Genoa is a city that packs a punch when it comes to culinary delights and rich architecture. Known as the birthplace of pesto, it’s a foodie’s paradise filled with lively markets, seaside eateries, and hidden alleyway treats. What makes Genoa stand out for food tours is its combination of authentic local flavors and stunning historical scenery. Whether you’re wandering past opulent palaces on Via Giuseppe Garibaldi or savoring street snacks along its winding vicoli, every bite and view reflects centuries of maritime wealth and tradition. We especially love experiences that pair tasty discoveries with local stories, like walking through Genoa’s historic streets and trying local Prosecco, focaccia, and pesto in the company of guides who know the city’s secrets.
For a deep dive into Genoa’s culinary roots and hidden sights, check out the Genoa Walking Tour: Discover Hidden Treasures and Street Food. If you prefer a shorter, wine-focused trip, the Food Guided Tour with Wine Tastings in Genoa offers a quick glimpse of Ligurian flavors paired with local wines. And if street food is your thing, the Genoa Street Food Tour with a Local gets you right into the heart of Genoa’s vibrant, bustling markets and alleyways.
1. Genoa Walking Tour: Discover Hidden Treasures and Street Food
At number one on our list, this Genoa walking tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s top sites and lesser-known corners. For around $208, you’ll spend about six hours walking through Genoa’s historic center, guided by a passionate local. What makes this tour stand out is its blend of art, architecture, and flavors—from the grandeur of Via Giuseppe Garibaldi’s palaces to secret squares bustling with local life. Notable stops include the Museo di Palazzo Reale, where Genoa’s aristocrats once showed off their wealth, and breathtaking views from Spianata Castelletto. Plus, you’ll enjoy tastings of pesto, focaccia, and Prosecco, all included in the price.
Guided visits to the Palazzo Ducale and the Via Giuseppe Garibaldi Palaces give insight into Genoa’s history of banking and trade, while the hidden squares reveal a more intimate side of the city. Reviewers praise the lively guide Karl, who shares fascinating stories alongside the food stops, making the experience engaging and educational. The tour is ideal for travelers who want a full sensory immersion—sights, tastes, and stories—in one day. The inclusion of all entrance fees and transport within Genoa ensures a hassle-free experience, especially for first-timers.
Bottom line: If you’re after an in-depth, well-rounded exploration that combines history, architecture, and local cuisine, this tour hits the mark.
2. Food Guided Tour with Wine Tastings in Genoa
For around $119, the Food Guided Tour with Wine Tastings in Genoa offers a shorter, two-hour journey into Ligurian culinary traditions. Led by a knowledgeable local, the tour covers six tastings that include fish, focaccia, and local flatbread. You’ll stroll through Genoa’s historic streets, taking in sights like the Doge’s Palace and the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, which are easily accessible and enrich the tasting experience.
What makes this tour special is its focus on pairing food with local wines, including two varieties from Genoa and nearby Cinque Terre. The guide shares stories about each dish’s origins, adding depth to your tasting journey. Guests have praised Fulvio’s passionate storytelling and how the tour isn’t overly strenuous, making it suitable for a variety of fitness levels. The small-group setting ensures personalized attention and an intimate atmosphere.
The itinerary includes visits to a local bakery, Christopher Columbus’s house, and Genoa’s waterfront street food stalls. The combined experience makes it excellent for those short on time but eager to sample the city’s culinary diversity.
Bottom line: Perfect for a quick yet flavorful overview of Genoa’s food scene, especially if you enjoy wine and local stories.
3. Genoa Street Food Tour with a Local
If street food is your passion, this Genoa Street Food Tour with a Local is a budget-friendly option at $49 per person. Lasting about 3.5 hours, it’s designed for those who want to explore Genoa’s vicoli and hidden alleyways while tasting its best street snacks. Led by a local expert, the tour includes visits to secret stops and hidden gems, making it a lively, sociable experience.
Highlights include sampling street foods at local markets, discovering hidden snacks, and enjoying a sit-down meal in a local restaurant. The guide’s knowledge adds context, turning simple street food into a window into Genoa’s culture. Reviews note the tour’s relaxed pace, the quality of snacks, and the friendliness of the guide. It’s ideal for travelers on a budget who want a casual, engaging way to sample a variety of local flavors without sitting down for a formal meal.
The itinerary includes a stop at Vascello Neptune, with time for dessert and exploration of less touristy spots. It’s well-suited for those who want an authentic, sociable experience on their visit.
Bottom line: If you enjoy street food and local ambiance, this tour offers an affordable, lively taste of Genoa.
How to Choose the Best Food Tour in Genoa
When deciding among these tours, consider your budget, interests, and time available. The Genoa Walking Tour offers the most comprehensive experience, ideal if you want a full day of sightseeing and tastings. If you’re pressed for time but want a focused tasting of Ligurian flavors with wine, the Food Guided Tour with Wine Tastings fits perfectly. For a casual street food immersion at a lower price, the Street Food Tour is perfect.
Think about your physical activity level—walking tours cover a lot of ground, but some are more relaxed than others. Also, booking early is advisable during peak season or cruise ship visits to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Genoa offers a fantastic array of food tours that cater to different tastes and schedules. For a rich, in-depth experience, the walking tour with visits to palaces and secret squares is hard to beat. Those seeking a quick taste of Ligurian flavors with wine will find the second option perfect. And for a fun, sociable street food experience, the budget-friendly tour shines.
No matter which you choose, these tours will deepen your understanding of Genoa’s culinary heritage and local life. Be sure to book early—these popular experiences fill up quickly, especially during the busy summer months. Now, all that’s left is to enjoy Genoa’s vibrant streets, delicious food, and stories waiting around every corner.