Tuscany isn’t just about rolling hills and historic towns. It’s a food lover’s paradise, full of rich flavors, local wines, and traditional recipes that have stood the test of time. The region’s unique climate and soil produce some of Italy’s best Sangiovese grapes and hearty regional cuisine. We especially love tours where you can taste local wines and learn to cook authentic dishes—like the Visit to the Cellar with Wine & Food Tasting over the Val d’Orcia for its spectacular setting and expert guidance, and the Cooking Class of Local Food in a Tuscan Farm for its hands-on approach and farm-fresh ingredients.
Below, you’ll find a carefully curated list of the best food tours in Tuscany—each offering a different slice of local life, from wine tastings in scenic vineyards to making pasta on a working farm. Whether you’re after a quick tasting or an immersive cooking experience, there’s something here to suit every palate.
1. Visit to the Cellar with Wine & Food Tasting over the Val d’Orcia
At number one, this Wine & Food Tasting tour in Val d’Orcia combines the best of Tuscany’s renowned wine culture with stunning views. The tour lasts around 2 hours and is perfect for those who want to enjoy a leisurely experience without overcommitting. You’ll begin with a visit to Montecucco DOCG wine, where a knowledgeable guide explains the whole wine-making process, from vine to glass. The highlight? A delicious lunch overlooking the rolling hills of Val d’Orcia, featuring artisanal cured meats, local cheeses, and Seggiano’s top wines.
What sets this tour apart is its emphasis on regional wines and the chance to learn about the Sangiovese grapes that define much of Tuscany’s wine identity. It’s ideal for beginners and wine aficionados alike. The group size is small enough for personal interaction, and the scenic photo opportunities are plentiful—perfect for capturing the iconic Tuscan landscape. At only $44.71, the value for a guided wine tasting with a leisurely meal and spectacular views makes this a smart choice for a quick, authentic experience.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice if you want a relaxed, informative wine tasting combined with local cuisine in a beautiful setting.
2. Cooking Class of Local Food in a Tuscan Farm
Coming in at number two is the Cooking Class of Local Food in a Tuscan Farm, which offers a more hands-on experience. This 2.5-hour class takes place in Vinci, on a historic farm located between history and breathtaking landscapes. The tour includes a visit to the garden, where you pick fresh ingredients, and a session creating homemade pasta using authentic techniques. You’ll learn traditional recipes passed down through generations and receive useful tips you can replicate at home.
One of the best parts? Sipping local organic wine while cooking. The class ends with everyone enjoying the meal together—fresh pasta with regional sauces, accompanied by local appetizers. Reviewers praise it as a “great experience to learn how to make pasta in two steps,” especially on a rainy day when indoor activities are welcome. At $115.76, it’s a more premium experience, but the quality of instruction and the farm-to-table authenticity make it worthwhile.
Who is it good for? Food lovers eager to get their hands dirty and learn authentic Tuscan cooking techniques. It’s ideal for couples, families, or anyone wanting to bring home a practical skill. Some may find the price a bit steep compared to tastings, but the lasting culinary skills gained are worth it.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting an immersive, educational experience to master Tuscan pasta and taste fresh farm produce.
How to Choose Your Tuscan Food Tour
When deciding between these experiences, consider your priorities: do you prefer a quick, scenic tasting of local wines, or a longer, in-depth cooking class? If you’re on a budget or short on time, the wine tasting offers a taste of Tuscany’s legendary wines and views for an affordable price. For a more active, educational approach that gives you practical skills and a farm experience, the cooking class is the way to go.
Think about your fitness level and interests—if you love hands-on food prep, the cooking class is ideal; if you prefer to relax and enjoy the scenery with a glass of wine, the cellar visit fits better. Book early, especially in high season, to secure your spot in these popular activities.
Final Thoughts
Tuscany offers a wide range of food experiences, from simple tastings of world-class wines to full culinary lessons. The Visit to the Cellar with Wine & Food Tasting stands out for its scenic setting and relaxed pace, while the Cooking Class in Vinci provides a more involved, hands-on approach for serious foodies.
For travelers with limited time, budget, or those seeking a taste of Tuscany’s wine culture, the cellar tour is a wonderful option. Conversely, those wanting to learn a practical skill and enjoy a farm-to-table meal will find the cooking class rewarding. No matter which you choose, booking in advance is recommended to secure your preferred date, especially in the busy months.
Enjoy discovering Tuscany’s flavors — after all, no trip is complete without a good meal and a glass of local wine in hand.
