Perugia offers more than just a pretty face. Its culinary scene is alive with opportunities to enjoy authentic flavors, local wines, and rustic charm. Among the many ways to indulge, some of our favorite lunch experiences include a scenic e-bike tour through Umbrian countryside, a wine and olive oil tasting in Montefalco, and a gourmet lunch paired with truffles in Spello. Each offers a different way to savor the region’s rich flavors and local craftsmanship. For a memorable day, consider trying an activity that combines scenic views with delicious food, like the Spello E-Bike Tour with Lunch and Wine Tasting. It’s a great way to see the countryside without wearing yourself out and includes stops at charming hilltop towns and a local winery.
This list includes bike and walking tours, wine and oil tastings, and hands-on cooking experiences. Whether you’re after a scenic ride, a wine cellar tour, or a local chef’s kitchen, each offers a taste of Umbrian life paired with authentic regional cuisine. Read on to find your perfect lunch outing.
1. Spello E-Bike Tour with Lunch and Wine Tasting
At number 1, this full-day e-bike tour along the Olive Path Trail combines scenic countryside riding with delightful local tastings. It’s ideal if you want to combine active exploration with a relaxed lunch and wine experience. The tour starts with a bike fitting and route briefing before heading across the Umbrian Valley to the hilltop town of Spello, famous for its flower-filled streets. From there, you’ll ride along the spectacular Olive Path Trail, an ancient pilgrimage route offering panoramic views over the valley.
The highlight is a stop at a family-run winery in Spello, where you’ll enjoy a homemade lunch paired with local wines and olive oils. The tasting is authentic and engaging, with guides sharing insights into regional production. The small-group format ensures personalized attention, and reviews praise the guides’ friendliness and knowledge. Guests often mention how the beautiful countryside and delicious food make for a memorable experience. This tour suits active travelers who want a balanced mix of scenic riding and indulgent tasting.
Bottom line: Excellent for those who want an active day with plenty of authentic food and wine. It’s a full-day commitment but well worth the effort for the immersive experience.
2. Montefalco: Winery and Oil Mill Tour in with Light Lunch
Number 2 on our list is the Montefalco Winery and Oil Mill Tour, perfect for wine lovers and those wanting a more relaxed, shorter experience. Lasting around 2 to 3 hours, this tour dives into Umbria’s famous Sagrantino wines and the region’s olive oil heritage. You’ll visit a working winery and oil mill just outside Montefalco, with guided walks through vineyards and ancient olive groves. The highlight is the chance to taste multiple wines and extra-virgin olive oils, paired with a light lunch of local cheeses, cured meats, and bread.
Jessica, the guide, earns high praise for her knowledge and enthusiasm, making the experience lively and informative. Guests love the opportunity to see the production process firsthand and learn how the region’s climate and soil influence flavor. The tasting room’s warm atmosphere makes it easy to linger over the samples. With a focus on small-group intimacy and authentic regional products, this tour offers great value for wine and foodies.
Bottom line: Ideal for a half-day trip that combines education, tasting, and a delicious lunch, all in a scenic setting outside Montefalco.
3. Wine Tasting Lunch in Spello with Truffle Tasting
Number 3 is the Wine Tasting Lunch in Spello with Truffle Tasting. For around $106, you get a two-hour experience that pairs regional wines with truffle-infused delicacies in a charming wine shop in the heart of Spello. This tour focuses on premium local wines and gourmet bites — think artisan cheeses, cold cuts, and handmade pasta topped with fresh truffles. The sommelier host guides you through the unique flavor profiles of Umbrian wines, making it ideal for foodies eager to explore hyper-local labels often hard to find elsewhere.
Reviews highlight the beautiful setting and excellent food and wine pairing. Guests appreciate Luca’s deep knowledge of wines and the relaxed, friendly atmosphere. It’s a perfect choice if you want a more intimate tasting experience combined with a gourmet lunch that showcases the region’s culinary finesse.
Bottom line: A sophisticated and delicious tasting in a cozy setting, perfect for those looking for a relaxed, gourmet experience.
4. Walk through Spoleto’s historic center & lunch with Chef Stefano
Finally, the Walk through Spoleto’s historic center & lunch with Chef Stefano is a hands-on culinary adventure. Over about 4.5 hours, you’ll explore Spoleto’s charming alleys and landmarks before visiting a local food shop to gather ingredients. Then, you’ll join Chef Stefano at his home for a personal cooking class — starting with tomato bruschetta, followed by a cheese tasting and a full four-course meal you prepare yourself.
Guests rave about Stefano’s warm hospitality and the interactive nature of the class. This experience offers more than just eating; it’s about learning regional recipes and understanding everyday Italian life. The focus on local ingredients and authentic techniques makes it a top pick for food lovers who want a deep dive into Umbrian cuisine.
Bottom line: An immersive, educational culinary experience suited for travelers eager to cook and eat like a local in a relaxed home setting.
How to Choose Your Perfect Lunch Experience
With so many tempting options, how do you pick the right tour? If you prefer active outdoor adventures mixed with wine, go for the Spello E-Bike Tour. Budget travelers or those short on time might enjoy the Montefalco winery tour, which offers a rich tasting experience in just a few hours. For lovers of gourmet food and wine, the Spello wine and truffle tasting provides a cozy, high-end flavor adventure. And if you’re interested in learning to cook regional dishes, the Spoleto cooking class offers a memorable hands-on experience.
Consider your budget, available time, and interest in active exploration versus culinary immersion**. Booking early is recommended, especially in peak seasons, to secure your spot in these popular experiences.
Perugia’s lunch experiences are as diverse as the region itself. Whether you want a scenic ride with wine in hand, a relaxed wine and oil tasting, a gourmet truffle lunch, or an authentic cooking class, there’s something to satisfy every appetite. For a well-rounded trip, try combining a scenic activity with a culinary course — your palate (and Instagram feed) will thank you. Remember, these tours fill up quickly, so plan ahead and book early for the best chance at experiencing Umbrian hospitality at its finest.
