Rome: Food Tasting and Wine Pairing & Tiber River Boat Ride

Discover Rome’s Flavors with a Unique Food and Wine Experience

This tour combines a food and wine tasting in a historic Roman cellar with a Tiber River hop-on-hop-off cruise. Priced at a competitive rate, it lasts one day and offers a chance to explore Roman gastronomy and scenic views from the water. The food tasting takes place inside an underground cellar in Trastevere, a lively neighborhood known for its authentic Roman atmosphere. The wine pairing features a curated selection of seasonal, artisanal products—many recognized by the Slow Food Presidia—paired with local wines like prosecco, white, and red.

The Tiber River cruise provides iconic sights such as St. Peter’s Basilica, Castel Sant’Angelo, and Pons Cestius, with 4 convenient stops for easy exploration. The combined experience offers a rich taste of Roman culture, cuisine, and views, ideal for those wanting a balanced day of eating, drinking, and sightseeing. While the cruise is separate from the tasting, the hop-on-hop-off ticket allows flexible timing, making it suitable for travelers who want to customize their day.

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Key Points

• Includes a food and wine tasting in a 1st-century Roman cistern in Trastevere
• Taste seasonal, artisanal products paired with local wines like prosecco, white, and red
• Tiber River hop-on-hop-off cruise with 4 stops and scenic views of St. Peter’s Basilica and more
• Cruises operate daily from March 28 to November 2, departing every 30 minutes
• Tour duration is around 1 hour for tasting, with the cruise lasting 45-60 minutes
• Multiple tasting times available, from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Exploring the Historic Tasting Venue in Trastevere

The food and wine experience takes place inside Cantina Fabullus, located at Via dell’Arco di San Calisto, 20. The venue is an underground cellar dating back to the 1st century AD, adding a layer of history to the tasting. The atmosphere is intimate and atmospheric, making the experience more than just a culinary event.

The tasting is guided by friendly staff who share insights about the origins of the products and wine tasting techniques. The menu features seasonal and artisanal delicacies, including Gorgonzola DOP, Parma Ham DOP, Mortadella Bologna, and regional cheeses. Every item is connected to Italian traditions and small producers, supporting Italy’s culinary heritage.

Guests have a choice of five tasting times: 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM, or 7:00 PM. The duration of the tasting is about an hour, giving enough time to savor each bite and sip. The knowledgeable guides make the experience engaging, sharing stories about the products’ origins and regional specialties.

Tasting Highlights: Authentic Italian Delicacies and Local Wines

The food selection includes Parma Ham DOP, Parmigiano Reggiano, Lardo, Salame Marchigiano, Guanciale di Amatrice, and Roman Focaccia among other regional treats. The cheeses like Provolone del Monaco DOP and Pecorino di Moliterno PGI are paired with local wines, offering a true taste of Italy’s diverse culinary landscape.

Wine pairings include local prosecco, white, and red wines, providing a variety of flavors to expand the palate. The expert guides explain how to choose and enjoy wines to complement the foods, making it both a learning and tasting experience.

The menu features products that are recognized by Slow Food Presidia, emphasizing quality and tradition. Each bite tells a story about Italy’s regions, small producers, and culinary craftsmanship, making this an educational experience as much as a sensory pleasure.

Scenic Tiber River Cruise with Multiple Iconic Sights

The Tiber River cruise offers a relaxing way to see Rome’s famous landmarks. The hop-on-hop-off boat departs from either Ponte Sant’Angelo or Isola Tiberina, with 4 stops at key locations including Ponte Vittorio Emanuele II and Ponte Sisto.

The cruise duration is approximately 45-60 minutes, and boats run every 30 minutes from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM between March 28 and November 2. The views from the river include St. Peter’s Basilica, Castel Sant’Angelo, and Pons Cestius, providing a unique perspective of Rome’s historic architecture.

While some reviews note that the scenery along the Tiber is less striking than expected, the views of major landmarks are still impressive. The hop-on-hop-off format allows flexibility, so travelers can stop at points of interest or enjoy a full cruise.

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Practical Details for the River Cruise and Tasting Locations

The closest pier to Cantina Fabullus is Isola Tiberina, about 700 meters away—roughly a 10-minute walk. Alternatively, travelers can board at Ponte Sant’Angelo and hop off at Isola Tiberina before heading to the tasting.

The cruise ticket is valid for 24 hours from the first boarding, giving ample flexibility. To maximize the experience, guests often start at Ponte Sant’Angelo and enjoy the scenic cruise before or after the tasting. The tasting location is at Via dell’Arco di San Calisto, 20.

Travelers should bring headphones for the audio guide and note that large bags or luggage are not allowed on the cruise or at the tasting. The experience is not suitable for those with mobility impairments or vegan diets.

How the Tour Combines History, Flavors, and Views

This one-day tour weaves culinary traditions with scenic sightseeing. The food and wine tasting inside an ancient Roman cistern offers a taste of history alongside regional delicacies. The guide’s insights elevate the experience, making it both educational and enjoyable.

The Tiber River cruise enhances the visit by offering views of Rome’s iconic landmarks from a different vantage point. The 4 stops make it easy to dwell at sights like St. Peter’s Basilica or continue exploring on your own.

While the cruise is separate from the tasting, the combined ticket provides flexibility and variety. The overall experience balances culinary education, scenic beauty, and culture—perfect for food lovers and sightseers alike.

Who Will Appreciate This Experience the Most

The food and wine tasting appeals to those interested in authentic Italian products and regional flavors. The knowledgeable guides make it especially suitable for learners and foodies.

The scenic river cruise adds a relaxing element, ideal for visitors wanting to see Rome’s major landmarks from the water. This experience fits travelers who enjoy flexible schedules, as the tasting times are multiple, and the cruise allows hop-on-hop-off.

However, families with mobility issues or vegans should be aware that the experience is not accessible or suitable for their needs. Large luggage is not permitted on the boat, so pack accordingly.

Final Thoughts on the Rome Food & Tiber River Tour

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of Rome through delicious regional foods, exceptional wines, and scenic water views. The underground cellar setting and expert guides make the tasting engaging and memorable. The hop-on-hop-off river cruise complements the experience without requiring extra planning or separate tickets.

The price point provides good value, especially considering the quality of food, wine, and views included. While some reviews mention that the scenery along the Tiber may not be breathtaking, the overall experience remains highly praised for its authenticity, friendliness, and educational value.

Travelers seeking a cultural, culinary, and visual introduction to Rome will find this one-day combination both rewarding and enjoyable. It’s especially suitable for those who want an informative, relaxed day immersed in the flavors and sights of the Eternal City.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the wine and food tasting?
The tasting features a curated selection of seasonal and artisanal Italian delicacies, paired with local wines like prosecco, white, and red. The experience is guided by knowledgeable staff who share insights into the products’ origins.

How long does the Tiber River cruise last?
The cruise lasts approximately 45-60 minutes and departs every 30 minutes between 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM from March 28 to November 2.

Can I start the tour from either pier?
Yes, you can start at Ponte Sant’Angelo or Isola Tiberina. Boarding at Ponte Sant’Angelo allows you to enjoy the scenic cruise before heading to the tasting location.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
The experience is designed for adults; large luggage and pets (except assistance dogs) are not allowed, and it is not suitable for those with mobility impairments.

What time should I arrive for my tasting?
You can select any of the five available times: 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM, or 7:00 PM. Arriving within 15 minutes of your scheduled time helps ensure smooth participation.

Is this experience accessible for vegans?
No, the tasting includes regional cheeses and meats, so it is not suitable for vegans.

What should I bring?
Guests should bring headphones for the audio guide available during the cruise.

What happens if the cruise is canceled due to weather?
You will be refunded €16 per person if the cruise is canceled because of adverse weather conditions.

Can I purchase this experience as a gift or for a private group?
Yes, it is available for private groups, and you can reserve and pay later for flexibility.

Are there any restrictions on the size of bags?
Luggage or large bags are not allowed on the boat, so pack light.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
No, the experience is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility impairments.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of authentic food and wine tasting inside an ancient Roman cellar with scenic views of the city from the Tiber provides a distinctive and memorable way to experience Rome.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby