perfectly enjoy your Chianti wine, you can’t go wrong with a delicious meal to accompany.

Brunello di Montalcino:

This is one of the more expensive red wines. This type of wine becomes pricey due to its concentration of Sangiovese grapes. While Chianti wine must be at least 80%, Brunello di Montalcino is produced 100% using Sangiovese grapes.

You can taste the authentic nectar in the region of Montalcino, located in the Siena province. With high tannin and acidity, Brunello wine reaches its peak taste after about a decade. Now, that’s a fine wine.

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About Sean Finelli

Sean is a co-founder and owner of The Tour Guy and its subsidiary The Roman Guy. He studied finance and statistics, but that is his "Dr. Jekyll" side! His "Mr. Hyde" is in love with travel, art, history, and culture. Sean has read libraries of historical text and believes that all internet content should come from books. A practice he follows!

Reader Interactions

Comments (7).

August 7, 2019

Hello , going to Tuscany region Mid Oct and want to visit some wineries and stay in small villages for two weeks..Need advice on and possibly day tours

August 8, 2019

Ciao David! Thanks for checking out our blog. I recommend checking out our Tuscany Day Trip from Florence with Farm to Table Lunch . Contact our travel experts at 888-290-5595 for more info!

October 17, 2019

With the wine tours, will there be free time to just walk around and take pictures alone or is the while day with everyone at all times?

Ciao Jennifer! You can absolutely take time to walk around and take pictures alone. You will spend a few hours at the vineyard and will also have free time in San Gimignano.

January 14, 2020

I have a large group (about 13) staying at a Villa near Cortona. Would you do any custom tours for part or all of the group where you would pick us up and drop us back off at our Villa?

January 28, 2020

Hi Janice! Yes, we do! Please call our Travel Experts to plan a custom tour!

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Best Places to Visit in Tuscany

J oin EuropeUpClose as we take a journey to some of the best places to visit in Tuscany. We will begin in Florence, then drive to San Gimignano with a stop at the fabulous Antinori nel Chianti Classico Winery. From San Gimignano we venture to the compelling town of Siena with its fantastic cathedral and famous horse races in the Palio. Another hour south and we’ll stop at Caparzo Winery near Montalcino before heading east to the beautiful hilltop walled city of Montepulciano.

Also read these articles on Tuscany:

• Best Tuscany Wine Tours
• Where to Stay in Tuscany
• Tuscany Holiday Planning
• Tuscany Itinerary

Visit Florence

Florence is a natural starting point to begin your journey to the best places to visit in Tuscany. Known for the imposing red-roofed Duomo and Michelangelo’s David in the Accademia, Florence is a mecca for art, food, architecture, and history. You don’t want to miss the Uffizi Museum, the Central Market, and Ponte Vecchio, the bridge across the Arno River filled with shops displaying jewelry, crafts, and other fun products.

Also, read these articles on Florence:

• Where to stay in Florence
• Best Florence Walking Tours
• Best things to do in Florence
• Best Day Trips from Florence

Florentine Bisteca

And, of course, if you are in Florence, you must try the famous Florentine Bisteca. It is often referred to as some of the best steak in the world. We were lucky to have reservations at Trattoria dall’Oste Chianineria on  Via dei Cerchi. Just a few minutes south of the Duomo, this iconic restaurant is well known for their Bisteca and other fine cuts of meat.

Florentines do like their steak rare, so be aware. You can order yours medium or medium rare, and it will most likely still come out very pink. One thing I liked about Trattoria dall’Oste Chianineria is that they brought out a hot plate along with the steak. That way, anyone who wanted their steak more done could cook it a bit more right at the table. Most of us ate it like it came, but there were a few in our party who preferred their steak more done. Sides included roasted potatoes, pasta with thinly sliced truffles, and some tasty bruschetta. For dessert, we completed our meal with a glass of Vin Santo served with tasty biscotti.

Wine Tasting and Lunch at Antinori Winery

With options of several great Antinori locations, we chose to tour the Antinori nel Chianti Classico vineyards just 20 minutes south of Florence. In a country where wine is a way of life, for twenty-six generations, the name Antinori has stood out.

We booked the special CRU Tour. This included a tour of the winery, a wine tasting of seven great wines, followed by a delicious lunch. This fully immersive experience featuring the wine-making philosophy of Marchesi Antinori following years of family tradition. Led by our outstanding sommelier, our tasting was held inside the fabulous wine cellar. Then we enjoyed lunch on the outdoor patio at the Rinuccio 1180 restaurant. This modernistic rooftop restaurant overlooks the gently rolling hills of the scenic Tuscan countryside.

Some of our favorite wines included a crisp Cervaro Della Sala Blend of Chardonnay and Grechetto and a Tignanello red blend of Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc. The crowd favorite was the outstanding Brunello di Montalcino Pian Dellevigne Sangiovese. The following lunch on the beautiful outside terrance at Rinuccio made for a most pleasant day. This special vineyard among special vineyards in Tuscany is certainly worth a visit.

Explore the Hilltop Walled-Town of San Gimignano

After being totally wowed by Antinori nel Chianti Classico, we headed south to nearby San Gimignano. This was our third visit to this iconic Tuscan town – and we will be back again. No article about best places to visit in Tuscany would be complete without this idyllic town.

