Food tours in Bergamo serve up the best of northern Italian cuisine with zero tourist traps. Our favorite is Do Eat Better Experience, which packs five authentic restaurant stops into one tour with consistently great reviews. The Traditional Food Tour stands out for featuring local stars like casoncelli pasta and hearty polenta. For hands-on learning, nothing beats the private cooking classes teaching pizza and pasta-making from scratch. Just outside town, Varenna’s walking food tour combines lakeside views with sampling regional cheeses and cured meats. Let’s explore the top food tours that showcase Bergamo’s culinary treasures.
Key Points
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The “Do Eat Better Experience – Bergamo Traditional Food Tour” offers a highly recommended walking tour with sampling at five local restaurants.
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The “Bergamo: 3.5-Hour Traditional Food Tour” provides a comprehensive culinary experience, including a hearty lunch and insights from a knowledgeable English-speaking guide.
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“Eat Like a Local” offers private cooking classes to learn traditional pasta or pizza making, along with cultural insights and dietary accommodations.
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The “Walking and Food Tour Varenna in Lake Como” combines sightseeing with food and wine tasting in a small group setting.
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Food tours in Bergamo and the surrounding region offer immersive experiences into local gastronomy, cultural education, and high levels of traveler satisfaction.
Do Eat Better Experience – Bergamo Traditional Food Tour
Nestled within the charming, historic streets of Bergamo, the “Do Eat Better Experience – Bergamo Traditional Food Tour” invites travelers to embark on a culinary adventure.
Boasting a 94% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this small-group tour (maximum 12 travelers) promises an immersive exploration of the city’s traditional cuisine.
Led by knowledgeable guides, such as Julia, Alberto, and Alice, the tour takes participants on a walking journey through Bergamo’s old town, stopping at five different restaurants to sample rustic and refined local dishes.
Travelers can expect a rich lunch, one alcoholic beverage, and even a concluding treat of stracciatella gelato, all while learning about the history and techniques behind each culinary delight.
Although reviews on food quality are mixed, with some finding the offerings excellent and others feeling they lacked variety, the overall sentiment highlights the tour’s enjoyable experiences.
With moderate physical fitness required and accessibility near public transportation, the “Do Eat Better Experience” offers a well-rounded introduction to Bergamo’s gastronomic heritage.
Read our full review: Do Eat Better Experience – Bergamo Traditional Food Tour Review
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Bergamo: 3.5-Hour Traditional Food Tour
Situated in the historic heart of Bergamo, the 3.5-Hour Traditional Food Tour immerses visitors in the city’s rich culinary heritage.
Over the course of 3.5 hours, guests embark on a delectable journey, exploring Bergamo’s top traditional food shops and savoring authentic regional dishes. The tour begins with a 30-minute aperitif at a local restaurant, followed by a hearty one-hour lunch at a neighborhood bar and another at a beloved local bakery.
Guests can look forward to sampling a variety of Lombard specialties, including casoncelli pasta, foaide (traditional Sunday pasta), polenta with lard and cheese, and the creamy stracciatella gelato.
A live, English-and-Italian-speaking guide provides insights into Bergamo’s culinary traditions and culture, as well as broader discussions about Italian employment and education.
With an overall rating of 4.7/5 and praised for its quality and value, this food tour offers an immersive and enriching experience for those seeking to discover the flavors of Bergamo.
Read our full review: Bergamo: 3.5-Hour Traditional Food Tour Review
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Eat Like a Local
Travelers seeking an authentic Italian culinary experience can enjoy the local flavors of Bergamo through a private cooking class. With a 100% recommendation rate from past participants, this hands-on lesson offers the opportunity to learn traditional pasta or pizza making under the guidance of expert instructors.
The class includes a welcome drink, a three-course meal featuring regional specialties, and even a digestif to round out the experience. Guests can expect to savor starters like an Italian charcuterie platter, followed by homemade pasta dishes and classic Italian desserts like tiramisu or cannoli.
The classes are held in the evenings, with both weekday and weekend options available to suit various schedules. Beyond the cooking, the experience provides a glimpse into the local culture, with an optional guided market tour and the chance to dine family-style with the hosts.
With dietary restrictions accommodated and private groups only, this is a truly immersive way to eat like a local in Bergamo.
Read our full review: Eat Like a Local Review
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Walking and Food Tour Varenna in Lake Como
Foodies exploring Italy’s Lake Como region can embark on a captivating walking and food tour in the charming town of Varenna. This unique experience combines sightseeing, food, and wine tasting, all led by a knowledgeable local guide. The small-group setting ensures personal attention, with a maximum of 10 travelers.
Throughout the tour, the guide will lead you through Varenna’s picturesque old town, highlighting top sights and introducing you to hidden eateries. You’ll sample a variety of local artisan products, including cheeses, cured meats, and breads, paired with tastings of the region’s renowned wines. The focus is on authentic culinary experiences that many travelers often miss.
The tour is available daily from June 24, 2022, to October 22, 2025, with operating hours from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is near public transportation and suitable for most travelers, excluding pregnant individuals and those with serious medical conditions.
With an overall rating of 5.0 based on 5 reviews, this Varenna food tour is a must-do for visitors to Lake Como.
Read our full review: Walking and Food Tour Varenna in Lake Como Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Minimum Group Size for the Food Tours?
The minimum group size for the food tours is typically around 4 people. Many tour companies offer private tours for smaller groups, but there may be a higher per-person cost for these more intimate experiences.
Are the Tours Suitable for Vegetarians and Vegans?
The tours are suitable for vegetarians and vegans, as they accommodate dietary restrictions. The providers offer alternative dishes and can customize the experiences to ensure all participants enjoy the culinary offerings.
Do the Tours Include Transportation to and From the Starting Point?
Many food tours in the area provide transportation to and from the starting point, making it convenient for participants. However, it’s best to check with the specific tour operator to confirm if they offer this service.
Can the Tours Be Customized to Individual Dietary Preferences?
Many food tour companies offer customized tours to accommodate individual dietary needs. Clients can often request accommodations for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or other dietary preferences when booking their tour experience.
What Is the Duration of the Breaks During the Food Tours?
The duration of the breaks during the food tours typically ranges from 15 to 30 minutes, allowing participants to rest, refresh, and prepare for the next culinary experience. The length of the breaks may vary depending on the specific tour itinerary.
Recap
Bergamo’s food tours offer a delightful way to explore the city’s rich culinary heritage. From traditional dishes to local delicacies, these immersive experiences let visitors savor the flavors of the region. Whether it’s a walking tour or a more comprehensive tasting, these tours provide an authentic taste of Bergamo’s gastronomic treasures. With knowledgeable guides and carefully curated itineraries, food lovers can indulge in the best of what this Italian city has to offer.