Food Valley Gems: Gourmet Morning & Light Lunch from Bologna
Active
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
Maximize your time with this half-day immersion into Italy's Food Valley. Escape Bologna to go behind the scenes of the region's icons. Witness the birth of Parmigiano Reggiano at an artisanal dairy, and discover an ancient Acetaia to taste "Black Gold" Balsamic. Exclusive highlight: taste a unique cherry-based balsamic condiment in a house surrounded by cherry trees. Crown your morning at a family-run winery with a vineyard walk and a glass of fresh Pignoletto. Enjoy a "Pranzo Contadino" (Country Lunch) featuring premium cured meats, artisanal cheeses, and others local wines like Lambrusco and Barbera. This is the "full experience in half the time," offering deep cultural insight and world-class gastronomy. Designed for foodies seeking a premium, intimate atmosphere with comfortable transport, returning to Bologna by early afternoon with your day still wide open. Experience the soul of Emilian tradition through its people, scenic hills, and authentic flavors.
Available options
Food Valley Gems: Gourmet Morning & Light Lunch from Bologna
What's included
Typical breakfast with local products
Winery lunch with food pairing and local wines
Licensed local expert guide
Guided dairy tour and traditional balsamic vinegar tasting
Round-trip transportation from Bologna
Detailed itinerary
1
Meet your expert tour leader at Bologna Central Bus Station and start your journey in a comfortable minivan discovering culinary traditions.
2
Artisanal Dairy. Witness the Mastro Casaro craft Parmigiano Reggiano. Enjoy a rich breakfast with warm ricotta, aged cheese, and crispy parmesan chips.
3
Ancient Acetaia. Enter the world of "Black Gold." Discover the aging process in centuries-old barrels and enjoy a technical "spoon tasting," including a unique cherry-based balsamic condiment.
4
Family Winery. A spectacular conclusion: take a walk through the vineyards with a glass of Pignoletto. Follow with a guided tasting of Lambrusco and Barbera during a "Pranzo Contadino" lunch with premium cured meats and seasonal specialties.
5
Scenic drive back, arriving in the late morning perfectly satisfied and with the afternoon still ahead.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
During the dairy tour you will explore the dairy production process behind the scenes. For safety reasons, visitors must wear closed-toe shoes with non-slip rubber soles, as some areas may be wet or slippery.
It is mandatory to arrive at the meeting point at the mentioned check in time. In case of delay it will not be possible to join the group, nor to have a refund or reschedule the excursion.
Please note: this tour includes activities and walking routes that are not suitable for wheelchair users.
Meeting point
Meet our Tour Leader in front of the bus station entrance.
Important notes
07:30am Meet your tour leader in Piazza XX Settembre in front of the bus station entrance, in Bologna city center.
Additional info:
- It is mandatory to arrive at the meeting point at the mentioned check in time. In case of delay it will not be possible to join the group, nor to have a refund or reschedule the excursion.
- Comfortable shoes are suggested.
- During the dairy tour you will explore the dairy production process behind the scenes. For safety reasons, visitors must wear closed-toe shoes with non-slip rubber soles, as some areas may be wet or slippery.
- Please note: this tour includes activities and walking routes that are not suitable for wheelchair users.
Our Contacts:
Phone +39 055 29.55.72 or +39 055 28.32.00 - Whatsapp: +39 3458025842 - email address: tours@caftours.com
For additional information please check our Terms & Conditions at the address http://www.caftours.com/terms-conditions.html
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
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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