Tour difficulty

  • Easy
  • Medium
  • Hard

Duration

3 hours

Florence Tours: City Tours

Bologna Food and Walking Tour

 

Savoring the Flavors of Bologna

Indulge in the rich culinary traditions and vibrant history of Bologna with Your Own Italy’s “Bologna Food and Walking Tour.” Known as “La Grassa” (The Fat One) for its sumptuous cuisine, Bologna is a paradise for food lovers. This exclusive tour combines the best of Bologna’s culinary offerings with an exploration of its historic heart, offering insights into the city’s medieval architecture, scholarly heritage, and lively marketplaces. Led by a local guide, you’ll sample traditional Bolognese dishes, visit artisan food producers, and uncover the secrets of Italy’s gastronomic capital.

Savoring the Flavors of Bologna

Quadrilatero Market: Begin your tour in the historic Quadrilatero market area, where narrow streets are lined with stalls and shops selling fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other delicacies. Sample local products and learn about the importance of fresh ingredients in Italian cooking.

Traditional Bolognese Cuisine: Visit selected trattorias and osterias to taste classic dishes such as tortellini in brodo, tagliatelle al ragù, and mortadella. Discover the origins of these dishes and why Bologna is revered by gourmands worldwide.

Artisan Food Producers: Meet local artisans who uphold Bologna’s culinary traditions, from fresh pasta makers to balsamic vinegar producers. Gain insights into their craft and the dedication required to produce high-quality Italian specialties.

Piazza Maggiore and Historic Sites: In between tastings, explore Bologna’s architectural gems, including the grand Piazza Maggiore, the Basilica di San Petronio, and the medieval towers of Asinelli and Garisenda. Learn about the city’s rich history and its role as a major cultural and intellectual center.

Your Own Italy: A Culinary Journey Through Bologna

Your Own Italy’s “Bologna Food and Walking Tour” offers an immersive exploration of Bologna’s culinary landscape and historic sights. This experience is perfect for food enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone looking to delve into the heart of Italian culture and cuisine.

Ready to Taste Your Way Through Bologna?

Are you prepared to explore the gastronomic wonders and historical treasures of Bologna? Contact Your Own Italy to customize your culinary journey, and get ready for an unforgettable experience in one of Italy’s most flavorful cities.

What's Included

Your personalized food and walking tour of Bologna promises to be an immersive journey through the city’s rich historical landscape and its renowned culinary tradition. Guided by your personal expert, you’ll delve into the heart of Bologna’s medieval center and gastronomic delights.

Medieval Center Exploration: Discover the iconic Two Towers, symbols of Bologna’s rich medieval past, and the Old University, home to the 17th-century Anatomical Theatre, a marvel of medical history.

San Petronio Church and Bolognini’s Chapel: Visit these religious and artistic landmarks, including the majestic San Petronio Church and the Bolognini Chapel, adorned with 15th-century frescoes.

Maggiore Square and Surrounding Palaces: Stroll through the bustling Maggiore Square, surrounded by historical buildings like the Banchi Palace and the Podesta Palace.

Santo Stefano’s Church and Historic “Torresotti”: Explore the spiritual and architectural beauty of Santo Stefano’s Church and the nearby ancient “Torresotti,” or tower houses.

Piazza Maggiore’s Iconic Sights: Marvel at the Fountain of Neptune, another symbol of Bologna, and take in the sights of San Petronio and Archiginnasio around Piazza Maggiore.

Culinary Discovery in the Quadrilatero: Wander through the Quadrilatero, Bologna’s famous food market, where your senses will be delighted by local specialties such as Prosciutti, Mortadella di Bologna, and more.

Majani Sweet Shop: Indulge in fine chocolates at this renowned shop, a sweet highlight of your culinary exploration.

Typical Bolognese Cuisine Tasting: Conclude your tour at a traditional Bolognese restaurant, where you’ll have the chance to taste dishes that have made Bologna’s cuisine famous worldwide.

This tour is not just a walk through Bologna’s streets but a journey through time and taste, offering insights into the city’s storied past and delicious present. Enjoy every moment of discovery and delight!

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Tips for Your Tour

Engage with Your Guide: Your personal guide is a treasure trove of knowledge about Bologna’s history and culinary traditions. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and seek recommendations.

Comfortable Footwear: You’ll be exploring on foot, so wear shoes that are comfortable for walking through city streets and historic sites.

Camera Ready: Bologna’s blend of medieval architecture, bustling squares, and mouth-watering food displays offers endless photo opportunities.

Appetite for Adventure: Prepare your palate for an array of flavors as you sample Bologna’s culinary offerings, from savory cured meats to exquisite chocolates and traditional dishes.

Faq

Is there a dress code I should know about?
There is a dress code for churches and basilicas. Shoulders and knees must be covered; shorts, miniskirts, and sleeveless shirts are not permitted. It is also recommended that you not take large bags or backpacks on tours that include churches as you may not be permitted to enter and storage accommodations are not usually available.
What if there is bad weather?
Our tours operate rain or shine!
Is tipping customary in Italy?
Tipping is indeed customary in Italy ! It is considered a kind gesture and proper etiquette to leave “a little something extra” depending on the level of service you receive. For a private guide it is suggested to leave 15 – 25 euros for a typical 3-hour tour.
What happens after I’ve requested a booking through your website?
Your Own Italy will send a confirmation email within 24 hours of your booking. You will then be invited to make your payment using a link that will be provided.
Can wheelchair users go on this walking tour?
Not all walking tours are fully accessible for wheelchair users or those with walking disabilities. However, if anyone in your group requires special accommodation, please let us know when completing the booking and we will work out suitable alternative routes.
Can tours be modified?
Yes, we will do our best to adjust any tour to accommodate special requests.
How far in advance should I book my walking tour?
Tours should be booked 48 hours in advance. While we cannot guarantee availability if booking occurs in less than 48 hours, we will do our best to accommodate your request.
What are Your Own Italy’s payment terms?
Full payment is due when the tour confirmation email is sent, within 24 hours of your booking. You will be provided with a link to our payment page. We accept Visa, MasterCard, and American Express.
What is your cancellation policy?
Tours must be canceled by email 24 hours prior to the start of the tour. If cancellation is made in less than this time, Your Own Italy cannot guarantee a full refund.
How do I amend a reservation?
Any changes to existing reservations must be requested by email. All efforts will be made to accommodate changes, but they cannot be guaranteed.
What should I do if I have a larger group than the size suggested on the website?
Your Own Italy is delighted to accommodate large groups. Please specify the number in your party when booking, and every effort will be made to organize a tour within the time limits provided.

Meeting Point

Please specify when booking whether you would prefer to meet your private guide at your accommodations or at a designated point near the highlights of the tour.

Duration Of Tour

Walking Tours last approximately 3 hours unless otherwise specified.
Tour times are average – some groups prefer a more leisurely pace with fewer sites, with your private guide, this is your option.