Venice: Street Food Tour with a Local Guide and Tastings
Hightlight
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English-Speaking
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Food
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Group-Friendly
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Local guide
History
Venice, a maritime powerhouse since the Middle Ages, developed a unique culinary tradition shaped by its role as a trade hub connecting Europe, Asia, and the Mediterranean. The Rialto Market, established in the 11th century, has long been the heart of Venetian commerce, where merchants traded spices, fish, and produce, influencing the city’s vibrant food culture. Cicchetti, tapas-like snacks served in cozy bàcari bars, emerged as a social tradition, blending local ingredients with global flavors.
The city’s sestieri, like San Polo and Dorsoduro, preserve Venice’s historic charm, with landmarks like the Basilica dei Frari and Campo Santa Margherita reflecting its artistic and communal spirit. This street food tour celebrates Venice’s gastronomic legacy, from buranelli biscuits to artisanal gelato, offering a taste of the city’s past and present in its lively markets and hidden corners.
Highlights
- Learn about the food of Venice and its highlights
- Sample typical snacks unique to Venice, including cicchetti and buranelli biscuits
- Visit the vibrant Rialto Market and marvel at its colorful produce
- Explore historic sites like the Basilica dei Frari and Campo Santa Margherita
- Enjoy a guided walking tour with a local foodie expert
Full Description
Embark on a delicious journey through Venice’s culinary and cultural heart with a guided street food tour. Meet your local foodie guide in Campo San Bartolomio, next to the statue, where they’ll be holding a “Food Tour” sign. Begin your 2-3-hour walking adventure by crossing the iconic Rialto Bridge to the bustling Rialto Market along the Grand Canal. Marvel at the vibrant stalls brimming with fresh fish, colorful fruits, and vegetables, and soak in the lively atmosphere of local shoppers.
Stroll through the historic San Polo district, passing the majestic Basilica dei Frari, a Gothic masterpiece, and learn about its artistic significance. Continue to Campo San Bartolomeo, a favorite local gathering spot, before heading to the vibrant Campo Santa Margherita in Dorsoduro, near the university, surrounded by restaurants and farmers’ markets. Along the way, savor a variety of Venetian specialties, including cicchetti—tapas-like snacks served in cozy bàcari bars—buranelli biscuits, and artisanal gelato, each bite paired with stories of the city’s food and history.
This small-group tour, led by an expert guide, offers a perfect blend of tastings, sightseeing, and cultural insights, immersing you in Venice’s authentic flavors and charming neighborhoods.
What’s Included
- Several food tastings (cicchetti, buranelli biscuits, artisanal gelato, and more)
- Local expert guide
- Walking tour through Rialto Market, San Polo, and Dorsoduro
Meeting Point
Meet your guide in Campo San Bartolomio, next to the statue, at the time specified in your booking. Look for the guide holding a “Food Tour” sign. The location is centrally located near the Rialto Bridge, easily accessible on foot. Arrive promptly to start the tour and enjoy the full experience of Venice’s food and sights.
Price
From $56 per person
Traveler Reviews
- We visited some very interesting places, and the food was delicious and different.
- Loved! Ana was great at explaining everything, and the stops were varied with different food to try!
- We had an excellent time. Our tour guide, Vanessa, was lovely and did an awesome job at explaining food and culture in Venice.
Maps
Contact
Video
FAQ's
What is included in the Venice street food tour ticket?
The ticket includes a 2-3-hour walking tour with a local expert guide, several food tastings (cicchetti, buranelli biscuits, artisanal gelato, and other Venetian specialties), and visits to Rialto Market, San Polo, and Campo Santa Margherita. Drinks are not included unless specified. Check your booking for specific inclusions or dietary options.
What types of activities can I expect on the street food tour?
Expect a 2-3-hour walking tour through Venice’s city center, tasting local specialties like cicchetti, buranelli biscuits, and gelato at various stops. You’ll visit the Rialto Market, pass the Basilica dei Frari, and explore Campo Santa Margherita, with guided stories about Venetian food and history. The tour blends eating, sightseeing, and cultural immersion.
Is the street food tour suitable for families with children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, with foods like gelato and biscuits appealing to children. The walking distance is manageable, but supervision is needed for younger kids on narrow streets. Contact the operator to confirm dietary needs or age restrictions when booking to ensure a suitable experience.
Is the street food tour accessible for people with disabilities?
The tour involves walking on uneven cobblestones and bridges, which may challenge wheelchair users. Some venues may have steps. Contact the operator in advance to discuss accommodations or dietary restrictions (e.g., vegetarian, gluten-free). The meeting point is accessible, but verify details when booking.
What should I bring for the street food tour?
Bring comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone paths, sunscreen, a hat, and water for outdoor walking. A camera or smartphone is ideal for capturing the market and landmarks. Food tastings are included, but bring money for additional purchases. Inform the operator of dietary restrictions (e.g., gluten-free) when booking.
