If you are staying in the Renaissance cradle of Florence and feel the call of the rolling Tuscan hills, a Florence wine day trip is the absolute best way to spend 24 hours. Just a short drive from the city lies the San Casciano in Val di Pesa region. This area serves as the beautiful northern gateway to the famous Chianti Classico zone.
This itinerary takes you through three distinct estates. You will experience aristocratic villas with manicured gardens, underground historic cellars, and family-run farms with panoramic views.
Table of Contents
- What Are the Best Transport Options from Florence?
- Why Visit Tenuta Poggio Torselli?
- Where to Eat and Taste at Villa Le Corti?
- What Makes Fattoria Castelvecchio Special?
- How to Plan Your One-Day Itinerary?
What Are the Best Transport Options from Florence?
The wineries in this guide are located approximately 30 to 40 minutes south of Florence. You have several reliable options to get there.
- Car Rental: Renting a car from the Florence airport gives you maximum flexibility, but keep in mind that renting a car a the airport is generally more expensive then city locations. You can expect prices around $22/day for a small car (eg. Lancia Ypsilon), $34/day for a medium car (eg. Peugeot 3008), or $54/day for a small SUV (eg. Volkswagen Tiguan). Fuel prices as of May 2026 are €1.75/$2.05 per liter or $6.60 per US gallon, for Euro 95 petrol. Always choose Self or Fai da te for lower rates. Servito (full-service) can add a significant premium per liter. However, Italy has strict drinking and driving laws, so you must designate a driver with an International Driving Permit for non-EU residents.
- Private Driver (NCC): This is the most stress-free option for wine lovers. You can hire a driver for the day who will navigate the winding roads and wait for you at each stop.
- Organized Tours: Several high-quality small-group tours depart daily from Florence. Viator offers excellent options like the “Chianti Safari” that handle all the logistics for you.
- Shuttle and Taxi: You can easily take a taxi to the first winery. Getting one back to the city can be difficult, so it is better to pre-book a return service.
Pro Tip: Aim to depart Florence by 9:30 AM to make the most of your Florence wine day trip.
Why Visit Tenuta Poggio Torselli Winery?
Your first stop is Tenuta Poggio Torselli, often referred to as the “Queen of the Hills.” This property is a national monument of immense historical and botanical importance. Walking into Poggio Torselli feels like stepping back into the 17th century. The estate is famous for its magnificent architecture and one of the most beautiful Italian gardens in Tuscany.
Which Wine Should You Try Here?
As a sommelier, my top pick for this estate is the Poggio Torselli Chianti Classico DOCG. This wine consistently earns impressive scores, boasting a solid 4.0 rating on Vivino. The 2016 vintage also received an excellent 90-point rating from Wine Enthusiast. Expect elegant notes of red cherry, earth, and a refined finish that perfectly represents the traditional Sangiovese character.
How Can You Book a Visit?
If you want a curated experience, consider booking a “Taste of Chianti” tour through Viator. These specific tours often combine a visit to this historic villa with local cheese tastings and professional guidance through the vineyards.
Where to Eat and Taste at Villa Le Corti Winery?
Next, head to Principe Corsini – Villa Le Corti. This estate has been in the hands of the noble Corsini family since the 14th century. The villa itself is a Renaissance masterpiece, but the real magic happens underground. The historic cellars spread across three levels beneath the villa, where wine ages in massive oak casks and traditional terracotta jars.
What Is the Best Lunch Option?
You cannot visit Villa Le Corti without eating at Osteria Le Corti. The restaurant focuses on authentic Tuscan cuisine using ingredients grown directly on the estate. You can expect incredible handmade pasta, local meats, and a rustic yet elegant atmosphere.
Which Wine Should You Try Here?
For your lunch pairing, my sommelier’s pick is their flagship Le Corti Chianti Classico (Bio). This organic wine is a massive crowd-pleaser and holds a strong 4.0 average rating on Vivino. It pairs perfectly with the rich local food, offering a vibrant fruit profile, incredible freshness, and smooth tannins.
What Makes Fattoria Castelvecchio Winery Special?
To round off your Florence wine day trip, drive higher into the hills to Fattoria Castelvecchio. This family-run estate offers a more intimate and down-to-earth feel compared to the grand villas. The property sits on a natural terrace overlooking the Val di Pesa. The views here are arguably the best in the region, offering a 360-degree look at the vineyards and olive groves.
Which Wine Should You Try Here?
My final sommelier’s pick for the day is their Super Tuscan Il Brecciolino or the Vigna la Quercia Riserva. Both wines are highly celebrated by the wine community. Il Brecciolino holds a fantastic 4.1 rating on Vivino, while the Vigna la Quercia Riserva boasts a 4.0 rating. These wines are known for their altitude character, offering highly aromatic profiles and excellent aging potential.
Can You Stay the Night?
If you find yourself too relaxed to head back to Florence, Fattoria Castelvecchio offers a wonderful Agriturismo experience. You can book a stay in one of their traditional Tuscan rooms and wake up to the sun rising over the vines.
How to Plan Your One-Day Itinerary?
| Stop | Winery | Highlight | Sommelier’s Pick |
| 1 | Tenuta Poggio Torselli | Italian Gardens | Chianti Classico DOCG (Vivino 4.0) |
| 2 | Villa Le Corti | Underground Cellars | Le Corti Bio (Vivino 4.0) |
| 3 | Fattoria Castelvecchio | Panoramic Views | Il Brecciolino (Vivino 4.1) |
Always email or call the wineries at least 48 hours before your visit to secure a spot. If you fall in love with a particular bottle, ask the staff about direct shipping. Most of these wineries can ship cases of wine directly to your home internationally, saving you the hassle of packing heavy bottles in your luggage. Ready to taste the best of Tuscany? Start booking your tastings today and enjoy the perfect escape from the city.
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