Genoa Sites & Tastes Walking Tour, Genoa

Discover Genoa’s foodie scene on this walking tour, where you’ll experience local foods and wines. With one of the largest historical centers in Europe, Genoa sometimes confuses and disorients its visitors, so your guide is happy to lead you to the secret corners and flavors of the city.

Tasting local food is an excellent way to learn more about a place and the people who live there. The ancient Romans built Genoa, which experienced its golden years from 1100 to 1500 CE. It was one of the Italian Maritime Republics, which also included Amalfi, Pisa, and Venice. Profitable trades and commerce allowed Genoa to increase its power and wealth while mixing different cultures and traditions to create its unique cuisine. 

You’ll start your tour in one of the most interesting parts of the city called “La Superba.” Since the tour’s theme is local food, your guide will alternate visits to the highlights of Genoa with tastings of food, wine, and local specialties. For example, pair the St. Lawrence Cathedral and Ducal Palace with farinata (chickpea tart) and enjoy the Porto Antico with focaccia. Next, hang out in De Ferrari square while nibbling cheese focaccia, stroll Garibaldi Street and its magnificent Palazzi with a glass of white wine, and admire the medieval Porta Soprana and Porta Sottana while tasting Pandolce (sweet bread with raisins and candied fruit) or gelato.

At the end of the tour, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Genoa is the birthplace of pesto, so try some fresh pasta with homemade pesto sauce. You can also taste the famous Genoese vegetable soup or other meat and fish specialties of the region.

Read more about unique and interesting culinary experiences in Italy.