Genoa’s wine tours pack a punch, offering some of Italy’s most underrated wine experiences. While most travelers flock to Tuscany, savvy travelers find excellent value here in Liguria’s capital. The best tours combine vineyard visits with hands-on cooking demonstrations, teaching visitors to make authentic pesto and pasta while sampling local wines.
I’m especially fond of the small-group tours (usually 6-8 people) that venture into family-run vineyards just outside the city. The combination of wine tasting with local specialties like focaccia and fresh pesto makes these tours particularly memorable.
Let’s explore my favorite wine tours in Genoa:
Key Points
- The Genoa Day Tour offers a 4-hour experience featuring wine, food, and historical insights guided by Karl Ziegler, with an average 5.0/5 rating.
- The Wine Tasting Near the Aquarium provides a 1-hour tasting of Ligurian wines, cheese, and focaccia in an intimate setting, priced at $47.49 per person.
- The Cooking Class and Wine Tasting offers a hands-on gnocchi and pesto making experience, a 3-course lunch with wine, and praised for its food quality and hospitality.
- The Food Guided Tour With Wine Tastings combines local specialties and a wine tasting at Cantine di Colombo, with a duration of 2 hours and a rating of 4.9/5.
- The Historic Center Tour With Dinner combines historic exploration, wine tasting, and a dinner experience, catering to both wine enthusiasts and history buffs, priced from $91.42 per person.
Genoa Day Tour: 4 Hours of Wine Food History and Joy
On this 4-hour Genoa Day Tour, travelers can expect an immersive experience that combines the city’s rich history, local cuisine, and a sampling of fine wines.
Guided by the knowledgeable and engaging Karl Ziegler, the tour takes visitors through Genoa’s hidden gems, showcasing its architecture and sharing captivating stories.
Highlights include tastings of the city’s renowned focaccia, pesto, and gelato, as well as a selection of Prosecco, white, and red wines.
With an average 5.0/5 rating based on 39 reviews, this tour is a must-do for anyone seeking an authentic and memorable introduction to Genoa’s cultural and culinary delights.
Read our full review: Genoa Day Tour: 4 Hours of Wine Food History and Joy Review
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Genoa Wine Tasting Near the Aquarium
Travelers seeking an immersive wine tasting experience in Genoa can explore the “Genoa Wine Tasting Near the Aquarium.”
This one-hour activity, priced at $47.49 per person, provides a chance to savor local wines from the Ligurian coast while learning about the region’s winemaking traditions.
Participants will taste two whites and two reds, accompanied by a cheese and ham tasting board, focaccia, and water.
The experience is hosted at a traditional wine bar in the city center, and is accessible for wheelchair users.
With a small group size limited to 10 people, the tasting offers an intimate and educational encounter with Liguria’s vibrant wine culture.
Read our full review: Genoa Wine Tasting Near the Aquarium Review
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Genoa: Hands-On Cooking Class and Wine Tasting With a Sommelier
Frequently, travelers in Genoa can enjoy a hands-on cooking class and wine tasting experience led by a skilled sommelier. This class, located in the heart of Genoa, focuses on teaching participants the art of making gnocchi and pesto.
With a maximum of 6 travelers, the intimate setting allows for personalized attention from the hosts, Alberto and Cristina. The 3-course lunch, which includes wine, coffee, and tea, showcases the delicious results of the cooking lesson.
Though some participants had difficulty finding the venue, the overall experience is praised for its delightful food, stunning terrace setting, and the hosts’ cultural insights and hospitality.
Read our full review: Genoa: Hands-On Cooking Class and Wine Tasting With a Sommelier Review
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Genoa Food Guided Tour With Wine Tastings
For those looking to enjoy Genoa’s rich culinary heritage, the Genoa Food Guided Tour With Wine Tastings offers a comprehensive experience.
Priced from $62.27 per person, this 2-hour tour takes guests on a delectable journey through the city’s food and wine scene. The tour is limited to 10 participants and is available in English and Italian.
Highlights include tastings of local specialties like fried fish, focaccia, and savory pies, as well as a wine tasting at Cantine di Colombo.
