Lake Como’s food tours showcase the best of Northern Italian cuisine while exploring this stunning lake region. The standout Lake Como Food Tour packs plenty of local tastings and a drink into a satisfying introduction to regional specialties. For travelers wanting to really understand Como’s food scene, the 3.5-hour Food Walking Tour through downtown hits all the essentials – from traditional cured meats to authentic pizza and polenta – with five strategic stops.
I especially love the Bellagio Food Tour combined with Villa Melzi, which cleverly mixes food discoveries with cultural insights, including the chance to pick organic produce. For independent types, the private Food and Wine Tours option impresses with its well-curated combination of tasting lunch, local wines, and craft beer dinner.
These are our favorite food tours in Lake Como, ranked from most comprehensive to most specialized.
Key Points
- Lake Como offers immersive food tours with local cuisine, wine tastings, and cultural experiences, with maximum group sizes of 12 for an intimate atmosphere.
- Tour options range from 3.5-hour walking tours to full-day culinary adventures, catering to various dietary needs and preferences.
- Highly-rated tours by knowledgeable guides provide insight into the region’s culinary heritage, including stops at traditional food venues and specialty producers.
- Private, self-guided food and wine tours with downloadable maps and audio guides are available for a more flexible and personalized experience.
- While not wheelchair-accessible, the tours are generally suitable for travelers with moderate fitness levels, with stroller-friendly options available.
Lake Como Food Tour – Eat Like a Real Local
The Lake Como Food Tour – Eat Like a Real Local offers travelers an immersive culinary experience in the heart of this picturesque Italian region.
With 174 glowing reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this tour is a must-do for any foodie visiting Lake Como. Priced at $105.85 per person, the tour starts at 11:00 am in Piazza del Duomo, Como, and takes guests on a delightful journey to sample the area’s local cuisines.
Included in the tour are lunch, bottled water, coffee, and one alcoholic beverage for those 18 and older. Vegetarian options are available, and dietary restrictions can be accommodated with advance notice.
The tour isn’t wheelchair-accessible but is stroller-friendly and near public transportation. A moderate fitness level is required.
Highlights include tastings of local meats, cheeses, wines, pizza, regional specialties, gelato, and espresso. Guides provide insights in both English and Italian, ensuring a well-rounded and informative experience.
With a maximum group size of 12, travelers can expect an intimate and engaging tour.
Read our full review: Lake Como Food Tour – Eat Like a Real Local Review
Book now: Check availability
Lake Como: Food Walking Tour
Nestled along the serene shores of Lake Como, the Lake Como: Food Walking Tour offers travelers an immersive culinary odyssey. Priced at $103.93 per person, this 3.5-hour walking tour guides participants through the charming downtown of Como, stopping at five food venues to sample the region’s delectable specialties.
Guests can expect to taste traditional dishes like cured meats, local wine, gourmet pizza, and the iconic polenta and sciat (cheese-filled pancakes). The tour also includes a visit to a historic wine shop for a traditional lunch, as well as indulgences like the light and airy nuvola cake and refreshing lakeside gelato.
With a minimum of two participants and a maximum of 12, the tour offers an intimate experience led by knowledgeable guides fluent in English and Italian.
Boasting a 4.6/5 rating from 94 reviews, the Lake Como: Food Walking Tour is a must for any traveler seeking to enjoy the culinary culture of this picturesque Italian destination.
Read our full review: Lake Como: Food Walking Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
BELLAGIO FOOD TOUR + Villa Melzi
Travelers seeking a deeper culinary exploration of Bellagio, the jewel of Lake Como, can embark on the Bellagio Food Tour + Villa Melzi.
This walking tour showcases the town’s food heritage, from a thick-foamed espresso start to a finale at the gardens of Villa Melzi. Along the way, guests discover steep stone alleys, sample local pastries and pizza, and meet farmers to pick organic produce.
The tour’s maximum group size is 12, ensuring an intimate experience with an enthusiastic English-speaking guide. Highlights include five authentic food stops and access to Villa Melzi’s gardens during opening hours.
While the moderate fitness level required allows for scenic views, comfortable shoes are a must. With a 4.7 rating based on 27 reviews, the tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides and memorable cultural insights, making it an ideal way to take in Bellagio’s culinary traditions.
Read our full review: Bellagio Food Tour + Villa Melzi Review
Book now: Check availability
Food and Wine Tours Lake Como
For those seeking a comprehensive culinary journey through the lakeside splendor of Lake Como, the Food and Wine Tours Lake Como offer an immersive exploration of the region’s gastronomic delights.
Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars from 8 reviews, this private, self-guided tour provides a well-curated sampling of the area’s finest food and drinks.
Highlights include a tasting lunch with wine tasting at a local shop or bistrot, a sartorial aperitif at a downtown cocktail bar, and dinner at a craft brewery.
Downloadable maps and audio guides in your chosen language ensure a seamless, informative experience.
While private transportation between venues is available for an additional cost, the tour can also be enjoyed without it.
With accessibility for most travelers and a willingness to address any concerns, the Food and Wine Tours Lake Como deliver a quality, customized culinary adventure in the heart of this picturesque Italian region.
Read our full review: Food and Wine Tours Lake Como Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gratuity Included in the Tour Price?
Typically, gratuity is not included in the tour price. Customers are expected to tip the guide at the end of the tour, with the standard amount being around 10-15% of the total tour cost.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Dietary Preferences?
Yes, many food tour operators can customize the experience to accommodate dietary preferences. Customers should inquire about the options when booking to ensure the tour meets their needs, whether they have dietary restrictions or simply personal preferences.
What Is the Average Group Size for the Tours?
The average group size for most food tours is typically small, around 6-10 participants. This allows for a more intimate and personalized experience, where the guide can cater to individual dietary preferences and provide more attention to each guest.
Are the Tours Wheelchair or Stroller Accessible?
Many food tours offer wheelchair and stroller accessibility, though it’s best to check with the tour operator. They’ll be able to provide details on the accessibility of their specific routes and accommodations.
Do the Tours Offer Vegetarian or Vegan Food Options?
The tours typically offer vegetarian and vegan options to accommodate diverse dietary needs. Guests should inquire about specific menu details when booking to ensure the tour matches their food preferences.
The Sum Up
Visitors to Lake Como can enjoy a variety of food tours that offer a taste of local cuisine and culture. From walking tours in Bellagio to comprehensive tours covering the region, there’s an option to suit every traveler’s interests and budget. These tours provide an authentic, insider’s view of the area’s culinary delights, making them a must-do for foodies visiting Lake Como.