Available languages
3 hours 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
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
Two traditional types of homemade pastas
Our mouth-watering Secret Dish
Prosciutto di Parma, Mortadella & regional cold cuts
Aged Parmigiano Reggiano | Aged Modena balsamic vinegar (8, 12 & 25 years)
Selection of local red & white wines | Traditional local digestif
Espresso or macchiato
Traditional welcoming sweet treat | Creamy artisanal gelato
Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Gratuities
Private Tour Upgrade: Choose this option to upgrade to a private food tour of Bologna for only you and your group
Small Group Tour: Choose this option to join our Secret Food Tour Bologna in a group of 12 people or less!
1,328 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
R6590WAstephenm,,Feb 12, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Thoroughly enjoyed our experience. Gabriele was a lovely, friendly very knowledgable guide. Would highly recommend to taste different bolognese traditional food.
Ryan H,,Feb 9, 2026
- Review from Viator
Host was warm, welcoming, and knowledgable. We tasted all the major dishes of Bologna and toured the market area. Everyone in our group was quite satisfied.
danielledonlan,,Feb 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
We had a really lovely time with Marco yesterday on the food tour. My husband and I do food tours in each new city we visit and this was one of our favourites. Plenty of food and wine and we left with fill bellies. Would highly recommend




Anders H,,Feb 6, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
The guide was so nice and had a really good knowledge about food, wine and Bologna in general. Nice food etc served during the tour.
949christied,,Feb 3, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
We had an incredible experience with Claire, and highly recommend this tour as it covered a variety of places and tastes that captured Bologna!
Brianna H,,Feb 3, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
It was so much fun getting to learn about Bologna! Cat was an amazing tour guide! All of the food was amazing! Would recommend!




LondonCrawford,,Feb 1, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
I loved the tour. Claire was so knowledgeable and fun. The places we visited were interesting and the food and wine we had were lovely. I'd highly recommend this tour
michael s,,Jan 25, 2026
- Review from Viator
Very fun. Got to try lots of different foods. Our guide was very knowledgeable. The pasta demonstrate were entertaining and delucioux
SullyBD,,Jan 24, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
On our day trip to Bologna, we took this tour and loved it. Whether you have a day or more, what a great way to discover a city's history and culture through its food, especially so in Bologna, home to some of Italy's most iconic (and delicious) foods. The tour included many stops and abundant portions. We met the most wonderful restauranteurs and shop proprietors happy to engage with us on their dishes and products. One of the best parts of the tour was spending time with our guide Gabriele whose knowledge and passion for his city and its food are infectious. When asked, he freely shared recommendations for other restaurants and eateries as well as what sites to see and what happenings to check out in the vibrant city of Bologna.
Angela N,,Jan 24, 2026
- Review from Viator
Claire was so much fun and had so much knowledge of the city and we learned a lot about the food and ate until we couldn’t eat anymore. We have done three food tours in Italy and this might have been my favorite. Bologna was also such an interesting city. Would definitely recommend this tour!
Operated by Secret Food Tours