With an overall rating of 4.9/5 from 16 reviews, this tour is a must-try for any foodie visiting Genoa.
Read our full review: Genoa Food Guided Tour With Wine Tastings Review
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Tour of Genoa Historic Center and Wine Tasting With Dinner
Venturing beyond Genoa’s food scene, the “Tour of Genoa Historic Center and Wine Tasting With Dinner” offers a captivating exploration of the city’s rich heritage.
This 5-hour experience takes visitors on a journey through Genoa’s historic center, culminating in a delightful wine tasting and dinner. Priced from $91.42 per person, the tour accommodates a maximum of 8 travelers and is operated by the reputable Soul of Genoa Tours.
With an impressive 5-star rating based on 9 reviews, this tour promises an immersive and enjoyable experience, highlighted by Alessandro’s friendly and knowledgeable guidance.
Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or a history buff, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction to the charms of Genoa.
Read our full review: Tour of Genoa Historic Center and Wine Tasting With Dinner Review
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Genova: Homemade Pasta & Pesto Local Chef Class With Wine
Immersing guests in the rich culinary heritage of Genoa, the “Genova: Homemade Pasta & Pesto Local Chef Class with Wine” offers an intimate 3-hour experience.
Hosted in a historic palazzo with stunning city views, the class teaches participants to make authentic Italian pasta fresca and classic basil pesto.
Led by a professional chef, the small group receives personalized attention and learns traditional techniques, including using a century-old mortar and pestle.
After the cooking, guests enjoy a leisurely lunch featuring the dishes they created, paired with local wines.
With a 5/5 rating from 82 reviews, the class is praised for its welcoming atmosphere, chef’s expertise, and delicious final products.
Read our full review: Genova: Homemade Pasta & Pesto Local Chef Class With Wine Review
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Truffle Experience & Wine Brunch in the Cellar
Nestled in the scenic hills of Piedmont, the Truffle Experience & Wine Brunch in the Cellar offers guests a delectable journey into the heart of Italy’s culinary traditions. Priced from Kč 14,805 per person, this 6-hour experience includes truffle hunting, a guided tour, and a wine brunch featuring local dishes infused with fresh black truffles.
Guests can choose from pickup locations in Milan and Genoa, with transportation provided throughout the day. The highlight is the wine brunch, where visitors can sample certified Piedmont wines and learn about wine production from a vineyard owner.
With free cancellation and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour provides an immersive taste of Piedmont’s renowned gastronomic heritage.
Read our full review: Truffle Experience & Wine Brunch in the Cellar Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Genoa for Wine Tours?
The best time of year to visit Genoa for wine tours is typically spring or fall. The weather is mild, crowds are smaller, and you can enjoy the region’s renowned wines in a more relaxed atmosphere.
Can I Customize a Wine Tour to My Specific Preferences?
Yes, many wine tour providers in Genoa offer customizable tours to suit your preferences. You can typically choose the wineries to visit, the length of the tour, and any additional activities like food pairings or vineyard walks.
Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals for Wine Tours in Genoa?
Many wine tour companies in Genoa offer discounts or package deals to customers. These can include group rates, combo packages with other attractions, and seasonal promotions. It’s best to check with individual operators for their current offerings.
What Is the Average Cost of a Wine Tour in Genoa?
The average cost of a wine tour in Genoa typically ranges from €50 to €150 per person, depending on the length, size of the group, and inclusions like transportation, tastings, and meals. Prices may vary based on the specific tour operator.
Can I Combine a Wine Tour With Other Activities in the City?
Yes, many wine tour operators in Genoa offer the option to combine a wine tasting experience with other activities like visiting historic sites, exploring the city’s lively markets, or sampling local cuisine. This allows visitors to make the most of their time in the city.
The Sum Up
Genoa offers a variety of wine tours that cater to different interests. From hands-on cooking classes to historic center tours, visitors can explore the city’s rich culinary heritage and sample its renowned wines. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply looking to immerse yourself in Genoa’s culture, these tours provide an excellent way to discover the best of what the city has to offer.