Bologna: the red medieval pearl and its delicious food (private tour)
Active
4h - 5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
The perfect tour to get deep into the tastes and the flavours of the heart of Bologna and Modena.
Emilia Romagna history and art, explained from a culinary point of view, From the gothic frescoes to the medieval inns, canals and towers, our guests will bite some history and some local delicacies at the same time.
More in details, it is a tasting tour to discover real authotenic flavors of Bologna's: Parmigiano Reggiano, Tagliatelle, Lasagne, Tortelloni, and the ACETO TRADIZIONALE BALSAMICO DI MODENA.
The seven churches of Bologna and the renaissance / gothic chapels will complete this trip into history, art, and tastes.
Available options
Bologna: the red medieval pearl and its delicious food (private tour)
What's included
Wine tastings at Osteria del Sole (old historical Inn)
Lunch
Tastings of local delicacies
Entrance to Bolognini Chapel (San Petronio Basilica)
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Experiencing the early morning life in the old food market (QUADRILATERO)
Visiting the shop and groucery ACETAIA GIUSTI (tasting of ACETO TRADIZIONALE BALSAMICO DI MODENA).
Discover stories and art masterpieces of middle age and renaissance depicting the world of local tastes hundreds of years ago
Visiting the special shops and inns of this ancient neighborood.
Tasting different kinds of Parmigiano Reggiano, and plenty of other home made salumi, cheeses and other foodies.
2
Old Acetaia, homemade production of Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Modena
3
old Medieval Abbey, its cloisters, roman and byzantin ruins, middle age mosaics and sculptures, its rich museum and the basin of the Longobards,
the old medieval square,
the coil staires by Vignola
a unique example of 12 th century house
view of Bologna and the towers from a terrace
4
gothic church, renaissance gorgeous paitnings and frescoes describing food and daily life in the 15th century
5
100 local tastes and flavours:
Inside a historical delicassy shop (salumeria / drogheria) we will discover 100 different tastings of delicious Mortadella, Salame, Coppa, Parmigiano Reggiano, Rice Cake (Torta di Riso Bolognese)
6
Stop 6
visit the famous medieval gothic Chapel Bolognini,
much information about the SILK WAY, and Bologna 14th century daily life, the old inns and food.
Outside the church some witnesses of the roman celtic city, explaining the story of MORTADELLA....
7
Stop 7
Tasting a local glass of wine (Cabernet Sauvignon - Rosso Bologna, Bianco Bologna, Pignoletto, Sangiovese)
in a 15th century original Inn (Osteria del Sole)
Smell the porfumes of the old market
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
IT
Written guide
EN
IT
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.6
7 reviews
5★
6
4★
0
3★
0
2★
1
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.9
12 reviews
5★
11
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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
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