Lake Como Food Tour – Eat like a real Local

A Friendly Look at the Lake Como Food Tour – Eat like a Local

If you’re dreaming of a taste of authentic Northern Italian cuisine with a scenic backdrop, the Lake Como Food Tour offers a compelling way to do both. While we haven’t experienced it firsthand, reviews and detailed descriptions reveal a tour that balances culinary delights with cultural insights, all within a relaxed, small-group setting. It’s designed for foodies hungry to explore beyond the usual tourist fare, diving into local favorites in Como’s charming old town.

What really caught our eye are two standout aspects: the variety of regional specialties offered at carefully selected local eateries, and the knowledgeable guides who make the experience engaging and informative. However, potential visitors should note that this tour is primarily a foodie adventure — so if you’re expecting a deep dive into Como’s history and culture, this might be more about the food and wines. It’s best suited for those who want to indulge in good eats, enjoy some excellent wines, and meet fellow travelers on a relaxed walk through town.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Visits to hidden gems and local favorites, away from tourist traps.
• Tasty Variety: Sampling regional dishes like polenta uncia, sciatt, and Nuvola cake, plus regional wines.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Personal attention with a maximum of 12 travelers, making it more intimate.
• Relaxed Pacing: Easy walking around Como’s historic streets, with generous tastings at each stop.
• Value for Money: At around $115, you get a substantial culinary experience, with multiple stops and expert guidance.
• Ideal For: Food lovers, those interested in local culture, and travelers seeking a leisurely, tasty introduction to Como.

What to Expect on the Lake Como Food Tour

Starting Point and Overall Structure

The tour kicks off at Piazza del Duomo, right in the heart of Como, with a welcoming meet-and-greet by your local guide. From the very beginning, the aim is to give you a taste of Como’s culinary scene, with a good mix of bites, sips, and strolls through the city’s historic streets. The tour lasts roughly 3 hours and 30 minutes, making it an easy addition to your day without feeling rushed.

The tour’s size is intentionally kept small — a maximum of 12 people — so you can expect a personalized experience and plenty of opportunities to ask questions or get tailored recommendations. The pace is relaxed, allowing you to soak in the ambiance while sampling regional specialties.

First Stop: Cattedrale Di Como

Your journey starts near the famous cathedral, a stunning backdrop as you meet your guide. While there’s no specific tasting here, it’s a great spot to get your bearings and set the tone for the day. The guide will share some insights about the city’s main sights, making this stop a blend of sightseeing and setting expectations for the culinary adventure ahead.

Stop Two: Palazzo Rusca

From the cathedral, you’ll walk to a historic wine shop within Palazzo Rusca, where your taste buds are in for a treat. Here, you’ll sample high-quality cured meats paired with a glass of Italy’s celebrated wines. Reviews highlight this part as a favorite, with one reviewer noting the “very high quality cured meats” and the “lovely” wine. It’s a bit of a deep dive into local wine culture, set in a cozy, traditional shop that feels like a hidden gem.

This stop showcases how local eateries aren’t just about food but about the stories behind them. The combination of history and flavor makes it a memorable start to your tasting journey.

Stop Three: Via Pietro Boldoni – Pizza by the Slice

Next, it’s time for a proper local tradition— grabbing pizza by the slice. This isn’t a fancy sit-down restaurant; it’s a lively spot where locals indulge in quick, delicious bites. Expect a crispy crust, flavorful toppings, and a slice that’s perfect for eating on the go. One reviewer describes it as “delicious”, emphasizing that you need to come hungry to fully enjoy the generous portion sizes.

This stop offers an authentic taste of Como’s everyday food culture—no travelers-only eateries here, just genuine, flavorful pizza enjoyed by locals.

Stop Four: Centro Storico – Nuvola Cake, Ice Cream, and Coffee

Moving into the heart of Como’s historic center, you’ll encounter Nuvola cake, which literally means “cloud cake” — and it’s aptly named. It’s a soft, airy dessert with a filling of apricot jam, reminiscent of a lighter, softer panettone or pandoro. Several reviews mention how delicious and soft this treat is, often ending the meal with a classic Italian espresso and gelato. The ending stops aim to satisfy your sweet tooth in a truly local manner, with some reviewers calling the Nuvola cake “the shape of a large plumcake and like a cloud.”

