San Gimignano is a feast for the senses, especially when it comes to lunch experiences. Known for its medieval skyline and world-famous Vernaccia wine, this charming hilltown offers more than just sightseeing. The town’s proximity to family-run wineries, olive groves, and culinary delights makes it an ideal spot to enjoy a memorable midday meal. Whether you’re after a simple tasting, an elegant wine-pairing, or a hearty Tuscan feast, San Gimignano delivers.
One of our favorite options is the Wine Tour with Lunch and Wine Tasting, which combines a visit to a small, family-run estate with a delicious local meal and three estate wines. It’s perfect for those who want to escape the crowds and experience authentic Tuscan hospitality. For a more immersive experience, the Truffle Lunch & Hunting offers a chance to hunt for prized truffles before indulging in a truffle-inspired feast paired with organic wines.
Below, you’ll find a carefully curated list of 15 top lunch experiences in San Gimignano. Each offers a unique way to enjoy the region’s food and wine, from casual tastings to gourmet feasts.
Types of Tours Included in This List
The list features a variety of lunch experiences: from wine tastings at family-run wineries, like the Premium Wine Tour, to culinary adventures such as truffle hunting combined with a meal. Several tours include private tastings, such as Private Wine & Oil Tasting with Lunch, which are perfect for couples or small groups seeking exclusivity. Others, like Lunch with Wine Tasting, cater to dietary restrictions with vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free menus.
For those who prefer full-day trips, options like Florence: San Gimignano & Winery Tour with Lunch combine sightseeing with a relaxed winery visit. Meanwhile, Experience Tuscan Truffle Hunting with Wine and Lunch offers a true outdoor adventure that’s as much about the thrill of the hunt as the delicious results.
Let’s explore each of these memorable options.
1. Wine Tour with Lunch and Wine Tasting
At number 1 on our list, this wine tour combines a visit to a cozy, family-run estate just outside San Gimignano. You’ll learn about local grape varietals, walk through olive orchards, and explore the wine cellar. What sets this apart is the emphasis on authenticity—the estate is small, intimate, and welcoming. The highlight is a lunch prepared with local products paired with three estate wines. Guests rave about the educational aspect and the delicious food, often mentioning Gaia, the personable guide who makes the experience memorable.
This tour is perfect for those wanting a relaxed tasting outside the hustle of town while still getting rich insights into Tuscan wine culture. At around $77, it’s an excellent value considering the quality of the wines, food, and the personalized attention. The reviews consistently praise the “amazing experience” and “delicious food,” making it a top pick for wine lovers.
Bottom Line: If you want an authentic, small-scale vineyard experience with a hearty Tuscan lunch, this tour is a fantastic choice.
2. San Gimignano: Premium Wine Tour with Lunch
For around $119, the Premium Wine Tour with Lunch offers an in-depth look at vineyard and cellar operations. Starting in Sovestro Cortennano, you’ll enjoy a guided tour of the estate’s vineyards, followed by a lunch with regional specialties. The tasting includes five wines like Vernaccia di San Gimignano, Chianti Riserva, and Supertuscan, which showcase Tuscany’s best.
This tour is ideal for serious wine enthusiasts who want to learn about winemaking processes and taste a variety of wines in a relaxed setting. During the reviewed 2.5 hours, guests enjoy cheese and regional food, with many praising the knowledgeable guide and delicious wines. It’s a well-rounded experience blending education, food, and fine wines.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a comprehensive, quality wine-and-food experience in a scenic vineyard setting.
3. Truffle Lunch & Hunting Experience in San Gimignano
Number 3 on our list is a true culinary adventure—a Truffle Lunch & Hunting. It combines truffle hunting with a delicious four-course meal featuring fresh truffles, organic wines, and olive oils. Led by certified guides, you’ll walk through the countryside with trained dogs searching for white and black truffles, which makes for a uniquely engaging experience.
The lunch is truffle-inspired—think truffle lasagna and cheese—paired with local wines and oils. Guests love the authenticity and the chance to learn about the prized delicacies directly from experts. At $196, it’s a higher-end experience, but the reviews say it’s worth every euro for its educational and sensory richness.
Bottom Line: A must for foodies wanting to combine outdoor adventure with gastronomic excellence.
4. Private Wine & Oil Tasting with Lunch
If you prefer an exclusive, personalized experience, this Private Wine & Oil Tasting is ideal. For around $73, you get a behind-the-scenes look at an organic family farm, including a guided tour, tastings of biodynamic wines, and local olive oils. The meal features bruschetta, pasta, and other Tuscan specialties, paired with the estate’s best products.
This experience is perfect for small groups or couples seeking intimacy and customized attention. The reviews highlight the generous tastings and gorgeous views. It’s a great value considering the personalized approach and the quality of the food and drink. Note that it runs for just 1.5 hours, making it a quick but rich experience.
Bottom Line: Best for those who want a private, tailored tasting without sacrificing quality.
5. San Gimignano: Lunch or Dinner at a Winery with Wine Tasting
For a fuller meal at a reputable winery, this tour offers a lunch or dinner paired with a guided wine tasting. At $62.63, it’s a good deal for 8 wines and a four-course meal. Guests are treated to local dishes, including lasagna, in a scenic setting. The highlight is the chance to learn about Tuscan wines with an expert sommelier.
Guests rave about the delicious food and friendly service, although one review notes the main lasagna was cold. It’s suited for wine lovers who want a relaxed, social atmosphere with hearty Tuscan cuisine.
Bottom Line: Great for those seeking a combination of good food and wine, especially if you prefer an evening setting.
6. Lunch with Wine Tasting
This Lunch with Wine Tasting offers a guided vineyard tour at Podere La Marronaia, with a 4-course Tuscan meal and organic wine and olive oils. It’s tailored for those with special dietary needs, including vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free options. Priced at around $63.86, it provides value through quality and flexibility.
Guests mention beautiful views and generous tastings, making it a relaxing way to enjoy local flavors. The highlight is the opportunity to learn how to pair wines and oils with regional dishes.
Bottom Line: Ideal for health-conscious travelers wanting a well-rounded, flexible experience in a beautiful setting.
7. Tuscan Lunch and Wine Tasting in San Gimignano Winery
This farm-to-table experience provides a traditional Tuscan lunch alongside five premium wines, including Vernaccia di San Gimignano. It’s perfect for those wanting to dine amidst vineyards and learn about local wine production. The dishes include fettunta, soups, and cheeses, highlighting regional ingredients.
Guests enjoy the informative tour and the tastings that complement the meal. The price reflects a more comprehensive experience that’s suited for foodies and wine enthusiasts alike.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want to combine culinary tradition with wine education.
8. Experience Tuscan Truffle Hunting with Wine and Lunch
Number 8 is a rare outdoor experience—a Truffle Hunting adventure lasting 3-5 hours. Accompanied by guide and dogs, you’ll search for white and black truffles in the Tuscan woods, learning about truffle ecology. Afterward, enjoy a 4-course meal paired with local wines, oils, and truffle products.
This tour is for adventurous food lovers who enjoy hands-on experiences beyond typical tastings. Priced higher at $367, it offers great value for its length and uniqueness. Reviewers mention fun with the dogs and the delicious, authentic meal as highlights.
Bottom Line: For those who want a full outdoor culinary experience with a focus on truffle hunting.
9. Romantic Lunch in the Vine Rows in Tuscany
Number 9 offers a romantic escape—a Private Reserve Lunch with spectacular views. The 2.5-hour experience includes a four-course meal, wine tasting, and sweeping vistas of vineyards and olive groves. Ideal for celebrations or couples seeking intimacy amid nature.
Guests praise the delicious food, friendly hosts, and the picturesque setting. With prices around $217, it’s a luxurious but well-reviewed way to indulge in Tuscany’s best.
Bottom Line: Best suited for romantic getaways or special occasions in scenic surroundings.
10. Private Tuscan Lunch with Wine & Evo Oil Tasting in the Vineyard
This private experience offers a behind-the-scenes vineyard tour and a personalized tasting of wines, cheeses, and cold cuts. For just $98, you enjoy a relaxed, private setting with spectacular views. It’s perfect for small groups or anyone wanting a more intimate, educational** experience.
Guests note the personal attention and the delicious local snacks as highlights. It’s a great value for those wanting a tailored experience without large crowds.
Bottom Line: Excellent choice for private, relaxed exploration of Tuscan wine and food.
11. Tuscan Lunch & Winery Tour with Tasting in San Gimignano
This tour offers a farm-to-table lunch with five premium wines and a guided winery tour. Guests sample local dishes and taste Vernaccia di San Gimignano, Chianti, and Super Tuscan wines. It’s ideal for those interested in food and wine pairings and learning about local wine production.
The reviews mention the delicious food and informative tour, making this a solid choice for lovers of Tuscan gastronomy.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wine aficionados wanting to combine food, wine, and education.
12. San Gimignano: Winery Tour with Wine Tasting and Lunch
Number 12 offers a family-run winery experience with a guided tour of the cellar and vineyards. The lunch includes Chianti wine and Grappa, along with traditional Italian fare. It’s a classic Tuscan winery tour suited for those wanting authentic local wine and culinary culture.
Guests highlight the friendly atmosphere and delicious pairings, making it an excellent value for a comprehensive visit.
Bottom Line: Best for wine lovers seeking a traditional experience.
13. San Gimignano: Chianti Wine Tasting and Lunch
This personalized tasting focuses on Chianti wines with a lunch included. With just one review, it’s clear this is a small, intimate experience—perfect for wine enthusiasts who want a closer look at organic, family-run wineries. The host explains the wine-making process and offers a delicious local meal.
Bottom Line: Great for those who prefer a more personalized, quiet setting.
14. Florence: San Gimignano & Winery Tour with Lunch
This full-day trip from Florence combines sightseeing with a winery visit. The tour includes San Gimignano’s UNESCO-listed streets, a light lunch, and visits to a family-run winery. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive experience in one day.
Guests mention comfortable transportation and well-paced sightseeing. It’s suited for first-time visitors or those with limited time.
Bottom Line: Perfect for day-trippers wanting a mix of culture and wine.
15. Light Lunch with Wine Tasting
Rounding out our list, this light Tuscan lunch paired with world-class wines offers a relaxed, scenic experience. The 3-course meal and professional wine expert make it perfect for those wanting a casual yet refined taste of Tuscany.
Guests remark on the breathtaking views and high-quality wines and oils. It’s a lovely short experience to complement your sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a light, scenic, and educational lunch in Chianti.
How to Choose Your Perfect Lunch Experience
Picking among these options depends on your budget, interests, and time available. If you love learning about wine in a small, intimate setting, the Wine Tour with Lunch or Private Wine & Oil Tasting are excellent. For foodies eager to hunt for truffles, the Truffle Lunch & Hunting offers a memorable outdoor adventure. If outdoor activity and nature appeal, the Truffle Hunting is a standout.
For those on a budget, the Light Lunch with Wine Tasting or Lunch or Dinner at a Winery offer great value with generous wine and food pairings. If you seek romance and scenery, the Romantic Lunch in the Vine Rows delivers stunning views coupled with fine food.
Booking early is advised, especially for popular tours during peak season, to secure your preferred date and time.
Final Thoughts
San Gimignano offers a diverse range of lunch experiences, from casual tastings to luxurious private meals. If you’re a wine enthusiast, tours like the Premium Wine Tour or Winery with Lunch are standout choices. For culinary adventurers, the Truffle Hunting and Outdoor Truffle Experience promise a memorable taste of Tuscan nature and delicacies.
Travelers seeking a romantic escape or private experience should consider the Romantic Vine Rows Lunch or Private Vineyard Lunch. No matter your preference, booking ahead guarantees you a taste of Tuscany that you’ll remember for years to come.
