Chianti wine tasting and san gimignano day trip from siena

Spend an afternoon in Tuscany, visiting the small towns of San Gimignano and Castellina in Chianti, on a half-day tour from Siena. Hear the history of the region from an expert guide, and then enjoy some free time to explore the medieval hill town of San Gimignano, discovering sites like Piazza del Duomo and Via Francigena. Then, travel to the heart of the Tuscan hills for a tour of a winery in Castellina in Chianti, where you'll learn about Tuscan wine, and enjoy a wine-tasting session, too!

Meet your guide in central Siena and travel north through the Tuscan countryside by air-conditioned coach. Your destination is San Gimignano, a lovely medieval town complete with old city walls and impressive towers. Perched on a hill overlooking the lush Val d’Elsa valley, the UNESCO-listed town is popular for its views, history and architecture.

Learn all about the town from your guide as you travel, and then enjoy roughly 1.5 hours of free time in San Gimignano to explore at your own pace. Admire the stunning architecture around Piazza della Cisterna and Piazza del Duomo, and have your camera ready for photos by the Collegiata – San Gimignano’s Romanesque cathedral. Perhaps take a stroll along the Via Francigena strip – an ancient pilgrimage road – or visit the shops to browse the locally made handicrafts and beautiful Santa Fina pottery.

Meet your guide at the pre-arranged time and travel deep into the heart of Tuscany, to the famous Chianti region. Gaze out at the emerald green hills, laden with grape vines and olive groves, and stop in the postcard-perfect village of Castellina in Chianti. Visit a renowned winery here for a tour, exploring the cellars, vineyards and bottling rooms of an impressive Tuscan wine estate.

Hear about wine production in the Chianti area – the grapes used, the terrain and the climate – and learn about the different classifications of Tuscan wines, such as Super Tuscans and the prestigious Gallo Nero label. After your tour of the estate, sit down to sample a selection of the best!

Sip on different reds and whites, noting the characteristics that set them apart from other Italian wines. While sampling and discussing the wines, tuck into a selection of typical Tuscan snacks. The dishes vary according to what’s available on the day of your tour, but you can expect delights like garlicky bruschetta, mild cheeses and Tuscan salami or ham; you won’t be disappointed!

After relaxing at the winery, return to your coach for the journey back to Siena. Finish your tour in the early evening back at the start point.

Please note: occasionally this tour may run in reverse order, meaning your visit to Chianti will take place before San Gimignano.

Special Offer - Introductory Offer! Book before September 30, 2013, to travel before December 31, 2013, and save 10% on the recommended retail price. - Book Now!