Expect these sweet delights to be paired with a robust shot of espresso—an essential part of Italian daily life. After all, an Italian lunch is considered incomplete without a good coffee.

Stop Five: Piazza Amendola Giovanni – Polenta Uncia, Sciatt, and More

The final, and perhaps most iconic, part of your tasting tour centers around Piazza Amendola Giovanni. Here, you’ll enjoy Polenta Uncia, a hearty dish made from corn and buckwheat flour, served with braised meat or cheeses and butter. It’s considered the “queen of the table” in Como and the Alpine regions. Alongside, you’ll try Sciatt, crunchy pancakes with a cheese heart—a regional specialty loved by locals.

One reviewer raves about the “generous portions” and “delicious” flavors, highlighting that you’ll leave full and satisfied. The stops here seem to perfectly showcase the rustic, comforting side of Como’s cuisine, with hearty, filling dishes that reflect the area’s mountain roots.

What Travelers Say: Authenticity and Atmosphere

Reviewers consistently mention the knowledgeable guides—with names like Mario, Chiara, and Janis—who bring enthusiasm, local knowledge, and friendliness to the experience. Many describe the guides as “exceptional” and “perfect for the job”, making the walking tour feel more like a friendly, shared adventure rather than a scripted activity.

Food quality is another frequent highlight. From “delicious pizza” to regional specialties and excellent wines, the overall consensus is that the tour offers great value. Several reviews point out that the portions are generous, so come hungry.

Some critiques mention the limited wine tasting—with only one glass included—so if you’re a wine enthusiast, you might want to consider that the tour is more about food than a full wine tasting experience. Also, for those expecting a cultural or historical deep dive, the focus is primarily on eating and drinking rather than sightseeing.

The Value and Who Should Consider This Tour

At just over $115 per person, this tour offers a sizable amount of food, wine, and expert guidance in a scenic setting. The cost might seem high if you’re just looking for a quick snack, but considering the multiple stops, generous portions, and the chance to learn about local culinary traditions from knowledgeable guides, it’s generally considered good value.

This experience is best suited for travelers who:

• Want to sample authentic local dishes rather than touristy options
• Are enthusiastic about wine and regional specialties
• Enjoy walking and exploring a city at a relaxed pace
• Appreciate small-group settings for more personal attention
• Are okay with a moderate physical pace — walking through the historic streets of Como

It’s a flexible choice for those curious about regional food customs, and it appeals to people who want a more immersive, less tourist-focused experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Piazza del Duomo and ends at Piazza Pietro Perretta, both centrally located in Como, close to public transportation.

Is alcohol included?
Yes, at least one glass of wine is included at the first stop in the historic wine shop. Additional wine is not specified, so it’s more of a food-focused tour with some wine tastings.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Vegetarian options are available, but it’s best to specify any special requirements when booking. If you have allergies or food intolerances, let the tour provider know beforehand.

Is this tour family-friendly?
The tour is best suited for adults due to the wine tasting and the nature of the food stops. Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the minimum drinking age is 18.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour starts. Refunds are full if canceled in time.

Final Thoughts

The Lake Como Food Tour offers a delightful way to explore the local culinary scene in a relaxed, friendly environment. With knowledgeable guides leading the way through Como’s historic streets, you’ll experience authentic dishes like polenta uncia, sciatt, and Nuvola cake, paired with regional wines. The small-group setting enhances the intimacy, making it ideal for food lovers eager to taste their way through the city’s traditional flavors.

While it isn’t a cultural or sightseeing tour per se, the focus on food and drink makes it a satisfying choice for those wanting a genuine taste of Como’s regional character. Expect hearty portions, friendly service, and a chance to discover spots that locals love—hidden away from the crowds.

If you’re open to discovering authentic Italian flavors, enjoy good company, and don’t mind a leisurely walk, this tour is a solid pick. Just come hungry, and be ready for a memorable day of eating well in one of Italy’s most picturesque towns.

In essence, this experience is perfect for curious travelers who want to deepen their appreciation of regional cuisine, seasoned with lively guides and intimate settings. It’s less about sightseeing and more about tasting, savoring, and connecting with the local food scene—an enjoyable, flavorful way to spend part of your Como visit.