Bologna: Full meal Food Tour with Local Delights by Do Eat Better
Active
3h
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
Discover Bologna through its flavors on our Food Tour, a journey through the historic streets of one of Italy’s most vibrant culinary cities. Taste the dishes locals love, from rich traditional pastas and savory cured meats to the finest regional wines. Every stop is carefully chosen to introduce you to authentic Bolognese culinary traditions, showcase the best local eateries, and create an unforgettable food experience.
Your guide is a passionate local foodie, a friendly expert who shares insider tips, explains each dish, and reveals the history and stories behind every bite.
Do Eat Better Experience tours combine high-quality gastronomy with an immersive cultural walk, offering a true taste of life in Bologna. To ensure a personal, authentic experience, we welcome only small groups, so every guest receives our full attention and guidance.
Please note: the tour runs in English and Italian; other languages available upon request.
Available options
Bologna Food Tour Lunch
Deal
Surprise
Bologna Tour Dinner+Drink Card
Special Drink Card: You can have at least 3 alcoholic drinks. You can choose wine, beer or other drinks (ages 18+).
BolognaTour Lunch + Drink Card
Special Drink Card: You can have at least 3 alcoholic drinks. You can choose wine, beer or other drinks (ages 18+).
Bologna Food Tour Dinner
What's included
English-speaking local tour guide
Water
At least one alcoholic drink is included (only for over 18-year-old guests)
This is an itinerant full meal. At the end of the tour, you will have eaten the equivalent of a full meal in at least 4 stops
Detailed itinerary
1
We always choose the best dishes, aiming to introduce you to our traditions, suggest the best restaurants and make you live the best culinary experience ever. With Do Eat Better you can make your visit to Bologna an unforgettable experience of eating Italy's best preparations.
Here, you'll meet your local expert, who will guide you through this experience.
2
Stop 2
The tour begins with a tasting of fresh handmade pasta, such as tagliatelle al ragù alla Bolognese, finished with locally produced Parmesan cheese. This iconic dish is one of Bologna’s most beloved culinary symbols. Lighter and more versatile than lasagna, it offers a perfect introduction to the city’s cuisine while leaving room for the tastings to come. Alternatively, you may be served traditional tortellini in broth, prepared according to time-honored local tradition and just as emblematic of Bologna’s gastronomic heritage.
3
To then try out either locally made and fresh tigelle - hands down the most requested and loved food in Emilia-Romagna region and in Bologna it is topped with delicious local ingredients. Or try out the true Bolognese Mortadella in a cone or on a platter! The quintessential Bologna salami.
4
As a second dish, you'll experience Cotoletta alla Bolognese. A veal meat served with a rich sauce made with cream and parmesan cheese and topped with smoked ham. The traditional recipe requires that the meat is fried, then served in meat broth. Finally, it is briefly baked in the oven and served covered in melted cheese and ham.
5
For dessert we'll try the best artisanal Italian ice cream in Bologna with delicious flavours or alternatively Torta degli Addobbi: a rice cake with very ancient origins; it was prepared in Bologna, already around 1400, on the occasion of Corpus Domini, the end of May; a time when balconies and windows were festively decorated with coloured drapes and this cake cut into diamond shapes was offered to relatives and friends!
6
No Italian meal would be truly satisfying without a proper finale. To end our tour on a high note, we’ll enjoy a perfectly brewed espresso in a local coffee shop, savoring its rich aroma and robust flavor, the quintessential way to close any Italian culinary experience.
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
IT
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.7
165 reviews
5★
137
4★
15
3★
7
2★
3
1★
3
Tripadvisor
4.9
376 reviews
5★
346
4★
15
3★
8
2★
6
1★
1
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Please be aware that the guide may speak both in English and Italian during the tour
For safety reasons, guests with severe or life-threatening food allergies are unfortunately unable to participate in this experience.
Meeting point
Meet your guide for the Do Eat Better Experience Bologna Food Tour in Piazza di Porta Ravegnana, in front of Feltrinelli bookstore.
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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