SANREMO FOOD TOUR – Authentic Ligurian street food and Medieval town

Discover Sanremo through its flavors and alleyways—an authentic Ligurian experience

If you’re looking to experience Sanremo like a local, a guided food tour through this charming seaside town could be just the ticket. From what we’ve gathered, this Sanremo Food Tour offers a genuine taste of Liguria’s culinary traditions, combined with a walk through the medieval neighborhood. It’s perfect for travelers who want more than just the sights and prefer to connect with the authentic vibe of the city.

What really caught our eye are the high praise for the tour guides, especially Roberta, who’s frequently described as knowledgeable, personable, and passionate about her city. Plus, the inclusion of up to 11 tastings, from focaccia to local wines, makes this feel like an indulgent yet manageable way to spend a few hours. A potential downside? Since it’s outdoors and weather-dependent, a rainy day might require a bit of flexibility or a raincoat.

This tour suits those who love good food, enjoy walking explorations, and are eager to uncover hidden corners of historical towns. Whether you’re a dedicated foodie, history buff, or simply after a memorable introduction to Sanremo’s local scene, this experience seems to hit the mark.

Key Points

• Intimate Group Size: A maximum of 12 participants ensures a personal experience.
• Authentic Local Tastes: Enjoy Ligurian staples like pesto, focaccia, and local DOC wines.
• Off-the-Beaten-Path: Venture into lesser-known neighborhoods and a medieval town with a licensed guide.
• Educational & Tasty: Learn about regional traditions while sampling treats from long-established vendors.
• All Inclusive: Food, wine, water, and gelato are covered in the price.
• Weather-proof Experience: The tour runs rain or shine, so come prepared.

What to Expect from the Tour

This 3-hour walking adventure begins bright and early at the Sanremo Casino, setting the tone for a leisurely but engaging exploration of the city’s streets and culinary secrets. The tour is designed to be relaxed yet packed with interesting facts, tastings, and picturesque surroundings.

The Itinerary:

The tour kicks off with a warm introduction from Roberta, your guide, who’s known for her enthusiasm and deep knowledge of Sanremo’s history and flavors. You’ll start by wandering through Sanremo’s atmospheric alleys, known locally as the caruggi, which are far from the usual tourist spots. Walking through these narrow streets, you’ll get a true feel for the city’s character.

The food stops are carefully curated to showcase Ligurian street food classics. Expect to try local bakery specialties like focaccia, sardenaira, and torta di verdura—each with its own story and significance. These are traditional recipes, often handed down through generations, offering you a genuine taste of the region.

At the Sanremo fruit and vegetable market, you’ll see the vibrant produce that forms the backbone of Ligurian cuisine. It’s an excellent snapshot of local life, with vendors feeding the community daily. The guide’s commentary makes this part especially lively, offering insights into what makes Ligurian products so special.

Olive oil tasting is a highlight—featuring DOP Riviera Ligure extra virgin olive oil and Taggiasca olives, which are prized for their flavor. The connection between the land, the climate, and the produce is evident here. You’ll learn how the olives and oil are produced, giving context to the flavors.

Pesto, the region’s claim to fame, is sampled fresh, often prepared right in front of you or from authentic local sources. It’s a great chance to understand why Ligurian pesto is so distinct compared to other regions.

Wine tastings include two local DOC wines—Rossese di Dolceacqua and Pigato—paired with regional delicacies. Many reviewers praise the quality of the wines, noting how well they complement the food. The guide’s expertise helps you appreciate the nuances of each sip.

The tour wraps up with gelato—a true Italian staple—and a small sweet treat called Bacio di Sanremo, a local cake. The gelato is described as authentic, cool, and perfectly suited after all the savory bites.

The Experience of the Guide and Atmosphere

One of the most praised aspects, based on reviews, is the guide. Roberta, who runs this tour, is often called “knowledgeable,” “personable,” and someone who truly cares about sharing her love of Sanremo. Guests mention feeling welcomed and appreciated, which makes the experience more memorable and enjoyable.

The small group size (most often 4-12 people) means you can ask questions, get personalized recommendations, and enjoy a relaxed pace. This intimate atmosphere helps you truly connect with the history and flavors of Sanremo.

The Value of the Tour

At $108.91 per person, the price seems fair, especially considering the generous sampling of food and wine included in the three-hour experience. Reviewers consistently mention that it’s “well worth the time and money,” and many have come away with a deeper appreciation of Sanremo’s culinary traditions.

What makes it particularly good value is the combination of tasty bites, expert guidance, and local insights. Plus, the tour includes bottled water, and the variety of tastings—from savory snacks to sweet gelato—keeps the experience lively and satisfying.

Practical Details & Considerations

The tour begins at 9:30 am in front of the Sanremo Casino, a central and easy-to-find location. It’s suitable for most travelers who are comfortable walking, as the itinerary involves wandering through streets and neighborhoods. Wear comfortable shoes and clothing, especially since the tour runs rain or shine.

Since the tour includes wine tastings, you must be 18 or older, and the experience is geared toward adults. Children under 18 need to be accompanied by an adult, which makes it flexible for families or groups with older kids.

Transport to and from the meeting point isn’t provided, so plan your arrival accordingly. Parking fees are extra, and hotel pickup/drop-off aren’t included, so it’s best to arrive prepared.

Authentic Experiences that Keep It Real

Many reviews mention how the tour feels authentic—visiting local vendors, tasting homemade recipes, and exploring neighborhoods that aren’t in the guidebooks. The guide’s enthusiasm and storytelling help bring each stop to life, making the experience feel more like discovering Sanremo with a friend than a typical tour.

Participants share that their appreciation for Sanremo deepened after walking through its streets, sampling its food, and learning about its traditions. The tour isn’t just about the food but about understanding how the city’s history and culture shape its cuisine.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

If you love good food, enjoy history, and want to see Sanremo from a local perspective, this tour is definitely worth considering. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate small-group settings and guided insights. The combination of walking, tasting, and storytelling makes it a well-rounded way to get acquainted with the city.

Travelers with a keen interest in authentic regional cuisine will find it particularly rewarding. While not specifically designed for families with young children, older kids and teens who are curious about food and culture might find it engaging—especially with the chance to taste Italian staples.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, the tour runs rain or shine. Just be sure to bring an umbrella or raincoat if necessary, as most of the experience takes place outdoors.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, participants must be 18 or older to partake in the wine tastings. Children under 18 should be accompanied by an adult and might need to skip the wine part.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, beginning at 9:30 am from the Sanremo Casino.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes multiple tastings: focaccia, sardenaira, torta di verdura, olive oil and olive tastings, pesto, two local DOC wines, gelato, and a small cake called Bacio di Sanremo. Bottled water is also provided.

Do I need to arrange transportation?
No, transportation to the meeting point is not included. It’s best to arrive on foot or by public transport, as the meeting point is centrally located.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before will not be refunded.

Final thoughts

This Sanremo Food Tour offers a pretty compelling introduction to the city’s culinary scene, combined with a walk through its historic streets. If you’re after genuine flavors, local insights, and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, it’s a strong choice. It seems especially suited for travelers who want to get beneath the surface of Sanremo’s touristy veneer to discover its heart—and its flavors.

Whether you’re a foodie eager to taste real Ligurian dishes or simply looking for a memorable way to explore, this experience strikes a good balance between education, enjoyment, and authenticity. Just remember to come hungry, wear comfy shoes, and bring your curiosity along—you’re in for a lovely taste of Sanremo.