Bologna Food & Wine Tour
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore Bologna's historic center
- Taste authentic tortellini and ragu
- Enjoy regional wine and gelato
- Learn about local culinary traditions
- Experience Bologna's vibrant food scene
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Guided walking tour of Bologna's historic center
- Tastings of local specialties like tortellini and ragu
- Sampling of regional wines and gelato
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
Itinerary
Pass by: Piazza Maggiore, the heart of Bologna since 1200, is surrounded by historic landmarks like the Basilica of San Petronio and the Neptune Fountain. Once a hub for trade and civic life, it remains the city's main gathering place.
We'll visit a traditional delicatessen, a local institution known for its top-quality cured meats, where you'll try different types of Parmigiano Reggiano cheese with Balsamic Vinegar. Nearby, we’ll see skilled ladies, the 'sfogline', making pasta by handand, and you'll also try it yourself!
Step inside a historic Bolognese deli rooted in family tradition and craftsmanship. Discover high-quality local products and enjoy a tasting of classic mortadella paired with homemade local focaccia.
Pass by: Mercato di Mezzo has been a hub of flavors and trade since medieval times. Transformed into Bologna’s first covered market after Italian unification, it was revitalized in 2014 and now offers local food and wine specialties.
One of Bologna’s oldest bakeries, family-run since the late 19th century and still preserving its original charm. Discover a long tradition of artisanal baking and enjoy a tasting of their classic rice cake, a beloved local specialty.
Pass by: The Two Towers are iconic symbols of Bologna, marking the ancient Via Emilia’s entrance. Built in the 12th century, they reflect Bologna’s past power and prestige, with one offering panoramic views and the other famed for its dramatic tilt.
At a neighborhood pillar for three decades, we'll taste true local flavors. Savor a tasting of rich Friggione and traditional tigella (or crescentina) topped with delicate prosciutto, along with Lambrusco wine.
This historic osteria was named after the bell factory located there. Soak in its rich past, from papal births to student confraternities and ancient frescos. Enjoy a tasting of tagliatelle with Bolognese sauce, tortelloni in sage and butter, with Pignoletto wine and finish with an espresso and a chocolate tortellino.
Pass by: Since the 18th century, this area of Bologna has become a cultural hub, with the University of Bologna moving its Dean's offices to Palazzo Poggi in 1803. Today, it's the city's student district, blending historic buildings with contemporary street art and graffiti.
Important information
Know before you book
- The tour is conducted in English
- Vegetarian options are available upon request
- Please inform the guide of any dietary restrictions in advance
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for the tour
- Bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated
- Be prepared for a leisurely walk through the city
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Service Animals Allowed
- Easy Public Transport
Good to know
- This activity requires a minimum of 2 guests. Should this not be met, we will contact you directly to help you get rescheduled or reimbursed.
- Children under 4 years old do not need a ticket and can join the tour for free. However, food is not included. Paid tickets with food included are available for ages 4 and up.
- Please note that the tastings mentioned are a selection of the delicious foods we often feature. Both offerings and tour stops may vary by day or season, but you're sure to enjoy a delightful array of local flavors!
Traveler reviews
Wonderful experience
An excellent view into the authentic cuisine of Bologna. You get to visit places that show you a wide range of the food the area is noted for. The guide dd an excellent job explaining where the food comes from and in many cases how it is made.
Tasting in Bologna
Issy was a terrific host sharing her life experience and knowledge of the Bologna area and its food highlights. Specifically enjoyed the visit to watch and make pasta. Learning about the few ingredients in “pure” balsamic vinegar was also a highlight.
Food tour from a local
Andrea was excellent. Nice to have a city tour from someone from that same city. Excellent information and flavors. Went above expectations to connect the food with the history. We appreciated the context and respect given to such delicious food. Thank you.
Great Food Tour
A great food tour with Andrea. Lots of delicious tastings, along with some information about Bolonga history and culture. Highly recommended!
Excellent food tour of Bologna
Isadora is well versed in the history and foods of Bologna. The stops she selected created a perfect sampling of Bologna’s foods and culture. Highly recommend.
