Bologna: Full meal Food Tour with Local Delights by Do Eat Better

Bologna , Italy

Bologna: Full meal Food Tour with Local Delights by Do Eat Better

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(528 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

The Do Eat Better Experience food tour is a walking tour in at least 4 stops, around the historical center of Bologna. The tourist is guided by a "Foodie", a local "buddy" able to explain every detail of the selected restaurants, their preparations, and the relevant history/curiosities.

Do Eat Better Experience tours are a mix of high-quality gastronomy as a way of showing Italian culture and lifestyle and a walking experience together with a local friend. This is the reason why we accept small groups only: we want to focus on a genuine exchange and give to each tourist the highest attention possible.

Please, note that the tour is always run in English and Italian; other languages upon request.

Available options

Bologna Tour Dinner+Drink Card

Special Drink Card: You can have at least 3 alcoholic drinks. You can choose wine, beer or other drinks (ages 18+).

Bologna Food Tour Dinner

Bologna Food Tour Lunch

BolognaTour Lunch + Drink Card

Special Drink Card: You can have at least 3 alcoholic drinks. You can choose wine, beer or other drinks (ages 18+).

What's included

Bottled water

Snacks

Dinner

Coffee and/or Tea

Food tasting

One alcoholic beverage included (served only to 18 years old and above)

Full meal

Detailed itinerary

We always choose the best dishes, aiming to introduce you to our traditions, suggest the best restaurants and make you live the best culinary experience ever. With Do Eat Better you can make your visit to Bologna an unforgettable experience of eating Italy's best preparations.
Here, you'll meet your local expert, who will guide you through this experience.

Stop 2 Pass by

The tour starts with fresh pasta like Ragù alla Bolognese Tagliatelle topped with local Parmesan Cheese. One, if not, the, quintessential first dish in Bologna. More versatile than the famous Lasagna, this dish will welcome you into Bologna while still leaving some space in your stomach for the following stops. In alternative you may be served Tortellini, served in broth, as the tradition commands, which is equally as typical.

To then try out either locally made and fresh tigelle - hands down the most requested and loved food in Emilia-Romagna region and in Bologna it is topped with delicious local ingredients. Or try out the true Bolognese Mortadella in a cone or on a platter! The quintessential Bologna salami.

As a second dish, you'll experience Cotoletta alla Bolognese. A veal meat served with a rich sauce made with cream and parmesan cheese and topped with smoked ham. The traditional recipe requires that the meat is fried, then served in meat broth. Finally, it is briefly baked in the oven and served covered in melted cheese and ham.

For dessert we'll try the best artisanal Italian ice cream in Bologna with delicious flavours or alternatively Torta degli Addobbi: a rice cake with very ancient origins; it was prepared in Bologna, already around 1400, on the occasion of Corpus Domini, the end of May; a time when balconies and windows were festively decorated with coloured drapes and this cake cut into diamond shapes was offered to relatives and friends!

The inevitable conclusion of every Italian proper meal. We offer an Espresso in a coffee shop.

What's not included

Tips or Gratuities

Pick up / Drop off service

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

160 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.9

368 reviews

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Minimum drinking age is 18 years

Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking

Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required

Please be aware that the guide may speak both in English and Italian during the tour

Meeting point

in Piazza di Porta Ravegnana, in front of Feltrinelli bookstore.

About Bologna

Bologna, the capital of the Emilia-Romagna region in Italy, is renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and exceptional cuisine. Known as 'La Dotta' for its university, 'La Grassa' for its food, and 'La Rossa' for its red-tiled roofs, Bologna offers a unique blend of medieval charm and modern sophistication.

Top Attractions

Two Towers (Due Torri)

The Two Towers, Garisenda and Asinelli, are iconic symbols of Bologna. Built in the 12th century, they offer panoramic views of the city from the top.

Architecture 1-2 hours €5 for the Asinelli Tower, €2 for the Garisenda Tower

Piazza Maggiore

Piazza Maggiore is the heart of Bologna, surrounded by stunning medieval buildings, including the Basilica di San Petronio and the Palazzo d'Accursio.

Historical 30 minutes to a few hours Free

Basilica di San Petronio

This massive basilica is one of the largest churches in the world. Built in the 14th century, it features a stunning interior with beautiful art and architecture.

Religious 1 hour Free, €3 for the museum and crypt

Piazza Santo Stefano

Known as 'Piazza dei Guai' (Square of Troubles), this charming square is surrounded by medieval buildings and features the Basilica di Santo Stefano.

Historical 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Piazza del Nettuno

This square is home to the Fontana del Nettuno, a stunning fountain featuring a statue of Neptune. The square is also surrounded by beautiful Renaissance buildings.

Historical 30 minutes Free

Archiginnasio

The Archiginnasio was the main building of the University of Bologna from 1563 to 1803. Today, it houses the Anatomical Theatre and the Historical Library.

Historical 1 hour €5

Must-Try Local Dishes

Tortellini in Brodo

Tortellini pasta filled with a mixture of meats, served in a rich broth. A classic Bolognese dish, perfect for a comforting meal.

Main Dish Contains meat and gluten

Ragù alla Bolognese

A rich meat-based sauce served with tagliatelle pasta. This iconic dish is a must-try for any visitor to Bologna.

Main Dish Contains meat and gluten

Lasagne alla Bolognese

Layered pasta with ragù sauce and béchamel, baked to perfection. A hearty and delicious dish that showcases Bolognese cuisine.

Main Dish Contains meat and gluten

Mortadella

A type of large Italian sausage made from finely ground heat-cured pork, flavored with spices. Often served in thin slices as an antipasto.

Snack Contains pork and may contain other meats

Popular Activities

Cycling tours Hiking in the nearby Apennine Mountains Visiting spas and wellness centers Strolling through the city's parks and gardens Attending concerts and performances at Teatro Comunale Visiting museums and art galleries Boating on the Reno River Ice skating in Piazza Maggiore

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

The best time to visit Bologna is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild, and the tourist crowds are smaller. These seasons offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

15-28°C 59-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, French, Spanish
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Bologna is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of pickpockets and bag snatchers, especially in crowded areas
• Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas

Getting there

By air

Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport • 6 km from city center

By train

Bologna Centrale

By bus

Bologna Autostazione

Getting around

Public transport

Bologna's public bus network is efficient and covers most of the city. Buses are a convenient way to get around, especially for reaching areas not served by the tram.

Taxis

Available • Apps: FreeNow, MyTaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Centro Storico Saragozza San Vitale Sant'Agostino San Donato

Day trips

Modena

45 km from Bologna • Half day to full day

Modena is a charming city known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and world-famous balsamic vinegar. It's a great day trip from Bologna, offering a mix of culture, history, and gastronomy.

Parma

100 km from Bologna • Full day

Parma is a beautiful city known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and delicious food. It's a great day trip from Bologna, offering a mix of art, history, and gastronomy.

Ferrara

50 km from Bologna • Full day

Ferrara is a charming city known for its well-preserved Renaissance architecture, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene. It's a great day trip from Bologna, offering a mix of history, art, and local traditions.

Festivals

Bologna Jazz Festival • July Bologna Children's Book Fair • March Bologna Film Festival • June

Pro tips

Explore the city's historic center on foot, as it's compact and pedestrian-friendly
Try local specialties like tortellini, ragù alla Bolognese, and mortadella
Visit the Two Towers for a panoramic view of the city
Take a food tour to discover the city's rich culinary heritage
Use public transportation or walk to get around, as driving in the city center can be challenging