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12 Mega Epic Food Tours in Bologna You Can’t Afford to Miss in 2024

Ready to eat your way through the foodie capital of Italy? If so then this mega epic guide to the best food tours in Bologna is deffo for you.

After all, I love eating almost as much as I love breathing. I’ve also been to the mega epic city of Bologna more times than I can count.

Therefore, I am the perfect foodie to introduce you to all of the best food tours Bologna has to offer.

Because when it comes to food tours, some are hot and some are not. Plus, some can be super expensive and a total waste of your hard-earned dollars.

But, never fear because all of the best Bologna food tours listed here come with the Girl with the Passport stamp of approval and are highly rated by travelers from all across the globe.

So, stop stressing and start enjoying some of the best food that Italy has to offer.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

🍕 Busy? Then book this 3-Hour Secret Bologna Food Tour now! It’s my personal fave and a great way to enjoy authentic Italian cuisine. 🍕

Best Food Tours in Bologna

1. 3-Hour Secret Bologna Food Tour

Assortment of Italian gelato that you can try during one of the best food tours in Bologna.

⭐️ Rating: 4.8/5.0 (90 Reviews) Price: $95.86 per person Duration: 3 hours 📍Meeting Point: between the 2 towers in front of the San Petronio statue Operator: Essor Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Eat your way through Italy’s culinary capital on this 3-hour “secret” food tour in Bologna.

But why secret, you might wonder.

Well, your local guide is going to sidestep the typical restaurants and take you well off the beaten path.

So, throughout one of the best food tours in Bologna, you’ll feast on ​​Ragù alla Bolognese at a simple trattoria and dig into delicious moreish charcuterie.

“Awesome tour that simultaneously covers the food (duh), the drinks, bits of history, and local customs! More than worth it’s value, you leave super full and with lots of extra bits of trivia. Our guide Caterina was fantastic and super helpful, it was such a pleasure to listen to her and visit all the little stores and restaurants with her! Definitely recommend!”

Anonymous (Read more reviews now)

And in addition to eating homemade pasta, you’ll have a quick peek at how the sfogline (pasta-makers) of Bologna create this amazing food.

Plus, for a small surcharge, you can upgrade your booking to include ammazzacaffé.

Basically, this is an Italian custom where you wash down an afternoon coffee with a liqueur beverage.

Plus, the guide will introduce you to the sights and history of Quadrilatero – the historic heart of Bologna – as you enjoy artisanal gelato along the way.

Seriously, what’s not to love?

ProsCons
Available as a shared or private tourLittle kids are welcome but strollers cannot be accommodated due to the small sizes of the osterie
Shared tours are capped at 10 participants
Includes 6 food stops
Basic package also includes wine

2. Historic Highlights of Bologna and Food Tasting Tour

Pasta bolognese from the best food tour Bologna has to offer.

⭐️ Rating: 5.0/5.0 (2 Reviews) Price: $130.02 per person Duration: 4 hours 📍Meeting Point: Bottom of the Two Towers, next to the San Petronio statue Operator: Art and Food Tours SNC Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Experience the beauty of Bologna and its captivating cuisine with this 4-hour walking and tasting tour.

In fact, you’ll see the historic highlights of the city during this top-rated food-tasting tour that expertly mingles sightseeing with snacking.

So, after you rendezvous at the Two Towers in Piazza di Porta Ravegnana, your guide will steer you through the streets of Quadrilatero.

You’ll then get up close to the likes of Santa Maria dei Servi and the Church of San Martin while learning all about the significance behind the incredible architecture this city has to offer.

With an emphasis on art, this is one of the best food tours in Bologna for art lovers.

However, the foodie aspect of your tour starts at one of the city’s most authentic markets.

“Interesting tour full of history and local food. Our guide took us to her favourite spots where locals prepared special treats and we sampled some of the famous local products. Our guide willingly bought extras she talked about for us to try as well. I would highly recommend Sara as a guide and host. Well done!”

Anonymous (read more reviews now)

There, you will nibble on cured meats and cheeses that are perfectly paired with puffy bread and balsamic vinegar from Modena.

Later, you’ll dine on fresh pasta with Bolognese sauce before enjoying a glass of wine at a neighborhood osteria.

Ultimately, the tour finishes with coffee, dessert wine, and a sweet treat on the side to help you end your day on a high note.

ProsCons
One of the few wheelchair-accessible food tours in BolognaNot suitable for vegans
Suitable for vegetarians and those with gluten intoleranceOnce of the more expensive tours
Tour includes admission to both churches

3. Bologna Food Tour from a Local Perspective

⭐️ Rating: 5.0/5.0 (453 Reviews) Price: $121.06 per person Duration: 4.5 hours 📍Meeting Point: Piazza di Porta Ravegnana Details: Read more on Viator Now!

Get the sharpest intel on where to eat in Bologna during this food tour that is delivered to you by an actual city resident.

See, this Bologna food tour from a local perspective lasts 4.5 hours. So, you’ll basically dedicate a half-day to eating.

In total, you’ll visit 6 food stops including markets, stores, cafes, and trattorias. But, the best part? You’ll find none of these eateries listed in guidebooks.

“Our guide was very knowledgeable and helpful with recommendations on places to eat and see. The food provided was great. I highly recommend.”

Louis (read more reviews now)

So, after meeting your guide and fellow foodies in the Piazza di Porta Ravegnana, you’ll be whisked away for a classic Italian breakfast.

But, this is just the warm-up for lunch which consists of fresh pasta, charcuterie, and tigella bread with pesto.

Finally, you’ll part ways with the group after grabbing a scoop of gelato.

ProsCons
Vegetarian options are available if specified at the time of bookingOnly runs on select days
Group size capped at 8 participantsRequires a minimum of 2 per party – not ideal for solo adventurers

4. Self-Guided Bologna Food Tasting Tour with Vouchers

Glasses of wine with a vineyard in the background.

⭐️ Rating: 4.6/5.0 (49 Reviews) Price: $41.44 per person Duration: 1 day 📍Meeting Point: Fontanella d’acqua potabile Operator: BOLOGNA TOUR Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Hungry for some budget-friendly food tours in Bologna?

If that is the case then check out this self-guided food-tasting tour with vouchers.

Now, with this tour the deal is that upon booking you’ll receive a map and a set of coupons.

Each voucher will specify what it covers and where you can use it. Plus, you can scan the QR code to follow the route on Google Maps.

Actually, what’s unique about this tour is that you’ll end up trying dishes you’d probably overlook without the voucher.

“Really well organised pack with great local food from really friendly, welcoming people.”

Oliver (read more reviews now)

But, you can anticipate enjoying handmade chocolates, mouthwatering ice cream, and parmesan.

Also, the tour includes a tasting at Tigellone where you can eat the famous flatbread with typical ragù sauce.

Additionally, you’ll stay hydrated with a glass of wine and a coffee along the way as you enjoy one of the best food tours in Bologna.

ProsCons
Cheapest option availableLacks the social interaction of a conventional guided food tour
Explore at your own pace and spread the vouchers over your Bologna itinerary
Includes 7 food tasting vouchers (5 for children aged 5-11 years)
Could split one voucher between 2 people and share the plates to make it even cheaper

5. Guided Traditional Food of Bologna Tour

Tortellini with red meat sauce on a plate.

⭐️ Rating: 4.6/5.0 (44 Reviews) Price: $96.43 per person Duration: 3.5 hours 📍Meeting Point: Piazza di Porta Ravegnana, in front of Feltrinelli bookstore Operator: Do Eat Better Experience Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Calling in at 5 unique stops, this 3.5-hour guided traditional food tour exposes you to the classic dishes of Bologna.

For example, you’ll try Bolognese tortellini stuffed with meat and parmesan with your choice of broth or garnish.

However, another highlight is Bolognese cotoletta or a cut of veal served with a rich, creamy sauce that is then topped with smoked ham and parmesan.

Plus, you’ll dig into a platter of cured meats and cheeses that are all served with crusty fresh bread.

And last but not least, you’ll indulge in brazadela, a rustic cake with a similar texture to a donut that is prepared with lemon zest. FYI, it’s typically dipped in Lambrusco wine before you take a bite.

“One of the best food tours I’ve taken. Plenty of food from local places.”

