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On our Secret Food Tour Bologna: we'll provide you with an unforgettable taste experience.
We'll start with a traditional welcoming sweet. Then, we'll visit one of the oldest Salumeria of
the city to learn more about the local meat products and the famous pastas.
You'll enjoy: Parmigiano Reggiano, Prosciutto di Parma, Mortadella di Bologna and many
more regional cold cuts in the oldest Osteria in the world with a glass of our local wine.
Next we have planned a taste of fresh, handmade pasta made just for us at a local Trattoria,
always with a glass of local wine (and a coffee, if you like it) Then we will visit the main local
food market, called Quadrilatero, and we'll enjoy a tasting of different types of balsamic
vinegar from Modena (8-12-25 years of aging) to discover how this amazing tradition is still
deeply rooted in this region.
Please note that we are not able to offer any gluten-free or vegan option yet.
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please note: the itinerary and menu is subject to change, based on the locations' availability, weather, and other circumstances.
Please ensure to contact us in advance of the tour for any dietary requirement, to ensure we can cater for them the best we can.
This tour involves a fair amount of walking; comfortable shoes are recommended.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Palazzo della Mercanzia
Welcome to the commencement of our culinary odyssey at Palazzo della Mercanzia. Our guide will initiate proceedings with introductions, setting the stage for an invigorating exploration of Bologna's dynamic culinary scene. The construction of the palace traces its origins back to the 14th century, and it historically served as the epicenter for the city's economic and commercial activities. A notable feature of Palazzo della Mercanzia is the imposing wooden statue of San Petronio, the patron saint of Bologna, proudly displayed on the facade.
Quadrilatero
A captivating and historic neighborhood nestled in the heart of Bologna, Italy, also known as the "Quadrilatero Romano," is celebrated for its medieval streets, and a plethora of culinary delights. The moniker "Quadrilatero" alludes to the district's rectangular street layout. Characterized by narrow, winding alleys harkening back to medieval times, the architecture reflects the city's evolution, featuring buildings adorned with traditional porticoes and vibrant hues. Quadrilatero is famed for its bustling market area, where locals and visitors alike can peruse a diverse array of stalls showcasing fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other local specialties. The market creates a vibrant and colorful ambiance, establishing itself as a focal point for food enthusiasts. Quadrilatero, with its amalgamation of history, culinary treasures, and cultural vibrancy, promises visitors a delightful and authentic experience, inviting them to immerse themselves in the lively spirit of Bologna
Sweet: Artisanal gelato
Savory: Artisan Mortadella sandwich, classic Tigella & Lasagna verde
Savory: 2 homemade pastas, Prosciutto di Parma, Mortadella, Aged Parmigiano, Balsamic (8–25 yrs)
Sweets: Traditional welcome treat & artisanal gelato
*** 3 Hour Tour ***
Drinks: One glass of local wine
Drinks: Local red/white wines, traditional digestif & espresso.
*** 2-Hour Express Tour ***
Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Gratuities
3-Hour Small Group Tour: Choose this option to join our Secret Food Tour Bologna in a group of 12 people or less!
Choose this option to join our 2-Hour Express Food Tour Bologna in a group of 16 people or less!
Private Tour Upgrade: Choose this option to upgrade to a private food tour of Bologna for only you and your group
1,396 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
suesH3278PW,Apr 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Great tour hosted by Federica. Good selection of local delecacies with a bit of history thrown in. Highlighted how special the city Bologna is.
daniellesU214CI,Apr 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Very very good tour hosted by Matthew. He was super knowledgeable and passionate about Bologna and its produce. Answered all questions patiently and thoroughly. Knew lots about the city and the food and drink. Every stop was delicious and we were never left wanting. Come hungry!!
Nomad57710949874,Apr 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Lovely way to see and appreciate Bologna. Definitely recommend this tour!
Lisa K,Apr 7, 2026
- Review from Viator
Darren is very knowledgeable of the food, region, culture. He is very pressing. 2 hours is just the right amount of time for the tour. We had an exceptional afternoon. And so full of the local tastes. Highly recommend.
152valeryh,Apr 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
An awesome tour with Mattia. A must do in Bologna. Thanks a lot!
Lisa C,Apr 6, 2026
- Review from Viator
Great tour - highly recommend! Our guide Fedi was very knowledgable and made this tour fun and informative.
Larry M,Apr 5, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Mattia was an excellent guide and true master of the city and its food. His tour was also a history lesson revealing details of Bologna we would never have known by walking ourselves. The choices he presented to us captured the essence of the region and we left knowing more than when we arrived. That is a success in my eyes.
Bruce B,Apr 4, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Matthew led us, as part of a small group, on a tour of local emporiums gathering and learning about Bologna cuisine until we arrived at a wine bar which only sold drinks but no food where local sparkling wine was ordered and we could enjoy the food we had gathered. As we munched and sipped Matthew explained more. Once we had polished off our initial haul we set off walking through the town, leaning something off the history before arriving at a traditional restaurant where we enjoyed Ragu with tagliatelle and tortellini with balsamic vinegar, and a glass or so of a local red. The last stop was for gelato. Excellent food tour. Thank you Matthew!
Kate C,Apr 3, 2026
- Review from Viator
We really enjoyed our “secret” food tour. Our guide Claire was exceptional. She was very knowledgable and interesting. She showed us the ins and outs of the Red city. My favorite part was the secret portion. I can’t tell you what it is. You’ll have to see for yourself!
PATRICIA C,Apr 3, 2026
- Review from Viator
Our guide Gabe (USA nickname for him) was excellent. Not only is he a former chef, but his knowledge of the city made the experience educational as well as fun
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