Bergamo is a foodie’s paradise, packed with local flavors that range from rustic Lombardy specialties to contemporary cuisine. What makes Bergamo especially exciting for food lovers is the city’s combination of traditional dishes and lively street scenes—meaning you can learn to cook like a local or simply taste your way through charming neighborhoods. We’re particularly fond of the Eat like a local experience because it combines an intimate cooking lesson at a local home with a guided market tour—rare privileges for most visitors. Plus, being able to sip Prosecco while learning to make fresh pasta or pizza makes this private class a memorable highlight.
Bergamo’s food scene is diverse, offering everything from guided tastings of classic dishes in historic settings to street food adventures through lively markets. To help you find the perfect fit, we’ve compiled the top five food tours in Bergamo, each with its own unique appeal, whether you’re looking for a deep dive into local cuisine, a scenic walk with tastings, or a hands-on cooking experience.
Below, you’ll find a mix of options: from detailed culinary walks in the old town to small-group tasting adventures by Lake Como. Each tour offers something different—so read on to discover which one suits your style of exploring and eating.
1. Eat like a local
At number 1 on our list, the Eat like a local experience is a standout for its blend of hands-on cooking and local insight. This private class takes place in a genuine Bergamo home, giving you an authentic taste of how locals prepare their favorite dishes, like pasta or pizza. You’ll chat with your hosts, Michele and his wife, over Prosecco before rolling up your sleeves.
What makes this tour special is its personal touch—learning directly from passionate locals in a cozy setting. The experience includes a guided market tour (optional) where you can pick up ingredients and learn about regional produce. The cooking itself involves preparing a three-course meal, which you then enjoy with Italian wine, coffee, and liqueur, making for an intimate, delicious evening. Reviewers praise Michele’s friendly teaching style and the chance to feel like part of a local family, with many calling it a highlight of their trip. For around $161 per person, it offers an immersive way to discover Bergamo’s culinary secrets.
Bottom line: This private, hands-on class is perfect for foodies who want to learn authentic recipes and enjoy a home-cooked meal in a warm, personal setting.
2. Bergamo: 3.5-Hour Traditional Food Tour
Next up is the Bergamo: 3.5-Hour Traditional Food Tour, which offers a comprehensive look at local flavors in Città Alta. This guided tasting stroll covers five classic food shops, giving you a real sense of Bergamo’s culinary roots. It’s a smaller group tour, ensuring plenty of opportunities to ask questions and really savor each stop.
Starting at Piazza Mercato delle Scarpe, the tour features tastings at historic eateries and a chance to sample dishes from rural Lombardy—think regional cheeses, handmade pasta, and artisanal desserts like stracciatella ice cream. The guide provides background on each dish and its place in Bergamo’s culture, making it as educational as it is delicious. The itinerary balances old-world charm with contemporary local favorites, making it ideal for those who want a well-rounded taste of Bergamo’s food scene. The reviews highlight the friendly guide and the variety of authentic dishes, with many saying it guarantees a full belly.
Bottom line: If you want a manageable but rich overview of Bergamo’s food culture, this tour delivers a taste of history, tradition, and flavor, all within 3.5 hours.
3. Bergamo: Full meal Food Tour with Local Delights by Do Eat Better
For around $106, the Bergamo: Full meal Food Tour with Local Delights offers an engaging stroll through Bergamo Alta’s culinary landscape. Led by a passionate foodie guide, this tour explores at least four different restaurants and eateries, each showcasing rustic regional dishes. It’s ideal for those who want to experience a variety of tastes while learning about the evolution of local cuisine.
The tour begins with a typical aperitivo—toast with local garnishments and a glass of Valcalepio red wine—and continues through stops that include traditional recipes and modern twists. The guide provides insights about each dish’s history and cooking techniques, making it especially appealing to travelers interested in culinary stories. Many reviews mention the lively atmosphere and the opportunity to sample both hearty and refined dishes while wandering through the charming streets. The small-group setting enhances the personal touch, and the price reflects excellent value considering the multiple stops and tastings.
Bottom line: Perfect for foodies who crave variety and in-depth knowledge, this tour combines walking, eating, and learning for a satisfying afternoon.
4. Varenna: guided Walking Tour with Wine & Food tasting
When exploring Lake Como, the Varenna: guided Walking Tour with Wine & Food tasting offers an excellent blend of scenic beauty and local flavors. Though technically in Varenna, this tour complements your Bergamo experience perfectly by showcasing a lakeside town’s culinary delights. Set out with a local guide and a small group to walk through Varenna’s picturesque streets, stopping at artisan shops and eateries.
This two-and-a-half-hour walk includes sampling local cheeses, cold cuts, and regional wines while enjoying sweeping views of Lake Como. It’s a relaxed, intimate way to see the town while indulging in regional specialties most travelers miss. The guide shares stories about the area’s history and culinary traditions, making each tasting meaningful. Reviewers mention the knowledgeable guide and the high-quality tastings, emphasizing how this short tour provides a taste of the authentic Varenna food scene.
Bottom line: If you’re visiting Lake Como and want a quick, high-quality food and wine experience, this guided walk offers a memorable taste of Italy’s northern lakes.
5. Bergamo : Best Street Food Tour With A Local Guide
Finally, for those eager to explore Bergamo’s lively street food culture, the Bergamo: Best Street Food Tour With A Local Guide is a 3-hour adventure through the city’s bustling streets. Led by a knowledgeable local, the tour visits iconic food spots and hidden culinary gems, offering tastings like local street snacks and traditional dishes served at small eateries and markets.
This tour is especially suited for travelers who enjoy the energy of street markets and want to see a different side of Bergamo. The guide shares tips and recommendations for other places in the city, making it a practical choice for future explorations. While reviews note the limited number of reviews and somewhat higher price, they praise the authentic, flavorful tastings and the lively atmosphere. It’s a great choice for food adventurers looking for a dynamic, city-centered experience.
Bottom line: If street food and local neighborhood spots excite you, this tour delivers an energetic and authentic culinary experience.
How to Choose the Right Food Tour in Bergamo
When selecting your perfect Bergamo food tour, consider your interests first. Want to learn to cook and enjoy a home-cooked meal? Eat like a local might be your best bet. Looking for a comprehensive tasting walk? The Traditional Food Tour offers a well-rounded taste of the city’s history and flavors. If variety is your priority, the Full Meal Tour combines multiple stops with expert commentary.
For those combining a lakeside visit with a taste of local cuisine, the Varenna walking tour offers scenic views alongside delicious bites. Finally, street food lovers who want a lively, city-focused experience should consider the Street Food Tour, which highlights Bergamo’s informal culinary scene.
Budget, time constraints, and what type of experience you desire—whether hands-on cooking, guided tasting, or street food exploration—are your best guides. Booking early is wise, especially in peak seasons, as popular tours fill quickly.
In sum, Bergamo offers a range of food experiences that cater to different tastes and interests. For an authentic, intimate evening, the Eat like a local cooking class is hard to beat. If you prefer a guided walk with a variety of tastings, the Traditional Food Tour hits the sweet spot. And for a lakeside adventure, don’t miss the Varenna experience. Whatever you choose, these tours promise a tasty way to discover Bergamo’s culinary soul—so book early and enjoy every bite!
