Canberra isn’t just Australia’s capital—it’s also a surprisingly great spot for lunch experiences that combine delicious food, excellent wine, and a touch of local charm. While many travelers focus on the political and cultural sites, the region’s wine country offers some of the most enjoyable daytime outings. Whether you prefer a private wine tour with a relaxed vibe or a full-day exploration of breweries and distilleries, Canberra’s offerings are diverse and memorable. We especially love the Private Canberra Winery Tour with lunch for its personalized approach and the chance to savor wood-fired pizza at a boutique vineyard—perfect for celebrating a special occasion or just a relaxing day out.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the six best lunch experiences in Canberra, each with its own flavor and appeal. From intimate private tours to full-day adventures, you’ll find something that suits your schedule and taste buds.
1. Private Canberra Winery Tour with lunch
At number one, the Private Canberra Winery Tour with lunch offers a customized, no-pressure way to explore the region’s top vineyards. For around $220, you get approximately five hours of private time in a comfortable vehicle, visiting some of the most celebrated wineries in the ACT and nearby New South Wales. The highlight of this tour is the wood-fired pizza lunch at one of the vineyards—vegetarian and gluten-free options are available, making it suitable for most dietary needs.
This tour is perfect if you want flexibility and a tailored experience. You can choose your preferred wineries or let your guide handle it, which is great for discovering hidden gems or well-known producers. The reviews praise the guide’s local knowledge and friendly service, with many mentionings of the relaxed atmosphere and excellent wines. One guest notes, “Laura was very knowledgeable and made the whole afternoon enjoyable,” emphasizing the personalized nature of this private tour.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a private, flexible, and intimate wine-tasting experience with great food, this tour delivers. It’s ideal for celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying a leisurely day.
2. Full-Day Canberra Winery Tour to Murrumbateman with lunch
For around $176, the Full-Day Canberra Winery Tour to Murrumbateman offers a comprehensive taste of the region’s best boutique wineries. This 8- to 9-hour experience includes visits to up to six wineries such as Helm Wines and Eden Road, both highly rated for their wines and reputation. The tour also features a delicious lunch with cheese platters and local dips, plus snacks, soft drinks, and water—keeping everyone refreshed throughout the day.
What sets this tour apart is its combination of wine tastings, scenic stops at lookout points, and a relaxed atmosphere. The visit to Four Winds Vineyard includes not only the pizza paired with wines but also the story of the property’s origins, which adds a personal touch. The guides are flexible, and guests enjoy the chance to learn about winemaking processes from the producers themselves.
Guests consistently enjoy the friendly hosts and the chance to explore multiple wineries without the hassle of driving. One review mentions, “We loved the variety of wines and the lovely lunch—perfect for a full day out.”
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting a full day of wine-tasting, scenic views, and a mix of educational and fun experiences. It’s a great choice if you’re craving variety and a relaxed pace.
3. Half-Day Canberra Winery Tour to Murrumbateman with lunch
If time is limited but you still want a quality wine experience, the Half-Day Canberra Winery Tour to Murrumbateman is a solid choice. For roughly $142, this 5- to 6-hour tour visits 3-4 wineries, including Helm Wines and Eden Road, both rated highly in the local scene. The tour features tastings at each stop, a shared cheese platter, and a pizza lunch at Four Winds Vineyard—an ideal way to combine wine, food, and a bit of sightseeing.
The buses are older but comfortable, and the smaller group size fosters a friendly atmosphere. Guests have noted that this tour is perfect for those wanting a taste of Canberra’s wine region without committing to a full day. One review highlights the personable guide and the quality of wines sampled.
The tour’s focus on boutique wineries and the scenic drive make it suitable for visitors who want an overview rather than an exhaustive experience. It’s also a good pick for travelers tight on time but eager to sample the best of Murrumbateman’s wines.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, shorter tour for wine lovers who want tastings, good food, and scenic views without a full day commitment.
