Bologna

Tortellini, Trattorias & Tastes of Bologna

City Unscripted experience hero image 10

City Unscripted experience hero image 11

Local Food & Drink Tastings • 3 hours 5.0

(72)

Tortellini, Trattorias & Tastes of Bologna

Discover Bologna's delicious soul through its iconic foods. Sample local specialties, sip regional drinks, and uncover the stories behind the flavors.

What makes this experience special

While tourists hunt for "authentic" spots online, you'll be savoring the real Bologna locals love. Each bite telling the story of why this city is called "La Grassa" (The Fat One).

Key highlights

Sample 7-8 Bolognese specialties from mortadella to handmade pasta and local cheeses.
Sip regional Lambrusco or Pignoletto wine in a historic osteria dating back to 1465.
Explore the vibrant Quadrilatero Market where locals shop for the finest ingredients.
Taste the true tagliatelle al ragù (the authentic
Learn food traditions and stories that connect each dish to Bologna's rich history.
Indulge in creamy gelato at a generations-old gelateria

What to know before you go

Here’s everything you need to know before your day unfolds.

At a glance What’s included Things to know

3 hours

Fully tailored to your preferences

Walking experience may use public transport for long distances

Eco-friendly & local Supports local businesses and low-impact travel

English Other languages may be requested

What’s included

Tailored itinerary based on your preferences

A knowledgeable host who knows the hidden gems

7-8 tastings of various Bolognese specialties and a coffee, craft beer, glass of regional wine or a soft drink of your choice.

Flexible start times to fit your day

What’s not included

Food and drinks (additional to the ones included in the experience)

Transport fares or attraction entry fees

Meeting point

Piazza Maggiore, Piazza Maggiore, 40124 Bologna BO, Italy

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience

What to bring

We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and carrying a light bag for your essentials.
Public transport may be used during the experience—please bring a bus ticket or a small amount of cash for fares.

How your day could unfold

A flexible, unscripted experience designed entirely around your interests. Your host will adapt the day based on what excites you most

Here’s what your experience could look like

These are just suggestions from our hosts to inspire your day. Your host will tailor the experience to suit your interests and tastes

Meeting point

Piazza Maggiore, Piazza Maggiore, 40124 Bologna BO, Italy

Quadrilatero Market: A Feast for the Senses

Wander a historic market where aromas and flavors compete for your attention.

Tortellini, Trattorias & Tastes of Bologna

Weave through narrow market lanes to sample Bologna's treasures - mortadella sliced paper-thin, crumbly aged Parmigiano, and syrupy balsamic from passionate local vendors.

Historic Osteria del Sole

Step into a 1465 wine bar where locals have gathered for centuries.

Slip into this unmarked wine bar locals have loved since 1465. Choose fizzy Lambrusco or crisp Pignoletto and join neighbors at wooden tables in a space unchanged by time.

Fresh Pasta at a Traditional Sfoglina

Discover why Bologna's pasta is world-famous with each perfect bite.

Watch pasta artisans roll dough by hand before tasting their creations - perhaps tortellini floating in golden broth or silk-like tagliatelle tangled with rich ragù. This is Bologna's soul on a plate.

Sweet Finale: Artisanal Gelato

End with creamy gelato made by passionate artisans.

End at a gelateria where flavors change with the seasons. Choose nutty pistachio or the shop's signature creation for one final taste of Bologna's delicious traditions.

Real Stories, Real Connections

See our hosts and guests creating memories

A Delightful Tapas Feast Under Vibrant Arches

Al Fresco Indulgence – Tasting Mortadella in Bologna’s Historic Center

Market Smiles – Discovering Bologna’s Tasty Side Streets

Courtyard Cheers – Aperitivo Moments with Mortadella and Friends

Charcuterie and Camaraderie – Sharing Flavors in a Local Deli

Lunchtime Vibes – Outdoor Dining in the Artistic Backstreets

Sweet Finale – Gelato Stop at a Classic Bologna Gelateria

Under the Lights – Evening Feast at a Hidden Gem

Panino Perfection – Sampling Street Food at Tigellino

Lunchtime Vibes – Outdoor Dining in the Artistic Backstreets

See what happens when you travel unscripted!

17,500+ 5-Star Reviews and Counting

Trusted and recommended by travelers worldwide, including 99% on Google and TripAdvisor.

recommended by 99% of travelers on google

recommended by 99% of travelers on tripadvisor

We don’t make deals with businesses - giving you unbiased and authentic local experiences.

Hannah Oct 2025

Jon was so friendly and it was great to meet another LGBT person, we felt so comfortable and welcome. He shared a few LGBT historical locations as well.

Andrew Sep 2025

Antonia was personable and very knowledgeable. She was enthusiastic and keen to share her love of Bologna, its food, and history!

Fabian Sep 2025

Diego is one of a kind! We had such a great experience strolling around Bologna, eating good food! He knows every little detail about the city and the whole day was a lot of fun! Highly recommend!

Ashley Sep 2025

This was such a great experience! I learned about the origins of the food and the regions that they come from. I loved Antonia, she was a great host. Very flexible with my schedule.

Jerry R Sep 2025

We had a great time with the charming and knowledgeable Diego. What a fun way to see Bologna and we visited so many great spots!

Lori Aug 2025

We had an amazing food tour in Bologna with Antonia to celebrate our husbands' 60th birthdays! Antonia was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, taking us to charming local spots we wouldn’t have found on our own. We savored delicious tortellini and enjoyed a delightful balsamic vinegar tasting and homemade pasta, all while soaking in Bologna’s vibrant atmosphere. Antonia made the experience fun and personal, sharing fascinating stories along the way. It was a memorable day filled with laughter, great food, and wonderful company. This tour is a must for anyone visiting Bologna!

SEE ALL REVIEWS

FAQs

Your questions, answered

Is this a traditional tour or something different?

This isn’t a traditional tour with a fixed script. It’s a fully personalized day shaped around your interests, whether it’s culture, history, neighborhoods, or hidden local spots. Your host is a knowledgeable local, more like a friend showing you their city. It’s flexible, one-on-one, and tailored entirely to you.

How does personalization work?

After booking, you’ll receive a short questionnaire where you can share your interests, travel style, and any must-see spots. Based on that, we’ll match you with a local host who’ll reach out to plan your personalized itinerary..

Can I mix different themes in one experience?

Yes! You can blend food, culture, history, neighborhoods, or even a bit of nightlife if time allows. Just share your interests in the questionnaire, and your host will build the day around them.

Will I know my itinerary in advance?

Yes, you will have the opportunity to chat with your host directly and agree on a plan for the day. However, there’s always room for spontaneity and local surprises!

Can I adjust the plan on the day?

Absolutely. Your host can adjust the itinerary on the day based on your pace, energy, or any new ideas you have. It’s a flexible experience from start to finish.

Can my experience accommodate dietary restrictions?

Yes! You'll receive a questionnaire right after booking where you can note any dietary requirements, and your host will tailor the experience accordingly.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Your experience will still go ahead, and your host will adapt the day to suit the conditions. One of the great things about City Unscripted is that no two experiences are the same, and your host knows the city well enough to find great “rainy day” alternatives.

Is this experience physically demanding?

We can tailor the experience to be as active or relaxed as you like—just let us know what suits you best!

Are food and drinks included, or do I need to pay separately?

Unless stated otherwise, food and drinks are not included. Your host will take you to great spots where you can order what you like and pay as you go.

Do I need to pay for the host's food or drinks?

No, if you and your host decide to stop for food or drinks during your experience, you don’t need to cover your host’s expenses—your host will take care of their own.

Can I change the meeting place?

Yes, you will be in touch with your host before your experience, and you can agree on a different meeting point with them. Your host can meet you anywhere central that’s convenient.

Can my host meet me at my accommodation?

Hotel meet-ups are available upon request in central areas. If you're staying outside the city, your host will recommend the best meeting spot and guide you with directions.