Bologna Food Tour from a local perspective
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Delicious Bologna Food Tours want the tourists live an authentic experience like a local. 6 stops at some selected historical shops and restaurants to taste MORE THAN 20 local specialties of Bologna region.
SMALL GROUPS, LOCAL HOST for a better quality food tour and learn about the culture and traditions of Bologna:
TORTELLINI MUST BE EATEN IN BROTH, NOT WITH CREAM SAUCE
TAGLIATELLE AL RAGU, NO SPAGHETTI BOLOGNESE
NO CAPPUCCINO AFTER LUNCH
OUR PARMIGIANO REGGIANO IS NOT PARMESAN CHEESE
AND MOST IMPORTANT OUR MORTADELLA DOESN'T TASTE LIKE BALONEY ;)
When in Bologna you can't miss the best bowl of tortellini in broth, handmade tagliatelle al ragu, the best selection of regional cured meat with our local wine, Aged Parmigiano Reggiano with Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Modena.
But also with us you visit the food market, the main square, the 2 towers and other main spots!
PS. Our local cuisine is mainly pork based, inform us if you are vegetarian, we'll replace cured meat with cheese.
Available options
Bologna Food Tour from a local perspective
What's included
Taste 15 and 25 year old aged Balsamic Vinegar of Modena IGP and DOP
Lunch with 3 types of handmade pasta and wine
Aperitivo with cold meat, aged parmigiano reggiano and local wine at the oldest osteria of Bologna
Breakfast with coffee and a sweet pastry in a local cafè
Walk in the Quadrilatero food market and the main square
Visit an artisanal pasta factory to watch ladies making freshegg pasta
Artisanal Gelato
Detailed itinerary
1
Start your day in the best cafè of Bologna with classic italian breakfast Cappuccino and Cornetto
2
Visit a little pasta workshop where "Sfogline" make handmade pasta and stop to their shop to grab the best cold meat and Parmigiano Reggiano 30Months.
3
Stop 3
Walk around the streets of the food market of Bologna and enjoy Aperitivo with local food and wine
4
Stop 4
Visit the main square of Bologna and learn about stories and legends about the main church, neptune statue and the other main attractions
5
Enjoy your lunch with 3 types of handmade pasta and wine
6
Taste different bottles of Aceto Balsamico di Modena IGP and DOP (Aged 25years)
7
Learn about the history of the Two Towers of Bologna
8
End up the tour with the best artisanal gelato of Bologna
What's not included
Hotel pickup
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
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646 reviews
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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
The nearest parking at the meeting point is Piazza 8 Agosto, consider there is some traffic in the morning in Bologna, please, text me if you are late!
Meeting point
The meeting point is at 9.55am at Piazza di Porta Ravegnana, between BOTTEGA DEI PORTICI and FELTRINELLI BOOK STORE.
If you come by car, you can park at Piazza 8 Agosto, 15 mins by walk to the meeting point.
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
