Bologna , Italy

Eating Bologna Food and Wine Tour

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About this experience

Ready to taste the real Bolognese? Spoiler alert: it’s nothing like what you’ve been served elsewhere! Join us on a 3 hours food adventure from medieval markets to the lively University District, Bologna’s culinary secrets are waiting for you to uncover.

You’ll dig into fresh, handmade pasta slathered in rich ragù, melt-in-your-mouth tortellini, and cured meats that’ll make you rethink lunch forever. We’ll also treat you to Parmigiano Reggiano aged for 18, 24, and 36 months, drizzled with balsamic vinegar that’s been perfected over generations.

Sip on local sparkling wines as you stroll through the vibrant Mercato di Mezzo and Quadrilatero, sampling traditional tigella, prosciutto, and mortadella sandwiches, plus Bologna’s famous rice cake. Along the way, we’ll pass the Two Towers and Piazza Maggiore, diving into the fascinating stories behind this city’s food culture.

Come hungry, because Bologna is about to show you what real food is all about!

Available options

Book a Private Tour

Private Guided Tour<br/>Extra: Raviola (stuffed cookie)

Eating Bologna Food and Wine Tour

What's included

Traditional street food: tigella with prosciutto and mortadella

Guide in-person

Fresh handmade pasta with Bolognese sauce and real tortellini

Visit iconic landmarks like the Two Towers and Piazza Maggiore, and learn about their history

Enjoy a sweet surprise: Bologna’s famous chocolate tortellini

Aged Parmigiano Reggiano tasting(18, 24, and 36 months) paired with precious balsamic vinegar

Detailed itinerary

Enjoy a tasting of Parmigiano Reggiano (3 ages) and balsamic vinegar in their renowned shop.

We'll visit a traditional delicatessen, a local institution known for its top-quality cured meats. Nearby, we’ll see skilled 'sfogline' making pasta by hand before we enjoy an iconic mortadella sandwich.

A Bologna favorite for fresh pasta and preserves. Experience its historic charm with a tasting of rice cake.

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.

Stop 5 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.

Palazzo dei Banchi, the last building added to Piazza Maggiore, was designed by Vignola in the 16th century to conceal the market alleys. Its name recalls the old currency exchange banks once located here.

Enjoy a tasting of tagliatelle with Bolognese sauce and tortellini in Parmigiano Reggiano sauce at historic Osteria

Stop 8 Pass by

The Two Towers, Garisenda and Asinelli, are iconic symbols of Bologna, marking the ancient Via Emilia’s entrance. Built between 1109-1119 for defense and prestige, Asinelli stands at 97 meters with 498 steps leading to stunning city views, while the leaning Garisenda, at 47 meters, was even mentioned by Dante. Currently, Garisenda is under restoration due to structural issues.

Piazza Santo Stefano, often mistaken for a square, connects to the "Seven Churches" complex, dominated by the Basilica of Santo Stefano. Surrounded by historic buildings like Casa Berti and Palazzo Isolani, it’s a popular spot for cultural events and summer aperitifs. The basilica, a unique sanctuary with origins dating back to Petronius, is known for merging multiple churches built across different eras.

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.

Majani, Italy’s oldest chocolate factory, has been family-run since its founding in 1796 in the Bologna province. Enjoy a tasting of the signature chocolate tortellino at the end of the tour.

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.

What's not included

Hotel pick-up/drop off

Gratuties/tips

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.9

87 reviews

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Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Non suitable for Vegan diets

Vegetarian-Friendly Tours but vegan, gluten-free, or kosher options may be limited.

Meeting point

Meet you guide just in front of Palazzo dei Banci in Piazza Maggiore, at the corner with Via Clavature.

Important notes

This activity requires a minimum number of 2 guests. Should this not be met, we will contact you directly to help you get rescheduled or reimbursed!

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