Verona: Wine and Aperitivo Walking Food Tour

If you’re considering a way to really taste Verona like a local, this Wine and Aperitivo Walking Food Tour could be just what you need. It promises a relaxed, flavorful exploration of the city’s best bites and sips over about three hours, all while strolling through Verona’s charming streets. We haven’t done it ourselves, but from what travelers say, it’s a solid choice for those who enjoy good food, wine, and a laid-back pace.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines tasting with sightseeing. You get to enjoy local wines, indulge in cicchetti (small Italian tapas-style bites), and finish with a handmade gelato. Plus, the opportunity to explore some of Verona’s lesser-known streets and spots sounds like a real win. If you’re a fan of relaxed evenings filled with flavorful bites and friendly atmospheres, this could suit you well.

On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that this tour involves a fair amount of walking—about 2 km—so comfortable shoes are a must. Also, the experience is geared toward adults, given the alcohol tastings, and might not be the best fit if you’re traveling with very young kids or folks with mobility issues.

This tour feels like a nice way to combine food, drink, and a bit of city wandering—perfect for those who want to soak in Verona’s lively evening scene without a rigid schedule. It’s especially suited for lovers of wine, casual socializing, and those curious about local traditions.

Key Points

• Local Flavors: Tastes include a selection of regional wines like Valpolicella and Soave, along with cocktails like Aperol or Campari spritz.
• Authentic Atmosphere: Visits to local bacari give a casual, friendly vibe, perfect for experiencing Verona’s aperitivo culture.
• Variety of Bites: Cicchetti like codfish, meatballs, and seasonal bruschetta offer a satisfying range of flavors.
• Evening Experience: The tour runs from 6:30 PM, making it ideal for experiencing Verona’s lively night scene.
• End with Sweetness: A stop at a renowned gelateria caps off the evening with homemade gelato.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups (2-10 people) foster more personal interactions, and guides may speak both English and Italian.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Depth

Starting Point at Porta Borsari

The tour kicks off at Porta Borsari, a historic and photogenic gateway that sets the tone for the relaxed exploration ahead. Meeting your guide here gives you a chance to settle in and get oriented before hitting the streets.

Ponte della Vittoria and Food Tasting (30 Minutes)

Your first stop is near the Ponte della Vittoria, a bridge with a story and views worth savoring. Here, you’ll start tasting some local drinks, perhaps a refreshing regional wine or a classic aperitivo. The relaxed pace allows you to soak in the atmosphere and chat with your guide about Verona’s culinary scene.

Via Sant’Egidio and More Tasting (30 Minutes)

Next, you’ll wander through Via Sant’Egidio, a street full of local charm. Here, you’ll sample more bites—likely a variety of cicchetti—small Italian dishes that pack a punch of flavor in each bite. Think creamy codfish, savory meatballs, or seasonal bruschetta. This part of the tour often attracts praise for its authentic, unpretentious vibe.

More Great Tours Nearby

Verona Arena and Final Stop (30 Minutes)

The iconic Verona Arena serves as a dramatic backdrop as you sample more local wines. The guide will probably share some stories about this ancient Roman amphitheater, adding context to your tastings. The relaxed walking pace means you can truly enjoy the surroundings and get a feel for Verona’s lively evening scene.

Ending at Porta Borsari

The tour wraps back at the starting point, giving you a chance to linger or continue exploring on your own. Many guests appreciate how this structure allows for a seamless experience—no rushing, just a leisurely taste of Verona.

What to Expect and How It’s Done

This 3-hour tour offers a mix of tastings and walking, covering about 2 km through the city’s vibrant streets, squares, and hidden corners. The guide, who speaks both English and Italian, shares insights into local wine varieties, aperitivo customs, and Verona’s history.

You’ll enjoy one serving at each stop, with a mix of wines, soft drinks, and perhaps beers. The focus is on quality and authenticity, with visits to bacari that are beloved by locals. It’s not a sit-down meal but more of a culinary stroll, where the emphasis is on sampling a variety of flavors.

The small group size makes for a personable experience, and the evening timing means the city is lively yet not overly crowded. This setup is ideal for those who like to savor their drinks and bites slowly, soaking in the ambiance.

The Realities: What Travelers Say

A recent review from a traveler in Switzerland pointed out that while they enjoyed trying the wines and aperitivos, they found the communication from the guide somewhat lacking. They also mentioned that there were many polpette (meatballs), which might suggest some repetition in tasting options. Still, their overall experience seemed positive, especially appreciating the chance to try regional wines.

Another traveler from the UK raved about Martina, the guide, calling her “amazing” and highlighting her knack for uncovering lesser-known streets and bars. They described the evening as “lovely,” emphasizing the food, drink, and atmosphere.

This feedback suggests that guide quality and personalized attention can really enhance the experience. It’s worth noting that the tour’s success depends somewhat on the guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge.

Practical Details and Tips

• Cost and Value: While the exact price isn’t provided, considering the inclusions—multiple tastings, guided walkthrough, and gelato—this experience offers a good value for a relaxed, curated evening.
• Duration and Timing: Starting at 6:30 PM from Tuesday to Saturday, it’s perfect for after a day of sightseeing. Remember, it involves about 2 km of walking—so wear comfy shoes.
• Group Size: Limited to 10 people, which encourages more casual conversations and personalized service.
• Age Restrictions: Participants need to be at least 18 for the alcohol tastings, so it’s not suitable for children or teens.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair users due to the walking involved, and big bags or pets are not allowed.
• Language: Guides may speak both English and Italian, so some parts might be bilingual.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re someone who enjoys sipping local wines, sampling small bites, and wandering through a city’s evening ambiance, this tour could be just perfect. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a relaxed, social experience rather than a structured sit-down meal.

Keep in mind, if you’re looking for a deep dive into Verona’s history or a more formal wine tasting experience, this might not be the best fit. But if your goal is to see the city from a local’s perspective, enjoy some delicious food, and end your day on a sweet note, this tour offers a great blend.

FAQ

Is there a dress code for this tour?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since there’s about 2 km of walking. Casual attire is fine, but remember, evening temperatures can drop, so bring layers if needed.

Can I join if I don’t drink alcohol?
Yes, soft drinks are available at each stop, so you can enjoy the experience without alcohol.

How many tastings will I get?
You’re served one at each location, including wines, cocktails, and possibly some non-alcoholic drinks, along with bites like cicchetti.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Since participants must be at least 18 years old for alcohol, it’s not suited for children. The focus is on adult tasting experiences.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if plans change.

Will the guide speak only in English?
Guides may speak both English and Italian, so some parts could be bilingual.

All in all, this Verona wine and aperitivo tour offers a relaxed and authentic way to enjoy the city’s evening vibe—perfect for foodies and wine lovers who like to keep things casual. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a small group, it’s a chance to taste some regional specialties and see Verona from a different perspective. Just remember to wear comfy shoes, bring your curiosity, and prepare for a delightful evening of bites, sips, and stories.

You can check availability for your dates here: