Pisa is more than just its iconic Leaning Tower — it’s also a fantastic base for exploring Tuscan cuisine and scenery. While some travelers might stick to pizza and pasta in the city, those looking for memorable lunch experiences can venture into the surrounding countryside or enjoy immersive tastings right in Pisa. We particularly love tours that combine authentic food, excellent wines, and cultural sights — like the San Gimignano and Winery Experience with Light Lunch or the Foodie Full Lunch Tour with a Local Sommelier. These give you a taste of Tuscany’s rich flavors and scenery, with the bonus of guided insights and small-group atmospheres.
If you’re after a straightforward, affordable lunch with local wines, Chianni’s wine and oil tasting with lunch or dinner is a great choice. For those interested in private, all-day explorations, options like the “Sweet Hills of Chianti and San Gimignano” private tour offer a personalized touch. Below, we’ve broken down five top lunch experiences near Pisa, each offering something unique, whether it’s a scenic drive, a hands-on tasting, or a cultural stroll.
1. San Gimignano and Winery Experience with Light Lunch from Pisa
This full-day, small-group tour makes it easy to enjoy two iconic Tuscan destinations. You’ll visit San Gimignano, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its medieval towers, without the hassle of organizing transport or guides yourself. The tour includes round-trip transit from Pisa, so you can relax and take in the rolling hills. The highlight is a visit to a Chianti winery, where you’ll taste local wines and enjoy a light lunch in a relaxed setting, with all the details taken care of.
What makes this experience stand out is its balanced mix of culture and gastronomy. You get two hours in San Gimignano to explore at your pace, and two hours at the winery for a tutored tasting paired with local bites. Reviewers love the personal touch—“Massimo our guide was great,” and appreciate that the tour avoids large crowds. The cost includes transport, a scenic countryside drive, and the wine and lunch, adding up to excellent value for a full day of Tuscan delights.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with wine tasting and a light meal, all in a small-group setting that keeps things intimate.
2. Ramble Through The Rolling Hills Of Chianti with Lunch & Wine Tastings
This private tour offers a deep dive into the classic Chianti landscape, with a focus on wine and food. Starting with a hotel pickup, your driver takes you through breathtaking vineyards, olive groves, and sunflower fields. The journey includes a stop at San Gimignano, where you can wander among its medieval towers and sample local specialties like saffron and Vernaccia di San Gimignano white wine.
The real treat is a lunch on a traditional farm, where you enjoy homemade pasta and taste some of the best wines in the region. The tour’s private driver means your schedule is flexible, and each stop is tailored to your interests. The reviews highlight the knowledgeable guide “Andrea,” who shared regional stories and made the day memorable. At around $289, it’s a premium experience, but the personalized service, private transportation, and authentic farm lunch make it worthwhile.
Bottom line: Ideal for couples and small groups wanting a private, comprehensive Tuscan wine experience that combines scenic drives, cultural stops, and a farm-to-table lunch.
3. Foodie Full Lunch Tour Experience with a Local Sommelier in Pisa
For those who prefer to stay in Pisa but want a culinary adventure, this tour offers a full-fledged Tuscan lunch with over 15 authentic foods. Led by a local food expert and certified sommelier, you’ll sample regional delicacies like local cheeses, cured meats, and traditional bread, all paired with perfect wines.
The tour concentrates on small family-run shops and regional products, giving you insight into Tuscan food traditions. It’s a three-hour experience, making it ideal for food lovers with limited time. Reviewers praise Ariela for her engaging stories and the quality of the tastings. At $121.95 per person, the price reflects the quality of local products and expert guidance.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers wanting a guided, immersive tasting session that reveals Tuscan cuisine’s stories, right in Pisa’s city center.
4. PRIVATE Tour “Sweet Hills of Chianti and San Gimignano” with Lunch & Two Tastings
This private, 8-hour experience combines the best of medieval towns and wine country. Your dedicated driver guides you through San Gimignano, known for its famous towers and local Vernaccia di San Gimignano wine. The self-guided exploration includes strolling around the main square, visiting shops, and tasting gelato at the renowned Gelateria Dondoli.
The day continues with a scenic drive along the Chianti wine road, stopping at a Tuscan farm for a lunch that features pasta and regional specialties paired with six wines. The highlight is a wine cellar visit and tasting. Guests note that the driver’s knowledgeable commentary made the trip special, and you can customize the itinerary for maximum enjoyment.
At around $288 per person, this tour offers luxury, flexibility, and personalized attention—perfect for those celebrating a special occasion or who want a tailored experience.
Bottom line: Excellent for those who prefer privacy, a flexible schedule, and a comprehensive day of food, wine, and scenic towns.
5. Chianni: wine and oil tasting with lunch or dinner
If your goal is to experience local flavors on a budget, this shorter experience offers a chance to taste four Tuscan wines and organic extra virgin olive oil combined with a Tuscan lunch or dinner. Priced at about $56.94, it’s an affordable way to get a genuine taste of Tuscany without sacrificing quality.
Held in the charming Chianni area, the tasting includes a variety of regional wines and oils, giving you insight into the agricultural traditions that define Tuscany. The experience is flexible, with options for lunch or dinner, making it suitable for different schedules. While it’s shorter and less intensive than other options, reviews indicate that it provides excellent value and authentic flavors in a cozy setting.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers on a budget or those looking for an introductory experience to Tuscany’s wine and oil culture.
$56.94 per person
How to Choose Your Ideal Lunch Experience in Pisa
When narrowing down your options, consider your budget, schedule, and interests. For a full-day adventure that combines sightseeing and wine, the San Gimignano and Winery Experience or the private “Sweet Hills of Chianti” are excellent. The latter offers more personalized attention, ideal for celebrating a special occasion.
If you’re eager to focus on Tuscan cuisine without leaving Pisa, the Foodie Full Lunch Tour offers a flavorful, guided experience perfect for food lovers. For a more budget-friendly option that still delivers authentic tastes, Chianni’s wine and oil tasting is a solid choice.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak seasons, as these popular tours fill up quickly. Think about what experience best matches your interests—whether it’s scenic countryside, cultural exploration, or culinary immersion—and you’ll find the perfect Tuscan lunch adventure.
In summary, Pisa offers a fantastic range of lunch experiences that go beyond the usual pasta. Whether you want a full-day tour with wine and culture, a private drive through Chianti, or an authentic tasting in Pisa’s city center, there’s something for every palate and pocket. For those keen to explore Tuscany’s flavors and scenery, booking early ensures you’ll get the best experience—so start planning your delicious Tuscan escape today.