We stayed at the cozy Orto di Emma at Piazza delle erbe 4 . The location is conveniently in the middle of this walled city. Restaurants, spectacular views, and attractions are just a few steps away. Without any train station in town, most visitors come via personal car or with a tour group. There is a bus that comes from the closest train station (~ five miles away), but check the schedules.

Eat at Fuoriluogo Ristorante

Fuoriluogo Ristorante is a wonderful family restaurant just a two-minute walk outside the walls. In addition to having wonderful food, the service, the artwork, and the friendliness of Mauro, Davide, Enrica, Christian, and the rest of the staff are all top-notch. It’s no wonder Fuoriluogo is one of the highest-rated restaurants in San Gimignano.

Mauro was gone for important meetings with Barolo. He continues to work on the fine wines the restaurant offers to diners. In his absence, the rest of the staff did a superb job of welcoming us and making us feel so special. Our outstanding waiter, Rafael, kindly suggested a recommended menu along with wine pairings, and we were so glad we agreed to take his advice. Julie and I enjoyed a fantastic meal with just the right wines paired with each dish.

Favorites included the Wild Boar Ravioli with citrus fruits in a saffron cream sauce, and a delectable Soft Organic Egg with sausage, red peppers, and gorgovino mousse. We also both loved the pizza, some of the best I’ve ever tasted. The light, tender crust had just the right flavors to complement the fresh tomatoes, cheeses, and fresh herbs. For dessert, we could not resist the tempting tiramisu.  

In addition to the fantastic food and service, the artwork and ambiance of Fuoriluogo is superb. Davide is a wonderful artist and painted much of the beautiful artwork in the restaurant. The friendly staff, elegant but comfortable ambiance and outstanding food and drink make Fuoriluogo one of the top restaurants in San Gimignano.

Check Out Intriguing Siena

It was hard to leave San Gimignano, but we had Siena waiting for us. The charming walled city of Siena is famous for its beautiful cathedral and for the exciting Palio di Siena Horse Races held twice a year in the large central Piazza del Campo. We unfortunately just missed this exciting event. It normally takes place twice a year on July 2 and August 16 every year. Preliminary events take place the three days before the official race. Since this is a very popular event, plan early if you want to attend during the races.

Following lunch on the lovely outdoor terrace at ViVace Ristorante and Wine Bar , we walked the short 10 minutes to the beautiful gothic Siena Cathedral. This impressive structure was built between 1215 and 1267 and features artwork from artists like Michelangelo, Donatello, and Pisano. With its iconic greenish-black and white stripes, this historic icon is striking inside and out. Other great attractions in and around the cathedral include the Piccolomini Library, the Museo dell ‘Opera, Baptistery, Crypt, Oratory of San Bernardino, and Diocesan Museum of Sacred Art.

Drink Brunello Wines at Caparzo Winery in Montalcino 

With so many outstanding wineries around Montalcino, we picked Caparzo Winery to have a tasting and to explore. My new daughter-in-law became acquainted with Caparzo while watching the fun Letters to Juliet movie from 2010. There are some scenes in the movie from one of the many Caparzo winery locations in Tuscany. We thoroughly enjoyed our tour and tasting at Caparzo Winery, especially their world-famous Brunello di Montalcino. An added bonus was the spectacular scenery on our road trip from Montepulciano to Caparzo. Located in the picturesque hills of Montalcino, with fields of red poppies next to golden fields of wheat blowing in the breeze. 

Eat and Drink your Way through Montepulciano

So, after visiting the walled cities of San Gimignano and Siena, we had another walled hilltop city on our itinerary: Montepulciano. Our return to this fantastic village was equally full of great food, wines, views, history, and special people of the town. This very walkable small town is anchored by the Grand Piazza, and is famous for its Vino Nobile red wines . Another notable landmark includes the Torre di Pulcinella. This clock tower is topped by the whimsical figure of the Pulcinella, a classical comedic character. 

We also found the “underground city” of this hill town fascinating. Miles of tunnels, rooms, and cellars have been carved into the rock underneath Montepulciano, making for a fun and educational tour. We went to the popular Cantina Ercolani for a tour and wine tasting. Other popular wineries in Montepulciano include Cantucci Winery and Cantina de‘Ricci. 

Eat at L’Altro Cantuccio Ristorante

L’Altro Cantuccio Ristorante is a fabulous family-run restaurant just a few minutes’ walk from where we stayed at the lovely Montepulciano Bed & Breakfast at Via Di Gracciano. Chef Mattia Putzulu and his lovely wife, Monica, a Sommelier, have created one of the best dining experiences in Montepulciano. L’Altro Cantuccio exudes old-world charm. Modern appointments along with the historic stone, wood, and brick is the perfect blend of old and new. 

Mattia and Monica graciously hosted us for an extremely memorable evening. For starters, we enjoyed an outstanding Tuscan and Cinta Senese salami, Pecorino cheese of Pienza, and a selection of homemade fruit mostarda. Our server also brought a stuffed golden tomato held by a sculpted hand along with an excellent 100% Sangiovese wine. 

For my main course, I had the Cheek of Chianani Beef cooked for 50 hours, with spicy vegetables, citrus fruits, and dill. The beef cheek was extremely tender and flavorful. It was one of my favorite dishes during our three-week visit to Europe. My wife had the equally excellent grilled Chianani flank steak. Other enticing mains on the menu included the Lamb with ember, coconut, mint, and radish, and a crispy salt cod with artichokes and burrata cheese.

Dessert was the amazing Underworld, an artistic and decadent concoction of chocolate mushrooms, acorns, and undergrowth – a true masterpiece! Each bite brought out the intense flavors of chocolate, cream, and nuts. I would loved to have brought one back to the states to share with family and friends, but I don’t think it would travel well (plus, I would probably eat it all before our return!).

L’Altro Cantuccio has deservedly earned its reputation as one of the top restaurants in Montepulciano. Do yourself a favor, and let Mattia and Monica treat you to a fantastic dining experience in their lovely hilltop restaurant.

Discover Top Places in Tuscany For Yourself

Obviously, there are so many great places to visit in Tuscany that no one article can capture them all. Many are relatively unknown and just waiting for you to discover them. We hope by introducing you to just a few of the many options you will be inspired to come visit for yourself. Tuscany is indeed one of Italy’s treasures and should not be missed on any Italy itinerary .

Best Places to visit in Tuscany was written and photographed by Scott Kendall for EuropeUpClose. Thanks to our gracious hosts, including Fuoriluogo Ristorante and L’Altro Cantuccio. All opinions are those of the author.

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Advice | several pedestrians hit during string of crashes in bridgeport, subscriber only, advice | wine walkabout: we visit tuscany wine country and eat well with a chef’s recipe.

It’s been more than a week since we’ve been in the wine walkabout bus as we make our way through the wine regions of the world.

Our somewhat reliable ride has been tuned up, so sit back and fill up your wine glass because we’ve just crossed into the rolling hills of Tuscany, a breathtaking landscape that the sun seems to hold in the highest regard. This is where vineyards and timeless villages appear as if out of a Renaissance painting. This is the heartland of Italian wine, a place where every bottle tells a story of the terroir and the deft hands that coax out the grape’s greatest potential.

Let’s begin in the Chianti region with its iconic namesake wine that put Tuscany on the global map. However, let’s get one thing straight, the Chianti you find here is nothing like the, macro-produced liquid that comes in a wicker basket and often has a candle sticking out of it as it adorns the tables of restaurants far and wide. No, this, my friends is the real deal. This is a wine with roots as deep as the region’s cypress trees and with a flavor that whispers of the land itself.

Chianti Classico, which is inked on the neck of the bottle by its iconic black rooster, is the gold standard of Sangiovese-based wines, so make sure you look for that specifically. As with life, great wine is all about balance. Chianti is medium to light bodied, earthy with bright cherry, violets, and balsamic vinegar flavors balanced by assertive tannins and palate-cleansing acidity.

Chianti pairs perfectly with the region’s local dishes—think pappardelle with a wild boar ragu.

Just to head off any perceived grievances of me not writing about Super Tuscan’s and Brunello di Montalcino’s in a Tuscany wine article it is only because they will get their specific article in due time. The town of Montepulciano is not to be confused with the Montepulciano grape, from Abruzzo to Tuscany’s north. The town of Montepulciano plays muse to its shining star Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, which is often overshadowed by its famous neighbor (Brunello) and has the humiliating label of “Baby Brunello.”

Outrageous as that is, the wine suffers through with flavors that offer a softer more approachable style of red that doesn’t require years of cellaring before enjoying. On the palate, there is red fruit, mushroom, earth, and tobacco with medium tannins and body. Crafted from the Sangiovese varietal with the sometimes blending in of the ancient Canaiolo grape that has always been the secret to bringing color, structure, and depth to not only this wine but Chianti as well. Also, don’t forget to share the reds with a beautiful chunk of Pecorino cheese followed by any hearty meat/pasta dish.

I know I’ve spent what may seem like an inordinate amount of time on reds, however, Tuscany’s white wines are not to be overlooked, especially Vernaccia di San Gimignano. This ancient varietal does well when young but becomes more nuanced and assertive while its color moves from pale yellow to golden with a couple of years under its belt as more nutty notes blend in with the bright acidity, lemon, and apple on the palate. Accompany this with seafood or a light antipasto spread.

My intention with this drive-by tale of Tuscany is that you can start to understand that wine isn’t just something you drink, or purchase because of slick marketing that creates something in your glass that more closely resembles sugary flat grape soda than wine.

Moreover, the wine bottle you purchase should represent a way of life from the winemaker, blending passion with family pride and heritage on a historical level. Step outside your comfort zone. I, of course, can be your somewhat mischievous wine guide throughout all of this, always ready to bail you out.

Some specific wines to consider:

• Castelgreve Chianti Classico Riserva 2017
• Poggio Stella Vino Nobile Di Montepulciano 2019
• Tenuta Le Calcinaie Vernaccia Di San Gimignano 2022

Bolognese Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil • 1⁄2 cup white onion, chopped • 1⁄2 cup celery, chopped • 11⁄2 cup carrot, chopped • 1 pound ground pork (85% lean/15% fat) • 1 pound ground beef (85% lean/15% fat) • 1⁄4 bottle (750ml) red wine, such as Chianti • 6 ounes tomato paste • Kosher Salt • Freshly ground black pepper • 1 pound dried pasta, such as pappardelle • Fresh parsley, chopped • Parmesan cheese, shaved

• In a stockpot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and carrots, then sauté until translucent. Add in both the pork and beef and cook until browned.
• Pour the wine into the pot, then stir in the tomato paste. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat. and let this mixture simmer for an hour, stirring occasionally.
• Use a spoon to skim extra fat from the top of the liquid in the pot. Salt and pepper the sauce to taste.
• Prepare your favorite pasta according to the package directions. Serve the Bolognese over pasta.

