Florence: Truffle Hunting, Lunch, and Wine Tasting Tour

If you’re planning a visit to Florence and want to escape the city buzz for a day of genuine Tuscan flavors and countryside adventures, this tour offers a fantastic option. While I haven’t personally taken this trip, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a well-rounded, authentic experience that combines food, nature, and local culture seamlessly.

What I love about this tour is the chance to see the Tuscan landscape through the eyes of a seasoned truffle hunter, the opportunity to sample some of Italy’s best wines, and the delicious, homemade lunch that highlights local ingredients. The intimate nature of the small group (limited to 8 people) makes it feel personal and immersive. One thing to consider is that this experience is quite active—wearing comfortable shoes and clothes is a must, especially for the truffle hunt—so it’s best suited for those with a moderate level of mobility and an enthusiasm for outdoor adventures. Overall, if you’re a foodie, wine lover, or curious about how truffles are found, this tour hits all the right notes.

Good To Know

• Authentic truffle hunting in the Tuscan woods with a professional guide and his dog.
• Tasting local Chianti DOCG and Super Tuscan IGT wines with a knowledgeable sommelier.
• Enjoying a hearty Tuscan lunch featuring dishes with freshly discovered truffles.
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a cozy atmosphere.
• Visits to San Miniato, a small town famous for supplying a large share of the world’s white truffles.
• Great value considering the inclusion of food, wine, and a guided outdoor experience in Tuscany’s scenic countryside.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Full-Day Tuscan Experience

The Journey Out of Florence

The tour kicks off from Piazza dei Cavalleggeri, right in front of Florence’s Biblioteca Nazionale, making it easy to meet your guide. After a roughly one-hour scenic drive through Tuscany’s rolling hills, you’ll arrive in San Miniato—a town that’s a culinary treasure trove, especially for truffles.

Truffle Hunting with a Professional Guide and His Dog

The highlight for many is the truffle hunt in the woods around San Miniato. Led by a seasoned truffle hunter, you’ll follow his dog, which is trained to sniff out these elusive fungi buried beneath the soil. As one reviewer, guin, noted, the guides are “very knowledgeable,” which makes all the difference in understanding the process and significance of truffle hunting.

The experience is lively and interactive; you’ll feel the excitement as the dog suddenly starts digging, signaling a potential treasure. According to reviews, the actual hunt lasts about 10 minutes within the broader morning session, but the thrill of discovery makes it worthwhile. You might not get to keep the truffles you find, but the joy of experiencing this age-old tradition firsthand is priceless.

Exploring San Miniato

After the hunt, the tour includes a guided walk through San Miniato, a charming town with medieval roots. Here, you’ll get a quick glimpse of local life and perhaps some stories about how the town became so influential in truffle supply. The guided portion lasts about 45 minutes and helps put the entire experience into context, enriching your understanding of the region’s culinary heritage.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Tuscan Lunch with a Truffle Twist

No trip to Tuscany is complete without savoring its culinary delights, and this tour delivers just that. Hosted at a family-owned winery, the lunch is a heartfelt affair featuring home-cooked dishes infused with freshly found truffles. Expect a variety of simple, flavorful offerings—perhaps pasta with shaved white truffle, bruschetta, or local cheeses—all designed to showcase the earthy aroma and rich flavor of the mushroom.

Guests consistently rave about the warm hospitality of Francesca and her family, who make you feel like a guest in their home. One reviewer, Joel, mentioned the “memorable experience” of the meal, emphasizing the personal touch and quality of the ingredients.

Wine Tasting in the Heart of Tuscany

Following the meal, you’ll enjoy a wine tasting session of carefully selected local wines. The focus is on Chianti DOCG and Super Tuscan IGT, two of Italy’s most celebrated wine styles. Led by a knowledgeable sommelier, you’ll learn about the wines’ characteristics and why they pair so well with truffles and Tuscan cuisine.

The tasting lasts about an hour, giving you plenty of time to savor the wines and ask questions. Guests have praised the expertise of the guides, noting how they enrich the experience beyond just sipping wine.

Return Journey and Reflection

After the wine tasting, you’ll hop back into the van for the return trip to Florence, with a scenic one-hour drive that lets you reflect on the day’s highlights. The experience concludes back at your starting point, making it convenient and straightforward.

What This Tour Offers in Terms of Value

At $317.20 per person, this tour provides an all-inclusive experience combining outdoor adventure, culinary delights, and cultural insights. The price encompasses truffle hunting, a hearty Tuscan lunch with truffle appetizers, wine tasting, and guided visits—everything you need for a well-rounded day outside Florence. Considering the personalized attention (limited to 8 participants) and the depth of local expertise, the value feels justified for those eager to understand Tuscany’s gastronomic culture firsthand.

The Group Size and Guides

Guests have consistently praised the guides—particularly Julia, who served as guide, sommelier, and driver in one review, for being truly amazing. The small group setting ensures you won’t be lost in crowds and allows for more engaging, tailored conversations about the region, its wines, and its culinary traditions.

Practical Considerations

The tour lasts about 7 hours, so comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended—especially for the truffle hunt, which involves walking through forests. It’s not suitable for pregnant women or anyone with mobility issues, but the overall pace is moderate and manageable for most outdoor lovers.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This experience is ideal if you’re passionate about food, wine, and authentic traditions. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy active outings and want to go beyond typical sightseeing. The personalized approach, high-quality local food, and expert guides make it a memorable way to connect with Tuscany’s culinary roots.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, intimate experience that combines the thrill of a countryside hunt with tasting some of Italy’s finest wines and dishes, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s especially suited for those who value local craftsmanship and want to learn about how truffles are found and celebrated in Italy.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes. The tour includes a van transfer from Florence to San Miniato and back, making the journey hassle-free.

What should I wear for the truffle hunt?
Comfortable shoes are a must, preferably trekking shoes, since you’ll be walking through forests. Dress in clothes suitable for outdoor activity and weather conditions.

How long does the truffle hunt last?
While the entire morning might include some waiting, the actual hunt with the dog typically lasts about 10 minutes, according to reviews.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is designed for adults, and due to walking and outdoor activities, it’s best for those comfortable with moderate physical activity. It’s not specified if children are allowed, so check with the provider if you’re bringing young kids.

Are the truffles found during the hunt yours to keep?
No, the truffles are not given to participants; they are for the hosts’ use and culinary preparations during the lunch.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility for your travel plans.

To sum it up, this tour offers a thoughtfully curated taste of Tuscany’s culinary and natural charms. From the excitement of tracking down wild truffles to savoring local wines and hearty dishes, it’s a well-balanced experience that highlights the rustic beauty and flavors of the region. Perfect for foodies, outdoor lovers, and those eager for an authentic slice of Tuscan life, this adventure promises memories that will linger long after you leave the countryside behind.

You can check if your dates are available here: