Florence’s lunch scene delivers authentic Tuscan flavors without the tourist traps. Skip the overpriced restaurants and opt for hands-on experiences that showcase genuine local cuisine. I’m especially fond of the market-to-table cooking workshops – you’ll shop with locals at the historic Mercato Centrale before preparing a traditional meal. The Chianti countryside tours are another winner, combining wine tastings with farm visits and a spectacular lunch amid rolling hills.
For serious food lovers, don’t miss the farmhouse cooking classes. You’ll work alongside Italian home cooks who share generations-old recipes and techniques. The winery tours offer great value too, pairing regional wines with local specialties like pecorino cheese and house-cured meats.
Let’s explore our carefully selected lunch experiences in Florence and Tuscany.
Key Points
- Enoteca Alessi offers a 1.5-hour wine tasting experience with a local Tuscan lunch, starting at $67.55 per person.
- Cooking class and farmhouse lunch in the Tuscan countryside, located 20 minutes from Florence, providing a 4-course meal with Tuscan wine.
- Sant’Ambrogio market tour and cooking class in Florence, including a hands-on lunch with locally sourced ingredients and local wines.
- Chianti Safari and Culinary Adventure, a full-day tour featuring wine, olive oil, cheese, and regional specialties, with a 3-course winery lunch.
- Orcia Valley and Montalcino day trip with a gourmet lunch and three local wine tastings, rated 4.7/5 for natural beauty and gastronomy.
Tuscany Day Trip From Florence: Siena, San Gimignano, Pisa and Lunch at a Winery
This popular full-day Tuscany tour from Florence takes visitors on a journey through some of the region’s most iconic destinations.
The 17,722 5-star reviews speak to its quality, with travelers praising the knowledgeable guides and the memorable winery lunch.
The packed itinerary includes guided tours in Siena, free time in charming towns, and the option to climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
While some wished for more time in Siena and San Gimignano, the tour’s organization and inclusions, from transportation to gratuities, make it a hassle-free way to experience the highlights of Tuscany in a day.
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Florence: Wine Tasting and Lunch Experience
For a delightful wine tasting and lunch experience in the heart of Florence, visitors can head to Enoteca Alessi.
This 1.5-hour experience allows guests to sample four Tuscan wines, including Vernaccia di San Gimignano and Chianti Classico, while learning from a sommelier.
The lunch includes bruschetta, salads, cured meats, and cheeses, all prepared with local products.
Priced from $67.55 per person, the experience is wheelchair accessible and available in English and Italian.
Participants must be 18 or older, and tips aren’t included.
Guests can book now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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Cooking Class and Lunch at a Tuscan Farmhouse With Local Market Tour From Florence
Nestled in the heart of the Tuscan countryside, just a 20-minute ride from Florence, this immersive culinary experience invites travelers to explore the local food culture.
With a badge of excellence and over 4,300 reviews, the Cooking Class and Lunch at a Tuscan Farmhouse with Local Market Tour offers an authentic taste of Tuscany. Guests start by visiting a Florentine food market, then learn to prepare a full Tuscan meal under the guidance of expert chefs.
The 4-course lunch, accompanied by Tuscan wine, showcases classic dishes like bruschetta, handmade tagliatelle, and tiramisu. While vegetarian options aren’t available, the experience promises an unforgettable day of laughter, learning, and delicious food in a beautiful setting.
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Authentic Florence: Sant’Ambrogio Food Market Tour and Lunch
Travelers seeking an authentic taste of Florence’s vibrant food culture can embark on the Sant’Ambrogio Food Market Tour and Lunch experience.
This 3-hour tour takes visitors through the lively Sant’Ambrogio market, where they can interact with local vendors and handpick the freshest seasonal ingredients.
The culinary adventure continues with a hands-on cooking class, where participants learn to prepare traditional Tuscan dishes.
Afterward, guests savor the fruits of their labor during a leisurely lunch, accompanied by local wines.
This immersive experience provides an intimate glimpse into Florence’s gastronomic heritage, allowing visitors to connect with the city’s rich culinary traditions.
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Chianti Safari: Tuscan Villas With Vineyards, Cheese, Wine & Lunch From Florence
An immersive Chianti adventure awaits as travelers embark on the Chianti Safari tour from Florence.
Over the course of a full day, guests will sample the region’s finest wines, olive oils, cheeses, and regional specialties.
Highlights include an off-road journey through the Tuscan hills, visits to a historic villa and wine estate, and a 3-course lunch at a winery restaurant.
With 3,876 glowing reviews and 99% recommendation rate, this tour promises an engaging learning experience and unparalleled access to the flavors of Chianti.
Though not wheelchair accessible and requiring moderate fitness, the Chianti Safari offers an unforgettable immersion into Tuscany’s culinary treasures.
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From Florence: Siena & San Gimignano Tour With Wine & Lunch
Departing from Florence, this comprehensive tour whisks travelers to the historic city of Siena and the picturesque town of San Gimignano, immersing them in the rich cultural heritage and idyllic landscapes of Tuscany.
The tour includes a guided exploration of Siena, followed by an authentic Tuscan lunch and wine tasting at a renowned winery in the Chianti region.
Visitors then have time to freely explore the iconic towers of San Gimignano.
Led by knowledgeable guides, this excursion offers an exceptional opportunity to experience the culinary and cultural highlights of Tuscany at a reasonable price.
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Siena and San Gimignano: Small-Group Tour With Lunch From Florence
Though departing from Florence, this comprehensive small-group tour takes visitors on a captivating journey to the historic city of Siena and the picturesque town of San Gimignano, immersing them in the rich cultural heritage and idyllic landscapes of Tuscany.
Highlights include a guided walking tour of Siena, free time to explore the medieval hill town of San Gimignano, and a delightful lunch at a family-owned winery featuring seasonal Tuscan specialties and local wines.
With transportation, an English-speaking guide, and a maximum group size of 25, this tour ensures a personalized experience.
Travelers praise the knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and exceptional food and wine.
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Florence: S. Gimignano, Siena, Chianti & Wine Tasting Lunch
This comprehensive full-day tour from Florence takes visitors on an in-depth exploration of Tuscany’s picturesque towns and rolling hills.
Highlights include free time in the UNESCO-listed town of San Gimignano, a wine tasting and three-course Chianti-style lunch in the Chianti Hills, and a guided tour of the historic city of Siena.
Travelers can also upgrade to visit Siena Cathedral.
With an expert live guide, comfortable transportation, and excellent customer ratings, this tour offers great value for exploring some of Tuscany’s top sights.
Comfortable shoes and original ID are required, and those with motor disabilities should provide advance notice.
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Explore Chianti on Vespa: Tour, Guide & Lunch From Florence
For a one-of-a-kind exploration of Tuscany’s renowned Chianti region, travelers can embark on a guided Vespa tour from Florence.
Boasting a near-perfect 94% traveler recommendation, this experience offers an authentic taste of the Tuscan countryside. Highlights include a visit to two renowned wineries, tastings of Chianti wines and olive oils, and a delectable Tuscan lunch at a castle.
With iconic Vespa rentals, roundtrip transportation, and a small group size, this tour provides an intimate and memorable adventure. Proper licensing and experience are required, and the tour operates rain or shine, with options available for inclement weather.
At $134.10 per person, this Chianti Vespa tour is an exceptional value.
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Florence: Pisa, Siena and San Gimignano Day Trip With Lunch
Travelers seeking a comprehensive exploration of Tuscany’s most iconic destinations can embark on a day trip from Florence to Pisa, Siena, and San Gimignano.
Priced from $51.80 per person, this 12-hour excursion offers free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option.
Highlights include visiting the Leaning Tower and Piazza dei Miracoli in Pisa, enjoying lunch and wine tasting in Chianti, and discovering the medieval charm of Siena and San Gimignano.
While the tour provides a good overview, those seeking in-depth exploration may find the allotted time limited, especially for individuals with mobility concerns.
Guided tours are available in multiple languages, although Siena visits are only offered in English and Spanish.
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Chianti Wineries Tour With Tuscan Lunch and San Gimignano
Chianti Wineries Tour With Tuscan Lunch and San Gimignano offers travelers a chance to enjoy the rich winemaking heritage and picturesque landscapes of Tuscany.
With a 99% traveler recommendation and 725 reviews, this tour provides an exceptional experience. Highlights include wine tastings at two wineries, a guided visit to the medieval town of San Gimignano, and a delectable Tuscan lunch with wine pairing.
Travelers praise the knowledgeable and engaging guides, who seamlessly blend hospitality and commentary. While some note a slight pressure to purchase wine, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive.
This tour is an ideal choice for wine enthusiasts and those seeking an authentic taste of Tuscan culture.
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Florence: Orcia Valley, Montalcino, Pienza With Lunch & Wine
This guided day trip from Florence allows visitors to discover the enchanting landscapes and culinary treasures of the Orcia Valley, Montalcino, and Pienza.
Priced at $110.99 per person, the 12-hour tour includes roundtrip transportation, a guided exploration of historic sites, and a gourmet lunch with three local wine tastings.
Highlights include the charming town of Pienza, the Abbey of Sant’Antimo, and the Temple of Brunello.
With an overall rating of 4.7/5 from previous guests, the tour offers an immersive experience showcasing the region’s natural beauty and gastronomic delights.
Comfortable shoes are recommended, and the provider should be notified of any special needs or dietary requirements.
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Essence of Chianti Small Group Tour With Lunch and Tastings From Florence
Venturing beyond Florence’s historic center, the Essence of Chianti Small Group Tour offers visitors a chance to enjoy the picturesque landscapes and renowned wine region of Chianti.
Over approximately 8 hours, the tour takes guests to three local wineries for tastings of Chianti’s signature wines and olive oils. Travelers also enjoy a typical Tuscan lunch, featuring regional specialties like cold cuts, cheeses, bruschetta, and handmade pasta.
With a maximum group size of 25, the tour provides a personalized experience led by knowledgeable, English-speaking guides.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, except those prone to motion sickness due to the winding roads.
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Florence Tour: Accademia, Cathedral & Lunch
Offering a comprehensive Florence experience, the Florence Tour: Accademia, Cathedral & Lunch encompasses the city’s renowned artistic and architectural highlights.
For $155.39, you’ll explore the Accademia Gallery, home to Michelangelo’s iconic David, and enjoy a guided tour of the Florence Cathedral.
The 5-hour tour also includes a leisurely Tuscan lunch, as well as visits to other iconic landmarks like the Piazza Signoria and Ponte Vecchio.
With guaranteed entry and the services of a local guide, this tour provides an efficient and enriching way to discover Florence’s treasures.
While reviews are mixed, the tour’s inclusions and flexibility, such as free cancellation, make it an appealing option for many visitors.
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Truffle Hunting Experience With Lunch in San Miniato
Guided by expert forager Francesca and her trained truffle dog, travelers embark on a unique Truffle Hunting Experience With Lunch in San Miniato, Florence.
With 362 reviews and a 98% recommendation rate, this tour promises a memorable adventure through the Tuscan woods to find fresh truffles.
The lunch menu features a starter of bruschetta with fresh truffles, a main course of tagliolino al tartufo (pasta with truffles), and a dessert of tiramisu or biscotti with Vinsanto.
Travelers can opt to take the train from Florence or meet at the starting point, and the experience accommodates up to 12 guests.
Reviews highlight the beautiful location, knowledgeable guide, and delicious food.
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From Florence: Tuscan Hills Biking With Farm Tour and Lunch
For those seeking a more active exploration of the Tuscan countryside, the From Florence: Tuscan Hills Biking With Farm Tour and Lunch experience offers an exhilarating adventure.
Priced at €129 per person, this 7-hour tour limited to just 8 participants takes cyclists on a moderate to challenging ride through the region’s scenic hills and vineyards.
The highlight is a visit to a family-run farm in Chianti, where guests enjoy a Tuscan lunch with wine and olive oil tastings.
An optional €30 e-bike rental is available for those needing assistance.
This tour operates rain or shine and isn’t suitable for those with certain health conditions or mobility issues.
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Horseback Ride in San Gimignano With Tuscan Lunch and Chianti Tasting
Priced from $204.65 per person, the Horseback Ride in San Gimignano With Tuscan Lunch and Chianti Tasting is a full-day experience that transports travelers through the picturesque Tuscan countryside.
Highlights include a one-hour horseback ride, a guided visit to the medieval town of San Gimignano, and an authentic Tuscan lunch with wine pairing at a Chianti winery.
With 97% of 366 travelers recommending the tour, it’s no surprise that guests praise the knowledgeable guides and beautiful scenery.
From roundtrip transportation to wine tasting and the opportunity to purchase local products, this tour offers an immersive Tuscan adventure.
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Tuscany Hills Bike Tour With Lunch at Farm and Wine Tasting
This immersive 7-hour bike tour through the Tuscany Hills offers travelers a unique opportunity to explore the region’s charming countryside and rich winemaking heritage.
Priced from $136.36 per person, the tour accommodates up to 10 participants and includes a regular or electric bike, helmet, and a professional guide.
Highlights include a photo stop, a 2-hour cycle through the Chianti Hills, a winery visit with a Tuscan lunch, and a tasting of the estate’s wines and olive oils.
With 35 km (22 miles) of cycling and 460 m of elevation gain, the tour is suitable for proficient riders in good shape.
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Full-Day Small-Group Truffle Hunting in Tuscany With Lunch
An exciting opportunity awaits travelers seeking to enjoy Tuscany’s coveted culinary heritage.
The Full-Day Small-Group Truffle Hunting in Tuscany with Lunch offers a unique experience to discover the region’s renowned white truffles. Set out on a guided adventure to San Miniato, meet a local truffle hunter and their trained dog, and enjoy the thrill of unearthing these prized delicacies.
Savor a gourmet 2-course lunch featuring truffle-infused dishes, complemented by local wines. The experience also includes a visit to a Chianti winery for an educational wine tasting.
With a maximum group size of 16, this small-group tour provides a personalized encounter, praised by travelers for its knowledgeable guides and exceptional food.
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Tuscany: E-Bike Tour From Florence With Lunch
Travelers often embark on the Tuscany: E-Bike Tour from Florence with Lunch to explore the region’s picturesque countryside. Priced from $157.50 per person, the 6-hour tour takes participants through vineyards, olive groves, and scenic viewpoints.
Highlights include cycling to two wineries, enjoying a traditional Tuscan lunch, and visiting an olive oil mill and wine cellar. The guided e-bike tour is suitable for intermediate riders, with support available for uphill sections.
Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides, such as Alessio/Alex and Grazie, for their navigation and organization. With a 4.5/5 rating from 61 reviews, this tour offers a well-rounded experience to discover Tuscany’s natural beauty and culinary delights.
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Private Best of Tuscany Hill Towns Tour With Lunch From Florence
Exploring the picturesque hill towns of Tuscany is a must-do experience for many visitors to the region.
The Private Best of Tuscany Hill Towns Tour with Lunch from Florence offers a comprehensive full-day excursion, showcasing the highlights of Siena, San Gimignano, and Chianti.
With a knowledgeable driver-guide, travelers can enjoy a private walking tour of Siena, marvel at the Gothic and Romanesque architecture of San Gimignano, and indulge in a wine tasting and traditional Tuscan lunch at a family-run winery.
The scenic return to Florence through the countryside completes this well-rounded tour.
While some guests note limited free time, the tour provides an efficient way to experience the charm of Tuscany’s picturesque hill towns.
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From Florence: Tuscany Day Trip With Lunch at Chianti Winery
This comprehensive Tuscany day trip from Florence allows visitors to discover the region’s picturesque hill towns and renowned Chianti wine region.
The 12-hour tour includes guided visits to Siena, San Gimignano, and Pisa, with free time to explore these historic destinations. Highlights include entry to Siena Cathedral and the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
The tour also features an optional farmhouse lunch showcasing homemade pasta, cured meats, local cheeses, and a wine tasting.
With overwhelmingly positive customer reviews highlighting the knowledgeable guides and excellent value, this Tuscany tour is an efficient and enriching way to experience the region’s highlights from Florence.
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Florence Day Trip: Pisa, San Gimignano, and Siena With Lunch
A comprehensive full-day tour from Florence takes visitors on a journey to discover three iconic Tuscan destinations: Pisa, San Gimignano, and Siena.
Highlights include snapping photos at the Leaning Tower of Pisa, wandering the medieval streets of UNESCO-listed San Gimignano, and exploring Siena’s cathedral on a guided tour.
A traditional Tuscan lunch in Piazza del Campo is included. The tour operates year-round, with a maximum of 100 travelers, and departs from the accessible Villa Costanza location.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour involves moderate walking. Travelers can also opt for a winery visit with Chianti wine tasting.
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Florence Wine Tasting and Tuscan Lunch in a Vintage Fiat 500
Vintage Fiat 500s wind through the picturesque Tuscan countryside, transporting travelers on a delectable four-hour journey that blends wine tasting, olive oil sampling, and a light Italian lunch.
Starting from the 500 Touring Club in Scandicci, the tour explores Florence’s back roads before reaching a 15th-century villa and vineyard.
Participants can savor the local bounty, including tastings of the estate’s wines and olive oils, followed by a lunch of Italian delicacies.
With prices starting at $156.97 per person, the tour offers an unbeatable value, and travelers can take home bottles of their favorite finds.
Highlighted by its unique driving experience and exceptional customer reviews, this Tuscan excursion is a must-do for food and wine enthusiasts.
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Siena San Gimignano Pisa Escorted Transport and Optional Lunch
Travelers can embark on a full-day excursion from Florence that whisks them through the picturesque Tuscan countryside, visiting the iconic cities of Siena, San Gimignano, and Pisa.
The tour includes transport via air-conditioned coach, a licensed escort, and guided tours in Siena. Participants can choose to add a traditional Tuscan lunch with wine pairing.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for those with moderate fitness levels. Reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and beautiful scenery, though some note the long day and limited time at each location.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are Vegetarian/Vegan Meal Options Available for the Lunch?
Vegetarian and vegan meal options are widely available in most restaurants and cafes today. Many establishments offer diverse plant-based dishes that cater to various dietary preferences and restrictions, providing ample choices for those seeking meat-free lunch options.
Can I Request a Pickup/Drop-Off Service From My Hotel?
Many Florence hotels offer pickup and drop-off services for guests. Travelers can request this convenient transportation option when booking their stay or directly with the hotel concierge. However, availability and fees may vary across different properties.
What Is the Dress Code for the Various Lunch Experiences?
The dress code for lunch experiences generally ranges from casual to smart casual. Diners should avoid overly informal attire like shorts, t-shirts, and flip-flops. It’s best to wear neat, clean clothing that’s appropriate for a dining hotel.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Activities?
Most lunch experiences don’t have age restrictions, but some may have minimum ages for certain activities. It’s best to check with the provider beforehand to ensure the experience is appropriate for everyone in the group.
Can I Modify or Customize the Lunch Menu to My Dietary Needs?
Yes, most venues offer the flexibility to modify or customize the lunch menu to accommodate dietary needs. They’ll typically work with you to create a personalized dining experience that aligns with your specific dietary requirements.
The Sum Up
Florence offers a variety of exceptional lunch experiences for visitors. From wine tastings and cooking classes to market tours and Tuscan countryside excursions, there’s something to suit every palate. Whether you’re looking for an authentic culinary adventure or a scenic day trip, Florence provides ample opportunities to savor the best of Tuscany’s renowned food and wine culture.