Jaclyn (read more reviews now)

Of course, you’ll wrap things up with a warm espresso at a historic cafe.

Just be aware that this tour is heavy on the meat since that’s typical of Bolognese cooking. Therefore, vegetarians might prefer a different option when looking for the best food tours in Bologna.

ProsCons
Exciting supply of dishes from Bologna and Emilia-RomagnaSlightly less detailed commentary is provided with this tour
For price, length, and food inclusions this is one of the best value Bologna food tours

6. Bologna City Center Guided Wine Walking Tour

Aerial view of the Bologna skyline.

⭐️ Rating: 4.9/5.0 (19 Reviews) Price: $42.26 per person Duration: 1-3 hours 📍Meeting Point: Piazza del Nettuno, Operator: BOLOGNA.WINE Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

See, where there’s great food, there’s usually some equally epic wine.

And, the Emilia-Romagna region is responsible for around 9% of DOC production.

So, while most of these top food tours in Bologna do feature the odd glass of vino, this Bologna city center guided wine walking tour is all about the wine.

In fact, this tour gives you a choice of two options since two of the tours last either 1 or 2 hours and are focused solely on tasting the wines of Colli Bolognesi.

FYI, that’s a stunning wine-making spot just south of the city.

“Really enjoyed this. Filippo was a great guide and we went to some different places and drank some great wine! Definitely tried new varieties and learned a lot about wine and Italy! Fully recommend.”

Kathy (read more reviews now)

Whereas, the 3-hour version also features food in addition to all that glorious wine. And this foodie goodness will be enjoyed in one of the oldest taverns in central Bologna.

So, overall, you can expect to sample between 2 and 5 wines. Plus, the tour will walk you around the historic sights of Bologna too – making it a wine and sightseeing tour in one.

ProsCons
Wheelchair accessibleThose under 18 aren’t permitted on the tour even if they’re not drinking
Extremely informative on the viniculture of the Bologna area
Multiple time slots for all versions
Choice of three tours – upgrade to include food tastings

7. Food Markets Tour with a Local

⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5.0 (10 Reviews) Price: $46.22 per person Duration: 2 hours 📍Meeting Point: Mercato delle Erbe Details: Read more on Viator Now!

Grab your tote bag, slip on your comfiest sneakers, and roll up with a big appetite because this Bolgona food tour is gonna be awesome.

See, this 2-hour food markets tour with a certified guide gives you the chance to shop and eat like a real Bologna local.

In fact, this tour takes you to a special Italian store where you can sample and purchase a wide variety of cheeses, meats, pastas, and wines.

Additionally, you’ll wander through a medieval-era covered market while your guide shares insider wisdom and expert cooking tips.

“I really loved this tour as we all had a lot of fun and embraced trying new food and wine! Luckily I got a wonderful group of people where we all mingled and tried the food. The guide Bene was very insightful about Bologna!”

Allison (read more reviews now)

Overall, this is one of the coolest food tours in Bologna if you want to experience local life.

But, it’s important to bring plenty of euros. Because as a market tour, this outing doesn’t include the cost of any food consumed or purchased.

Therefore, budget an additional €15-20 ($16-21.50 USD) to cover what you buy.

However, do remember that you’ll have your personal shopping guide at your side to make recommendations.

ProsCons
Have full say in what you taste and buyNo food or drinks are not included in the tour package
Get tailored recommendations and cooking advice from the guide
Explore markets through the eyes of a local

8. Classic Bologna Food Tour

Authentic, homemade Tortellini from Bologna.

⭐️ Rating: 5.0/5.0 (186 Reviews) Price: $126.56 per person Duration: 4 hours 📍Meeting Point: Piazza Maggiore Details: Read more on Viator Now!

Meet your guide in Piazza Maggiore bright and early because the first stop on this 4-hour Classic Bologna Food Tour is breakfast.

Therefore, you can look forward to breaking the ice with the other participants over pastries and coffee.

Then, once caffeinated, the classic Bologna food tour takes you to the Mercato delle Erbe.

This is where you can pick up Italian produce with the aid of your expert guide. Then, the remainder of the tour includes a wander through the city’s oldest food market.

“Matter was v knowledgeable and we learned a lot about the food culture in Bologna. The tortellini tasting was amazing and the pistachio ice cream was to die for!”

Vince (read more reviews now)

Additionally, you’ll swan dive into Bolognese food culture at a boutique selection of osterie.

So, anticipate dining on Ragù alla Bolognese, Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, balsamic vinegar drizzled over bread, and dessert.

Of course, a highlight is seeing how tortellini are made. Plus, you’ll sip on delicious wines like Pignoletto and Lambrusco along the way.

ProsCons
Awesome mix of markets and osterie with time to eat and shopNot vegan friendly
Accessible for wheelchair users
Substitutions are available to vegetarians
No more than 10 people per group

9. Torre degli Asinelli Entrance Ticket and Bologna Food Tasting

Staircase inside the Torre degli Asinelli .

⭐️ Rating: 4.3/5.0 (155 Reviews) Price: $18.42 per person Duration: 1 hour 📍Meeting Point: Under the Asinelli Tower Operator: BOLOGNA TOUR Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Now, if the thought of climbing up 498 steps fills you with dread then try this for an incentive.

Because, when you buy this Torre degli Asinelli entrance ticket and Bologna food tasting, you’ll feel way more motivated to do this climb.

See, in a nutshell, this tour package gives you access to the tallest leaning medieval tower in the world.

Known as the Two Towers, the Asinelli Tower, and its sister La Garisenda, was first built in the 12th century and add to the modern-day charm of Bologna’s skyline.

“This was really good value and booked with the san Luca basilica train. (Didn’t realise it was the same company which turned out to be amazing as we didn’t have to meet 2 people) the guide met us at the tower and handed us our tickets for the train and the tower along with the vouchers for the food tastings which were amazing. We ended up not having to pay for lunch as you got wine, meats, cheese and bread, ice cream and Crescentina. You also get a QR code to scan for an audio guide about the tower and for landmarks around the town. Would totally recommend.”

Anonymous (read more reviews now)

Therefore, after catching your breath and getting tons of cool photos, you’ll go back down to the piazza and use your various food vouchers.

Usually, these include a slice of pizza at a hidden pizzeria or cured meats and cheeses, plus a coupon for

Additionally, you’ll receive a coupon for dessert.

ProsCons
Combines one of the best viewpoints in Bologna with a foodie twistNot suitable for people with a heart condition or limited fitness ability
Great value for families
A friendly guide will meet you in person with the tickets

Best Food tours in Bologna That are Beyond the City

10. Emilia Excellence Food Tour from Bologna

Blocks of parmesan in Bologna.

⭐️ Rating: 4.8/5.0 (13 Reviews) Price: $245.09 per person Duration: 7 hours 📍Meeting Point: Picked Up from Your Hotel Operator: BOLOGNA TOUR Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Now, you can’t exactly call yourself a foodie if you pass up the chance to visit the wider Emilia-Romagna region while in Bologna.

Because as you already know, this iconic, culinary city is the capital of this gorgeous region.

And this Emilia excellence food tour takes you on a gastronomic journey through the hills and pastures of this incredible place.

So, over the course of this amazing 7-hour journey, you’ll visit a Parmigiano Reggiano producer, a balsamic vinegar maker, and a winery.

“Fantastic! Did cheese, wine and then balsamico. I was wondering why balsamico was last but totally made sense in the end. I could’ve spent hours more at each stop. Absolutely fascinating and delicious!”

Eunice (read more reviews now)

After all, these are the three principal food products that this area is known for.

You’ll also enjoy a tour and tasting delivered to you by an expert guide at each location.

Additionally, this trip includes an epic 2-course, traditional Emilian lunch too.

Plus, this is a private tour. Therefore, you’ll have the luxury of a personal chauffeur.

Sure, it’s a bit of a splurge but it’s one of the best food tours in Bologna for a special occasion.

ProsCons
Inclusive of three tours/tastings and lunchNot all drivers speak English
Private tour ideal for honeymooners or an anniversary escapeExpensive

11. Olive Grove and Vineyard Tour with Product Tastings

Olive grove in Italy.

⭐️ Rating: 4.7/5.0 (12 Reviews) Price: $16.25 per person Duration: 1.5 hours 📍Meeting Point: Varies by tour Operator: Palazzo di Varignana s.r.l Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Beautiful Bologna will blow your mind with its gastronomy, architecture, and culture.

But, as you might have gathered, Bologna’s reputation for rad food and wine wouldn’t be where it is without its rural surroundings.

Therefore, this private olive grove and vineyard tour with product tastings takes you outside of the city.

And over the course of 1-1.5 hours, you’ll explore an estate where wines are produced alongside extra virgin olive oil, preserves, juices, saffron pistils, and goji berries.

“Memorable experience and we’ll worth the visit. Learned a lot!”

Anonymous (read more reviews now)

Of course, you can buy as many or as few items as you wish. You can even choose to have just an olive oil tasting or upgrade your experience to include wine.

And, prices rise based on whether you go with standard or superior options when booking one of the best food tours in Bologna.

Plus, wallet-friendly prices all around make these some of the best budget food tours in Bologna.

ProsCons
4 tour options are availableLimited availability subject to what month you visit
Short and sweet – convenient for travelers with limited timeNo food is included but you can purchase products made on the land
Lets you see the stunning landscapes on the periphery of the city

12. Bologna E-Bike Guided Tour with Brunch or Aperitivo

⭐️ Rating: 4.8/5.0 (13 Reviews) Price: $119.18 per person Duration: 3-5.5 hours 📍Meeting Point: Varies by Tour Operator: SLOW EMOTION Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Head for the hills and uncover Bologna’s natural beauty with a cycling tour accompanied by tastings and lunch.

See, this Bologna e-bike guided tour with brunch or aperitivo sets out from Casalecchio di Reno.

From there, you’ll cycle through Bologna city center as well as the hills and parks that dot the outskirts of the city.

This excursion also includes an electric bike rental, which takes the heat off when it comes to getting physical.

So, all you need to do is choose between a half-day (3 hours) or a full-day (5.5 hours) activity.

Now, the shorter tour includes both a cheese and wine tasting. Meanwhile, the day tour also features a farmhouse lunch that is made using regional and local ingredients.

“Great tour – ebikes and our guide Stella were both great. Stella saw we appreciated nature so took us on a route that made the most of that. we tried delicious wine, ham and cheese and learned about the surrounding area. The bikes were easy to use and meant we could cover a large distance in the day. very memorable experience. thanks! would recommend.”

John (read more reviews now)

Therefore, this is easily one of the best food tours in Bologna for anyone who loves the great outdoors.

Just be aware that the price of this tour is a bit higher as this is a private activity rather than a shared day tour.

ProsCons
Use of e-bike and helmet included in the packageNot recommended for pregnant women
Suitable for most fitness abilitiesTours generally continue in inclement weather but routes may be modified
Awesome mix of sightseeing and eating, urban and rural

Best Food Tours in Bologna FAQ

What is the most famous food in Bologna?

The most famous food in Bologna is Bolognese sauce. However, locally it is known as ragú and is a hearty meat sauce that is typically served atop pasta.

Believe it or not, the dish actually originated in France but was first served in Imola in the 18th century

What food is Emilia-Romagna famous for?

Emilia-Romagna is known throughout the world for its homemade pastas. These are also usually stuffed and filled with all sorts of meat, cheese, and vegetables.

But, the region is also known for its fresh, egg-based pasta which is usually topped with a ragù.

What Food to bring back from Bologna?

Food that you should bring back from Bologna includes:

  • Parmigiano Reggiano
  • Mortadella
  • Green lasagna
  • Tortellini in brodo
  • Prosciutto di Parma
  • Lasagna Bolognese
  • Tagliatelle al ragu
  • Certosino di Bologna

What Foods is Bologna known for?

Foods that Bologna is known for are:

  • Salty cheese
  • Homemade pasta
  • Cured meats
  • Meat sauce
  • Gelato

🍕 Busy? Then book this 3-Hour Secret Bologna Food Tour now! It’s my personal fave and a great way to enjoy authentic Italian cuisine. 🍕

Additional Italy Foodie Resources You’ll Love

There you have it! That just about wraps up this guide to the best food tours in Bologna.

Tell me, did your picks for the best food tours Bologna has to offer make the list? If not then let me know in the comments below.

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