Pisa isn’t just about the Leaning Tower; it’s a surprisingly rich spot for lunch experiences that go beyond simple café fare. With options ranging from scenic wine tastings in the Tuscan countryside to immersive food tours led by local sommeliers, there’s something to satisfy every appetite and curiosity. We especially like the San Gimignano and Winery Experience for its combination of UNESCO-listed scenery and wine tasting, and the Foodie Full Lunch Tour for a quick yet flavor-packed taste of regional delicacies. Whether you want a leisurely day with a full-course meal or a quick bite paired with expert insights, Pisa offers it all.
Below, you’ll find a carefully curated list of the five best lunch experiences in Pisa. Each one offers a different way to enjoy the region’s flavors—some focus on wine, others on local foods, and a few combine scenic outings with delicious bites and drinks. Take a look to see which suits your travel style best.
1. San Gimignano and Winery Experience with Light Lunch from Pisa
At number 1 on our list, this full-day San Gimignano and Winery Experience offers a perfect mix of history, scenery, and wine. It’s ideal if you want to see the medieval towers of San Gimignano—a UNESCO World Heritage site—while also enjoying a leisurely wine tasting paired with a light lunch. The tour starts with a 2-hour visit to San Gimignano, where you can wander its charming streets, admire the iconic towers, and soak up its medieval charm without the crowds that often flock here. Then, you’ll head to a Chianti winery for a 2-hour guided tasting, learning about the region’s wine-making traditions from a tutored session.
What makes this tour stand out is the small-group format, which keeps things personal and relaxed. Round-trip transportation from Pisa is included, so you won’t have to worry about logistics. Guests consistently praise the friendly guides and the chance to peek behind the scenes of Tuscany’s wine country. The combination of scenic beauty, historical interest, and authentic wine tasting makes this one of the most satisfying day trips for lovers of both culture and wine.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect if you want a well-rounded experience, including a UNESCO site, regional wines, and a manageable day trip from Pisa.
2. Foodie Full Lunch Tour Experience with a Local Sommelier in Pisa
Number 2 on our list is the Foodie Full Lunch Tour—a must for anyone eager to explore Pisa through its flavors. This 3-hour experience is designed for serious food lovers, featuring over 15 authentic Tuscan foods, from local cheeses and cured meats to regional specialties. Led by a friendly food expert and certified sommelier, you’ll learn the stories behind each product and discover how Tuscany’s high-quality, sustainable ingredients are preserved in small family-run shops and farms.
The highlight? You’ll enjoy a full lunch that matches each tasting, paired with regional wines chosen by the sommelier. The atmosphere is relaxed, making it easy to savor each bite and sip while soaking in local culture. Reviewers mention Ariela’s engaging storytelling, which makes the food come alive—“We only tasted the very best,” one says, highlighting the care taken in selecting authentic products.
This tour offers great value for those interested in deepening their understanding of Tuscan cuisine in an intimate setting. It’s perfect for travelers with a keen interest in food and wine, and who want a behind-the-scenes look at regional producers.
Bottom line: For a short, delicious dive into Pisa’s culinary scene, this immersive food tour hits all the right notes.
3. PRIVATE TOUR “Sweet Hills of Chianti and San Gimignano” with Lunch & 2 Tastings
Sitting at number 3, this private full-day tour offers a luxurious way to experience Tuscany’s most iconic sights and tastes. It kicks off with a pickup from your accommodation—no worries about transfers—then whisks you away to San Gimignano, the “City of Beautiful Towers.” Here, you get about an hour to wander at your own pace, visit its charming shops, and sample the famous Vernaccia di San Gimignano wine, along with saffron and Prosciutto d’Oro.
What sets this tour apart is the focus on convenience and customization. You’ll drive through the rolling Chianti hills in a private vehicle, stopping at a Tuscan farm for a wine and olive oil tasting lunch that includes regional pasta and other local specialties. After lunch, a guided visit to a Chianti winery allows you to learn about wine production firsthand, tasting six different wines in a cellar setting.
Guests commend the personalized attention, with reviews emphasizing the guide’s knowledge and the quality of the wines. Cost-wise, it’s priced higher but offers a tailored experience suited for couples or small groups eager for comfort and exclusivity.
Bottom line: This private tour is ideal if you prefer a flexible, luxurious day with expert guidance and tastings at top wineries.
4. Sailing trip on the Secche della Meloria with aperitif and lunch
Number 4 brings a different flavor—literally and figuratively. The sailing trip on the Secche della Meloria combines the thrill of being on the water with good food. Starting from Pisa’s river pier, you’ll set sail on the Rosie Probert Too, exploring the Pisan coast and the San Rossore Natural Park. The journey includes a relaxing river navigation, where you can observe the park’s unspoiled nature.
Once at the Marine Protected Area of the Meloria Secche—listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site—the boat anchors for about five hours. During this time, you can swim, sunbathe, and enjoy an aperitif with finger foods and local white wine. The highlight is the onboard lunch, which features fresh, tasty dishes prepared by a professional crew. The combination of sea breezes, scenic views, and good company makes this a memorable way to experience Pisa’s coast.
Guests mention the friendly crew, the peaceful nature of the trip, and the quality of the food. It’s suited for those wanting a relaxing day with a maritime adventure, especially if you love sailing or want to escape the city for a day.
Bottom line: If you’re after a scenic, laid-back lunch that combines sailing with gourmet bites, this trip offers a unique experience on the sea.
5. Chianni: wine and oil tasting with lunch or dinner
Rounding out our list is the Chianni wine and oil tasting experience, a more casual but authentic option. For around $57, you get to taste four Tuscan wines and organic extra virgin olive oil, paired with a traditional lunch or dinner. It’s a straightforward, budget-friendly way to enjoy regional flavors in a relaxed setting.
The winery emphasizes organic practices, and the tasting focuses on the region’s distinctive oils and wines. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want an easy, informative experience that combines tasting with a satisfying meal. Reviewers note the friendliness of the staff and the quality of the products, making it a good choice if you’re short on time but still want an authentic taste of Tuscany.
While it’s less elaborate than some other options, this experience offers genuine regional flavors at a fair price, perfect for those who want a simple yet flavorful culinary outing.
Bottom line: This is a great pick for budget-conscious travelers who want a taste of Tuscany’s wines and oils with minimal fuss.
How to Choose the Right Lunch Experience in Pisa
When deciding between these options, consider your interests, budget, and time. If you’re after a scenic, wine-focused day with UNESCO sites, the San Gimignano and Winery Experience or the private Chianti tour are excellent choices. For those who love food and want to learn about regional products, the Foodie Full Lunch Tour offers an authentic, intimate look. If you prefer a relaxing sea adventure, the sailing trip combines scenic views with excellent food. Lastly, for a simple, affordable taste of Tuscany, the Chianni tasting is hard to beat.
Booking early is advised, especially for guided or private tours, which tend to fill up fast during peak seasons. Also, check the availability and times that fit your schedule, because Pisa’s food and wine scene is best enjoyed when you’re not rushed.
Pisa provides a surprising variety of lunch experiences that showcase Tuscany’s culinary richness and scenic beauty. Whether you choose a full-day wine and sightseeing tour, a gourmet food walk, a private day in Chianti, a seaside sailing adventure, or a casual tasting, each offers a memorable way to enjoy the region’s flavors. For lovers of good food, fine wine, and scenic landscapes, Pisa is a surprisingly tasty destination. Don’t wait—reserve your spot early, and get ready to savor Italy’s best.
