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Offered languages
- English
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!
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Meet you guide just in front of Palazzo dei Banci in Piazza Maggiore, at the corner with Via Clavature.
Itinerary
-
1
Enjoy a tasting of Parmigiano Reggiano (3 ages) and balsamic vinegar in their renowned shop.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2
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.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3
A Bologna favorite for fresh pasta and preserves. Experience its historic charm with a tasting of rice cake.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free -
4
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.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free -
(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.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
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.
Admission ticket free -
5
Enjoy a tasting of tagliatelle with Bolognese sauce and tortellini in Parmigiano Reggiano sauce at historic Osteria
20 minutes • Admission ticket free -
(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.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
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.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
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.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
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.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
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.
Admission ticket free
Additional info
- 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.
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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