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.
Claudio
Lorenza
Match with one of our local hosts
Be matched with a host based on your interests and preferences, to tailor your perfect day.
100% Flexible: Adapt in real time
Your host will fine-tune the experience in real time to match your mood.
Experience Overview
Time:
3 hoursWhat to expect:
Fully tailored to your preferencesTransport Mode:
Walking experience (may use public transport for long distances)Sustainability:
Eco-friendly & local (Supports local businesses and low-impact travel)Language:
Hosted in English (Other languages may be requested)Meeting point:
Piazza Maggiore, Piazza Maggiore, 40124 Bologna BO, ItalyCancellation:
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experienceWhat 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.
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 Excluded:
Food and drinks (additional to the ones included in the experience)
Transport fares or attraction entry fees
What makes it 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 travelers think of this experience
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.
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Historic Osteria del Sole
Step into a 1465 wine bar where locals have gathered for centuries.
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Fresh Pasta at a Traditional Sfoglina
Discover why Bologna's pasta is world-famous with each perfect bite.
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What you’ll do
Real Stories, Real Connections
Savoring Smiles and Street Treats
Savoring Moments: A Feast with Friends
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
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.