4. Full-Day Canberra Brewery, Wineries & Distillery tour with lunch
For those who prefer craft beers, spirits, and wine all in one day, the Full-Day Canberra Brewery, Wineries & Distillery Tour is a fantastic option. At around $176, this 9- to 10-hour experience takes you through a selection of breweries, wineries, and a distillery, with visits to Jeir Creek, Eden Road, and Ambrosia Distillery. The tour includes tastings at each stop, a pizza lunch, and samples of gin and vodka.
This tour is best for travelers who love variety and want to explore the full spectrum of local alcohol production. The visits to Jeir Creek and Eden Road are highlights, with tastings of award-winning wines and the chance to learn about different production methods. The distillery visit adds a unique element, with opportunities to taste multiple gins and vodkas.
Guests find the day lively and engaging, especially those with an interest in spirits. The tour is suitable for larger groups and offers a fun, comprehensive day out. One review notes, “We enjoyed the mix of beers, wines, and spirits, plus the relaxed lunch in between.”
Bottom Line: If your ideal lunch experience involves multiple types of alcohol and a full day of tasting, this tour covers it all.
5. 2 People – Premium Wine Tasting Experience and 2-Course Lunch
For an intimate, upscale experience, the Premium Wine Tasting and 2-Course Lunch is perfect. Priced at about $183 per person, this 2.5-hour experience immerses you in boutique wines, with a curated tasting plate designed to complement each pour. The setting is cozy and welcoming, ideal for couples or small groups who want a more personal touch.
The experience combines a high-quality tasting with a delicious regional lunch. The focus is on craftsmanship and flavor, with the guide sharing detailed insights into each wine’s story and production. The setting is intimate, making it suitable for special occasions or a romantic day out.
While this option is shorter, reviews highlight the quality of both the wines and the food, with one guest praising the “beautifully curated tasting and delicious lunch.” It’s a good pick for travelers seeking a refined, relaxed afternoon without a large group or lengthy schedule.
Bottom Line: Best suited for couples or small groups wanting a refined, sensory-focused experience paired with excellent food.
$183.28 per person
6. Canberra: Private Wine Discovery Tour with Lunch
Rounding out the list is the Private Wine Discovery Tour with Lunch, which offers a very personalized experience. For up to two people at $396, it includes visits to three award-winning wineries, tastings, and a wood-fired pizza lunch at Four Winds Winery. The tour is fully customizable and includes pickup and drop-off from your preferred Canberra location.
This tour stands out for its exclusivity and tailored approach. The guide is passionate about wine and takes care to ensure you visit wineries that match your interests. The private setting makes it ideal for celebrating a special event or for visitors who want an immersive, stress-free experience.
Guests mention the relaxed pace and the chance to learn directly from winemakers. Although more expensive per group, the value is evident in the personalized service and the quality of wineries visited. It’s perfect for those wanting privacy and a bespoke itinerary.
Bottom Line: For a deeply personal wine discovery, this private tour offers flexibility, exclusivity, and a memorable experience.
$396 per group up to 2
How to Choose Your Perfect Lunch Experience
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. If you want a flexible, private experience, the Private Canberra Winery Tour with lunch is ideal. For a full day with multiple wineries and scenic stops, the Full-Day Canberra Winery Tour to Murrumbateman offers excellent value.
If you’re pressed for time but still want a quality tasting, the Half-Day Winery Tour balances convenience and experience. For those who love spirits and craft beers along with wine, the full-day brewery and distillery trip is the way to go. Couples or small groups seeking a luxurious, intimate experience will appreciate the Premium Wine Tasting or the Private Discovery Tour.
Booking early is wise—especially for private tours and weekends—since these experiences tend to fill quickly. Consider the season; spring and fall are especially lovely for scenic drives and outdoor tastings.
The Sum Up
Canberra offers a surprisingly diverse array of lunch experiences that combine regional wines, craft spirits, and local food. For a personalized touch, go for the private tours like the Private Canberra Winery Tour with lunch. If you prefer a broader taste of the region, the Full-Day Winery Tour is hard to beat. For those short on time but eager to indulge, the Half-Day Tour offers a perfect balance.
Whatever your style, these tours promise a delicious day out in Canberra’s wine and food scene—so pick what suits your schedule and get ready to enjoy a memorable lunch. Remember, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these popular experiences. Cheers to discovering Canberra—one sip and bite at a time!