SANREMO FOOD TOUR – Authentic Ligurian street food and Medieval town

Explore Sanremo’s Authentic Ligurian Flavors and Ancient Streets

The Sanremo Food Tour offers a chance to experience local Ligurian cuisine while wandering through the charming Medieval town of La Pigna. Priced at $108.91 per person, the tour lasts approximately 3 hours and begins at 9:30 am from the iconic Casinò di Sanremo. With a small group limited to 12 participants, this tour promises an intimate and personalized experience.

This tour is perfect for food lovers, history enthusiasts, or anyone wanting to see Sanremo beyond the usual tourist spots. A key feature is the up to 11 tastings, including local baked goods, pesto, olive oil, and wine, all led by a knowledgeable local guide. The extensive reviews highlight the quality of guide Roberta, who is praised for her passion, expertise, and personable approach.

While most of the experience takes place outdoors, the weather resilience of this tour makes it suitable for rain or shine. Be prepared to wear comfortable shoes and bring your appetite for authentic Ligurian treats and stories.

Key Points

• 3-hour walking tour starting at Casinò di Sanremo at 9:30 am
• Up to 11 tastings of local street food, wine, and gelato
• Small-group experience with max 12 participants for a personalized feel
• Visit to La Pigna Medieval town and Sanremo fruit and vegetable market
• Led by local, English-speaking guides with extensive knowledge
• The tour is suitable for adults 18+ for wine tasting and most travelers

Meeting at Sanremo’s Iconic Casino and the Tour Start

The adventure begins at the splendid Casinò di Sanremo, located on Corso degli Inglesi. This landmark not only sets the tone but also serves as a scenic meeting point. The tour kicks off promptly at 9:30 am, allowing guests to enjoy a full morning of culinary delights and sightseeing.

Groups are kept intentionally small, 4 to 12 people, for a more relaxed and engaging atmosphere. Roberta, the local guide, is well known for her depth of knowledge, warmth, and ability to tailor the experience based on guest questions and interests.

Visiting the Authentic Food Vendors and Market

Throughout the tour, visitors stop at local vendors who have been feeding Sanremo’s residents for generations. These authentic spots serve a variety of Liguria’s specialty bites: focaccia, sardenaira, and torta di verdura, alongside extra virgin olive oil tasting from DOP Riviera Ligure, Taggiasca olives, and pesto sauce.

A visit to the Sanremo fruit and vegetable market offers a glimpse of the region’s fresh produce, providing context for these delicious ingredients. The market stop allows guests to see local produce in a lively, colorful setting, away from tourist crowds.

Discovering La Pigna Medieval Town

One of the tour’s highlights is the guided walk through La Pigna, Sanremo’s historic Medieval village. The licensed guide leads visitors through atmospheric, narrow streets lined with breathtaking views and historic buildings. This off-the-beaten-path neighborhood is packed with stories and charm, making it a perfect contrast to the modern city.

The walk up into La Pigna offers plenty of photo opportunities and insights into Sanremo’s history. The guide points out places of business with intriguing stories behind them, enriching the experience beyond just food.

Savoring Ligurian Pesto and Olive Oil

A core part of the tour is the tasting of Ligurian pesto, a hallmark of the region’s cuisine. Guests also sample extra virgin olive oil from Riviera Ligure and Taggiasca olives, which are celebrated for their quality. These tastings showcase local culinary craftsmanship and provide a deeper appreciation for Liguria’s gastronomic traditions.

The olive oil tasting is complemented by pairing local wines, including two DOC wines: Rossese di Dolceacqua and Pigato. These pairings highlight regional wine-making skills and enhance the tasting experience.

Sampling Traditional Ligurian Pastries and Gelato

No tour of Italian cuisine is complete without gelato, and this experience includes the authentic Italian gelato as a refreshing final stop. Plus, guests enjoy Bacio di Sanremo, a local small cake that captures regional flavors in a delightful bite.

The brunch-style experience also features focaccia with cheese, sardenaira, and torta di verdura, giving visitors a taste of Liguria’s beloved baked goods.

The Wine Tasting Experience with Local DOC Wines

Guests sample two regional wines, Rossese di Dolceacqua and Pigato, paired with local specialties. These small-batch wines offer insight into Liguria’s wine scene and add a sophisticated element to the culinary experience. The pairings elevate the tasting and demonstrate the region’s wine and food harmony.

Practical Details and Tour Logistics

The tour includes a brunch, snacks, olive oil and pesto tastings, two wines, gelato, and bottled water. It does not include transportation, but near public transportation makes it accessible.

Guests must be 18 or older to participate in the wine tastings. The tour is weather-proof, operating rain or shine, but travelers should wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes. The meeting point is at the Casinò di Sanremo, the perfect starting spot for this culinary exploration.

Why Roberta’s Guided Tour Is Highly Praised

The guidance by Roberta is a standout feature, with numerous reviews highlighting her deep knowledge, friendly personality, and passion for Sanremo. Reviewers mention her ability to combine food stories with local history seamlessly, making the tour both educational and enjoyable.

Many reviewers also appreciate her attention to individual questions, her ability to reveal hidden gems, and her recommendations for shops and restaurants beyond the tour.

Who Will Enjoy This Sanremo Food Tour Most?

This small-group experience is ideal for culinary enthusiasts, history buffs, and travelers seeking authentic local stories. It suits those who enjoy leisurely walks and tastings rather than fast-paced sightseeing. The pace is relaxed, allowing plenty of time for sampling and chatting.

Since the tour operates in most weather conditions, it’s a flexible option for visitors any time of year. It is especially recommended for adults 18+ due to the wine tastings, but most travelers can participate comfortably with proper footwear.

Final Thoughts on the Sanremo Food Tour

The Sanremo Food Tour offers a well-balanced mix of culinary tasting, local history, and Medieval architecture. The small-group setting ensures an intimate experience with personalized attention from the guide. The 11 tastings—ranging from baked goods to wines—are a highlight, making it a great value for $108.91.

Roberta’s expertise and friendly approach receive consistent praise, making this tour a trusted choice for anyone eager to explore Sanremo’s authentic flavors and heritage. It suits foodies, culture lovers, and curious travelers ready for an engaging, delicious morning.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes brunch (focaccia, sardenaira, torta di verdura, small cake), snacks like olive oil and pesto, two local wines, gelato, and bottled water.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at Casinò di Sanremo on Corso degli Inglesi.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 18 can participate, but wine tastings are only for adults. The experience is paced for most travelers who enjoy walking and tasting.

Do I need to prepare for the weather?
The tour runs rain or shine. It is advisable to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring an umbrella or raincoat if rain is forecasted.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made around 42 days in advance, indicating high demand and the need for early reservations to secure a spot.