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Eating Bologna Food and Wine Tour
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Tour Highlights
Full Description
On this three-hour food tour, you’ll explore the Quadrilatero, Mercato di Mezzo, and the lively University District. Taste fresh pasta with rich Bolognese sauce at family-run trattorias, enjoy aged Parmigiano Reggiano, artisanal cured meats, and exquisite balsamic vinegar—each bite packed with tradition. Pair it all with local sparkling wines, and you’ll see why Bologna is called “La Grassa” (The Fat).
Depending on your departure time, your experience will feature a unique highlight: morning tours offer a visit to a pasta workshop for a tortellino-making class, while afternoon tours stop at a 600-year-old tavern (the oldest in the city) for drinks and a bite to eat.
Join us for 10 delicious tastings, great wine, and the fascinating stories behind Bologna’s incredible food scene.
Tour Photos
What's Included
Included
- Local English-speaking guide
- Aged Parmigiano Reggiano tasting (24 and 36 months) paired with precious balsamic vinegar
- Make your very own tortellino (AM) or visit the 600-year-old traditional Bolognese tavern (PM)
- Dig into a classic pasta from Bologna, tagliatelle al ragù
- Stroll through the medieval food market, and try street food: tigella with prosciutto and mortadella
- ‘Food & the City’ Insider Tips
Not Included
- Gratuities / Tips for the guide
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Extra drinks
Important Information
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- 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!
- Have dietary requirements? Simply email us or add a note at booking, and we’ll do our best to accommodate vegetarians, gluten-free guests or other dietary needs where we can. For guest safety, this experience isn’t suitable for those with severe or life-threatening food allergies to ingredients found on the tour, and the company cannot take responsibility for any food allergies or intolerances.
Itinerary
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.
Duration: 20 minutes
Note: this stop is only included in morning tours.
Duration: 25 minutes
Duration: 25 minutes
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.
Duration: 20 minutes
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.
Duration: 30 minutes
Soak in the rich past of Centro Storico, from papal births to student confraternities, and from ancient frescos to the lively spirit of Bologna. 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.
Duration: 35 minutes
Note: this stop is only included in afternoon tours.
Duration: 25 minutes
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.
📍 Meeting Point
Starting Point
End Point
Frequently Asked Questions
This tour has a specific cancellation policy. We recommend checking the terms at the time of booking to understand the refund conditions.
You will receive your confirmation via email immediately after booking. Viator sends your voucher as soon as payment is completed.
The expected duration is approximately 3 hours. We recommend arriving at least 10-15 minutes before the departure time.
The tour price includes:
- Local English-speaking guide
- Aged Parmigiano Reggiano tasting (24 and 36 months) paired with precious balsamic vinegar
- Make your very own tortellino (AM) or visit the 600-year-old traditional Bolognese tavern (PM)
- Dig into a classic pasta from Bologna, tagliatelle al ragù
- Stroll through the medieval food market, and try street food: tigella with prosciutto and mortadella
...and more
The starting point is: Your guide will be waiting for you in front of the Desigual store and wearing our purple Eating Europe bag!. We recommend using Google Maps to easily reach the meeting location.
We recommend bringing comfortable shoes, water, sunscreen, and a camera. Check the tour's additional information for any specific requirements.