Florence: Truffle Hunt, San Gimignano, and Chianti Day Trip

Traveling to Tuscany offers a chance to soak in scenic landscapes, taste world-class wines, and discover charming medieval towns. This particular tour, offered by FunInTuscany, promises a full day exploring the heart of Chianti’s countryside with unique experiences like a truffle hunt and a visit to the iconic San Gimignano. While we haven’t personally done this tour, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a well-rounded option for anyone wanting to combine authentic food experiences with cultural sightseeing.

Three things stand out about this trip: First, the chance to hunt for truffles with a professional guide and trained dogs — a rare and exciting activity. Second, the delicious truffle-based Tuscan lunch paired with Chianti wines—a treat for foodies. And third, the opportunity to explore San Gimignano’s medieval towers and picturesque views with a knowledgeable guide. A potential consideration is that the truffle hunting activity might be shared with other participants, which could slightly affect the intimacy of the experience.

This tour is best suited for food and wine enthusiasts, history lovers, and anyone eager to see Tuscany beyond Florence’s city limits. If you enjoy hands-on activities, scenic drives, and tasting local specialties, this trip ticks many boxes.

Good To Know

• Authentic truffle hunting guided by a professional with trained dogs
• Traditional Tuscan lunch featuring truffle specialties and Chianti wines
• Guided tour of San Gimignano, a medieval town with iconic towers
• Comfortable transportation in a private, air-conditioned minivan
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• Not suitable for people with mobility impairments or animal allergies

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Journey Begins: Comfortable Transport from Florence

The trip kicks off at a central meeting point in Florence, right in front of Café Gamberini. From there, a luxurious 8-seater air-conditioned minivan whisks you away through the rolling hills of Tuscany. The drive offers a glimpse of the countryside’s stunning scenery, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos of vineyards and olive groves.

Guests report that the transportation is smooth and the guides are friendly, setting a relaxed tone for the day ahead. Since this is a private group, the atmosphere remains intimate and personalized—ideal for those who prefer avoiding large crowds.

The Truffle Hunt: Nature, Dogs, and Secrets

The highlight for many travelers is meeting with a professional truffle hunter, who takes you into the woods and vineyards where truffles grow. You’ll walk along scenic trails, but the real stars are the trained dogs—their noses lead the way to hidden treasures underground.

Reviews mention guides like Tom and Phillipo, who are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach. One traveler described the hunt as a fun, interactive activity that felt like a real treasure hunt. They also appreciated learning about truffle types, growth conditions, and the best ways to enjoy them.

While the activity might be shared with other participants, many found this to add a communal feel rather than detract from the experience. The guide will demonstrate how dogs sniff out truffles, and you’ll get a chance to see or even help with the process.

Savoring a Truffle-Based Tuscan Lunch

After the hunt, everyone gathers for a delicious Tuscan meal centered around truffles. The menu includes several truffle specialties—think pasta, bruschetta, or possibly eggs—and is paired with local Chianti wines. The combination of hearty, flavorful dishes and fine wine makes this part of the day feel like a true indulgence.

Guests consistently mention the quality of the food and wine pairing. One reviewer described the lunch as a “great opportunity to taste authentic flavors in a relaxed setting,” while others appreciated the generous portions and the variety of truffle dishes offered.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Exploring San Gimignano

Next, you’ll visit the famous medieval village of San Gimignano, often called the “Medieval Manhattan” thanks to its skyline of well-preserved towers. A local guide will take you through the cobbled streets, sharing stories about the town’s history, architecture, and secret corners.

Expect to spend about 1.5 hours wandering the charming streets, enjoying panoramic views of the rolling hills, and soaking in the atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Reviewers mention that the guides are knowledgeable and passionate, enhancing the visit with interesting anecdotes.

Of course, no trip to San Gimignano is complete without tasting world-champion gelato—Dondoli’s, to be specific. Many visitors find that a scoop of this award-winning gelato is the perfect way to finish their sightseeing.

The Return Journey and Final Impressions

After a leisurely exploration, the tour vehicle picks you up for the ride back to Florence. The entire day runs smoothly, with plenty of time to relax and reflect on the experiences.

Feedback highlights the value of this tour at $407.83 per person, considering the inclusion of transport, expert guides, personalized experiences, and authentic meals. The overall rating of 5/5 from two reviews underscores its appeal.

Making the Most of Your Day Trip

Transportation: The use of a private 8-seater van means you won’t be crammed into a bus with strangers, making for a more comfortable experience, especially in hot weather.

Guides and Staff: Guides like Tom and Phillipo receive praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to make participants feel involved. The professional truffle hunter is also key, making the hunt both educational and fun.

Duration and Timing: The full tour lasts about 7 hours, making it a substantial but manageable day trip. Starting times vary; check availability to plan your day appropriately.

What to Bring: Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking in uneven terrain, and bring weather-appropriate clothing, especially if rain is forecasted. A camera is a must for capturing scenic views and memorable moments.

Limitations: The activity isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or animal allergies, as the tour involves walking and interaction with trained dogs.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Absolutely, if you value authentic experiences over cookie-cutter sightseeing. The combination of truffle hunting, regional cuisine, and medieval charm provides a well-rounded taste of Tuscany’s countryside. The price reflects the quality, with knowledgeable guides, a delicious meal, and a scenic journey all included.

However, keep in mind that the truffle hunt might be shared with other guests, so if you’re seeking complete privacy, you may want to confirm this beforehand. Also, for those with mobility restrictions, it’s worth considering the walking involved.

This trip offers a great balance of activity, culture, and delicious food—ideal for travelers who want to indulge their senses and learn something new. It’s especially suited for foodies, wine lovers, and history buffs eager to see Tuscany from a different perspective.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, it involves walking and outdoor activities. Children comfortable with walking and enjoying hands-on experiences should be fine, but check with the provider for age restrictions.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers roundtrip transportation, a professional truffle hunter guide, trained dogs, the truffle-hunting activity, a truffle-based Tuscan lunch with wine, and a guided visit to San Gimignano.

Can I request private transportation?
Yes, private pickup in Florence city center is available upon request, though it isn’t included in the standard package.

How long is the entire trip?
The tour lasts about 7 hours, from meeting in Florence to returning after sightseeing and lunch.

What should I wear?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking and weather-appropriate clothing, especially waterproof shoes if rain is possible.

Is the tour suitable for people with allergies?
The activity involves interaction with trained dogs, so it’s not suitable for those with animal allergies.

In short, this day trip combines hands-on authenticity with scenic beauty and culinary delights. Perfect for travelers who want more than just sightseeing — an immersive taste of Tuscany’s countryside, cuisine, and culture. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply eager to experience Italy’s rural charms, this tour offers a memorable day out in the Tuscan hills.

You can check if your dates are available here: