A private walking tour to enjoy history, food and wine with a private guide in the art-rich historical center of Bologna
Discover the rich history and beautiful art of Bologna
Enjoy samples of the amazing food and wine of this region
Try parmigiano cheese, prosciutto, mortadella, salame, balsamic vinegar, chocolate
Drink local wines (Lambrusco or Sangiovese)
- Private English-speaking tour guide included
- Tastings and wine included
Description:
Step into the soul of Bologna, where art, history, and gastronomy are woven into everyday life.
Your local guide will meet you right at your hotel and lead you through Bologna’s historic center, a place of medieval towers, ancient porticoes, and vibrant food markets. Along the way, you’ll hear stories of artists and scholars, and taste authentic Emilian flavors.
Itinerary – Bologna Art and Food Tour
Your private experience begins with a personal pick-up at your hotel (if centrally located), followed by a leisurely walk through Bologna’s historic center.
Piazza Maggiore & Basilica of San Petronio
Start in Bologna’s grand main square, surrounded by majestic palaces and cafés. Visit the Basilica of San Petronio, one of Italy’s largest churches, and admire its fascinating blend of Gothic design and unfinished charm.
Archiginnasio & Anatomical Theatre
Enter the Archiginnasio Palace, the ancient seat of Europe’s oldest university. Inside lies the Anatomical Theatre, a stunning wooden amphitheater where anatomy lessons once met art. A place that perfectly embodies Bologna’s intellectual spirit.
The Quadrilatero Market – Taste of Tradition
Discover the lively Quadrilatero, a maze of tiny shops and food stalls that has fed Bologna for centuries. Here you’ll enjoy a series of delicious tastings:
- Mortadella di Bologna IGP – the city’s most famous cold cut
- Parmigiano Reggiano DOP – aged and nutty, the king of cheeses
- Fresh Tortellini – handmade by local sfogline (pasta artisans)
- Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena – sweet, tangy perfection
- Lambrusco & Sangiovese Wines – two iconic Emilia-Romagna reds
- Artisanal Chocolate – from one of the world’s oldest producers
- Homemade Gelato – the sweetest way to end your Bologna adventure
The Two Towers – Iconic Bologna
Finish beneath the Asinelli and Garisenda Towers, symbols of Bologna’s medieval skyline. Take in the view, sip a final glass of wine, and raise a toast to a day of unforgettable discoveries.
Why Travelers Love This Tour
Private & Personalized – Enjoy Bologna at your own pace with a dedicated local expert.
Authentic Tastings – Every stop is hand-picked for quality, tradition, and local charm.
Art Meets Gastronomy – Explore centuries of creativity while savoring culinary masterpieces.
Stories Only Locals Know – Go beyond the guidebooks with insights from your passionate guide.
Whether you’re a foodie, art lover, or simply curious traveler, this tour offers the perfect mix of culture, flavor, and fun.
Book or Customize Your Experience
Ready to fall in love with Bologna?
Book your Art, Food & Wine Tour now to secure your private experience or
Contact us if you’d like to customize the itinerary — we can adapt the tour for families, groups, or special interests like wine, art, or cooking.
FAQs – Art, Food & Wine Tour Bologna
How long does the Bologna Art and Food Tour last?
The tour lasts about 3 hours, depending on your pace and preferences.
Is it a private experience?
Yes. This is a fully private tour, led by your own professional guide.
What’s included in the tour?
All food and wine tastings, your local private guide.
What food and drinks will we taste during the tour?
You’ll enjoy mortadella, Parmigiano Reggiano, tortellini, balsamic vinegar, Lambrusco and Sangiovese wines, artisanal chocolate, and gelato. Product changes may happen based on availability.
Can you accommodate dietary needs?
Yes! Please let us know in advance if you have any dietary restrictions, allergies, or preferences (vegetarian, gluten-free, etc.).
Is this tour family-friendly?
Definitely — children love the stories, markets, and gelato stops.
When is the best time to take the tour?
The tour runs year-round, but spring and autumn offer the best weather for walking and tasting.
Where does the tour start?
Your guide meets you at your hotel if conveniently located or at a meeting point in the city center.
Is the tour available in other languages?
Yes, we offer guides in English, Italian, Spanish, French, and German (subject to availability).
Included:
- Officially licensed private tour guide
- Wine tasting (two glasses)
- Food tasting (four tastings of cured meats - cheese - pasta)
- Chocolate tasting
- Gelato
- All entrance fees
Not included:
- Transportation
- Food and drinks in excess of what specified as included
Languages:
Italian, English, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese
Meeting point:
Centrally located. Detailed instructions and map will be emailed
Duration:
3 Hours
Dress code:
Comfortable walking shoes
Alternative tours:
If you wish to visit a Parmesan cheese factory, prosciutto ham and balsamic vinegar producer see our daytrip Bologna food tour
Bologna Food Tour in Small Group

