Adventure Collective
Wine & Culinary Tour: Vernaccia and Saffron in San Gimignano - Florence

Wine & Culinary Tour: Vernaccia and Saffron in San Gimignano

Firenzeeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

7 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels, as walks are leisurely with some standing during tastings and meals.

Overview

Discover the rich flavors and stories of Tuscany with a private tour in San Gimignano, featuring Vernaccia wine and saffron-infused cuisine. Perfect for culture and food lovers alike!

Firenze, Toscana

Private Vernaccia and Saffron in San Gimignano

Private tour • 7 hours • Tasting and lunch included! • All ages

Select participants and date

About This Adventure

Embark on a captivating 7-hour journey to San Gimignano, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where medieval charm meets culinary delight. Explore the town's rich history, savor the renowned Vernaccia di San Gimignano wine, and indulge in a delicious Tuscan lunch featuring exquisite saffron. Experience the stories behind these local treasures firsthand.

Come with us to discover Vernaccia and Saffron!

Duration

7 hours

About

During this tour you will have the opportunity to discover one of the most beautiful medieval cities in Italy, San Gimignano, the Manhattan of the Middle Ages, whose historic center is Worlwide Unesco Heritage. But not only that, the territory surrounding San Gimignano is rich in food and wine products such as saffron and Vernaccia di San Gimignano, the first wine to obtain the DOCG name in Italy.

In 45/50 minutes we will arrive in San Gimignano: founded by the Etruscans on the top of a hill probably chosen for strategic purposes and dominating the upper Val d’Elsa (Elsa river valley).

In the Middle Ages the town was located right along the pilgrims road "via Francigena" and was named San Gemiane by Sigerico, Archbishop of Canterbury. Its position between Pisa and Siena was strategic for commercial purposes. Saffron production and trade were one of the reasons for the great economic development of the city.

Once there you can admire the medieval village perfectly preserved and look from the panoramic points the surrounding hills covered by Vernaccia vineyards. After the visit we will reach a small family run winery and taste the local wines including the famous Vernaccia di San Gimignano DOCG, the first Italian wine that received the “designation of origin guaranteed and controlled”, accompanied by a Tuscan lunch based on local products, first of all highest quality saffron.

There is a lot to say about Vernaccia and saffron, but we prefer that you know the story through the words of people who grow them.

Includes

  • Wine tasting
  • Tuscan lunch

Important Notice

  • Please note that the law in Italy does not allow the sale of alcohol to young people under 16 as children under this age will be served non-alcoholic beverages.
  • Let us know in advance any special need or for people with reduced mobility and will do our best to accommodate you. Do not forget to advice us about food intolerance or allergies.

Note: this is a private tour and as such only your group will be taking part in this activity.

Adventure Tips

Arrive early at the meeting point

Getting there a bit ahead ensures a relaxed start and better views of San Gimignano’s skyline.

Bring a camera or smartphone

Capture the stunning medieval architecture and scenic vineyard views.

Wear comfortable shoes

The tour involves walking through cobbled streets and historic sites.

Sample local products after the tasting

Visit nearby shops to purchase authentic Vernaccia and saffron-based products.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • European hedgehogs
  • Swallows

History

San Gimignano’s towers were built by wealthy medieval families to showcase their power and wealth, earning it the nickname 'Medieval Manhattan.'

Conservation

Efforts are ongoing to preserve the delicate vineyards and historical architecture, promoting sustainable tourism in the region.

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Adventure Hotspots in Florence

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Comfortable walking shoes

Essential

Necessary for walking on cobblestone streets and uneven surfaces.

Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)

Essential

Protection from the Tuscan sun during outdoor walks.

spring|summer|fall|winter specific

Camera or smartphone

Capture memories of picturesque scenes and wine tastings.

Water bottle

Essential

Stay hydrated during the day’s activities.