Devour Venice Early Evening Local Food & Wine Tour

If you’re dreaming of experiencing Venice beyond the crowded hotspots, this Devour Venice Food & Wine Tour might be just what you need. This small-group walk takes you into some of the city’s favorite local spots, offering a taste of Venetian life through its food, wine, and stories. With a trusted guide leading the way, you get a curated experience that combines delicious eats with a bit of sightseeing — all perfect for anyone curious about authentic Venetian culture.

What we love about this tour? First, it’s the personal touch — small groups capped at 10 make it feel more like a convivial gathering than a typical tourist outing. Second, the variety of tastings is impressive — from cicchetti and pasta to wine and gelato, you truly get to sample Venice’s culinary staples. The only thing to keep in mind? It’s a walking tour with extended periods on your feet, so it’s best suited for those with moderate mobility. This experience is a great fit for foodies, wine lovers, or travelers looking for a relaxed, authentic evening in Venice.

Key Points

• Intimate size keeps the experience personal and engaging.
• Expert guides share local stories, food history, and tips.
• Diverse tastings include cicchetti, pasta, cold cuts, cheese, wines, and gelato.
• Hidden neighborhood routes offer a more genuine view of Venice’s local life.
• All food and drinks included—no need to worry about extra costs.
• Flexible options for dietary restrictions, with prior notice.

What Is the Devour Venice Food & Wine Tour?

This 3-hour evening tour is designed for travelers who want to explore Venice’s culinary scene without the hassle of research or planning. Instead of the usual tourist-packed spots, you’ll visit local bacari (wine bars) and neighborhood osterias in San Polo and Dorsoduro, where Venetians actually go to unwind and socialize. Your guide will lead you through a route that’s been carefully curated to highlight Venice’s authentic flavors and culture.

The tour’s small size—max 10 travelers—means a more relaxed atmosphere where you can ask questions, share opinions, and enjoy the company. The price, around $115 per person, includes all tastings and drinks, making it a convenient and enjoyable evening outing. Many people book this tour about two months in advance, which shows how popular this experience is among visitors seeking a genuine local taste of Venice.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point: Campo San Tomà
Your adventure kicks off here, where you meet your guide and fellow food lovers. The first stop is a popular modern wine bar, a local favorite for aperitivo. Expect to enjoy two small cicchetti (Venetian tapas) paired with a spritz — Venice’s unofficial cocktail. Your guide will introduce you to the city’s flavors, explaining the significance of each dish and drink.

A Stroll Past Historic Landmarks
After some initial tastings, you’ll walk past the Campo dei Frari and Scuola Grande di San Rocco, soaking in the atmosphere and getting some sightseeing in without it feeling rushed. The walk itself is part of the charm, as Venice’s narrow streets and canals set a lovely backdrop.

Next Stop: a Beloved Osteria
This charming venue is in a beautifully renovated building, where you’ll share a board of cold cuts and cheese, along with a glass of prosecco. Many reviews highlight how generous the portions are — “each item was larger than I expected,” according to some guests. It’s an inviting, cozy spot that feels very much like a local’s hideaway.

Fried Cicchetti at a Canal-Front Wine Bar
Venetians love fried cicchetti, and here you’ll try a few varieties alongside local vino. Guests often comment on how this stop offers a glimpse into the culture of sharing food among Venetians. It’s fun, casual, and delicious — and your guide will share anecdotes about Venetian food customs.

Traditional Pasta in Dorsoduro
The tour continues into a tucked-away restaurant, where you get to enjoy a hearty plate of traditional pasta paired with wine. The focus here is on authentic recipes and flavors that Venetians have enjoyed for generations. Many reviewers rave about the quality of the pasta and the friendly atmosphere.

Sweet Finale at a Gelato Shop
What better way to end the evening than with Venice’s iconic gelato? The final stop is a well-loved gelateria, where you can sample a flavor or two and reflect on your culinary journey through Venice.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The price covers everything: local English-speaking guide, all food and drink tastings, and a small, friendly group. You’ll enjoy cicchetti, pasta, a board of cold cuts and cheese, gelato, plus prosecco, spritz, and local wine. The tour is designed to be no-hassle, so you won’t need to worry about extra costs.

However, note that hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included. The meeting point is conveniently located at Campo San Tomà, a central spot near public transportation, making it easy to access.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for foodies who want a more authentic look at Venetian cuisine and lifestyle. It’s especially great for those who enjoy small groups and engaging guides. If you’re traveling with moderate mobility, you’ll find the walking manageable, but those with health issues or mobility limitations might want to consider other options.

The tour is adaptable for vegetarians, pescatarians, dairy-free, pregnant women, and those preferring non-alcoholic drinks. Unfortunately, vegan and gluten-free options aren’t available, but you should inform the tour operators beforehand if you have dietary restrictions.

The Authenticity of the Experience

Multiple reviews highlight that guides like Anna, Barbara, and Alessia make the tour special. They’re praised for their friendly personalities and extensive knowledge, adding depth to the tasting experience. Guests mention that the guide’s stories about Venetian food customs and traditions are as valuable as the food itself.

The variety of tastings, from aperitivos to famous Venetian pasta, ensures you leave with a real sense of what Venetians eat and drink daily. Guests also love that the tour ventures into less touristy neighborhoods, giving a more genuine encounter with the city.

The Value for the Price

At just under $115, this tour offers a full evening of food, drinks, and entertainment. Considering all tastings are included, it’s a reasonable price for a curated experience with a knowledgeable guide. Several reviewers mention that the portions are generous, sometimes exceeding expectations.

The small-group setting enhances the overall experience, making it more personal and relaxed. If you’re a foodie seeking to explore Venice’s culinary soul without the hassle of planning, this tour represents a solid value.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate about Venice.
• Tastings are plentiful and diverse, covering Venetian staples.
• Small groups provide an intimate atmosphere.
• Stops are in authentic, lesser-known neighborhoods.
• All food and drinks are included, making it a stress-free experience.

Cons

• It’s a walking tour with extended standing, so travelers with mobility issues should consider this.
• Gluten-free and vegan options are unavailable, though some dietary needs can be accommodated with prior notice.
• The tour ends at the same point it starts, which might be less ideal for those staying far away.

The Sum Up

For anyone eager to go beyond the typical tourist paths and dive into Venice’s local food scene, this Devour Venice Food & Wine Tour offers a delightful, authentic experience. The carefully curated route, combined with generous tastings and engaging guides, makes it a perfect choice for food lovers, couples, or small groups wanting a relaxed evening with a real Venetian flavor.

While it isn’t a sightseeing tour in the traditional sense, it blends cultural insights with gastronomic pleasures, giving you a more meaningful connection to the city. Be prepared for some walking and extended standing, but in return, you’ll gain a taste of Venice that’s both delicious and memorable.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to savor Venice’s culinary traditions, this tour delivers a satisfying, friendly, and well-rounded experience. It’s especially recommended for those who want to learn, enjoy good wine, and leave with a fuller understanding of Venetian life — one small bite at a time.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the tour is adaptable for vegetarians, but note that every stop might not have a dedicated vegetarian option. It’s best to inform the organizers beforehand.

Are drinks included in the price?
Yes, the tour includes tastings of Prosecco, Spritz, and local wines, all part of the experience.

Can I join if I have dietary restrictions?
Yes, the tour is adaptable for pescatarians, dairy-free diets, and pregnant women. Vegan options aren’t available, and gluten-free choices are limited.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically designed for children, the tour’s casual pace and food focus might appeal to older kids; however, be mindful of the walking and standing involved.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Campo San Tomà and ends back at the same meeting point.

How long is the tour?
Approximately 3 hours, with plenty of time to enjoy each stop and take in the atmosphere.

What is the group size?
Limited to 10 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most bookings are made about 59 days ahead, reflecting its popularity.

Is this a full meal?
Yes, the tour covers a full evening meal, with multiple courses and drinks included.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is primarily outdoors and involves walking, so it might be canceled or adjusted during bad weather, with full refunds if canceled.

If you’re after a laid-back, food-focused evening that offers real local flavor and history, this Venice tour hits the spot. It’s a tasty way to spend a few hours, connect with Venetian culture, and enjoy the city’s culinary delights — all in one relaxed, friendly package.