Bologna isn’t just Italy’s foodie capital; it’s also a fantastic place to explore wines and culinary traditions. With its proximity to the Emilia-Ragna region’s renowned vineyards, visitors can enjoy a mix of guided tastings, behind-the-scenes factory visits, and even private vineyard strolls. Among our favorites is the Bologna: Food and Wine Walking Tour for its blend of historic sights and authentic food experiences, as well as the Wine Degustation Ebrezze which offers a relaxed, intimate setting for sampling regional wines. Whether you’re after a quick sip or a full-day culinary immersion, Bologna’s wine scene caters to all tastes.
Bologna’s location at the heart of Emilia-Romagna makes it ideal for wine lovers. Its wine tours often combine tastings with local food, like cheese and cured meats, or include visits to famous producers of balsamic vinegar and Parmigiano-Reggiano. If you’re eager for a deep dive into Italy’s gastronomic treasures, there’s a tour for that; if a quick, high-quality tasting suits your schedule, that’s available too. Below, we’ve detailed 14 of the best wine tours, highlighting what makes each one unique and helping you find the perfect match.
1. Bologna: Food and Wine Walking Tour with Tastings
At number 1, this Bologna: Food and Wine Walking Tour combines a 3-hour stroll through the city’s iconic landmarks with multiple tasting stops. You’ll start at Neptune’s Fountain, then wander the historic Quadrilatero market district, sampling regional wines, charcuterie, and pasta along the way. The tour’s highlights include visiting one of Bologna’s oldest wine bars, tasting traditional regional wines, and enjoying a pasta dish paired with local varieties. The guide shares stories about Bologna’s history, making this more than just a tasting — it’s an exploration of its culinary soul. With friendly hosts and a well-paced itinerary, this tour is perfect for travelers seeking a manageable, engaging introduction to Bologna’s flavors. Reviewers praise its blend of culture and cuisine, calling it “superb” and “perfectly paced,” making it a top choice for first-timers.
Bottom Line: For a comprehensive experience that mixes sightseeing with tasting, this tour offers excellent value and a friendly atmosphere.
2. Wine Degustation Ebrezze
At number 2, the Wine Degustation Ebrezze delivers a relaxed, 1.5-hour experience focused purely on regional wines. Situated in Bologna’s city center, it’s ideal for a quick escape from sightseeing. You’ll sample five carefully selected Emilia-Romagna wines, both reds and whites, each paired with local snacks. Francesco, the host, is known for his patience and enthusiasm, making the tasting both educational and fun. The intimate setting and the chance to discover labels not easily found outside the region make it a favorite among wine connoisseurs and curious newcomers alike. Guests highlight the knowledge shared and the quality of the pairings, calling it a “fantastic experience.” Costing about $40, it’s an excellent choice for those wanting a high-quality, manageable wine experience.
Bottom Line: This private, hour-and-a-half tasting provides a focused look at Emilia-Romagna wines, perfect if you want a quick yet enriching sip.
3. Modena Food: Prosciutto, Parmigiano, Balsamic, Wine, Lunch, Transport
Number 3 on our list offers an all-day immersion into the food and wine crafts of Emilia-Romagna. This full-day tour includes visits to a Parmesan cheese factory, prosciutto producer, balsamic vinegar cellar, and a wine cellar with guided tastings—plus a traditional Italian lunch. The private transport makes it seamless, and the behind-the-scenes tours at each site reveal how these iconic products are made. Guests rave about the detailed explanations, generous tastings, and the chance to see real artisans at work. The tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, hands-on experience of regional specialties in one day. At approximately $545, it’s a premium but highly educational and flavorful journey that offers true value for food lovers.
Bottom Line: For those eager to learn how Emilia-Romagna’s famous products are made and taste them fresh, this tour offers an unforgettable full-day experience.
4. Bologna/Modena: Parmesan, Ferrari, Balsamic, Wine, Lunch
At number 4, this Bologna & Modena full-day tour combines culinary delights with automotive history. The tour visits a Parmesan cheese factory, a balsamic vinegar producer, a Ferrari museum, and ends with a traditional lunch in Modena. The inclusion of Ferrari adds a unique twist for car enthusiasts, while the food stops focus on the region’s iconic flavors. Guests praise the smooth logistics, especially the hotel transfers, which let you relax and enjoy the day. This tour suits travelers with a full day to spare who want a rich mix of gastronomy and culture, especially those interested in Italian craftsmanship and racing heritage. The lunch and tastings are considered generous, making it good value.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, multi-interest tour for fans of both cars and cuisine who want a hassle-free, all-in-one experience.
5. Wine experience Bologna hills
Number 5 offers a personalized, private wine tour through the picturesque Bologna hills. This 7-hour experience is tailored to your preferences, with visits to two boutique wineries. You’ll learn about local winemaking traditions while enjoying panoramic views. Guests describe this tour as “top notch” and appreciate the VIP treatment, including hotel pickup. The relaxed pace and high-quality tastings make it suitable for those seeking an intimate, in-depth experience of the region’s wines. Expect to try a variety of excellent wines paired with regional food, all amid stunning scenery. For around $322, this tour delivers a premium, personalized approach that’s perfect for wine aficionados.
Bottom Line: If you want a private, bespoke experience with an emphasis on quality and scenery, this Bologna hills tour hits the mark.
6. Boutique Winery Tour with Wine Tasting & Food in Bologna
Number 6 offers a half-day vineyard walk and tasting, just 15 minutes from Bologna. This Boutique Winery Tour emphasizes the winemaking traditions of Colli Bolognesi, with a guided tour followed by sampling four wines—sparkling, white, and red—paired with mortadella and Parmigiano. The guide is praised for her knowledge, and the scenic vineyard walk adds a lovely touch. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a short but immersive experience in the countryside. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the combination of wine and regional foods offers great value.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a quick countryside escape that combines culture, flavors, and scenic views.
7. Parmesan, Wine, Balsamic Full Day Tour with Lunch
Number 7 is a full-day deep dive into Emilia-Romagna’s culinary world. This Parmesan, Wine, Balsamic Tour includes visits to cheese, vinegar, and wine producers, with guided tours and tastings. The highlight is the detailed exploration of Parmigiano-Reggiano production and traditional balsamic vinegar—tasting both in their production environments. Guests love the knowledgeable guides, generous tastings, and the inclusion of a traditional lunch. The day is well-paced and ideal for serious food lovers wanting to see the process behind their favorite Italian staples. The tour is priced around $119, providing excellent value for a full-day experience.
Bottom Line: For a comprehensive, behind-the-scenes look at Emilia-Romagna’s culinary treasures, this tour is hard to beat.
8. Bologna’s rules! Original tortellini recipe, wine & tiramisu
Number 8 offers a cozy, deluxe cooking class led by a private chef and sommelier. Over 3 hours, you’ll learn to make tortellini, paired with regional wines, and finish with a homemade tiramisu recipe. Set in a stunning private location, this class combines hands-on cooking with education about wine pairings. It’s a perfect choice for foodies who want to bring home authentic recipes and enjoy a high-quality, intimate experience. Reviewers love the friendly hosts and the chance to learn from locals, making it more personal than a standard cooking demo.
Bottom Line: A great option for those eager to learn regional recipes and wine pairing skills in a comfortable, stylish setting.
9. Bologna Food & Wine Tour: a private experience of Italian flavors and wines
Number 9 provides a personalized private tour focusing on Bologna’s culinary highlights. You’ll explore the Quadrilatero Market, visit historic shops, and end at a wine bar with interactive tastings. The guide is a certified expert, offering detailed insights into local specialties. The visit includes three tastings of regional foods, making it ideal for travelers who want a tailored, in-depth experience. The private format ensures flexibility and a more relaxed pace, suited for couples or small groups. Considering the personalized approach, it offers great value for those seeking a bespoke culinary adventure.
Bottom Line: For an exclusive, customizable experience that combines shopping, history, and wine, this tour is ideal.
10. Brunch, balsamic vinegar, and wines: tour of the Emilian hills from Bologna
Number 10 is a full-day food and wine adventure with brunch in a private acetaia, visits to balsamic vinegar and wine producers, and scenic views. It’s designed for those wanting to experience Emilia-Romagna’s authentic flavors in a relaxed, nature-filled setting. Guests mention the quality of the brunch and tastings, plus the private transfer from Bologna makes it hassle-free. The tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy a leisurely pace with multiple tasting stops, and the combination of food, wine, and scenery makes it particularly appealing.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those who want a full immersion into Emilia-Romagna’s culinary landscape, with a focus on comfort and scenery.
11. Eating Bologna Food & Wine Tour
Number 11 offers a 3-hour guided walk through Bologna’s markets and neighborhoods. You’ll enjoy tastings of handmade pasta, aged Parmigiano, balsamic vinegar, cured meats, and local wines. The tour also shares stories about landmarks like the Two Towers and Piazza Maggiore. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a small-group, immersive food experience with storytelling and local flavor. The focus on street food and historic markets makes it a lively, authentic way to taste Bologna’s culinary culture in a short time.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking a lively, compact introduction to Bologna’s food scene with local stories.
12. From Bologna: Parmesan, Wine, and Prosciutto Tour
Number 12 is a private, 4.5-hour tour that gives an exclusive look at Parmigiano-Reggiano, Parma ham, Lambrusco wine, and vinegar. You’ll visit four workshops, each with guided tours and tastings, in a personalized setting. Ideal for travelers craving a culinary deep dive with premium products. Reviewers commend the friendly guides and the quality of tastings, especially the opportunity to see production firsthand.
Bottom Line: For food lovers wanting a tailored experience of Italy’s most famous ingredients, this tour provides a premium, private journey.
13. Great red wines: guided tasting and interactive game in Bologna
Number 13 offers an hour-long guided tasting of three Italian red wines, paired with local foods, in a cozy wine bar. The highlight is an interactive game that makes learning about wine fun and engaging. It’s perfect for a shorter, more playful experience, especially if you’re new to wine tasting but want to learn in a relaxed, informal setting. Reviewers appreciate the knowledgeable sommelier and the lively atmosphere. At just an hour, it’s a good pick if you’re tight on time but still want to enjoy quality wines.
Bottom Line: A lively, engaging tasting perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed, fun introduction.
14. Tour Ferrari, Lambo, Parmesan, Vinegar, Wine with Lunch
Finally, number 14 combines automotive history with Emilia-Romagna’s culinary staples. This full-day tour features Ferrari and Lamborghini museums, plus visits to cheese, vinegar, and wine producers. The included lunch and private transfers make it a stress-free, all-in-one adventure. Reviewers mention the “very knowledgeable guides” and highlight that the Ferrari museum is a major highlight. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a luxury, varied day with a focus on both cars and cuisine. The tours tend to be popular, so booking early is advisable.
Bottom Line: For a day that mixes speed and flavor on a comfortable, guided itinerary, this tour offers a memorable combination.
How to Choose Your Perfect Bologna Wine Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, time, and interests. If you want a quick, high-quality wine tasting, the Wine Degustation Ebrezze is ideal. For a full-day dive into Emilia-Romagna’s culinary secrets, the Full Day Parmesan, Balsamic, and Wine Tour offers depth and variety. If you’re a private connoisseur seeking a tailored experience, the Wine experience Bologna hills or Boutique Winery Tour fit perfectly.
Timing also matters. For a short but sweet introduction, the Bologna: Food and Wine Walking Tour provides a balanced mix of sights and bites. Planning ahead and booking early is wise, especially for full-day or private experiences, as these tend to fill up quickly.
Final Thoughts
Bologna’s wine scene is as varied as its culinary heritage. Whether you’re after a quick tasting, a behind-the-scenes factory tour, or an exclusive private venture, there’s an experience that matches your taste and schedule. For the curious traveler, the Bologna: Food and Wine Walking Tour offers a great introduction, while the Full Day Parmesan, Balsamic and Wine Tour appeals to those eager for an in-depth adventure.
If your time is limited, the Wine Degustation Ebrezze is perfect for a quick yet meaningful escape. For a more personalized journey, consider the Bologna Hills wine experience or Boutique Winery Tour. Lastly, don’t forget that combining a visit to the Ferrari or Lamborghini museums with local tastings makes for a truly memorable day.
No matter your choice, Bologna’s wine tours promise a taste of Italy’s finest flavors—book early, and enjoy your flavorful journey!