3-Day Tuscany Cooking, Wine & Horseback Riding near San Gimignano
An Authentic Farm-to-Table Escape in the Tuscan Countryside
Experiencing the real Tuscany, where local flavors, countryside charm, and slow living come together, is nearly impossible without local connections. Hidden farm stays, authentic cooking classes, and access to the Slow Food culture aren’t easy to find on your own. Our three-day retreat near San Gimignano invites you to live like a local with farm-fresh feasts, hands-on cooking, and horseback rides through rolling vineyards. Slow down, savor every bite, and taste Tuscany as it was meant to be.
- Meeting point at Empoli train station
- Private transfer
- Cooking class with dinner
- Breakfast
- Horseback ride with local snack
- Dinner
- Breakfast
- Check-out
Your three-day retreat begins at Empoli Train Station, where a private transfer brings you through the scenic Tuscan countryside to Agriturismo Santa Cristina. This peaceful farmhouse, surrounded by vineyards and rolling hills, is the perfect escape. Master farm-to-table cooking with a hands-on class, ride through the countryside on horseback, and enjoy local wines with every meal. Savor fresh flavors, relax in nature, and immerse yourself in authentic Tuscany before returning to Empoli with lasting memories.
3-Day Tuscany Cooking, Wine & Horseback Riding near San Gimignano Description
Your 3-day/2-night tour includes:
Round-trip private transfer from Empoli train station
2 night stay in Tuscan farmhouse
Hands on cooking class with 3-course dinner
2 breakfasts with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients
1-hour horseback ride with a glass of wine
Farm-to-table dinner
Day 1 - Arrival & Cooking Class Experience
Your journey into Tuscany’s beauty and flavors begins at Empoli train station, just a 30-minute train ride away from Florence, where a private driver will greet you and escort you to Agriturismo Santa Cristina. As you travel through the picturesque countryside, you’ll pass sun-drenched vineyards, cypress-lined roads, and rolling hills—a quintessential Tuscan postcard come to life. Upon arrival at the agriturismo, you’ll check into your charming room and have some time to unwind. Take in the peaceful surroundings, breathe in the fresh country air, and prepare for your immersive culinary experience.
In the evening, you’ll join your three-hour cooking class led by the estate’s expert chef. This hands-on experience will introduce you to the art of traditional Tuscan cuisine, from kneading pasta dough to perfecting slow-cooked flavors. You’ll prepare a four-course meal, featuring: appetizer, first course, second course and a dessert. After the class, you’ll sit down for a convivial dinner, enjoying the dishes you’ve prepared alongside your fellow guests. The chef will guide you through a wine pairing experience, selecting the perfect local vintages to complement each course.
As the evening winds down, you’ll retreat to your cozy room, falling asleep to the gentle sounds of the Tuscan countryside.
Day 2 – Horseback Ride & Traditional Tuscan Dinner
Wake up to the serene beauty of the Tuscan countryside and enjoy a farm-fresh breakfast basket featuring a delicious selection of yogurt, crunchy cereals, crisp toast, butter, jam, homemade cake, tea, coffee, milk, juice, and fresh eggs – everything you need for a perfect start to your day!
After breakfast, set off on an unforgettable adventure: a one-hour horseback ride along the picturesque trails surrounding the agriturismo. As you ride through the stunning countryside, you'll take in the peaceful charm of the landscape. Midway through, you’ll stop in a scenic clearing to enjoy a glass of local wine paired with a classic bruschetta – a simple yet delightful taste of Tuscany. Additional refreshments will be available for purchase on-site. After your ride, you'll have free time to explore the estate or unwind with a good book in the lush gardens. As evening falls, gather for another memorable Tuscan dinner featuring regional culinary traditions, including appetizers, a main course, and dessert.
Day 3 - Breakfast & Departure
Your final morning at Agriturismo Santa Cristina begins with another breakfast basket, full of locally sourced ingredients. If you wish, take a leisurely stroll around the estate, soaking in the tranquility and charm of the rolling hills one last time. After check-out, your private driver will take you back to Empoli train station, where you’ll bid farewell to this enchanting Tuscan retreat. Though your journey comes to an end, the memories of these three days—filled with authentic flavors, breathtaking landscapes, and cool experiences—will stay with you long after you leave.
What you get with this tour
Frequently Asked Questions
What to bring?
Please bring a valid passport or ID document matching the name provided at the time of the booking. We also recommend comfortable walking shoes for your horseback riding.
Where to meet?
You'll meet your driver at the Empoli train station, which is conveniently located approximately 35 minutes from the Agriturismo. You will also be returned to this station at the end of your stay. If you have your own car, you can easily reach Agriturismo Santa Cristina in time for your first activity!
What to bring?
Please bring a valid passport or ID document matching the name provided at the time of the booking. We also recommend comfortable walking shoes for your horseback riding.
Is this tour run by The Tour Guy?
No, this experience is operated by one of our trusted and vetted partners in Tuscany.
What if I have concerns about my mobility on this tour?
If you have concerns about mobility, please inform us in advance. While the experience is not highly strenuous, some walking and horseback riding are involved.
Can I expect to walk a lot during this tour?
While there is no extensive walking tour, guests are encouraged to explore the grounds at their leisure. The horseback riding activity is a relaxed and scenic experience.
Is lunch or dinner included in the price of the experience?
Yes! The experience includes two breakfasts (to be consumed in the apartment), one cooking class dinner, one snack and one farm-to-table dinner.
What if I have food allergies, intolerances, or other dietary requirements?
Please contact us in advance so we can do our best to accommodate your needs. We will work with our tour partners to provide you with an alternative when possible.
Are drinks included in the price of the tour?
Yes! Wine is included during the cooking class dinner, the farm-to-table dinner, and the snack.
Can I bring my kids, and do I have to pay for them?
Of course! Please keep in mind that there will be an extra charge per child, or additional participants and wine tastings are only available for guests 18 and older with a valid ID. Reach out to us directly to find out the price.
Does this tour include pickup?
Pick up from Empoli train station is included.
What time is check-in?
Check-in is from 4:00 pm to 6 pm. Please contact us in advance so we can do our best to accommodate your needs.
What time is check-out?
Check-out is at 9.30 am.