Garnish with parsley and cheese.

Johnny Noakes is sommelier and general manager of Maximum Beverage , West Hartford, and you can visit him there or on YouTube Channel @ MaximumBeverageCT , or Instagram and X @Maximumbev and @Behindthewinecru; recipe is by Chef Greg Marcuson of The North House, 1 Nod Road, Avon. 

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Sober Travelers Find Something to Savor in Wine Country

Mocktail trails, olive oil tours and elevated dining experiences are among the many ways the renowned wine-producing areas of Sonoma, Mendoza and Tuscany are appealing to sober or sober-curious travelers.

By Christine Chitnis

Amy Snook knows more about wine than your average traveler. Originally from California, she now lives in the Douro Valley of Portugal, her partner works in the wine industry, and she has visited 47 countries, many of which have celebrated viticulture. But seven years ago, on a trip to Mendoza, a winemaking region in the foothills of Argentina’s Andes Mountains, she opted to abstain from drinking alcohol, a decision she would repeat in future travels.

“It’s such a long flight to Argentina, and I was only there for 10 days,” said Ms. Snook, 34, a publishing professional. “I’m aware of how alcohol affects me, and I chose to prioritize feeling amazing every day of the trip over dealing with a hangover.”

During her visit, Ms. Snook bicycled between vineyards, reveled in breathtaking scenery, relaxed with spa treatments and engaged with sommeliers and winemakers, coming away with a new appreciation for sustainable and regenerative agriculture.

“The obvious question when you tell someone that you aren’t drinking is, ‘Out of all the places you could go, why travel to wine country?’” she said. “But to me, it makes perfect sense because these regions offer all the perks of luxury travel — wellness amenities, beautiful landscapes and fine dining.”

With 41 percent of Americans seeking to reduce their alcohol intake, according to a consumer-sentiment study released in January by NCSolutions, Ms. Snook’s experience is part of a larger trend: the rise of sober-curious or mindful drinking. While sober travel is hardly a new concept, its popularity is surging to new heights — particularly among younger generations — and forcing a reckoning in the wine industry. The 2024 State of the U.S. Wine Industry report , an annual forecast of market conditions and trends written by the wine-business analyst Rob McMillan, found that 52 percent of consumers ages 21 to 34 believe that consuming alcohol, even in moderation, is bad for your health.

This trend is reshaping travel to world-class wine destinations like Sonoma County, in California, as well as Mendoza and Tuscany. Blessed with temperate climates, extended growing seasons, fertile soils, rich histories and breathtaking vistas, these renowned wine locales are expanding their offerings to attract drinkers and nondrinkers.

Here are some of the restaurants, tour groups and wineries in those regions that are reinventing the travel experience to be more inclusive of the sober-curious.

Dining in Sonoma

If wine is a true expression of the land, embodying the unique characteristics of its soil, weather and the meticulous craftsmanship of those who cultivate it, can you still forge that connection without drinking?

At Cyrus , a Michelin-starred fine dining destination in Geyserville , Calif., the answer is a resounding yes. Sonoma County, double the size of neighboring Napa, made conscious decisions to protect and diversify its land use, ensuring grapes as well as agricultural crops were grown. Douglas Keane, Cyrus’s owner and chef, highlights the local harvest by working with small farms and purveyors to source his ingredients. Crosnes — a Chinese artichoke — from Alexander Valley Vineyards gardens, yuzu and finger limes from the citrus grower David Levine, and cheesefrom Andante Dairy have all ended up on Cyrus’s menu.

Also on the menu: Kally , an alcohol-free wine alternative produced with housemade organic verjuice and sourced from Northern California. Served at more than 15 other Michelin-starred restaurants, Kally’s bottles include Early Chardonnay, which is crisp, bright and changes flavor and aroma as it moves across the palate, similar to a fine wine. A tart, vibrant Golden Sparkler has notes of jasmine and citrus, and a floral, fruity Rosé Sparkler offers hints of strawberry and hibiscus.

“Chefs and sommeliers are interested in having precise nonalcoholic pairings. Their food was created to be prepared with sophisticated drinks, not just sparkling water,” said Scott Mitic, who created the beverage along with his wife, Katie.

Customers, too, appreciate having a choice, he said, noting that many of Kally’s most loyal drinkers are wine enthusiasts. “This is not an abstinence movement; it is a moderation movement.”

Cyrus Schultz, the wine director and sommelier at Cyrus, aims to create drinks that make sober guests feel just as special, if not more, than those indulging in traditional wine pairings. His nonalcoholic creations include the Rosé Champagne, an effervescent blend of coconut, white sesame, cherry blossom and lime, and the Apple Martini, a sweet, herbaceous concoction of pink lady apple, fennel and mint olive oil.

“The intention is never to mimic alcohol products, but to construct the pairings similarly to how a chef looks at a menu — different textures, temperatures and flavor profiles,” Mr. Schultz said.

These efforts are not limited to one restaurant. Chris Vomvolakis, senior manager of consumer public relations at Sonoma County Tourism , said bars, restaurants and wineries across the region are recognizing that it’s not all about wine.

The town of Healdsburg recently created the Mocktail Trail , with eight participating restaurants, and Meadowcroft Wines in the town of Sonoma curated a flight of original zero-proof cocktails. David Messerli, Meadowcroft’s marketing and strategy director, said the winery encourages guests “to discern aromas, flavors and nuances, much like they would with wine.”

“For those opting out of alcohol, we felt there was more we could do,” he said. “People have various reasons for abstaining from alcohol, and no one should feel excluded because of it.”

Women-led luxury in Mendoza

Mendoza, renowned for its malbec wines and stunning Andean landscapes, is no stranger to luxury accouterments, but sober guests? That is a newer phenomenon. “We have definitely noticed an increase in guests seeking nonalcoholic travel options in recent years,” said Victoria Stiles, sales manager at Cavas Wine Lodge , a luxury 18-room hotel set amid a 55-acre vineyard.

At Cavas, wine may be the main attraction, but guests can book spa treatments using vine and grape-seed extracts, join yoga sessions on the private terrace overlooking the Andes and vineyards, and take full-day hiking excursions to Aconcagua Provincial Park, a rugged, mountainous destination that is home to Mount Aconcagua, South America’s highest peak.

Wild Terrains , a certified B-Corp travel company specializing in experiences for women, has planned three days of a 10-day Argentina tour to be sober-inclusive in Mendoza. Built around women-owned businesses, stops include boutique lodging at Entre Cielos , horseback riding in the Andean foothills, home-cooked asado at Estancia Los Chulengos and a private dining experience at Michelin-starred Zonda Cocina de Paisaje . The meal offers special mocktail pairings with distinct flavors like lemon verbena, beets and burro, an herb used to make digestive teas and infusions.

“In Mendoza, our trip centers on talented female winemakers who are pushing boundaries in a historically male-dominated industry,” said Lauren Bates, founder of Wild Terrains. “While these experiences include wine tastings, we want sober travelers to feel intentionally included even if they are skipping the wine tasting.”

Sofia Pescarmona, owner of the Bodega Lagarde vineyard and Zonda Cocina de Paisaje, said that while the restaurant experience aims to showcase their wine, nondrinkers will also appreciate it.

“We truly believe we can offer an elevated experience for those who don’t drink wine by highlighting other seasonal produce grown on our property,” she said.

Tasting olive oil in Tuscany

Wine tastings epitomize indulgence, especially immersed in the heart of Tuscany, when visitors can savor glass after glass of Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano. Salvatore Ferragamo Jr., chief executive of the Il Borro wine estate and grandson of the fashion house’s founder, encourages guests to find other ways to indulge.

“The olive harvests in the autumn produce the region’s spicy, piquant ‘green gold,’” said Mr. Ferragamo.

Il Borro, in Tuscany’s Valdarno, is a meticulously restored medieval village that includes 58 suites, three vacation villas, two restaurants, stables, working vineyards and olive groves. Olive oil production began in 1996, following the recovery of varieties like Frantoio, Moraiolo and Leccino that had long been neglected. Now, after touring some 80 acres of organic groves, guests can engage in a tasting experience of two distinct oils, one full-bodied with floral, fruity and grassy aromas, the other robust, peppery and dark.

Another option, Tuscan Organic Tours , offers immersive daylong experiences that delve into wine and oil but also other rich agricultural offerings. Delicious tours with private transportation highlight tastes and flavors that include Pecorino di Pienza, one of the most renowned Italian cheeses, saffron and fresh pastas. The tours include visits to organic farms, lunches, tastings, and opportunities to participate in cheese-making and saffron harvesting.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

More From Forbes

Travel to italy like an insider with the best local experts.

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A trip to Italy is too special to get wrong. Here's how to do it right. (San Gimignano, Tuscany)

I absolutely love Italy, for many different reasons. But I hate the way in which many Americans go about planning trips there. Survey after survey shows it is the number one dream destination for U.S. leisure travelers, but the way those travelers get their information and advice gives me nightmares.

Throughout the years I’ve heard people say over and over that “I was told to do this in Italy,” or “I was told not to do this in Italy.” By who? “A friend.” I have close friends who recently planned their entire 12-day trip on the basis of another couple they knew who gave them advice—after their first visit. I’ve heard of many people who skipped Rome because “we heard it was too busy, just another big city.” Or passed on Venice, one of the world’s most magical destinations, because, “I heard it was touristy.”

There are American tourists who say you should skip Venice. They are wrong.

It goes on and on, but suffice to say, I have been to Italy in the neighborhood of two dozen times, summer and winter, for food, wine, skiing, golf, hiking, cycling and more food, from north to south and east to west and islands too, and I know a lot about Italian cuisine, but I still ask real experts for advice every time I go. I specifically ask for advice on where to eat, what to see, and who to choose as guides. And by experts, I mean people how live in Italy, specialize in particular areas of travel, and know their subject matter.

“We get multiple guests a year who want to wing it,” says Cherrye Moore, owner of My Bella Vita travel. Moore moved to Calabria two decades ago after falling in love with the region on a visit, and opened a bed and breakfast, learning about what her visitors were looking for. Her company now specializes in planning trips—especially foodie and ancestry trips—to the area in Southern Italy where many Italian Americans trace their heritage. “They say, ‘My neighbor just showed up in their family’s hometown and it went great for them,’ or, ‘Our friends went to Italy last year and said we don't need a driver.’ It’s true that you can rent a car and drive to your family’s hometown, but that experience is vastly different from having a dedicated driver and a heritage specialist who has done research on your family’s history, who has already identified the home your grandfather was born in, and who has arranged meetings with locals upon your arrival.”

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Anyone can tour the Vatican, but only the right guides can get you a private visit.

I just got back from an exploration of Turin followed by a weeklong hiking trip in surrounding Piemonte, Italy’s most prestigious wine region, which included multiple winery visits. For restaurants and guides and sightseeing in Turin I used an Italian-based travel specialist that is the choice of many of the best luxury travel agents/advisors in this country (the best travel agents are savvy enough to know what they do not know and regularly rely on local experts). For the hiking trip, I used an Italy-based active travel specialist that does nothing else, and does it with a food-centric spin. It was another fantastic Italy trip, one amazing day after another, featuring many meals, wineries and experiences I never would have found by myself, especially by asking random friends or watching You Tube influencer videos by people with far less Italy experience than myself.

“We don’t focus on stars or diamonds, we focus on really special one-of-a-kind experiences and lodging that lets you discover our Italy,” said Heather Dowd, who lives in Turin and along with her Italian husband Beppe Salerno. They run Tourissimo , the active travel company we used. We had several friends hiking with us who were on either their very first or second trip to Italy, and when we reviewed our experiences at the end for the trip, one place we stayed, an 18 th century castle turned boutique hotel, was the overwhelming favorite. It did not have whirlpool tubs or Frette linens, it did not have a concierge or room service, but it had excellent food and beautiful gardens in which we had an epic dinner. It had cooking classes, a great location, a fun aperitivo evening cocktail session, and most of all, incredible charm..

Everyone wants the perfect meal in Italy, but not everyone knows where the locals go to find it.

It was exactly what my first timers dreamed Italy would be like, and it was a place we never would have found online. It was perfect, and even in Italy not every place is, but the reality is that Heather and Beppe and their guides spend a lot of time behind the scenes visiting small hotels and vetting them, way more time than the people who rate their stays on booking websites. One of my friends was so impressed he is already planning an extended family hiking trip to Sicily with Tourissimo next year.

If you want to have an insider experience in Italy, and see the places locals go, you need a local insider to help you out.

“Our goal is for guests to experience Calabria like we do, so we’ve built experiences that aren’t available online,” said My Bella Vita’s Moore. “Nowhere else can you find a multi-course lunch hosted at Zia Pina’s or a picnic prepared and delivered by Signora Francesca. Lunch in the home of our friend, Chef Massimo, isn’t available on Google. When creating or reviewing experiences I always think of my sister in Texas. If she were visiting, would I take her here? If that answer is yes, I know we have a winner.” That is exactly the standard by which I’d like my Italy travels to be judged.

A trip to Italy is a beautiful, special, and almost sacred experience, so don’t screw it up by taking bad advice. I do not know every local specialist—and I hope to keep finding more—but I know several experts I would recommend for different kinds of travel. Or use a good travel advisor, something I recommend for all travel (Read my article Why You Need A Travel Agent More Than Ever here at Forbes ), and communicate with them to ensure they are on the same page in terms of sourcing these kinds of local experts. If they are good, they will already be familiar with several of these companies.

Active Travel

All of Tourissimo's cycling and hiking trips in Italy emphasize food and wine, which is how it ... [+] should be.

Italy has long been the dream destination of cyclists, with Tuscany atop the Bucket List for global road riding destinations. But for the past few years the fastest growing sector of cycling has been “gravel grinding,” and with hundreds of miles of its stunning unpaved “white roads,” Tuscany has also emerged as the world’s top travel spot for gravel lovers. There are also plenty of other amazing places to ride in Italy, including Piemonte, Sardinia, Puglia, the Lakes region, and many other areas. World class hiking abounds, especially the stunning Dolomites—a UNESCO World Heritage Site of beauty unmatched by most other mountain regions on earth. Beyond this there are the Alps in the east, the Cinque Terre, Sardinia, and many other great options.

Italy is so well known for cycling and hiking that every major active travel company in the world runs trips there. But for my last two active trips, one hiking and one biking, I chose a tour operator that is actually based there, founded by an Italian with a passion for cycling and food. Tourissimo may be Italian, but they cater to the American market, and founder Beppe Salerno worked for am American cycling company as a guide before realizing he could do the real Italy better himself—to me, the perfect startup rationale. Over the years since, Tourissimo has grown its library of offerings, with both with an array of scheduled group trips and private custom options. While they do mostly road riding, they are notably one of the only tour operators scheduling gravel trips, and can also arrange custom mountain biking itineraries, with years of expertise in cycling and hiking.

Superstar Chef Mary Sue Milliken has led about galf a dozen Chef's Cycling Tours in Italy for ... [+] Tourissimo.

In addition, Tourissimo has also been a pioneer in “Active Culinary Travel,” a hot new category I have written about here at Forbes (and for other magazines and newspapers). They offer an annual series of six group rides (and a hike) each hosted by an acclaimed chef like Mary Sue Milliken, an award-winning chef, restaurateur, cookbook author (five!) and co-host of the popular PBS cooking show Two Hot Tamales . She is also an avid cyclist and has led the Tourissimo Chef Bike Tours for several years, along with other big names. These trips are a unique option for serious foodies who also ride, while the other trips cater to just about anyone. Otherwise they offer several styles of trips, from Bici Basics for new riders to Ambitious Tours for the more hard core.

Tourissimo puts a focus on local, choosing small and often historic hotels that they have curated and vetted (like the castle I just stayed at in Piemonte), places that you would never be able to distinguish from hundreds of other non-chain options online. Same for restaurants, wineries, and all the other ways they take you behind the scenes and into their real Italy. Their Mission Statement? “We don't want to be the biggest adventure travel company. We want to design and run the best tours in Italy. We strive to be the most authentic and the most beneficial to local communities.” Fantastico!

Bellagio on Lake Como is one of the most famous destinations in Italy — and the perfect place for a ... [+] food-centric bike tour!

Bike It! Bellagio offers another insider biking experience on a much different scale, providing a great one-day experience for visitors to Italy’s most famous lake town. This bike shop on Lake Como is run by a former pro racer and his wife. They rent bikes (road, mountain and e-bikes) out, but also offer one-day guided tours with multiple food and drink stops. Given that the owner grew up here and knows everyone, it’s not surprising that the food and drink spots are insider picks. The shop sits near the iconic Madonna del Ghisallo climb, the most famous in the Giro di Lombardia, a race more than a century old, and several days a week the shop offers guided group rides with a climb of the pass, on road or e-bikes—Bianchi bikes of course!

There are scheduled tours Monday through Saturday, as well as wide range of customizable private tours. These are often taken by families with mixed ages, but for more aggressive riders they offer longer road tours, mountain biking and gravel riding, along with a wide range of less demanding e-bike tours, including some even more focused on food and wine. They also offer a handful of multi-day tours and can put these together as custom on demand, usually for groups, including an iconic coast to coast traverse of Italy. If you are a guest of one of the many stunning (and pricey) ultra-luxury hotels around Bellagio, and ask the concierge to arrange a bike tour, they are likely going to call this shop anyway (and mark it up) so just do it yourself.

Luxury Travel in Italy

From planning your entire itinerary with flights, hotels, and transfers to just booking the best tours, guides and VIP access (often to non-public highlights), it pays to use a top local specialist.

Last year I attended the annual Virtuoso Travel Week in Las Vegas, which has been called “the Oscars of the travel industry.” Virtuoso is the leading global luxury travel consortium, and many of the best travel advisors on earth belong, So does just about every top hotel, resort, safari lodge, cruise line, and luxury tour operator. Virtuoso CEO Matthew Upchurch was explaining the many advantages of using a travel advisor (I wholeheartedly agree) and something he said really stuck with me. He explained that with all of the new online tour booking companies, it was easier than ever to book a tour or guide in just about any destination on earth, but harder than ever to judge the quality. The caveat was that, “you can book a guide, but you can’t book my guide.”

One of Italy's greatest hidden gems, Turin was the nation's first capital and a Winter Olympic host. ... [+] It's worth getting a good guide if you visit.

The Vatican is the Vatican and the Colosseum is the Colosseum, so when you opt for a guided tour, what really matters and makes it a good, bad or great experience is the guide—and their special access, like a tour of the Vatican when no one else is there.

For my recent trip to Turin, I called Imago Artis Travel , an Italy-based luxury travel specialist. They are what is known in the travel industry as a destination management company or DMC, the same companies luxury travel agents call to arrange local details for their clients. There are great DMCs all over the world, and local knowledge is valuable everywhere, but many of them do not deal directly with travelers, while in Italy the best ones do.

I wanted a private day tour of Turin and its surrounding attractions for my wife and I, most importantly the Reggia di Venaria Reale, aka the “Italian Versailles” (one of two places in Italy with this lofty but accurate nickname). The guide they got for me was a licensed guide, and lifelong resident of Turin, and spoke excellent English, which was all good, but she was also an architect, which was great in a city where so much is driven by architecture. That’s not so easy to find on global tour aggregator website. Imago Artis also gave me a list of their favorite restaurant recommendations, which were spot on, then made my reservations for me. At a minimum this eliminates the language barrier of calling or the technology barrier of booking through often tricky (or non-functional) Italian restaurant reservation websites, but in many cases it also gets you a better table and instant VIP treatment—which definitely does not happen when I book myself.

Italy is rich in world-class crafts, and companies like Imago Artis can take you behind the scenes ... [+] to meet the makers.

Imago Artis Travel is a Virtuoso member, which means when you book through them, if you book your luxury hotel, you get extras like room upgrades, late checkout, spa credits etc., one of the big advantages of working with Virtuoso travel advisors. If you have a bigger budget than I do, they can handle all sorts of luxury transport, private jets, helicopters, boat charters, and also offer VIP Meet and Greet services at just about every airport in Italy. They can even arrange private security details. On a more accessible luxury level, they specialize in exclusive experiences, unlocking historic buildings and art collections not open to the public, and taking you behind the scenes with many artisans of Italy, from custom shoemakers to sculptors to jewelry designers. They know food, they know the guides, and I especially like their mission statement, “Our mission is simple: Getting You to the Heart of Italy.” That’s what it is all about.

Another top luxury DMC that is also a member of Virtuoso that I have used in the past with great success is IC Bellagio . They offer a similar array of luxury services and are very well connected, but they also specialize in Villa rentals as well as 5-Star hotels. Differentiating villas in Italy may be the single biggest challenge, more so than restaurants, with so many options and so few valid reviews. IC Bellagio has also boldly acknowledged the overtourism problems some of the most popular parts of Italy face, and are pushing “Slow Season Travel,” which varies in each of the country’s 20 regions but is something they are expert in. Last winter I went to Venice in the off-season, and it was spectacular, and I just traveled in a slow season to Piemonte. It was much, much better than fighting the crowds.

Skiing in Italy is awesome, and it's the best place in the world to stay in mountain rifugios — but ... [+] you need help for the perfect trip.

Skiing in Italy remains a bit under the radar for Europe, especially compared to France and Switzerland. Well, let the crowds go to other countries, because Italy has two different major ski regions, both of which have hosted the Winter Olympics, and the Games are returning to Milan and Cortina in 2026. The interconnected Dolomiti SuperSki lift and trail network in the Dolomites is arguably the largest “ski resort” in the world, and inarguably one of the most beautiful mountain landscapes on the planet. The towns are charming, the food is great, there are spectacular hotels from non-chain independent hidden gems to world-class luxury (Aman, Mandarin Oriental, Relais & Chateaux, etc.) and it’s cheaper than much of the rest of Europe. Did I mention the food?

I first went to the Dolomites to go hiking, and was so wowed I thought, “I have to come back and ski here.” I came back the next winter and skied, and the following year I got a group of friends together and went back. I have skied all over the U.S., and all over the world and never had the same compulsion to return to the same place immediately. That’s how good skiing in Italy is ( read much more in my Italy skiing piece here at Forbes ).

I’ve only used one company for ski travel in Italy and see no reason to switch gears, especially since the local logistics (a great guide/instructor, transfers, the best on-mountain meals and staying a couple of nights in the region’s unique on-mountain rifugios) is very hard to organize on your own. The company is Dolomite Mountains , a specialist in both resort ski vacations and backcountry touring trips (using skins and alpine touring or AT gear). They too are a U.S. facing company with mainly American clientele.

Like many active travel companies, they offer both group trip scheduled departure options and private custom trips to fit whatever you want. The group option is called the Dolomites Ski Safari and is a 7-day trip mixing stays in amazing rifugios with in-town hotels (4 and 5-stars on the Italian system) and includes all breakfasts and dinners, a full-time guide, ski pass, luggage transfers and more. Custom options include the same kind of trip for your own group, or anything you want, and while its name suggests local expertise—quite true—Dolomite Mountains also handles ski trips in the rest of Italy, like Courmayeur, and connected border regions of France, Switzerland and Austria, as many lift systems here know no national boundaries (ski with your passport!). They are also a Virtuoso member.

Calabria & Southern Italy

Many Italian Americans trace their ancestry to Southern Italy's Calabria, and if you want to visit, ... [+] make sure you do it right.

My Bella Vita travel focuses on this area, including both small group trips and custom privates. Their specialties include “Heritage Tours” for those interested in their ancestry, and a food focus for the rest of us. For instance, Taste of the South is a 12-day gastronomic journey through Calabria, Basilicata and Naples—the birthplace of pizza! Food & Wine of Calabria is an 11-daty trip and just what it sounds like.

These are some of the scheduled small group tours offered, but the rest of their business is private trip planning and custom options.

“Italy is deceivingly large, and travelers think two weeks is enough time to see everything. It isn’t,” insists Moore. “You can’t even experience all of Calabria in two weeks. Our team collectively spends about six months a year scouting new hotels, restaurants, and experiences in Calabria and we are constantly re-evaluating and tweaking our recommendations.”

There are some other Italy specialists I have not personally experienced, but that come highly recommended by some of my other experts:

My Bella Vita’s Cherrye Moore says, “ In Sicily, I recommend Lucia Davies of Sicily Tour , one of a trio of British expats who have lived in Siracusa, Sicily for decades.” A family-owned tour-guiding company based in Siracusa, they have nearly 40 years of experience on the island and create trips fostering cultural exchange between Italy and English-speaking visitors, specializing in small group and custom tours.

Food & Wine

Life is too short to go to Italy and not eat well.

Beppe and Heather Dowd of Tourissimo recommend Lazy Italian Culinary Adventures , a company that has also earned kudos from other travel industry folks I know. Owner Francesca Montillo grew up in Southern Italy where her father was greengrocer. An Italian-American cookbook author, she launched the company a decade ago, and she personally leads the tours. She does numerous scheduled tours to different regions each year, and also offers custom private itineraries.

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