Tuscan cuisine is a true delight—think homemade pasta that melts in your mouth, top-quality beef and prosciutto, hearty soups and stews, fresh crunchy vegetables, and fragrant focaccias glistening with olive oil. Resisting the culinary treasures of Tuscany is no easy feat, and honestly, why would anyone want to? However, dining out in Italy can be pricey, espeically if you are dining as a family, making it a challenge to find the best affordable restaurants in Florence, Lucca, Pisa, and siena. Thankfully, we’re here to help!
Most visitors don't indulge in two full meals a day, so a light lunch often serves as an excellent way to keep you fueled until dinner at a nice restaurant. If you're on the lookout for a budget-friendly lunch, there are several great options to consider. Eating on a budget doesn't mean you have to sacrifice quality. On the contrary, we’ve savored some wonderful meals even while sticking to a strict budget.
In Florence, the ideal budget-friendly option is a sandwich. The city is renowned for its vibrant "panini" scene, featuring a variety of Instagram-worthy shops that offer massive, mouthwatering panini filled with generous portions of cheese and charcuterie—a true delight for your palate, stomach, and wallet. Be sure to try the famous Antico Vinaio, arguably the most popular sandwich shop in town, or explore any of the other fantastic eateries along Via dei Neri; you won't be disappointed!
If you’re in the mood for a trattoria, Trattoria Mario is a must-visit. This immensely popular eatery, with its no-frills approach, is a carnivore’s paradise—almost everything on the menu features meat, all prepared in authentic Tuscan style. If you manage to snag an empty seat, consider yourself fortunate (and don't be surprised if you share a table with fellow diners). Simply choose a dish from the menu—there's no need to ask too many questions, as the friendly yet harried staff may not have the bandwidth to provide detailed answers. Then, dive into one of Mario’s renowned dishes. Affordable dining in Tuscany is indeed possible!
For a budget-friendly pasta experience in Florence, consider Salsamenteria de' Ciompi, located on Piazza Ciompi. This cozy eatery serves delicious deep-fried mozzarella, fresh pasta, and expertly crafted spritz cocktails for both lunch and dinner.
In Pisa, indulge in a delightful pasta-based meal at an easy-going venue called Primo - Pasta & Street Food Pisa. Here, you pay by weight and can select your preferred pasta and sauce. Located just 10 minutes from the Leaning Tower, in the heart of the historical center, this spot offers excellent value for delicious food.
In Lucca, Trattoria Gigi is a must-visit. Simple and welcoming, it often fills up quickly, so be sure to make reservations in advance—especially if you hope to dine al fresco. Here, you can savor generous portions of homemade pasta, baccalà, an array of flavorful side dishes, and more, all for under 25 euro. The house wine perfectly complements your authentic Italian meal.
For a quick bite, don’t miss the street food at Pizzeria Alice, where you’ll find delicious pizza with a variety of toppings and fantastic dough.
In Siena, Bocconcino offers a selection of tasty and hearty sandwiches.
Buon apetito!