Milan is a city famous for its sleek fashion, stunning architecture, and, of course, its cuisine. Unlike many Italian cities that focus heavily on wine or historic landmarks, Milan’s food scene offers a refreshing mix of street eats, sophisticated dining, and hands-on experiences. We love the Navigli Food & Drinks Tour because it combines the city’s lively canal-side atmosphere with authentic Milanese bites like carpaccio, risotto, and even a step-by-step tiramisù tutorial. Plus, it’s a small-group experience—perfect for those who want a relaxed yet immersive taste of local life. If you’re curious about Milan’s culinary heartbeat, this tour is a fantastic way to start. []
Milan isn’t just about looking at grand cathedrals or shopping; it’s also about savoring the diverse flavors from risotto alla milanese to street pizza. From immersive walking tours to cooking classes, the experiences below reflect the city’s rich, varied food scene. Whether you’re after a quick bite or a full culinary deep dive, these tours cover the spectrum. Read on for our top picks, each offering something special.
1. Milan: Navigli Food & Drinks Tour with Eating Europe
At number 1, this 4-hour walking tour captures the essence of Milan’s popular Navigli district. It’s a relaxed, small-group experience that takes you through the picturesque canals while tasting iconic dishes like hand-stretched pizza, carpaccio, and gorgonzola. The tour also includes a step-by-step tiramisù workshop, so you leave not only with a full stomach but also with a new skill. What sets this apart is the focus on local favorites that you might otherwise miss, guided by experts who share stories about Milanese culture and history. Guests praise the guides’ knowledge and the variety of food, with many noting the tour’s flexibility—gluten-free options are available. If you want an authentic, comprehensive taste of Milan’s northeastern neighborhood, this is the top pick.
Bottom Line: Perfect for food lovers seeking a blend of culture, history, and delicious bites in a charming setting.
2. Milan: Italian Cooking Class with Food and Wine
For around 3 hours, this hands-on cooking workshop offers a true taste of Italy’s culinary traditions. Under the guidance of a professional Italian chef, you’ll learn how to prepare three classic dishes—think risotto, pasta, or regional specialties—before sitting down to enjoy your creations with a glass of local wine. The class emphasizes healthy, waste-free cooking techniques, making it appealing to eco-conscious travelers. This experience is ideal for those who want to go beyond tasting and actually learn how to recreate Milanese dishes at home. The recipes are easy to follow, and you’ll receive all the instructions to replicate the meals later.
Bottom Line: A great choice for foodies who love to cook and want a memorable, interactive experience with authentic flavors.
3. Private Milan Food Walking Tour of Brera
This 3-hour private tour takes you into Milan’s artistic and bohemian Brera neighborhood, known for its cozy streets and lively cafes. The guide will introduce you to Parma ham, Milanese meatballs, and a refreshing spritz, all in local eateries that are favorites among Milanese. This tour is perfect if you prefer a more intimate, personalized experience. Guests rave about the guide’s storytelling and the chance to learn about Milanese cuisine in a setting that feels like visiting a friend’s neighborhood. It’s a flexible, relaxed way to explore Milan’s culinary culture without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a tailored, cultural food experience in one of Milan’s most charming districts.
4. Delicious! Milan’s Favorite Food Tour
At number 4, this 2.5-hour tour is a compact, tasty journey through central Milan. You’ll sample everything from pizza and gelato to Sicilian cannoli and artisanal sandwiches, all while strolling through lively neighborhoods like La Brera and Corso Garibaldi. The tour emphasizes local favorites and is designed for those who want a quick, satisfying immersion into Milanese cuisine. The structure allows you to see city highlights alongside your food stops, making it a perfect combo of sightseeing and tasting. Reviewers appreciate the relaxed pace and the variety of delicious treats, though some mention the food quality was slightly below expectations.
Bottom Line: Great for foodies who want an efficient, flavorful introduction to Milan’s culinary scene.
5. Milan Walking Tasting Tour with Secret Food Tours
This 3.5-hour small-group tour explores Milan’s buzzing Navigli district, famous for its aperitivo culture. You’ll visit hidden bars and eateries that serve regional Italian specialties paired with local wines. The tour highlights diverse regional flavors, from Sicilian to Neapolitan, giving you an authentic taste of Italy’s culinary diversity. Guests praise the knowledgeable guide’s stories and the generous portions, often with multiple stops for snacks, drinks, and local delicacies. It’s ideal for those who want a lively, social experience that combines food and culture.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a lively, social, and comprehensive tasting experience in a trendy Milan neighborhood.
6. Milan Gourmet Tour: A Premium Tasting Experience by Do Eat Better
This 4-hour tour offers a luxurious exploration of Milan’s food scene, with visits to restaurants and eateries showcasing the best of Lombardy. You’ll sample risotto, cold cuts, cheeses, and pastries. The small group (max 12 people) ensures personalized attention, and the focus is on high-quality, traditional and trendy Milanese cuisine. Guests enjoy the blend of history and taste, with the guide sharing insider tips. The price point offers good value for the variety and depth of experiences, making it ideal for food lovers wanting a comprehensive and upscale tour.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a more refined experience in Milan’s foodie scene.
7. Milan’s Authentic Street Food tour: A Gourmet Experience
This 3-hour private tour explores Milan’s street food secrets in a fashionable district. You’ll sample pizza from family-run places, Italian meats and cheeses, and regional snacks. Guides focus on authentic, local street eats often overlooked by travelers. Guests love the personal touch and the chance to try award-winning foods, with many saying it feels like discovering the city through a local’s eyes. It’s an ideal pick for travelers who want a gourmet street food experience in style.
Bottom Line: Best for those who want the authentic street food with a personal, insider guide.
8. Milan: Sunset Navigli Food & Drinks Tour by Do Eat Better
This 3.5-hour evening tour combines food, drinks, and Milan’s sunset atmosphere. It focuses on aperitivo culture, with stops at bars and restaurants for wines, cocktails, and regional tapas-like dishes. The guide explains Italy’s drinking customs, making it a fun, cultural experience. Guests rave about the lively vibe and the variety of regional treats. It’s perfect if you’re looking to unwind with good food and drinks as the day winds down.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for a relaxed evening of culinary socializing.
9. Milan: Street Food Walking Tour
For those interested in exploring Milan’s lesser-known culinary corners, this 3-hour tour covers family-run restaurants and hidden eateries. From savory bites to sweet desserts, this tour offers an authentic taste of Milan’s street food scene. Guests enjoy the opportunity to discover curiosity-provoking places not usually seen by travelers. It’s perfect for curious food lovers who want to walk and taste their way through Milan’s streets.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers eager to explore local street food with a passionate guide.
10. Discover the Milano by Food
This private tour takes you through Milan’s most lively neighborhoods like Brera and Porta Nuova over 2.5 hours. You’ll visit local shops and eateries, exploring aesthetic neighborhoods like Bosco Verticale and Porta Garibaldi. The experience emphasizes local favorites and hidden gems, providing tips on where to dine later. The guide’s local insights make it excellent for travelers wanting a personalized, city-wide food introduction.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a customized, in-depth taste of Milan’s different districts.
11. Milan: Guided Street Food Walking Tour with Food Tasting
This 2.5-hour guided tour combines sightseeing with sampling Milan’s best street foods. You’ll visit iconic spots like the Duomo, along with authentic local eateries. The tour is praised for its informative stories and generous tastings of local specialties. It’s a practical, engaging way to see Milan’s main sights while enjoying regional bites.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing and tasting.
12. Milan: Gourmet Food Tour
This 3.5-hour experience focuses on Milan’s refined culinary scene, including desserts, regional dishes, and street foods across diverse neighborhoods. It’s designed for food connoisseurs wanting to explore gourmet options without the tourist traps. The guide’s local knowledge shines through as you sample desserts like panettone and regional street food. Reviewers note the tour’s balance of quality, variety, and city insights.
Bottom Line: A top pick for those craving premium Milanese food in a guided setting.
13. Milan: Sweet Delights Patisserie Tour by Do Eat Better
This 2.5-hour pastry-focused tour takes you through Milan’s best bakeries, sampling cannoncini, panettone, and pralines. The guide shares history and culture behind Milan’s pastry scene, making it perfect for dessert enthusiasts. Guests love the variety of shops and the chance to indulge in traditional sweets that have been around since the 19th century. It’s an ideal experience if you want a sweet finishing touch to your visit.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those with a sweet tooth eager to explore Milan’s pastry traditions.
14. Milan: Gourmet Food Tour
This 3.5-hour tour offers an upscale look at Milan’s refined dishes—desserts, regional specialties, and contemporary favorites. It combines local history with tastings of Milan’s best gourmet foods in well-chosen locations. Perfect for those wanting to experience the city’s culinary innovation without the tourist crowds.
Bottom Line: Ideal for gourmet enthusiasts seeking a guided, high-end food experience.
15. NO DIET CLUB – Best Food Tour in Milan !
Lastly, this 3-hour small-group tour offers a fun, relaxed way to try pizza, gelato, and cannoli. It’s designed for foodies who love variety and want to sample popular Italian treats across the old town. Guides are friendly and share tips for local dining. Many reviews mention the generous portions and the friendly atmosphere making it a memorable experience.
Bottom Line: Great for casual travelers wanting a lively, tasty overview of Milan’s most beloved foods.
How to Choose the Best Food Tour in Milan
When selecting your perfect Milan food tour, consider your budget, time constraints, and culinary interests. If you love hands-on experiences, the Italian Cooking Class with Food and Wine offers a deep dive into Milanese dishes. For a quick but flavorful overview, Delicious! Milan’s Favorite Food Tour provides a compact tasting of the city’s highlights. Those interested in local street eats should check out Milan’s Authentic Street Food tour or Street Food Walking Tour. Budget travelers might prefer the NO DIET CLUB, which offers a lively, affordable experience.
Booking early is always wise, especially in peak seasons, to secure your spot. Think about your dietary needs—many tours accommodate gluten-free or vegetarian options—and whether you prefer a private or small-group experience. For those wanting to explore neighborhoods like Brera or Navigli, look for tours dedicated to those districts for a more personalized adventure.
Final Thoughts
Milan’s food scene offers plenty of options, from guided tastings and street food explorations to cooking classes and upscale gourmet experiences. For travelers who want a comprehensive introduction, the Navigli Food & Drinks Tour and the Gourmet Tour stand out. Those seeking something more casual and fun, like the No Diet Club, will enjoy the lively, approachable vibe.
No matter your preference, booking ahead and choosing a tour tailored to your interests will ensure a memorable culinary adventure in Milan. Dive into the city’s flavors—your taste buds will thank you.
