Florence: Ghost & Crimes Walking Tour with Tastings and Wine

If you think Florence is only about Renaissance art and stunning architecture, think again. This Ghost & Crimes Walking Tour offers a fascinating look at the city’s eerie legends, shadowy alleyways, and dark secrets—all wrapped up with delicious Tuscan food and wine. It’s a perfect blend of history, mystery, and flavor that makes for an unforgettable evening.

What really makes this experience stand out are the engaging guides, the atmospheric stops at lesser-known locations, and the opportunity to sample authentic Chianti and local snacks. However, with a focus on storytelling and tasting, some might find the tour a bit fast-paced or limited in time to fully explore each site. Still, if you love stories with a side of wine and food, this tour will hit the right spot.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy a good story, have a curiosity for Florence’s dark past, and want to enjoy a relaxed evening with tastings in a small-group setting. It’s especially great for those who appreciate authentic local flavors and are eager to see the city from a different, more mysterious perspective.

Good To Know

• Authentic storytelling about Florence’s haunted past and hidden legends
• Tastings of Chianti wine and Tuscan cold cuts in a cozy setting
• Visits to lesser-known, atmospheric locations like Piazza SantElisabetta and Santa Croce
• Engaging guides who bring the stories to life with humor and insight
• Short, manageable 2-hour walk perfect for an evening activity
• Focus on authentic experiences rather than touristy clichés

You can check if your dates are available here:

Unpacking the Experience: What Makes This Tour Special

This two-hour stroll through Florence’s darker corners offers more than just ghost stories. It’s a carefully curated journey into the city’s less polished, more mysterious side, all paired with regional tastings that elevate the experience. The mix of history and flavor creates an appealing, multi-sensory adventure.

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour kicks off at Piazza della Signoria, a lively square known for its iconic sculptures and bustling atmosphere. Here, your guide—likely someone like Ilaria, praised for her enthusiasm and knowledge—sets the tone with tales of Girolamo Savonarola, the fiery friar whose Bonfire of the Vanities set Florence ablaze. This opening scene immediately hooks you into Florence’s turbulent past, blending history with a sense of the city’s enduring mysteries.

Exploring the Haunted Alleys

As you wind into the secluded Piazza Sant’Elisabetta, you’ll step into a quieter, almost secretive part of Florence. This location is home to the legend of the Strega della Nebbia, or Mist Witch, whose cursed whispers supposedly still drift through the fog. The stories here feel more personal, almost like whispers from the past, making the experience more immersive.

Tasting in a Cozy Prosciutteria

Midway, you’ll pause at a charming prosciutteria near the Duomo. It’s not just about the food—though the Tuscan cold cuts and cheese are excellent—but the atmosphere that makes the tasting special. Sipping Chianti in a relaxed setting, your guide might share insights about the regional wine culture, making this a memorable sensory highlight.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Secrets of Brunelleschi and the Duomo

Back on the street, the tour leads you to Piazza del Duomo, where the guide discusses Brunelleschi’s dome—a marvel of architecture often associated with mystical or alchemical symbolism. The idea that his dome might be more than just a grand architectural feat—it could be an esoteric machine or a gateway—adds a layer of intrigue to this famous site.

The Dark Tales of Historical Figures

The story of Antonia da Castello, accused of using unguents of the Devil, and Antonia la Nera, the black witch who allegedly returned from death, offers a glimpse into Florence’s historical fears and superstitions. These tales aren’t just spooky stories—they reflect real social fears and the ways people once tried to explain the unexplainable.

A Sweet Ending

The tour concludes at Il Cernacchio, a traditional cernacchio (wine cellar), where you’ll enjoy cantucchi and Vin Santo—a perfect sweet note after a dark, intriguing evening. This final tasting seals the experience with a sense of conviviality and tradition, making it clear that Florence’s legends aren’t just tales but part of the ongoing local culture.

The Itinerary Breakdown

• Start at Piazza della Signoria: A lively, historic square where the guide introduces Florence’s shadowy past and the legend of Savonarola. Expect engaging storytelling that hooks you early.
• Walk into Piazza Sant’Elisabetta: A quieter, atmospheric spot that’s perfect for hearing about the Mist Witch and feeling the city’s haunted ambiance.
• Break at a prosciutteria near the Duomo: Tasting regional wines and meats, and soaking in the authentic Tuscan atmosphere.
• Visit Piazza del Duomo: Discussing Brunelleschi’s dome and its possible mystical symbolism.
• Meet Antonia da Castello: Exploring the stories of accused witches and their legends.
• Encounter Antonia la Nera outside the Museo del Bargello: An eerie story of death and supernatural return.
• Finish at Il Cernacchio: Enjoying cantuccini and Vin Santo as a warm, sweet close to your dark journey.

What to Expect: Practical Details

The meeting point is conveniently located under the equestrian statue of Cosimo de Medici, making it easy to find. The entire experience lasts about 2 hours, which is perfect for an evening activity without feeling rushed. The small-group format ensures you get personalized storytelling, with many reviewers noting guides like Ilaria as knowledgeable, engaging, and full of energy.

Price-wise, at $59 per person, this tour offers good value considering the inclusion of wine tastings, food, and the guided experience. The reviews highlight that the tastings are a highlight, with many visitors describing the food as “amazing” and the wine as “a lovely touch”.

For those concerned about timing, the tour is designed to be short and sweet—ideal for a relaxed evening without the commitment of a full-day excursion. If you’re a fan of stories, history, or simply want a different perspective on Florence, this tour checks all those boxes.

Authenticity and Guide Quality

Reviewers consistently mention the quality of guides, often naming Ilaria as a standout for her knowledge, humor, and friendly demeanor. She keeps the stories lively and accessible, making the dark tales approachable without losing their intrigue. The small group size means you’re likely to get plenty of interaction and answers to your questions, enhancing the overall experience.

Value for Money

At $59, you’re getting a well-rounded experience that combines history, local flavors, and entertainment. Compared to other tours, especially those with just sightseeing, this one offers added cultural depth through tasting opportunities and storytelling. Many reviews note that the food and wine are genuinely good, making the experience feel like a true taste of Tuscany’s hospitality.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy stories with a twist of history and mystery, and who want to see Florence from a different angle. It’s perfect for small groups or couples seeking an intimate, authentic experience, and those curious about the city’s lesser-known legends. If you’re after a fun, relaxed evening with a bit of dark allure and delicious regional snacks, this tour is a winner.

Final Thoughts

This Ghost & Crimes Walking Tour offers more than just ghost stories; it’s an engaging journey through Florence’s shadowy side, brought to life by a knowledgeable guide. The combination of historical tales, atmospheric locations, and Tuscan tastings creates a memorable experience that combines culture, mystery, and flavor.

While it’s a quick tour, the quality of storytelling and authenticity of the tastings make it one of the more engaging ways to spend an evening in Florence. It’s especially suited for those who love a good story, enjoy regional wines, and want to explore Florence beyond the typical tourist trail.

For anyone wanting an entertaining, atmospheric, and delicious glimpse into the city’s darker legends, this tour delivers superb value and a genuinely fun experience.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
This tour is generally designed for adults, especially since it involves storytelling about dark legends and alcohol tastings. Children might enjoy the stories, but check with the provider if you’re unsure.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 2 hours, making it a manageable evening activity without feeling rushed.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The tour involves walking through Florence’s streets, which may include cobblestones or uneven surfaces. Contact the provider for specific accessibility questions.

Are the wine and food tastings included in the price?
Yes, the wine and Tuscan bites are part of the experience at the designated stop.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is conducted in English, with guides like Ilaria earning praise for their clear, engaging narration.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some peace of mind when planning your trip.

To sum it up, this Florence ghost tour combines storytelling, local flavor, and atmospheric locations into a captivating evening. Perfect for curious travelers who appreciate history, enjoy regional wine, and want to see Florence’s mysterious side—this experience is a memorable way to spend a night wandering through the city’s darker tales.

You can check if your dates are available here: