Florence: Chianti Bike Tour with Wine Tasting & Lunch

Summary

Cycle Chianti’s rolling hills taste wine & share lunch in a Tuscan villa

You’ll pedal through the Chianti hills with a local guide, pass vineyards and castles, and pause for wine and olive oil tasting at a Tuscan villa. A traditional lunch is included—think simple dishes full of flavor—and there’s time to soak up the scenery before heading back to Florence. Expect laughter, good company, and those small moments that stick with you.

What’s the experience like?

I nearly bailed when I saw the first hill outside Florence — not gonna lie, my legs protested. But our guide Paolo just grinned and said, “Piano, piano!” (slowly). He had this way of making you feel like you belonged on that bike, even if your last ride was years ago. The air smelled faintly of wild herbs and something sweet from a nearby vineyard. I kept thinking: this is what people mean when they talk about Tuscany.

The route wound past olive groves and old stone villas, sunlight flickering through cypress trees. At one point we stopped for water and Paolo pointed out a medieval castle on a distant ridge — apparently his grandfather used to work there pressing olives. There was this quiet hum of cicadas everywhere, plus the occasional bark from a farm dog or two. I tried to say “grazie” with the right accent when locals waved as we passed; probably butchered it but they smiled anyway.

Lunch was at this villa tucked behind rows of grapevines — long wooden tables, simple food that tasted like someone’s grandmother made it. The wine tasting wasn’t stuffy at all; more like friends pouring you another glass and telling stories about the land. The olive oil was peppery and green — I still think about that flavor sometimes when I’m back home staring at supermarket bottles. We rode back slowly after, legs tired but happy, sun warm on our backs. If you’re looking for a day trip from Florence that feels real (and yes, includes pickup), this Tuscany bike tour is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Chianti Hills bike tour and tasting

• Transfer to countryside starting point
• Meet professional tour guides
• Visit Chianti area
• Bike orientation and safety briefing
• Begin bike tour through vineyards and olive groves
• Stop for photos along the ride
• Enjoy light lunch at Tuscan villa
• Taste wine and extra virgin olive oil
• Option to purchase wines and oils

Top questions

How long is the Tuscany bike tour from Florence?

The cycling part covers about 24km (13 miles) through the Chianti area.

Is lunch included in the Chianti bike tour?

Yes, a light traditional Tuscan lunch with wine and olive oil tasting is included at a villa.

Does the tour include transport from Florence?

Yes, round-trip transport from Florence to the starting point in the countryside is provided.

Are bikes and helmets provided on this day trip?

Bikes and safety helmets are supplied for all participants.

Is there a guide during the Tuscany bike ride?

Yes, an engaging local guide leads the group throughout the tour.

Can I buy wine or olive oil during the tour?

You have the option to purchase exclusive wines and oils during your visit to the villa.

How fit do I need to be for this bike tour?

You should be able to ride confidently and have at least moderate physical fitness.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip transport from Florence to the countryside starting point, fitted bike and helmet rental with safety briefing, guidance from friendly local experts along winding roads through vineyards and villas, plus a light Tuscan lunch with wine and extra virgin olive oil tasting before heading back in the afternoon.