The Genoa: Food and Wine Tasting Walking Tour offers an engaging way to experience the city’s culinary and cultural highlights in just 2 hours. Priced for a small group, this tour is perfect for travelers who want a deep dive into Genoa’s iconic dishes, local wines, and historic streets without spending an entire day on it. Meeting at Casa di Cristoforo Colombo, the tour combines food tastings, wine, and short guided visits to key landmarks like the Doge’s Palace and the Genoa Cathedral.

What makes this tour stand out is the flexibility to customize the menu based on dietary preferences, including vegetarian and vegan options. The knowledgeable guides are praised for their friendly approach, making each stop lively and informative. With a nearly perfect 4.9 out of 5 rating from 213 reviews, this experience appeals to anyone eager to enjoy Genoa’s authentic flavors while soaking in its vibrant history. A noteworthy point is the small group size and easy walking pace, ensuring an intimate and manageable exploration, especially helpful for those with limited mobility or tight schedules.

Key Points

2-hour walking tour starting at Casa di Cristoforo Colombo
Includes 5 traditional Genoese dishes and 2 glasses of local wine
Flexible menu options for vegetarians, vegans, and food intolerances
Guided visits to Doge’s Palace, Genoa Cathedral, and other historic sites
Small group experience with highly praised guides
Accessible and customizable for different dietary needs and preferences

You can check availability for your dates here:

From the Historic Meeting Point to Genoa’s Architectural Landmarks

The tour begins at Casa di Cristoforo Colombo, a fitting starting point in Genoa’s historic center. This central location makes it easy for travelers to find and join the group, which is led by a friendly guide who typically gathers everyone with a small flag bearing the GenoaTourMyLand logo. The walk is relaxed, walking shoes recommended to comfortably explore the city’s narrow streets and alleys.

Shortly after departure, the guide leads the group through Genoa’s main sights, including a 5-minute guided visit inside Doge’s Palace. This site offers a glimpse into the city’s former political hub, with the guide sharing stories about its significance in Genoa’s maritime history. The attention to history continues at the Genoa Cathedral, where another brief guided stop reveals architectural details and historical context.

Keen to taste more of Genoa? We've looked into these other food and drink experiences

Exploring Genoa’s Culinary Heritage at Local Bakeries

A major highlight of the tour is the food tasting at local bakeries, where regional specialties are served. The first bakery stop lasts about 15 minutes and showcases famous Genoese bread and baked goods. The tour then continues with another bakery visit, focusing on regional food, allowing guests to sample local flavors like focaccia, Farinata, and delicious desserts.

These bakery visits are more than just tastings; they’re opportunities to observe traditional baking methods and learn about ingredients unique to Liguria. The 15-minute stops are well-paced, offering enough time to savor the food without feeling rushed, and they often include stories from the bakers about their craft.

Sampling Genoese Cuisine at Local Restaurants

After sampling baked goods, the tour advances to two local restaurants where regional dishes are served. Each of these stops lasts about 15 minutes, providing a chance to enjoy authentic Genoese cuisine such as pesto alla genovese, seafood, and other regional specialties. These venues are often family-run and give a real taste of local life.

The food served here is carefully selected to reflect the city’s culinary traditions, with an emphasis on fresh ingredients. The guide ensures that dietary preferences are accommodated, and food intolerances are taken into account, making it an inclusive experience for vegetarians and vegans.

Sweet Treats at a Local Bakery’s Dessert Stop

A dedicated dessert stop at a local bakery lasts 15 minutes and offers sweet Genoese treats. Expect to taste regional desserts, which often include pastries or sweet pastries typical of Liguria. This final food stop provides a satisfying conclusion to the culinary journey, with the opportunity to enjoy freshly made sweets and a friendly atmosphere.

More Great Tours Nearby

Tasting the Finest Local Wines at a Genoese Bar

No Genoa tour would be complete without experiencing its vinous craftsmanship. The group visits a cozy local bar, where 30 minutes are spent sampling two glasses of the best local wines. This wine tasting is designed to complement the food, highlighting Ligurian varieties often paired with regional dishes.

Guests can learn about the region’s wine-making traditions from the guide, making each sip more meaningful. The bar setting fosters a relaxed environment where conversation about Genoa’s culture, history, and local products naturally flows.

While in Genoa, here are other experiences we've covered

The Guide’s Approach: Knowledgeable, Friendly, and Accommodating

Throughout the 2-hour walk, the guide stands out for their enthusiasm, knowledge, and friendly demeanor. Many reviews praise Lorenzo for his storytelling skills, ability to answer questions, and genuine passion for Genoa. He manages all stops smoothly, handling dietary requests and ensuring everyone feels included.

The guide also shares insights into Genoa’s maritime history, wealthy families, and artistic spots, enriching the experience beyond just food. The tour’s pace is comfortable, making it suitable for all ages, and wheelchair accessibility is noted as available.

Practicalities and Booking Flexibility

The tour departs from Casa di Cristoforo Colombo at various times, with availability displayed online. It offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind for travelers uncertain about their plans. Group sizes are kept small, fostering an intimate atmosphere, and children under 7 years old are welcome for free.

Guests are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes and to dress appropriately for the weather. Reserve now and pay later options are available, making it easier to plan flexibly in advance.

Why This Tour Excels in Food and Cultural Insights

What truly sets this Genoa food and wine tour apart is its blend of authentic tastings, historic visits, and personalized attention. Guests consistently highlight how guides like Lorenzo seamlessly weave stories about Genoa’s past with explanations of the local cuisine. The small group setting allows for a relaxed, engaging experience and the opportunity to ask questions or request special dietary accommodations.

The combination of delicious food, quality wines, and insider knowledge creates a well-rounded introduction to Genoa. Many reviews mention that it feels more like a friendly exploration with a knowledgeable local rather than a typical tourist trap.

Suitable for a Wide Range of Visitors

This tour appeals most to food lovers, history enthusiasts, and those short on time but eager to absorb the essence of Genoa. Its flexibility and inclusive approach make it perfect for vegetarians, vegans, and people with food intolerances. The guide’s friendly nature and storytelling skills foster an environment where everyone feels comfortable.

Ready to Book?

Genoa: Food and Wine Tasting Walking Tour

4.9

(213)

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts 2 hours, covering multiple sites and tastings.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Casa di Cristoforo Colombo in Genoa’s historic center.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians and vegans?
Yes, the menu can be adjusted based on dietary preferences and intolerances.

How many glasses of wine are included?
The tour includes 2 glasses of the best local wines.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the start for a full refund.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Yes, wheelchair accessibility is noted.

What are the main food items I will taste?
Expect traditional Genoese dishes, baked goods, desserts, and regional specialties.

Who is the guide?
The guide is typically Lorenzo, known for his passion and storytelling.

What is the price of this tour?
The exact price isn’t specified, but it offers value through multiple tastings, guided visits, and wine.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Yes, children under 7 years old are free, making it suitable for families.

This Genoa Food and Wine Tasting Walking Tour provides a delightful blend of local flavors, historic sites, and engaging storytelling. Its flexible, friendly approach makes it a top choice for visitors wanting to enjoy Genoa’s culinary heritage without missing its fascinating past.