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Turin Food Tour - Secret Food Tours

When you visit Turin, the alluring city's top cuisine should not be shrouded from you. To taste the best of the old and new offered by food purveyors in Italy's Capitale delle Alpi, you need Turin secret food tours curated by experts in local dining options.

Our Turin food tours give you perspective on the cafes, bistros and street carts. You'll have opportunities to sample foods that originated in the Italian Piedmont. We'll make sure you don't leave Torino without the chance to try authentic gianduiotto!

Old Europe, the modern world and gorgeous views meet in Turin. Mingle your memories of these elements with the city's exceptional cuisine. We'll give you stories to tell that will make your foodie friends back home envious. Book your Turin secret food tour reservations today!

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Food Tour in Turin

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I Eat Food Tours & Events

Top-rated food tours, cooking classes, and culinary experiences.

Discover Turin’s and Piedmont’s Flavors with Local Experts. Food Adventures, Culinary Mastery. Locally Rooted, Globally Adored.

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Culinary experiences in turin, chef abrams kitchen, cooking classes & private dining, cecilia’s events, events & travel planning, most popular tours.

• #1 on TripAdvisor
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• Hour Glass 3.5 hours approx

Street Food Tour D’luxe | Turin Gourmet

Discover Turin’s Best Food Experience;  #1 on TripAdvisor!

Immerse yourself in a culinary journey curated by a food anthropologist and Michelin star trained chef. Our experience blends gourmet street food, iconic Piedmontese dishes&wine. Uncover the heart of Turin’s gastronomy with our locally owned and operated experience!

• New Tour! Just Launched.
• Tag Shared Tour
• Hour Glass 2.5 hours approx

Food and Market Tour | Culinary Delights of Turin

Savor Local Flavours with your Foodie Expert

Food and Market Tour|Culinary Delights of Turin. Join a morning like a local. Explore Turin’s vibrant neighborhood, sampling an array of must-try, flavor-packed foods. This fun experience blends culinary adventure with cultural insights.

Special Offer: Launching with a 10% off

Use the code   PROMO10

• Taste La Dolce Vita
• Hour Glass 2 hour approx

Chocolate and Sweets Tour | Turin

Explore Turin’s finest chocolate and exquisite signature sweets through a local lens, discovering La Dolce Vita from an authentic perspective.

This educational and interactive experience is designed for those who seek to taste the true essence of Turin, indulging in a beautiful variety of sweet flavors.

Online Cooking Classes

Live from Italy with Chef Abram

Join our carefully designed live streaming Online Cooking Classes and experience the essence of Italy – with a twist – while making an epic menu following the instructions of your private, super friendly and legendary international chef.

In our Virtual Cooking Classes, live from Chef Abram’s Kitchen in Italy , you can connect with your family, friends and collegues from all over the world and make an EXTRAordinary menu by following the instructions of a legendary chef. But it doesn’t stop here, yet, in fact we’d love to surprise you with astonishing tailor-made events, personal travel planning, cooking classes, virtual cooking gathering. Just try us. You’ll love our guestronomy philosophy and creative approach!

BRAND NEW ONLINE COOKING CLASSES

• Chefs Signature
• Tag Online Shared Class
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Bolognese a la Mode

Pasta Bolognese; Discover the culinary magic of Chef Abram in ‘Bolognese a la Mode-Chef Abram’s Culinary Affair.’ Indulge in the exquisite blend of classic Italian and French flavors as you master his signature dish, Pasta Bolognese a la Mode. Elevate your kitchen skills in this unique and flavorful online cooking experience.

• 6-Week Course
• Tag Online Private Class
• Food Culinary Adventures
• Hour Glass 6 x Weekly 2-Hour Sessions

Master the Art of Italian Cooking – 6 Week Cooking Course

Embark on a 6-week Italian

Cooking Mastery journey, perfect for cooking enthusiasts and aspiring chefs. Uncover the secrets of Italian cuisine through hands-on exploration, mastering everything from pasta and sauces to traditional dishes. Elevate your culinary skills and savor the richness of authentic flavors in this comprehensive experience.

• Young Chefs Class

Nonna’s Meatball Mania

Embark on a culinary adventure with ‘Nonna’s Meatball Mania for Kids.’ Chef Abram leads young chefs in crafting delightful meatballs, blending tradition and fun. Elevate cooking skills with joy and deliciousness in this family-friendly experience, creating memories and fostering a love for food.

Experiences Infused With Uniqueness

The recipe of our food tours & events in Piedmont consists of many ingredients, such as love, caring, dedication,  novelty, sustainability, affect (Emotion is key)…

Join us for a vibrant, insightful and multi sensory adventure of its kind. We offer immersive culinary tours to amaze your senses and give you a memorable hedonistic and authentic experience. It doesn’t stop here, yet, in fact we’d love to surprise you with astonishing tailor-made events, personal travel planning, cooking classes, virtual cooking gathering. Just try us. You’ll love our guestronomy philosophy and creative approach!

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Langhe Region, Piedmont | A Culinary and Wine Lover’s Paradise

Embracing the powerful energies of Nature in Piedmont. Discover the Langhe Region: A Culinary and Wine Lover’s Paradise Nestled in the heart of Italy’s Piedmont region, the Langhe area is a treasure trove for food and wine enthusiasts. Famous for its rolling hills, medieval castles, and, most importantly, its exceptional wines and culinary delights, the…

July 2, 2024

Kappa Futur Festival | Turin 5-7th July

Photo Credits: Elephant Studio The Futur is in Torino, Italy!   Photo Credits: TechnoAirline.com The Intersection of Music, Innovation, and Legacy Every summer, Turin pulses with the beats of the Kappa Future Festival, an event that transforms the city into a vibrant epicenter of electronic music. This festival isn’t just a series of concerts; it’s…

June 30, 2024

Ferrero. A Global Giant with Family Roots and Social Heart.

.The smiley face of Michele Ferrero, father of the iconic Nutella, is the cover of the beautiful book written by Salvatore Gianella: “Michele Ferrero. Condividere Valori per creare Valore” In the rolling hills of Alba, Piedmont, Italy, stands a house that gazes upon the bustling Nutella factory. This house, and the man who peered out…

June 27, 2024

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Join the ranks of industry leaders who have chosen our culinary tours, cooking classes and food events in Turin – whether in person or virtual.

Here, at I EAT Food Tours , we are proud to have partnered with renowned companies that value excellence, creativity, passion and innovation.

Our commitment to delivering top-notch services has earned the trust of lots of prestigious companies all over the world. Below just a few of those.

5-Star Food Experiences in Turin, Italy

We had a private tour with chef Abram. It was the best choice for us in Turin. Good food, great conversations, best vibe! Highly recommend!

This was a superb tour, from start to finish. Abram took us to several food locales in the city that were all classy, unique, quality and slightly off-the-beaten track. We would never have found these locations ourselves, and so relished the insider knowledge and new experiences. Abram himself is a wonderful tour guide - skilled at setting an easy-going atmosphere for the tour, and able to fill in just the right amount of historical facts to bring Turin and its food to life. This didn't feel like just 'another' tour where they are churning out the same-old-same-old; this was personal and original. Top top marks

Amazing. Our guide, Abram, was top-notch. Every single food stop was surprising (places we would have never gone into on our own) and delicious. We couldn't even pick a favorite since they were all so unique. By the second to last stop we were fully sated and experiencing a "food high". A truly outstanding experience! Don't miss this tour!

This was a tasty treat!! We had a blast with Cecilia. All the choices were amazing!! From a super unique chocolate shop to an amazing food hall, we ate our way through Turin (Torino). Cecilia’s passion for her city is totally evident and she is eager to share it. I would while heartedly recommend to any visitor to this great city

Cecilia was a very engergetic, fun and knowledgable guide in Torino. She selected the best and extraordinary places for tastings of chocolate, ice cream, coffee and much more. It was an outstanding experience and while walking through Torino she demonstrated that she s also a great city guide. She explained history, science and had a question on all answers. A must when in Torino to do a tour with her !

My brother and I took a Pizza and Gelato tour with Cecilia and OMG it was SO FUN! Cecilia is a wealth of knowledge about Turin, and the understandable pride she has in her hometown just makes the experience that much better. We enjoyed pizza from various regions of Italy with explanations of how they were invented. Did you know that there is a fried pizza the originated in Naples? Well now I do, and I'm ruined for life! :) Then gelato and a surprise sweet. I can't recommend the tour enough and Cecilia is the BEST. Apart from all things pizza related, it was wonderful to share her enthusiasm for food overall!! I def hope to return and try another tour with her.

We’ve been fortunate enough to have done some food tours in various locations, however, the tour hosted by Cecilia is a special one. Her energy, kindness, and passion for food and her city make this tour above any other. Cecilia walked us through her city, sharing some of her historical knowledge not only in the food, but also the sights. We tasted some Torino classics mixed with contemporary creations. Upon first look at Torino one may not see all it has to offer, but a tour with Cecilia will show you the way. Without a doubt, if you are ever in the city, you must book a tour in Torino with Cecilia.

We had a great day tasting lots of yummy things in Turin today. Cecilia, our guide was very charming and explained how the foods became popular in Turin and also about each unique location we stopped at. We started with coffee and sweets at a very beautiful bakery and chocolate shop, next stop an olive oil tasting followed by a wonderful cheese shop where we tasted several cheeses served with a very nice wine. Lunch was two courses with wine and then finally gelato…wow 3+ hours of really eating our way through Torino. Thank you Cecilia for a fabulous experience! Joanne & Jim

We had a fantastic virtual cooking party for New Year's Eve 2020. What a fun way to spend time together while socially distant. Chef Abram and Cecilia were amazing hosts, the food was exceptional and inspiring. Absolutely loved it, thank you ❤️

We (my husband (31), our 8 months old daughter and I (27), had a very wonderful experience on this tour. The guide was so passionate, knowing, warm and welcoming. We had amazing food and saw the hidden gems of the beautiful city of Turin. We have been on other food tours all over the world, but this one was so outstanding. Our warmest recommendations.

Me and my friend did the Breakfast Tour. We had the most wonderful time. The food tastings were delicious and the enthusiasm and passion Cecilia and Abram had for Italian food was heartwarming to watch. They are such kind, caring and very knowledgeable people. We felt like we were walking around with two friends. It never felt rushed or to slow. Everything about the tour was just perfect and we HIGHLY recommend it to anyone visiting to Turin. It was the best thing we did during our stay in the city. Grazie Cecilia and Abram for the unforgettable experience.

We had the most marvelous time with Cecilia in Turin. I had told her we were celebrating my mom's birthday, and she took such great care to make my mom feel super special. Cecilia had great knowledge of the history of Turin and hooked us up with the best tastes and tips. We also added on a private wine tasting at the end - highly recommend this! Cecilia customized the trip to our tastes. A wonderful way to see and taste Turin - Highly Recommend!

This was an anniversary gift for my husband which both Chef Abram and Cecilia made such a special experience via zoom from their kitchen to ours. They both put us at our ease, made it really fun and through Chef Abrams excellent teaching showed my husband how to make probablythe best 3 course meals we have ever had with uniquely beautiful tastes . We would highly recommend this experience .

Do Eat Better Experience: Food Tours in Turin

Are you planning a trip to Turin, Italy? If you are looking for a special experience, this is the right place. Get ready for a Food Tour in Turin by Do Eat Better Experience to taste local food and tradition.

What to do in Turin ? Try a Do Eat Better Experience Food Tour

Best things to do in Turin, an elegant city always looking to the future

Turin is a big city that elegantly keeps the memory of its glorious past, but always looks to the future. Until 1980’s, it has been one of the most important industrial towns all over the country, together with Milan (“Milano”) and Genoa (“Genova”). All over the city streets, a mixture of art and technology is very clear. In fact, throughout the years, many old industrial buildings have been converted in museums, art or music places. The famous Mole Antonelliana , an architecture masterpiece which is contemporary to the French Eiffel Tower, is the icon of Turin. Since 2000, it hosts the National Cinema Museum (“Museo Nazionale del Cinema”). Turin is a very lively big town full of restaurants and food and spirits shops . They are framed between 17th-19th century buildings, Art Nouveau decorations and contemporary landscapes. Some of these are the best venues where to taste the best Piedmontese recipes, rich in local ingredients and flavours. Are you planning a day in Turin? Get ready for a Food Tour in Turin  by Do Eat Better Experience , an unforgettable food-based adventure in Italian taste and tradition.

Walking Food Tour: a new way to discover Turin

Do Eat Better Experience has planned a new way to discover what to do in Turin over the usual activities. We offer to you a very special Walking Food Tour , tourist traps free. A Local Food Expert will tell you anecdotes and curiosities and will lead you through the city streets, restaurants, wine bars and cafes. Choose from one of our Food Tours in the city: Aperitivo & Street Food , Gourmet or Sweet & Chocolate . You will visit the city center and meet new friends.

Find out more Do Eat Better Experience Food Tours

Do Eat Better Experience is glad to host you in many European cities . Discover your next foodie trip!

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Street Food Tour D’luxe, Tastes of Turin

Italy • Turin

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Turin Food & Wine Walking Tour

The Turin food & wine walking tour is an immersive culinary experience in the beautiful city of Turin in northern Italy. Led by a knowledgeable and passionate local guide , this tour takes you on a journey to discover the city’s rich culinary traditions, history, and culture.

The tour typically lasts around 3 hours and includes visits to some of Turin’s top food and wine spots, such as Porta Palazzo Market and Central Market .

Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to taste some of the city’s most delicious and iconic dishes. You’ll also get to sample some of the region’s world-renowned wines, including Barolo . Your local guide will share fascinating stories and insights about the city’s culinary history, including its royal past and the role of food and wine in Turin’s modern-day culture.

Duration 3 hours

Turin, Piazza Carlo Felice, near the Tourist Office

Language English

Private Tour only for you

Group Size 8 people

Full Refund Full refund for cancellations received at least within 7 days in advance

More Details  ↓

• Taste the culinary culture of Turin
• Try the wines of the Langhe wine-region
• Local foodie guide to lead you

Tour Includes

• Licensed tour guide
• 4 food and wine tasting stops

How to Book

Would you like to book this tour? Or change something? Feel free to get in touch!

• Availability All year round
• Timing From Tuesday to Sunday at 10:00 AM
• Important notes – Minors must be accompanied by an adult; – People under 14 years of age are not admitted; – This tour is guaranteed with a minimum number of 2 participants; – Please let us know if you have food allergies or dietary requirements.
• Meeting point – The guide will be in front of the bronze building of the Tourist Office holding a yellow sign with “TOUR” written; – Please arrive at the meeting point 10 minutes in advance.
• Adverse conditions/unforeseen circumstances Please note that in case of adverse weather conditions (eg. bad storms, unexpected extreme events), or unforeseen circumstances (eg. monuments sudden closures, train/flight cancellations or delays) we do not guarantee a full refund. The company will examine each case and act accordingly.
• Mobility impairments and disabilities Please note that some parts of the tour may not be easily accessible for people with reduced mobility (or any kind of disability), if you are unsure of the details, feel free to contact us at [email protected] .
• In case of delay In case of delay, contact the emergency number +39-327-4674179
• Rain Policy This tour will never be cancelled due to rain. In case of rain the guide will decide the best alternative for the whole group. Please be aware that refunds will not be guaranteed to those who won’t accept the offered alternative.

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Famous Turin Food: 15 Delicious Dishes you’ll love

Published by weekendinturin on

This post may contain affiliate links. Please check our Affiliate Program disclosure for more information.

In this post you’ll find a short list of the best Starters, Main course, Second course and Desserts typical of Turin & loved by locals.  You’ll see a short description of the dish, pictures and videos that allows you to understand what to expect. I also give tips on which restaurant I normally go to when I crave for a particular dish. These are very typical dishes, are hard to find outside Piedmont. Don’t miss them!

QUICK SUMMARY

Here are the quick links to the different sections of this post.

• Ristorante, Trattoria or Osteria?
• Top 5 Starters: not to miss
• Top 3 Main Courses: to die for
• The Best Second Course
• Top 5 desserts
• Wine suggestions
• Best Organized Food Tours

If you are planning to visit Turin, here is my recommended perfect one-day itinerary . If you are a real Foodie, don’t miss my post on the best Turin fine-dining experience.

If you’re after exceptional food and excellent wine, you may want to check our Barolo Wine Tour.

1. Ristorante, Trattoria or Osteria?

A lot of people may get confused when they go to Italy by the different variety of places in which you can go to eat. Let me help you make some clarity.

• Ristorante (high-tier): is the full-serviced restaurant with professional kitchen staff, a host to seat you and typically a sommelier. It the most expensive and the highest-end option.
• Trattoria (mid-tier): are traditionally family owned and more casual/rustic . The menu variety is more limited and typically focused on local food.
• Osteria (low-tier): in the past they used to be wine bars serving only wine, nowadays they also serve food but it is normally simpler than a Trattoria . They usually offer a variety of cold cuts and probably one or two dish choices from their daily menu
• Piola (low-tier): In Turin, you may come across the name “Piola” which is the traditional way for calling a Trattoria in local dialect.

Overall Trattoria’s and Osteria’s are cheaper than restaurants , having said that there are some exceptions.

For example, “Osteria Francescana” is a three Michelin-star restaurant managed by the famous Chef Massimo Bottura . It has been awarded multiple time as the best restaurant in the World (menu price ~250€ per person wine excluded).

Tips from locals :

T he most popular Piola in Turin among locals is definitely “Piola da Cianci” I highly recommend this place as it offers good at very affordable prices. Be aware that no reservations are allowed . Here I took 2x mixed starters, 2x Main Course, 1x glass of red win, 1x Coca Cola, 1x Water and 2x coffees for 33 Euros!

This restaurant is placed in a hidden but really nice square called Piazza IV Marzo, from which you can see the Duomo of Turin. You can have a better idea of how this Piazza looks like in the video below.

Back to top

2. Starters: Top 5 dishes to try

Starters are probably my favorite part of the meal.

The variety of starters in Piedmont is huge to the point that some restaurants will offer you the possibility of choosing a dish of mixed starters to allow you to test them all. Starters are seasonal , cold starters are proposed mainly in the summer (Vitello Tonnata, Salsiccia di Bra) and warm ones in the winter (Peperoni al verde, Flan di verdura con foduta).

2.1 The Salsiccia di Bra

In short, it is sort of a high-quality raw beef tartare stuffed into a sausage. In reality, it is simply so much more .

I cannot describe this delicacy highly enough but if you are a meat lover you simply cannot miss this one . If you are not convinced by the description keep in mind that Bra is the name of the city where the SlowFood Worldwide international headquarter is based . It is the centre of true culinary elite.  Trust me, they know what they are doing.

You can eat Salsiccia di Bra either as a starter (as per picture above) or as a part of a sauce for pasta or risotto.

2.2 Battuta al coltello di Fassona

It is much more than a simple tartare .

Fassona is a specific high-quality breed of beef raised in Piedmont region, specifically fed with low connective tissue.

“Battuta al coltello” means that the meat has been “knife beaten” by hand. After been beaten, the meat is hand-chopped and lightly seasoned with salt, pepper and lemon.

The beauty of this dish is its simplicity, few ingredients, lightly seasoned not to overcome the flavour of the meat. It’s point of difference versus other Tartare is the quality of the meet . It has now been recognized as a SlowFood product.

It normally comes with flakes of parmesan cheese or with White Truffle .

2.3 Vitello Tonnato (or Vitel tonne’)

This is slices of veal served in a rich sauce of tuna, anchovies and cappers.

I get it, the combination of meet with a sauce based on fish seems awkward.  I’m Italian and I am very traditional when it comes to food so trust me, I never ever combine the two ingredients (meat and fish) in the same dish. But I promise you, this dish is an exception it is just the perfect combination . You must try it .

As you can see from the picture the slices of veal needs to be a tiny bit rare, pink colored. The sauce is made of tuna, cappers, anchovies and lemon juice. The dish is served cold.

Local tips: My favorite place for Vitello Tonnato is at Porto di Savona .

2.4 Peperoni al forno in salsa di acciughe

This is oven baked peppers covered in anchovies’ sauce (bagna cauda sauce).

One of most beloved ingredients from Piedmont are bell peppers , as a matter of fact once a year there is the “Bell Pepper Festival” in the town of Carmagnola, in the outskirts of Turin.

The most traditional way of serving them is to roast them in the oven at high temperature to make them super tender and serving them with a dressing of anchovies, parsley and garlic (also called bagna cauda sauce).

Fun fact: be aware that peppers are called “peperoni” in Italian. So if you order a pizza with peperoni you will get bell peppers on the pizza , not salami!

Watch-out: while I strongly recommend to try Bell Peppers with “bagna cauda” sauce for starters make sure you DO NOT order the dish called “bagna cauda” . The latter is a traditional dish from Piedmont, it is basically a full meal dedicated to eating a variety of vegetables in the bagna cauda sauce (anchovies & garlic), it is very heavy and smelly . I don’t recommend this one at all. None of the younger generations eat the bagna cauda full dish.

2.5 Flan di verdure su fonduta di formaggio

This one is an oven-baked souffle’ made with eggs and seasonal vegetable covered with a delicious local cheese souce.

The vegetables with which the souffle’ is made depends on the season, typically zucchini in spring or pumpkin/topinambur in autumn. The cheese used from the region are normally Castelmagno, Raschera or Seirass.

Tips from Locals:

A good place to try all starters at once is “ Ristorante da Angelino ”, with 10€ you have access to their table of “starters” . The place is down to earth and the decoration is a bit old style but the food is really worth it. In the 90s many Juventus players used to go there to eat, nevertheless the place is rather humble and with very accessible prices.

3. First Course: Top 3 dishes to try

3.1 agnolotti del plin al sugo d’arrosto.

This is Agnolotti pasta covered with roasted meat sauce . This type of sauce is very traditional of the Region.

Agnolotti are a traditional stuffed fresh pasta originally from Piedmont, typically filled with roasted meat or vegetables .

Agnolotti vs Agnolotti del plin?

The most popular version of Agnlotti is the one represented in the picture on the left: squared shaped and bigger in size. This version is now present across all Italy.

The “agnolotti del plin” are the ones that you see in picture on the right. They are characterized by their rectangular shape and most importantly by their tiny size which requires a high skillset to put together. They are both really nice but I suggest you to try the latter one as it is really hard to find outside of Piedmont.

The best way to enjoy agnolotti is “al sugo d’arrosto” which means covered in a rich beef broth sauce prepared with the juices released from roasted meat. An alternative typical way to try them is “burro e salvia” which means with a sauce made of only butter and sage.

3.2 Tajarin al ragu di salsiccia di Bra

Tajarin is a home-made egg-pasta Typical of Piedmont and difficult to find outside the region.

It is resembles a bit the tagliatelle in terms of shape but they are thinner and a bit thicker as they are 100% hand made. Their yellow color is quite strong due to the egg yolk used in the dough.

My favourite sauce to eat Tajarin with is with a ragu made of “Salsiccia di Bra ”. This is the same sausage described in the starters above which is now softened and cooked in the fresh tomato sauce.

However, you can find them also covered with local cheese which is extremely delicious.

Local tip: if you want to try the best first course dish (agnolotti or tajarin) I strongly recommend to go to Arcadia restaurant!

3.3 Gnocchi al Castelmagno

This is probably the best way to eat your gnocchi, covered in Castelmagno sauce which is a cheese typical from the area . Not much to say here, it is pretty straightforward.

4. Second course: The one and only

4.1 “brasato al barolo”.

This is beef slowly cooked in the famous Barolo wine .

If there is one second course dish which you should try is definitely the “Brasato al Barolo”. This is Beef cooked until meltingly tender in the prestigious Barolo wine, a famous wine from the region . Normally served next to polenta or mashed potatoes. Truly delightful, not much to add.

5. Desserts & Sweets: top 5 to try

5.1 the bonet.

This is a caramel and chocolate pudding enriched with crushed Amaretto cookie and rhum. Impossible to find outside Piedmont .

5.2 The Zabaione

It is a thick & tasteful cream made of egg yolks, sugar and sweet wine .

Zabaione can be served either warm as a dessert in which case it is made on the spot or as a garnish for sweets and cakes . For example, you may find several “cannoli” in the pastry shops filled with Zabaione.

Bit of History: Zabaione (also written Zabajone or Zabaglione) originated in Turin in 16 th century in honour of Saint Pasquale Baylon, from which the name was created. As a matter of fact, from San Baylon you get to Sambayon which is very similar to the way this dessert is called in Piedmontese dialect (sanbajon). 

5.3 The Panna cotta

Everyone knows Pannacotta, it is  pudding made of sweetened cream and vanilla. Not everyone knows it is originally from Piedmont.

Panna cotta is a traditional Italian dessert created in the Piedmont region, it is essentially a sweet custard made of cream, milk and sugar typically paired with caramel or berry sauce.

5.4 Baci di dama

It’s basically two hazelnut cookies held together by a layer of dark chocolate.

Baci di Dama are cookies which originated over a century ago from the Piedmont region (Tortona specifically). You can find these very easily in any café or pastry shop in Turin (not in restaurants though).

Fun Fact: in Italian literally means “lady kisses” because they are reminiscent of two lips kissing, held together by chocolate.

5.5 Marron glaces

Marron glace’ are a delicacy that goes back to the 16 th century which originated in Northern Italy (Piedmont area) and Southern France where chestnuts trees are abundant. They are also called candied chestnuts as they are boiled in a sugar syrup.

Traditional dishes: NOT to try

The below traditional dishes I recommend not too try as they are really old style and too heavy. Nowadays nowhen really eats these. The bagna cauda I mentioned, the other two dishes are a mixture if offal food:

• Bagna Cauda
• Fritto Misto alla piemontese

6. Wine suggestions

To enjoy a good meal to the fullest nothing is better that good wine. Piedmont is well known for its outstanding wine selection. Here are some tips to choose wisely!

• Barolo: Known as the “king of wine” is one of Italy’s wine legends . Award winning red wine made of Nebbiolo grapes high in tannins with very long finish
• Barbaresco: Is another great example of Italy’s finest wines . It is made of the same Nebbiolo grapes and it also has a very long finish. Very rich in flavour but Barolo is probably the most tannic and rich of the two.
• Nebbiolo: this is a really good mid-tier red wine to keep in your radar . It comes from the same grapes as Barolo and Barbaresco but less rich in flavor as unlike the other two it doesn’t require a minimum of four years of aging in oak barrels. Great value for money.
• Roero Arneis: this wine comes from the DOCG area of Roero, it comes in pale gold color, floreal fragrances and has a medium to full body. If you want to go for a white wine during your stay in Turin I definitely recommend to try this one. It is a good wine and very reasonably priced.  

Below you’ll find a website providing you even more details on the wines of Piedmont: https://www.winemag.com/2019/02/12/beginners-guide-wines-from-italys-piedmont

7. Organized Food Tours

If you’re interested in tasting some great local food while at the same time learn about the anecdotes behind them, probably the easiest is to simply opt for a guided food tour.

I put a few options with different price ranges below.

I have personally tried the “Turin Guided Food Tour with chocolate and wine tasting” and I felt it was a good option. The tour was 2 hours , we were given all of the below:

• One Bicerin, the famous hot coffee beverage typical of Turin
• Two small chocolate tastings in two different chocolate shops, where we tasted Gianduiotti and other local delicacies
• then we stopped for some tasty Focaccia & and crispy Farinata (you need to try farinata!)
• Lastly, we did an Aperitivo with cold cuts, crisps & 2 different wines (a White & a Red)
• The guide was really nice and shared some short explanation & anecdotes at each stop

Here’s some pictures that I took during the food tour so you have a better idea of what to expect.

Let me point out that I will make a small commission at no extra cost for you in case you decide to book tours from the link below.

I truly hope you found this post helpful. Have fun in Turin!

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A Foodie Tour of Italy: 31 Bucket List Food Experiences

How do you begin planning a foodie tour to Italy? With so many great things to do in Italy, even narrowing it down to food tours and experiences would still take years to hit the highlights!

But we are undeterred. You’ve got to start someplace, right?

We wanted to create a foodie bucket list just for all the great Italy food experiences — for the foodies, the buongustaios , the travelers like you and me who visit Italy just for the food !

Nothing against the culturally significant UNESCO heritage sites, countless ruins for archeology lovers, religious pilgrimage sites, and must-see sites for historiphiles, oenophiles and cinephiles. They’re all well worth a visit.

But in a country like Italy where you’re surrounded by good food, all we want to do is eat! #sorrynotsorry

A Foodie Tour of Italy

So we took the liberty of narrowing down a list of our favorite culinary experiences, activities, and exciting food tours for those of us who are all about the food in Italy .

Besides, we thought you’d appreciate a little help with narrowing down the dizzying number of choices for what to do in Italy when you want to experience this amazing country through food.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through our links, we may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you.

What’s in this Italy Foodie Tour?

(Click to Jump Ahead)

Food Markets

Venice • Bologna • Florence • Naples • Sicily

Northern Italy

Emilia Romagna • Piedmont • Lombardy • Veneto • Trentino-Alto Adige • Liguria • Friuli Venezia Giulia

Central Italy

Campania • Umbria • Lazio • Tuscany

Southern Italy

Puglia • Calabria • Sardinia • Sicily

Is Italy Bucket List Worthy?

Even still, 26 experiences is a mere drop in any bucket list when you love a place as much as we all love Italy, right? There are so many more so we’ll just keep adding to it.

And, as bucket lists tend to do, we’ll end up adding as fast as we cross one off!

Included in this foodie tour of Italy are some of the more unique experiences we’ve had in our time spent traveling in Italy.

We also asked several travel experts around the world to weigh in on their favorites as well.

What make these Italy things to do bucket list worthy? These are culinary experiences, a cut above the usual tours. They are food experiences to have in Italy with the added Wow factor on where to have them .

The combination of enjoying certain foods and activities at the place makes them truly unique — like eating baguette in Paris , taking a spice tour in the souk of Marrakech , or sipping Vino Nobile in Montepulciano .

The addition of place elevates the activity to an experience worthy of any Italy Foodie’s bucket list.

So start adding to your list and enjoy this Italy Bucket List for Foodies ! Here are our…

31 Top Food Experiences in Italy (by Region from North to South)

Top Italy Experiences: Food Markets

Visit italy’s food markets.

One of our favorite ways to experience the local food in Italy — no matter where we are — is at the nearest local market. Italy has so many markets where you can eat the Italian street food or chat with the locals.

There are many markets in each city, but there are a few historic markets well worth mentioning:

In Venice, a visit to the Rialto Market is a must — it’s the oldest market in Venice. The Rialto market is a perfect example of the Italian dedication to seasonal food items.

You’ll find fresh fruits and Italian cheeses to munch as you browse, fresh veggies, figs, honey and much more. Just next door under a very cool 19th century pavilion is the fish market.

One of the first places to visit when you arrive in Bologna is the famous Quadrilatero , adjacent to the Piazza Maggiore.

The market dates back centuries and was the original location for the guilds of Bologna — from fish mongers, butchers and bakers to gold artisans.

Today, the Quadrilatero is a great place for Aperitivo and dinner.

3. FLORENCE

Just a few blocks from the Piazza del Duomo in Florence is the Mercato Centrale, the premier market in Firenze. This should be on your Florence must-do list especially if you want to experience the foods that Florence is famous for.

Here you’ll find two floors in a beautiful historic glass and iron building. Fresh baked artisan breads, fresh pasta, sandwiches, pastries, and local street foods will have you overwhelmed at where to start.

Start anywhere but be sure to finish with a gelato and espresso.

In Napoli, La Pignasecca market might be small compared to some other markets in the city, but this historic market is famous for the traditional seasonal foods that are the essence of Naples.

A visit here is one of the best things a foodie can do in Naples , and the Amalfi Coast !

Local folks shop here at the stalls for fish, fruits, vegetables, and meats. Cafes, shops, enotecas, and vendors selling typical street food are found throughout the market.

This is where to go to eat like a Neapolitan.

Further south in Sicily , Ballarò is the largest and oldest market in Palermo. This market will give you a full appreciation for the seasonal cuisine that Palermitans enjoy every day.

Not only does the market have the usual local produce, meat, cheese, and fish stands, it is also a lively flea market where vendors sell all sorts of things.This is definitely a must-see market.

Northern Italy Food Experiences

Emilia romagna.

6. Visit FICO Eataly

If you’re the kind of foodie who loves their food experience served in a theme park setting, then FICO Eataly might be for you.

The self-described Italy Food Theme Park is very popular with group tours as you might imagine, but if you go at off hours, the pace is a bit less crowded.

You can experience everything from cooking classes and demonstrations to specialty wine dinners and events.

7. Take the Trifecta Food Tour in Emilia Romagna

Emilia Romagna produces many of Italy’s significant food products , and three of these iconic foods — prosciutto, balsamic vinegar, and parmigiano reggiano — can be experienced (literally from soup to nuts) on this food tour from Bologna or Modena . It is by far, one of the best Italy food tours you can take!

The original tour company who created their Italian Days Food Experience is still the best. If there is one foodie thing to do in Bologna you need to take, it is this one!

You’ll get to tour a local cheese factory to see the full process of how they make the King of Cheese , from the early morning milk delivery to tasting the final aged wheel of cheese. You’ll visit a small family-run acetaia where they age traditional balsamico di Modena in the attic for up to 25 years, and see the production of Italy’s famous prosciutto hams.

This is all followed of course by what the tour owner calls his food coma — a few hours of trying all of the above and more. If ever there was a must-do food tour, it’s this one!

8. Go Nuts for Nutella

If you love hazelnuts, Turin is the chocolate city of Italy so it’s one foodie city you have to visit! It’s the home of Nutella, the decadent chocolate-y, hazelnut-ty spread beloved by foodies around the world.

The food brand is so ubiquitous in fact, there are more than several knock offs who only dream of borrowing some of that Nutella shine.

But while Turin may lure those with a heavy sweet tooth, eating Nutella at the source isn’t the only amazing thing to do in Turin for foodies .

The city is also home to several other amazing food brands like Lavazza , Gianduiotto chocolates, and even one very fine spirit, Carpano vermouth.

9. Savor the Food in Milan

The region of Piedmont, just a stone’s throw from Milan, is home to Italy’s slow food movement which began in the 1980s as a sort of protest to the growth of fast food eateries in this part of the country. Passionate chefs, local growers, and other advocates for authentic Italian cuisine created this grassroots movement that continues today.

In fact, the trend toward slow travel in Italy and around the world has this movement to thank.

In nearby Milan, there’s one place every foodie should visit — Osteria del Treno — and a great Milan food experience.

If you recently saw Stanley Tucci “searching for Italy” around Milano, he made a stop at this famous osteria and his veal shank and potatoes looked amazing. The Osteria’s Sala Liberty ballroom was built in 1898 as a union hall for the Milan’s rail workers who worked at the nearby Stazione Centrale.

Since then, Osteria del Treno has been serving traditional slow food like Milanese occo buco and the beautiful amber-colored saffron risotto in the lively dance hall atmosphere featuring traditional live music.

If your northern Italy culinary tour needs a real highlight, you can’t get much better than this!

10. Sip a Bellini at Harry’s Bar

Venice is known for many things, but some foodies still don’t know the original Harry’s Bar began here. Opened in 1931 by Giuseppe Cipriani and named for Harry Pickering, a long-time patron of the Hotel Cipriani bar, there’s enough legend and celebrity panache to make it worthy of a visit to sip its signature Italian cocktail — the Bellini .

Carnivores should also try the beef carpaccio — also famously invented by Mr. Cipriani right here nearly a century ago — or a traditional cicchetti.

If you’d prefer your raw meat with something less fruity, try washing it down with a dry martini, rumored to be the best in Venice.

11. Eat Cichetti in Venice

The food is surely one reason why Venice should be on every Italy lover's bucket list but there is one food tradition everyone tries in Venice — cicchetti .

Cicchetti are the tapas of the world-famous lagoon city, and the most popular food to enjoy with a sip of wine along one of the many canals after a long day of sightseeing — they’re as popular with locals as they are with tourists.

Cicchetti is the preferred street food in Venice, as opposed to pizza as in other parts of Italy. Pizza isn’t a typical dish in Venice , as open fires, such as those used in pizza ovens, were long forbidden due to the high risk of fire.

Cicchetti comes in many different forms and flavors: Baccalà mantecato (stockfish spread) on crostini, Sarde in saor (pickled sardines with onions), and Mozzarella in Carrozza (breaded and baked mozzarella) are particularly popular. Especially in a city by the sea like Venice where seafood is naturally on the list of ingredients everywhere.

A very good place to try authentic cicchetti is the Bàcaro Cantine del Vino Già Schiavi (Fondamenta Nani, 992, 30123 Venezia) in the Dorsoduro neighborhood of Venice.

The queue can be quite long here, which is always a good sign and proves the popularity of the dishes on offer here. But it’s faster than you think and we’ll worth the wait!

Whether you come for a few hours or plan on spending two or three days in Venice , the cicchetti bars in the city are worth the trip alone.

Explored by Phil from Journication

12. Take A Veneto Prosecco Tour

Over the last several years, Prosecco has grown in popularity across the world and becoming one of the most beloved Italian wines.

But while many people enjoy a glass of Prosecco, far fewer know that you can visit the Prosecco vineyards and wineries of Italy, located just an hour away from the floating city of Venice.

Prosecco DOC is produced across the Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia regions of Northern Italy, while the highest quality Prosecco, Prosecco Superior DOCG, is produced in a small region between Conegliano and Valdobbiadene in Veneto.

Although Prosecco can be produced elsewhere, DOC and DOCG wines signify higher standards of production and higher quality products, a.k.a. the best Prosecco you'll ever taste!

You can reach Italy's Prosecco region by train from the cities of Venice or Treviso. Once you arrive in the area, you'll need to hire a Prosecco driver to get around, so that none of your party gets landed being designated driver.

The majority of wineries welcome guests with open arms and will happily give you a tour of their vineyards and wineries, teach you about their production process and set up a tasting with their own wines, accompanied by delicious local meats and cheeses.

Being a small and relatively undiscovered wine region, a visit to the beautiful Prosecco hills is truly one of the most unique and exciting Italy culinary tours you can take.

Toured and tasted by Emily of London City Calling

Heading to Trentino-Alto Adige?

Bolzano is the perfect base from which to explore the Dolomites. Check out our recommended restaurants in Bolzano and places to stay!

Trentino-Alto Adige

13. Blend Food and Nature in the Dolomites

Mountaineering and backpacking have no place for the traveler in touch with local food, or do they?  One visit to the Italian Alps (especially in the warmer months ) answers that question.

Hiking the Dolomites offers nature-loving foodies a healthy dose of food and wine to pair with their taste of the great outdoors. 

Everyone should travel to Italy to experience the magnificent cities, but it’s a hustle and touristic bustle that can leave you or your family well-fed but drained.

The northern reaches of Italy impress the soul with the magnificent Dolomite mountain range of limestone craggy peaks and delicious little mountain huts along the trails serving Italian food that’ll make your heart melt.

Rifugio Averau , near the famous Cinque Torri WWI history experience and ski area, turns away most reservations despite being located on a rocky peak in the Dolomites.

The best thing on the menu is a 30-year old ravioli recipe made with nuts and cheese that compels the biggest foodie to come back for more year after year, after every breathtaking hike.

But hunger is the best spice, they say, and when you combine a hike with a gourmet restaurant, the food of South Tyrol tastes even better. 

Stay at one of the local mountain huts, like Rifugio Lazazuoi for a night you’ll never forget.

Experienced by Morgan at Crave the Planet

14. Make Pasta al Barolo, Red Wine Pasta

Located in the heart of the Italian Alps between Lake Garda and the Dolomites, the mountainous province of Trentino is a Northern Italian culinary haven.

Northern Italian cuisine is typified by hearty food that sees locals through the long (and often bitter) winters , with culinary influences from neighboring Austria, France and Switzerland.

The region’s food is hearty and unique, and they’ve even managed to make pasta dishes even better.

How? Add a glass of the local Trentino Teroldego, a rich and fruity red wine — and we’re not talking wine with pasta, we’re talking about wine in the pasta!

Created from the deep, punchy red grapes that have been cultivated there for centuries in picturesque vineyards framed by the looming Alps, the addition of Teroldego adds an irresistible, fruity (but not too sweet) tipple to the pasta dough which creates an extra-savory, slightly bitter umami note, and an unshakeable feeling of wanting more.

You can find red wine pasta throughout Italy, and it’s popular in Chianti. But in Trentino, pasta al Barolo is a specialty, so taking a pasta making class to learn how to make it is the perfect foodie thing to do in Italy!

And so you don’t feel bad that you ate all the pasta afterward, pasta al Barolo is so beloved that you can even find excellent pre-made dried red wine pasta to take home!

A cooking class in this region of Italy is a must, as well as the purchase of a bottle (or a case) of Teroldego… if the Italians haven’t bought them all already.

Tasted by Julianna at The Discoveries Of

15. Eat Pesto

If you’re daydreaming of seaside views and colorful houses perched high on clifftops, a trip to the Ligurian coast is what you need, so plan a visit to the Italian Riviera towns of Genoa, Camogli, Portofino or the Cinque Terre.

The warm sea air here rolls in from the Mediterranean and blankets the hills of Liguria, making ideal conditions for growing grapes and basil — lots and lots of basil! And fresh basil means fresh pesto sauce, the tempting green sauce you’ll find everywhere in the region.

Ligurian pesto varies in the ratio of ingredients from chef to chef, but is always made with basil, pignoli nuts, olive oil, either pecorino or parmigiano cheese, and salt and pepper.

Throughout Liguria, you’ll find one delicate pasta shape that blends well with local pesto — the twisty Trofie noodle is most often served, and often used as a topping on grilled crostini.

Friuli Venezia Giulia

16. Gorge on Liptauer Cheese

When you think of Italian cheeses, you might think of mozzarella, Gorgozola, parmesan or mascarpone. However, if you are visiting the Trieste region of Friuli Venezia Giulia area of Northeast Italy, you might notice large bowls of orange cream cheese in delicatessens. This is the famous local cheese called Liptauer .

The recipe for Liptauer is a closely guarded secret. Each shop, town and even family has their own way of making it.

Ingredients include ricotta blended with goats cheese, some Gorgonzola, anchovy paste, maybe some mustard, cornichons, cumin, bell peppers and the all-important paprika. The paprika is what gives Liptauer its orange hue.

Bringing together the influences of the surrounding countries of Austria and Slovenia, Liptauer is a reminder that the area was once under Austro-Hungarian rule.

Gorizia, which shares a border with Slovenia, is the perfect place to try Liptauer.  While the Italian family delicatessens use more Italianate ingredients like cornichons, the Austrian one are peppery, and crisp red bell peppers give an extra bite.

This spreadable cheese is creamy, peppery with a warmth from the paprika. Served on toast, as a dip or even served in small ice cream cones in Trattoria alla Luna, one of the best places to eat in Gorizia . 

Sampled by Larch of The Silver Nomad

17. Eat Pizza in Napoli

If you’re a pizza lover — and especially if you are not — there is no better food experience to have in Italy than eating pizza in Napoli . After all, this is the birthplace of Pizza Margherita — just one reason you’ll love it if you’re not a particular fan of pizza — it just may change your mind forever about pizza.

Pizza in Naples Italy is bursting with flavor and rolled to just the right thickness. Though it’s lightly topped with a crushed tomato sauce and just a few dabs of bufala mozzarella, the dough always takes center stage.

Baked in a 900° wood fired brick oven until the crust is toasty and the toppings bubbling, it’s a work of art.

Neapolitan-style pizza is slightly gooey in the middle, and you eat it with a knife and fork, or as a Neapolitan street food — folded in quarters and wrapped in paper to go.

There’s nothing else like it in the world!

18. Taste Fior de Latte Cheese on the Amalfi Coast

Eating copious quantities of Tomato Caprese is one of the joys of traveling in Italy so you should definitely book a cheese production demonstration during your travels.

In a three-generation family store near Bomerano, you can visit Naclerio in his home and cheese shop, and watch him make Fior de latte — the “ flower of milk ” — the other less-famous mozzarella cheese of the Amalfi Coast.

The family owns its herd of cows so its fresh cow's milk mozzarella cheese is locally sourced. In the front of the store is the retail shop.

But in a separate demonstration room, visitors can see how milk is transformed into compact mozzarella balls or braided in long cheese skeins. Watch “il mastro formaggiaio” (the master cheesemaker) stir the cauldron with his blue plastic gloves, and his crisp white apron matching the bubbling milk.

After the milk is curdled, he removes the whey. Then the curd is immersed in the hot water. The cheesemaker then kneads the curds and breaks off skeins to mold into mozzarella balls. The balls are sprinkled with a little salt from Sicily, and he ends by braiding several skeins off cheese into "treccia."

The entire demo ends with samples of cheese served with crackers.

Tasted by Terri at Female Solo Trek

19. Sip Limoncello on the Amalfi Coast

When life gives you lemons you can make lemonade, but why… when you can make limoncello. If you’ve been to the Amalfi Coast before, the bright yellow citrus fruit the size of grapefruit are lemons, and they grow everywhere under the sun along this beautiful stretch of coast in southern Italy.

Italians take their limoncello seriously too, and households regularly make their own as Americans make iced tea in the summertime. Limoncello is make from the skin of lemons, so the taste is bright and lemony, but will hit you hard if you drink too much. Sip a limoncello after a meal, what Italians call a digestivo. It’s the perfect ending to any Italian meal.

20. Go Truffle Hunting

One of Italy’s most exquisite (and expensive) foods is the truffle, and foodies to Italy can find all about truffles on a truffle hunting tour in Umbria , Tuscany, Piedmont, and Marche. It’s such a great experience!

You’ll learn about the time and expertise it takes to find these delicate morsels in the ground using trained truffle dogs (not pigs), and the differences between white and black truffles found in these regions of Italy.

And the best part is most truffle tours in Italy include a truffle dinner at the end of the tour at a local restaurant that specializes in cooking dishes that feature the earthy goodness of this prized local food.

21. Make Pasta in Rome

The only thing that may beat eating fresh pasta in Italy is getting to personally hand-make the entire dish with an Italian chef in the heart of Rome.

Taking an Italian pasta making class in Rome is as iconic as you can get, and should be at the top of every bucket list for foodies. Throw in a glass or two of fresh Italian vino, and you will be truly living La Dolce Vita.

There are many popular  pasta making classes in Rome,  but the best ones all include a lesson from an Italian chef, include a couple different dishes of pasta and wine, and feature an amazing location like a rooftop patio, a family restaurant, or a visit to a local market.

Most classes are open to the public, but are kept to small groups to keep the experience intimate.

Also, in most pasta making classes in Rome, groups can expect to meet plenty of like-minded travelers and foodies while hand rolling and shaping pasta. Amazing spiced aromas fill the air as pasta sauced is made from scratch and taught step by step.

After the dishes are complete, the class dines together, toasting their new skills and new found friendships.

Made and devoured by Olivia of Girl With Blue Sails

22. Devour a Bistecca Fiorentina

Carnivores to Italy shouldn’t miss tasting one of Tuscany’s most famous foods, Bistecca Fiorentina , the classic Florentine style cut of beef. Devouring this two-inch thick T-bone or porterhouse steak is a bucket list item for Florence foodies .

The steak comes specifically from Chianina cattle, and the traditional preparation is uniquely Tuscan, seared on both sides on a grill over a bed of hot coals.

But it’s the precise seasoning that makes this steak sizzle! Sprinkled generously with just salt and pepper, and brushed with olive oil using a sprig of fresh rosemary, it’s a steak lover’s dream — best served rare, and enjoyed with a full bodied Tuscan red wine.

If you want a more social experience, try taking this tour for an entertaining Florentine steak experience complete with helpful info and a small group of new carnivore besties!

23. A Tuscan Culinary Tour at Agriturismo Marciano and La Lastra

If you are looking for a bucket list food and wine tour in Tuscany, it's hard to beat an experience that delves into the world of Italy's finest wines and foods, starting in one of Tuscany's most picturesque settings among the rolling hills of Siena.

At Agriturismo Marciano, you can experience a wine tasting and tour of their organic vineyards producing wine under the name La Lastra.

Afterwards, you’ll sit down to a five-course meal, complete with wine pairings from the organic vineyard and eat family-style at the table getting to know other guests from all over the world.

Agriturismo Marciano is the perfect place to stay on your foodie tour of Tuscany because it has it all: a romantic farmhouse surrounded by organic vineyards and olive groves; a cooking class offering hands-on classes on how to make Italian dishes with local products; a tasting room where it's possible to sample the estate's wines and olive oils, and a restaurant with a menu full of fresh produce from the farm.

From Agriturismo Marciano, it's easy to explore other foodie destinations in Tuscany, including one of Italy's most beautiful cities, Siena. Y

ou can spend an entire day exploring the narrow streets of the city, with its colorful open-air market and numerous museums while sampling the fares of this heavenly country.

Enjoyed by Casandra from Karpiak Caravan

24. Take A Cooking Class in Florence

One of the best ways to experience the local Italian cuisine on your trip to Italy, is by taking a cooking class in Florence . The class runs for the entire day and involves going to the local market in the morning to pick up the ingredients, pass by a few family run cheese, bread, and meat shops, and then meeting the chef at his kitchen, to cook a three course traditional Italian meal.

The Italian cuisine is based on the simplicity of fresh, good quality ingredients and the dishes you’ll cook in this class are the classic bruschetta, tagliatelle al ragu, spinach and ricotta ravioli and panna cotta.

The class is hands on, meaning that you will be involved in every single element of the preparation of the dishes, from chopping onions and garlic to making fresh pasta.

During the break, the chef will invite you to his little terrace above the kitchen, where he will treat you with his homemade Prosecco.

He’ll also regal you with stories and a few secrets about Florence, from the drinking holes in the walls (literally!) to the strong ties within the neighborhood communities.   

Back in the kitchen, you will get to enjoy the food you’ve just cooked, washed down by a couple of glasses of red wine. 

Cooked with love by Joanna of The World in My Pocket

25. Learn to Cook Tuscan Specialties Bolgheri and Castagneto Carducci are at the heart of Tuscany's "Oil and Wine Road" ( La Strada del Vino ) along Italy's Etruscan Coast . This is one of the best regions to dive deeper into the top quality ingredients and food heritage of Italy.

To do just that, check out the cooking classes and food tours by Chicca Maione of Cooking In Tuscany. Her collaborative home-cooked meal experiences are sure to delight your taste buds.

The owner of Casa Toscana , Chicca, is a charismatic host and fantastic home cook. She lives on the main floor of her Tuscan farmhouse, where she hosts cooking classes from her home kitchen. (She also rents out two apartments above and has started an online Cooking Club during the pandemic, if you'd like to expand your experience.)

Cooking with Chicca is an interactive cultural experience ending in a feast for the whole family. We had the opportunity to stay with Chicca and take part in a number of her cooking classes and tours.

The delicious dishes we made ranged from hand-rolled pasta to chocolate almond cake. The recipes come from past generations in Chicca's family.

When the ingredients don't come from her garden, she sources mostly from local producers. Delicious! This is truly a food experience you'll never forget.

Plus, just a short but vigorous hike up the hill from Chicca's house is a charming little village with cafes where you can truly experience Tuscany off the beaten path. This is a great spot to relax a bit, enjoy world class ingredients, and make lasting memories.

Home made by Michelle of Intentional Travelers

26. Watch the Pasta Ladies at Work

Foodies, if you’re heading to Puglia in the heel of the boot, grab your camera and phones and get ready for one of Italy’s most unique food experiences.

Browse the narrow streets of Bari and you may have a chance to see — or even try your hand at —one of the region’s most amazing pasta making experience.

Ladies of the community often set up their pasta tables right outside their homes early in the day, and make the local pasta known as orecchiette, or pasta ears. Dough is kneaded then cut into appropriate sizes to make the little ears by hand. But don’t be shy — step up and ask for a lesson, and purchase a portion or two for later.

Want to learn how to roll like these ladies? This small group pasta making tour in Bari is perfect and you’ll devour what you make for lunch!

27. Taste Olive Oil

Puglia is known for the endless hectares of olive groves strewn throughout the region, which produce some of the best olive oil in Italy. So much goes into the production of Italian olive oil from harvest to the table, and you can immerse yourself in just this one food at several events, markets, and tours held in several cities.

From cooking classes, and tours of olive oil factories, there is plenty of green to go around.

But when it comes to a feast for your palate, why not try an olive oil tasting ? You’ll learn which olives make the best oil and taste the subtle notes of olive oil for a good understanding of how it flavors the many dishes in Italian cuisine.

28. Spice it Up with Calabrian Peppers annual Peperoncino Festival

If there’s one food that is ubiquitous in Calabria, it’s the fiery reddish brown Calabrian pepper! But don’t worry if you’re not a fan of too much heat — Calabrian peppers don’t have capsicum that’s off the charts hot, but they do have tons of flavor.

Calabrian peppers are a medium-hot chili (25,000 to 40,000 Scoville heat units) — more than jalapeños but slightly less than cayenne pepper.

But here’s the thing: the flavor of Calabrian peppers is unique — smoky, fruity, and a touch salty. They’re a popular chili for many Italian dishes, but their usage goes well beyond pasta sauce, and they pair so well with the local seafood that is so much a part of Calabrian cuisine.

If you’re a chili fan, for nearly 30 years since 1992, the town of Diamante has celebrated the pepper in its annual Peperoncino Festival held each year in mid September. The 5 day event draws nearly 100,000 chili-loving visitors a year from around the globe.

29. Taste Sella & Mosca Wine

Known for its beautiful beaches that make it a perfect summer holiday destination, Sardinia actually has much more to offer beyond its striking natural beauty.

Should you decide to visit, make sure to explore one of the best wineries in Sardinia and head to the lovely Alghero — a Catalan enclave on the northwestern coast of Sardinia — where you can book a wine tasting tour at Cantine Sella & Mosca, to date the largest and oldest registered vineyard in Sardinia.

A typical tasting experience actually starts with a tour of the vineyard. You will be taken around to discover the main buildings: the chapel that was built in the 1950s and the statue right next to it, contributed by prime Sardinian sculptor late Pinuccio Sciola; the cellar where the barrels are kept; the cellar where the most precious bottles are kept.

You will learn about its history and unique location — can you believe a proper necropolis was found on its grounds? — and more.

The final stop is the actual wine tasting experience. You will have several options to book from, but perhaps you may want to opt for the signature wines, to try the vineyard's best sellers.

In this case, the tasting will be accompanied by a lovely selection of local breads, cheeses and charcuterie.

And wine pours are actually quite generous, considering it is a tasting tour! Expect to pay between €30 and €45 for your wine tasting experience.

Tasted by Claudia of Strictly Sardinia

30. Attend the Salina Caper Festival

The ‘green island’ of Salina in Sicily’s Aeolian archipelago  is lauded for its fruit trees and grapes, the latter used to make Malvasia wine. Another of the island’s most popular food products, capers, is so beloved, it even has its own festival day.

The Caper Festival takes place at Pollara every June in commemoration of the Mediterranean staple that’s grown in such large volumes on Salina, it’s one of the island’s biggest exports.

Rich volcanic soils are perfect for cultivating caper shrubs, and you’ll find berries artfully sprinkled atop food in every restaurant (including at Da Alfredo where the Salina caper  Pane Cunzato  is the stuff of legend).

For the festival, chefs and local restaurateurs descend on the piazza in front of the village church to whip-up their best Sicilian recipes that showcase plump, juicy, sea-salty capers in all their glory.

Meanwhile the island’s winemakers set up booths and crack open their bottles. A ticket to the show affords you bottomless drinks and as many plates of antipasto and pasta Puttanesca as you can handle.

Though lesser-known, Salina’s Caper Festival is a fine example of Italy’s slow food culture and an absolute highlight of any foodie trip.

Although it attracts visitors, it’s still very much a local affair and doubles as a celebration of the island’s unique culture and agricultural heritage.

Tasted by Emily of Wander-Lush

31. Eat Street Food in Palermo

There are a lot of reasons to visit Palermo, and the street food scene definitely ranks near the top!

What is wonderful about the city is that the street food is omnipresent and forms such an integral part of the locals life. From the cornetto with the very short (and very potent) espresso in the morning, to the canollo for midmorning snack and the pane con milza (spleen sandwich) after a night out on the town.

Fancy a brunch, Palermitan style? You got it, simply walk into your local  rosticceria  and pick up a variety of items considered among the best Palermitan street food . 

When you go to order your delicious slice of heaven, there is one golden rule you must remember. When in Palermo you order an Arancina (with an a) and you will receive a round ball of rice filled with ragú.

The city of Catania (in the southeastern part of the Island) has Arancino (with an o) served in a shape of a cone. A centuries-old feud exists between the cities about the right shape and spelling of this street food, and you don’t want to get mixed up in this. Just eat and enjoy!

Devoured by Caroline of Veggie Wayfarer

Have we inspired you to add a few new things to your Italy Bucket List ? What did we miss? Check back soon for more ideas on authentic experiences for foodies to Italy!

5 Best Guided Tours of Turin

Discover the best guided tours of Turin – a city bursting with history, culture, and gastronomic delights. As the capital city of the northern Italian Piedmont region, Turin offers a captivating blend of medieval charm and contemporary vibrancy. Wander through winding streets adorned with elegant architecture and vibrant squares, and transport yourself to a bygone era. A guided tour is the best way to make the most of your visit and unlock the city’s hidden treasures.

Get ready to delve into the fascinating world of Turin, Italy. Guided tours showcase the diverse options available to truly uncover the city’s rich heritage, culinary excellence, and enchanting landscapes. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, history buff, wine lover, or adventurer, guided tours of Turin promise unforgettable journeys of discovery. Let us be your guide and unveil the wonders that await you in this captivating Italian gem.

Table of Contents

Best Turin Day Tour

Embark on a remarkable journey through Turin’s rich history and captivating sites with our Best of Turin Royal Palace & Egyptian Museum Walking Tour . Led by experienced local guides, it’s an immersive adventure exploring the city’s most iconic landmarks. This Turin walking tour is ideal for history enthusiasts, art lovers, and architecture aficionados. You’ll get entry to famous sites like the enchanting Piazza Carignano and Piazza Castello, the renowned Egyptian Museum, and architectural marvels like San Lorenzo Church and Turin’s tallest building, Mole Antonelliana. Finally, marvel at the opulent Royal Palace, the luxurious 16th-century royal residence of the House of Savoy. 

Nighttime Walking Tour of Turin

Join our Turin Night Walking Tour and uncover the captivating allure of the city after dark. This is one of the most unique walking tours Turin offers, introducing you to hidden secrets and enchanting stories. The evening begins at the charming Piazza del Castello, a cultural hub teeming with museums, theaters, and lively cafes. Then, journey to the magnificent Palazzo Reale, where tales of noble figures from the past come to life. At sunset, be mesmerized by the Mole Antonelliana, a towering landmark offering breathtaking views of Turin and the Alps. Throughout the tour, your guide will share intriguing legends and secrets of the city’s aristocratic families, transforming your perspective of Turin under the moonlight. 

Best Turin Culinary Tour

If you’re a foodie seeking the ultimate culinary experience, join us on the best food tour Turin has to offer. Indulge your taste buds on our Turin Gourmet Fo o d Tour , a gastronomic adventure through the city’s vibrant food and drink scene. Led by an expert local guide, you’ll sample a variety of authentic Italian delicacies. As you taste local delicacies like handmade breadsticks and stuffed pasta, your guide will unveil the background traditions of each dish. For the grand finale, you’ll honor the city’s title as the ‘Italian capital of chocolate,’ and feast on a range of artisan chocolates.

Adventurous Turin Bike Tour

Discover the city’s royal charm and rich culture on our exhilarating Turin Highlights E-bike Tour . Hop on an electric bike and learn about Turin’s industrial past and vibrant present. Your guide will help you uncover the fascinating history of the noble Savoia family, known for their patronage of the arts and commissioning of iconic structures. Visit the historical landmarks of Piazza Carignano, including the Royal Palace, Mole Antonelliana, and the beautiful San Lorenzo Church. Then, relax in the luxurious Royal Gardens before venturing to the well-preserved 1st-century AD Roman gate of Porta Palatina. You’ll experience the best of the city’s highlights on two wheels during this unforgettable Turin bike tour.

Savory Turin Cooking Class

Immerse yourself in a delightful Italian food adventure with our Private Cooking Class with a Local in Turin , a truly authentic culinary experience. Step into the kitchen of your welcoming host and spend three delightful hours learning how to prepare traditional Turin dishes. This will include an appetizing starter, savory pasta, and a mouthwatering dessert. Your knowledgeable host will share their personal recipes and culinary secrets passed down through generations. After the hands-on cooking session, you’ll sit down with your host (and perhaps their family) to enjoy the fruits of your labor for a delicious lunch or dinner. Raise a glass of local wine in celebration and end the meal with a satisfying espresso. This is the most in-depth cooking class Turin provides, allowing you to experience the local food culture and ask your host about Piedmont’s vibrant culinary traditions.

Wouldn’t You Rather Be in Turin, Italy?

Turin, Italy offers a plethora of exceptional guided tours that bring the city’s rich history, culture, and culinary delights to life. Whether you’re exploring the opulence of the Royal Palace, delving into the captivating world of street art, or savoring authentic Turin dishes during a private cooking class, the best guided tours of Turin offer immersive experiences that cater to every traveler’s interests. With knowledgeable guides leading the way, you’ll uncover hidden gems, hear fascinating stories, and gain a deeper appreciation for this enchanting city. 

Looking for more travel tips and inspiration about what to do on your Italian vacation ? We’ve got all your needs covered, from the best times to visit Italy to guides on the most beautiful hotels for your stay and more!

See all Turin Tours

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10 Famous Opera Houses in Italy: Operatic Wonders

Buongiorno, opera aficionados! Max here, your virtuoso guide to the famous opera houses in Italy. These architectural and acoustic marvels have hosted centuries of musical magic.

Join me on a grand tour as we raise the curtain on ten of Italy’s best opera houses, exploring their rich histories and the unforgettable performances that have graced their stages.

This post contains affiliate links. When you buy something through one of the links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no additional cost to you.

1. Teatro alla Scala, Milan

As you step into Teatro alla Scala in Milan, you’re entering a world-renowned temple of opera. Opened in 1778, this iconic venue has witnessed countless premieres by legendary composers like Verdi and Puccini.

The horseshoe-shaped auditorium exudes timeless elegance with its plush red seats and ornate gold decorations.

La Scala’s stage has been graced by some of the greatest voices in operatic history, including the legendary Italian opera singer Luciano Pavarotti, further cementing its status as a global hub for operatic excellence.

Don’t miss the fascinating museum attached to the theater, where you can explore costumes, instruments, and memorabilia from past performances. If you’re lucky enough to catch a show, arrive early to soak in the atmosphere of the grand foyer.

When you visit Milan , La Scala’s rich history and stunning architecture make it a must-visit, even if opera isn’t your thing.

Pro Tip : Book a guided tour to access areas typically off-limits to the public, including a peek at the workshops where sets and costumes are crafted.

2. Teatro La Fenice, Venice

As you step into Teatro La Fenice in Venice, you’re entering a phoenix rising from the ashes. This iconic opera house opened in 1792 and was rebuilt twice after devastating fires. Its name, “The Phoenix,” couldn’t be more fitting.

Inside, you’ll be dazzled by the opulent gold leaf, intricate frescoes, and plush red velvet seats. The acoustics are sublime, making it a dream venue for world-class performances.

Fun Fact : Many famous operas, including Verdi’s “La Traviata,” premiered here.

Don’t miss the chance to join a guided tour or, better yet, catch a show. As the lights dim and the curtain rises, you’ll feel the weight of history and the magic of Italian opera wash over you.

Suggested Read : Is Venice Worth Visiting? Your Essential Travel Guide

3. Teatro San Carlo, Naples

Step into the grandeur of Teatro San Carlo, Naples’ crown jewel of opera. As you enter this 18th-century masterpiece, you walk into the world’s oldest continuously active opera house. Imagine the countless performances that have graced its stage since 1737!

Interestingly, the theater you see today is not entirely the original structure. A devastating fire in 1816 ravaged much of the building, prompting an extensive reconstruction.

The rebuilding process, however, carefully preserved the theater’s iconic horseshoe configuration and the layout of its proscenium, ensuring that the essence of the original design remained intact.

Fun Fact : Teatro San Carlo was built 41 years before Milan’s La Scala and 55 years before Venice’s La Fenice. It has hosted premieres of works by Rossini, Donizetti, and Verdi.

Suggested Read : 30 Fun Facts About Naples: Explore Napoli’s Charm

4. Arena di Verona, Verona

Step into the Arena di Verona, and you’ll feel the weight of history beneath your feet.

This colossal Roman amphitheater, built in the 1st century AD, has witnessed gladiatorial contests, medieval executions, and now, world-class opera performances.

As you explore, imagine the roar of 30,000 spectators filling the air—the arena’s pink marble sparkles in the sunlight, a testament to its enduring beauty. Don’t miss the opportunity to climb to the top tier for breathtaking views of Verona’s skyline.

During summer evenings, the arena transforms into a magical open-air opera house. Picture yourself sipping prosecco under the stars as Verdi’s arias soar through the ancient stone arches.

If you’re planning to spend one day in Verona , make sure to include this unforgettable experience in your itinerary.

Did You Know?

A significant number of Italian language learners are motivated by their love for opera and choral music . Many choir members and opera enthusiasts study Italian to understand better and perform the lyrics they sing, adding depth to their musical passion.

5. Teatro Massimo, Palermo

As you approach Teatro Massimo in Palermo, you’ll be struck by its grandeur. This architectural marvel, the largest opera house in Italy and third-largest in Europe has captivated visitors since 1897.

Its neoclassical design, featuring six imposing columns, exudes elegance and power.

Step inside, and you’ll be transported to a world of luxury. The horseshoe-shaped auditorium, adorned with intricate gold leaf decorations, can seat nearly 1,400 spectators. Look up to admire the stunning ceiling fresco depicting scenes from Greek mythology.

Fun Fact : The theater’s exceptional acoustics allow a whisper on stage to be heard clearly in the uppermost tier. Film buffs might recognize Teatro Massimo from the final scenes of “The Godfather Part II I .”

6. Teatro Regio, Turin

Teatro Regio is one of Italy’s most important opera houses. Located in Turin, it has a rich history that dates back to the 18th century.

This historic theater opened in 1740 and has witnessed centuries of musical brilliance. After a devastating fire in 1936, it was reborn in 1973 with a striking modern design that’ll catch your eye.

As you enter, you’re greeted by the impressive horseshoe-shaped auditorium, seating over 1,500 spectators. The acoustics here are phenomenal – every note resonates with crystal clarity.

Teatro Regio is also home to the Teatro Regio Orchestra and Chorus. They perform both classical and contemporary operatic works. The opera house is a key cultural hub in Turin, attracting visitors from all over the world.

Suggested Read : Is Turin Worth Visiting? A Complete Traveler’s Guide

7. Teatro Comunale, Bologna

Built in 1763, Teatro Comunale in Bologna is a neoclassical gem that has hosted premieres by legendary composers like Rossini and Verdi. Its horseshoe-shaped auditorium, adorned with intricate frescoes and gilded balconies, will captivate you.

Don’t miss the stunning ceiling painted by Angelo Landi, depicting Apollo and the Muses. It’s a masterpiece that’ll have you gazing upward in awe. The theater’s exceptional acoustics make it a favorite among performers and audiences.

Beyond opera, the Teatro Comunale hosts symphonies, ballets, and contemporary performances. When you visit Bologna , Teatro Comunale is a must-visit for its rich musical heritage and stunning architecture.

8. Teatro dell’Opera di Roma, Rome

Teatro dell’Opera di Roma, nestled in the heart of Rome, has captivated audiences since 1880. Its opulent interiors, adorned with rich red velvet and gleaming gold leaf, set the stage for unforgettable performances.

Don’t miss the chance to witness world-class opera, ballet, and concerts in this acoustically-perfect venue. The theater’s rich history includes premieres of Puccini’s “Tosca” and Mascagni’s “Cavalleria Rusticana.”

The theater takes its magic outdoors to the stunning Caracalla Baths during summer. Imagine experiencing opera under the stars, surrounded by ancient Roman ruins. It’s a uniquely Roman fusion of history and art you will never forget.

Suggested Read : One Day in Rome: The Essential Itinerary

9. Teatro Lirico Giuseppe Verdi, Trieste

Teatro Verdi, officially known as Teatro Lirico Giuseppe Verdi, is a cherished cultural landmark in Trieste. 

Built in 1801, this neoclassical gem has been a cornerstone of Italian culture for over two centuries. Its horseshoe-shaped auditorium, adorned with intricate gold leaf and plush red velvet seats, will captivate you.

Fun Fact : Did you know that Giuseppe Verdi conducted here? The theater was renamed in his honor in 1901. Today, it continues to host world-class operas, ballets, and concerts.

Don’t miss the stunning ceiling fresco by Franz Matsch in 1884, depicting Apollo and the Muses. As you explore, you’ll feel the echoes of countless performances and the passion of Italian artistry.

Suggested Read : One Day in Trieste: Itinerary & Best Things to Do

10. Teatro Petruzzelli, Bari

As you step into Teatro Petruzzelli in Bari, you’re entering a phoenix rising from the ashes. This grand opera house, the fourth largest in Italy, has a dramatic history that matches its performances.

Built in 1903, it dazzled audiences for decades before a mysterious fire nearly destroyed it in 1991.

After years of renovation, Petruzzelli reopened in 2009, reclaiming its status as the cultural heart of Puglia—the horseshoe-shaped auditorium, adorned with rich red velvet and intricate gold leaf, seats over 1,400 spectators.

Look up to admire the stunning ceiling fresco by Raffaele Armenise, meticulously restored as part of the renovation efforts that concluded in 2009.

Beyond opera, the theater hosts ballet, concerts, and film screenings. If you can’t catch a show, join a guided tour to explore its opulent interiors and fascinating backstage areas.

Famous Opera Houses in Italy FAQ

Italy is home to many famous opera houses, some known for their rich histories and others for their stunning architecture. These venues have hosted world-premiere performances and continue to offer authentic opera experiences.

What is considered the most prestigious opera house in Italy?

Teatro alla Scala in Milan holds this title. It is known for its world-class performances and historical significance in opera.

Which is the oldest still-active opera house in Italy?

Teatro di San Carlo in Naples opened in 1737, is the oldest still-active opera house in Italy and one of the oldest in the world.

How many historic opera houses are there throughout Italy?

There are dozens of historic opera houses spread across Italy. Each has its unique history and significance.

What are some famous opera works that premiered at Italian opera houses?

“Otello” and “Falstaff” by Verdi were premiered at La Scala, while Puccini’s “La Bohème” debuted at Teatro Regio in Turin. Many other operas premiered across various Italian venues.

Where in Italy can one experience authentic Italian opera performances?

Major cities like Milan, Venice, Naples, and Verona are prime spots. Each has well-known opera houses, such as Teatro alla Scala, Teatro La Fenice, and Arena di Verona.

Which Italian opera house offers the most visually stunning architecture?

Teatro Massimo in Palermo is renowned for its grand architecture. Its interior is equally impressive, with stunning decorations and intricate designs.

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Tour de France 2024 stage-by-stage guide: Route maps and profiles for all 21 days

This year’s tour de france will take the peloton from florence to a time-trial finish in nice via some epic climbs in the pyrenees and the alps, article bookmarked.

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Louise Thomas

The 2024 Tour de France is a truly unique race beginning in Florence and ending – for the first time in its 121-year history – outside Paris .

This year’s Tour will wrap up without the usual procession to the Champs-Elysees, where security resources will be focused on the Paris Olympics starting five days later. Instead, organisers have opted to end the race with an individual time-trial in Nice, adding the possibility of the yellow jersey changing hands on a dramatic final day.

Before that, riders face a typically gruelling challenge, with a hilly start in Italy before crossing to France where a perilous gravel stage awaits in Troyes. Week two leads the peloton south to the Pryenees and the monstrous Col du Tourmalet, before a series of days in the Alps including a particularly brutal stage 19 with a summit finish in Isola.

It all concludes in Nice on Sunday 21 July, where the race winner will be crowned.

Stage 1: Florence to Rimini (hilly, 206km) | Saturday 29 June

The opening stage of the 2024 Tour de France will be a beautiful ride, starting with the Grand Depart on the banks of the Arno river in the centre of Florence before heading through Tuscany to the finish line on Italy’s east coast, on the beachfront of Rimini. The route also takes in San Marino, the Tour’s 13th country. But it will be tough on what is the most hilly first stage in the race’s history with 3,600m of climbing to conquer. It could be a day for Tadej Pogacar to immediately make his mark, or for an outstanding classics rider like Mathieu van der Poel to target, while young puncheurs like Ireland’s Ben Healy and Belgium’s Maxim Van Gils could be outside bets.

• Stage 1: Romain Bardet shakes off peloton to finally claim yellow jersey

Stage 2: Cesenatico to Bologna, (hilly, 199km) | Sunday 30 June

The second day throws up a more gentle ride, though it still contains six categorised climbs to test the legs. The purest sprinters will get left behind but the small ascents are unlikely to put off the more hardy fast men, like Wout van Aert , who will like the look of the fast finish in Bologna.

• Stage 2: Kevin Vauquelin earns debut win as Tadej Pogacar assumes yellow

Stage 3: Plaisance to Turin (flat, 231km) | Monday 1 July

The long third stage will be the first opportunity for a bunch sprint to the finish line. Expect Alpecin-Deceuninck to try and control the final kilometres in an effort to position Jasper Philipsen for the win, but there is a stacked list of sprinters ready to challenge him including Arnaud de Lie, Dylan Groenewegen, Sam Bennett, Wout van Aert and Mark Cavendish, chasing a record 35th stage win to finally eclipse the great Eddy Merckx.

• Stage 3: Biniam Girmay makes history as first black African to win a Tour stage

Stage 4: Pinerolo to Valloire (mountainous, 140km) | Tuesday 2 July

A tough fourth stage takes the riders into France via a couple of testing category-two climbs and to the foot of the Col du Galibier – the first hors categorie ascent of the race. The gradient averages only 5.3% but at 23km long, it is a draining slog of a climb to the top and the strongest climbers will come to the fore. Expect some attacks among the big hitters like Tadej Pogacar and Jonas Vingegaard as we get our first real sense of the battle for overall victory.

• Stage 4: Tadej Pogacar makes statement with dominant win to regain yellow

Stage 5: Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne to Saint-Vulbas (flat, 177km) | Wednesday 3 July

The second sprint finish of this year’s Tour contains some small hills but nothing that should disrupt the power riders from reaching the finish near the front, where they will expect to battle for victory.

• Stage 5: Mark Cavendish makes history with record-breaking 35th win

Stage 6: Macon to Dijon (flat, 163km) | Thursday 4 July

An even flatter day looks ripe for a bunch sprint on the streets of Dijon. One small categorised climb early in the stage precedes an intermediate sprint which might be targeted by those hunting the green jersey, and a breakaway will almost certainly then take to the front of the race. But it is likely to be caught by the sprinters’ teams before the finish as the peloton’s power riders fight for the stage win.

• Stage 6: Dylan Groenewegen wins photo finish in Dijon

Stage 7: Nuits-Saint-Georges to Gevrey-Chambertin, (ITT, 25km) | Friday 5 July

The first individual time-trial of this year’s Tour de France sweeps through thick forest before opening out into the picturesque vineyards of Burgundy. The only climb is the short Cote de Curtil-Vergy (1.6km at 6.1%), followed by a descent into Gevrey-Chambertin, and here Remco Evenepoel – the reigning time-trial world champion – will plan to take some time from his general classification rivals who are less adept against the clock.

• Stage 7: Remco Evenepoel claims ‘crazy’ time trial win

Stage 8: Semur-en-Auxois to Colombey-les-Deux-Eglises (flat, 176km) | Saturday 6 July

It may be officially listed as a flat day, but stage eight contains five categorised climbs and plenty more undulation, along with an uphill drag to the finish which should be enough to shake out some of the pure sprinters from contention. This could be a bunch sprint, a day for the breakaway or even a bold solo attack if the situation presents itself for an opportunist near the front of the race.

• Stage 8: Biniam Girmay secures second stage win in sprint finish

Stage 9: Troyes to Troyes (hilly, 199km) | Sunday 7 July

The Tour de France takes on the gravel roads of the Champagne region to see out the first week, and the white dusty terrain could take down a few unfortunate victims. The 14 sections of gravel span 32km in all, and they are similar to the roads of the iconic Italian race, Strade-Bianche. The past winners of Strade-Bianche – Tom Pidcock, Mathieu van der Poel, Wout van Aert and Tadej Pogacar – will fancy their chances here.

• Stage 9: Frustrated Tom Pidcock narrowly beaten on chaotic and dusty day

Rest day: Orleans | Monday 8 July

Stage 10: orleans to saint-amand-montrond (flat, 187km) | tuesday 9 july.

The Tour heads down to the centre of France, where on paper it is a nice-looking day for the sprinters, but they will need to stay alert to winds which could split the pack along this twisting route south to Saint-Amand-Montrond in the Loire Valley. A short, sharp climb 8km from the finish could be the launchpad for a brave attack, though the muscle men of the peloton will hope to fight it out against each other at the finish in Saint-Amand-Montrond.

• Stage 10: Jasper Philipsen capitalises on Mathieu van der Poel leadout for stage win

Stage 11: Evaux-les-Bains to Le Lioran, (mountainous, 211km) | Wednesday 10 July

Six categorised climbs pepper a hard up-and-down day through the Massif Central. The third-from-last ascent is the toughest, the Puy Mary Pas de Peyrol (5.4km at 8.1%), with a painfully steep final 2km to conquer, and strong climbing legs will be needed to win the stage. A good day for a breakaway to escape and potentially stay away to the end.

• Stage 11: Tearful Jonas Vingegaard battles back to pip Tadej Pogacar

Stage 12: Aurillac to Villeneuve-sur-Lot, (flat, 204km) | Thursday 11 July

The ‘flat’ categorisation disguises the numerous small hills dotted through this picturesque route to Villeneuve which will drain legs if the pace is high. Expect a determined breakaway to make it difficult for those teams hoping to set up a bunch sprint at the finish – twice before, the day has been won by a rider in the breakaway here.

• Stage 12: Biniam Girmay seals hat-trick of sprint stage wins

Stage 13: Agen to Pau, (flat, 165km) | Friday 12 July

Pau is a staple of the Tour de France over the years, acting as the gateway to the Pyrenees mountains. The hilly finish to the stage might slow down some of the pure sprinters but they will be determined to reel in a breakaway – especially if they failed to do so a day earlier, and with so much hard climbing to come.

• Stage 13: Jasper Philipsen pips Wout van Aert as Primoz Roglic abandons

Stage 14: Pau to Saint-Lary-Soulan Pla d’Adet, (mountainous, 152km) | Saturday 13 July

The iconic Col du Tourmalet stands in the middle of this mountain stage, with the road peaking at 2,115m above sea level. The 19km climb averages 7.4% gradient and once it’s conquered, two more big climbs await including a summit finish at Pla d’Adet. The GC contenders will surely trade blows on this brutal day.

• Stage 14: Tadej Pogacar wins wild stage after fan throws crisps in leader’s face

Stage 15: Loudenvielle to Plateau de Beille (mountainous, 198km) | Sunday 14 July

A nice relaxing weekend in the Pyrenees is rounded off with five climbs over a 200km route, all rated category one or harder. Expect fireworks among the yellow jersey contenders as they race to the finish atop Plateau de Beille.

• Stage 15: Tadej Pogacar lands major blow to extend advantage over Jonas Vingegaard

Rest day: Gruissan | Monday 15 July

Stage 16: Gruissan to Nimes (flat, 189km) | Tuesday 16 July

This is the final chance for the sprinters to bag a stage before the road kicks up into the mountains once more. Those in contention for the win will need to keep their composure as roundabouts punctuate the long final strip into the line in Nimes.

• Stage 16: Jasper Philipsen seals hat-trick of sprint wins

Stage 17: Saint-Paul-Trois-Chateaux to Superdevoluy (mountainous, 178km) | Wednesday 17 July

The peloton reaches the Alps for a day that will be draining as the road tilts from the start. There are bonus seconds to be collected at the top of the category-one Col du Noyer, before a fast descent to a small summit finish which caps a tough second half to this stage.

• Stage 17: Richard Carapaz rides clear to victory as Remco Evenepoel takes time on Jonas Vingegaard

Stage 18: Gap to Barcelonnette (hilly, 180km) | Thursday 18 July

A breakaway will certainly have a go at escaping up the road to clinch this stage, and they should be able to make it stick. The five official climbs are all category-three ascents which might mean some of the well-rounded sprinters, like Wout van Aert, can clamber over them and be a threat at the finish.

Stage 19: Embrun to Isola 2000 (mountainous, 145km) | Friday 19 July

Perhaps the most eye-catching stage when the 2024 route was unveiled was this one: three monstrous Alpine climbs, back to back, with a summit finish at Isola. The middle climb of the trio is the giant Cime de la Bonette (22.9km at 6.9%), the highest road in France at 2,802m. If the fight for the yellow jersey is still alive at this point in the race, this will be a thrilling stage for the story to unfold.

Stage 20: Nice to Col de la Couillole (mountainous, 133km) | Saturday 20 July

It may be a little shorter at only 133km, but this is another brutally tough mountain stage featuring four climbs and another summit finish, atop the Col de la Couillole, and it is another day when the yellow jersey could be won or lost.

Stage 21: Monaco to Nice (ITT, 34km) | Sunday 21 July

The race will finish without the usual procession through Paris and instead see the riders contest an individual time-trial from Monaco to Nice that could decide the outcome of the Tour. The last time-trial finale saw Greg Lemond pinch the yellow jersey on the Champs-Elysees, beating Laurent Fignon by eight seconds. This route is longer than the stage-seven time-trial, and a little more hilly too, so there is potential for some significant time gaps.

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‘Then it’s gone forever:' AP photographers race to capture fleeting Tour de France scenes

Slovenia’s Primoz Roglic rides through the vineyards during the seventh stage of the Tour de France cycling race, an individual time-trial over 25.3 kilometers (15.7 miles) with start Nuits-Saint-Georges and finish in Gevrey-Chambertin, France, Friday, July 5, 2024. (AP Photo/Jerome Delay)

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The pack rides during the fourth stage of the Tour de France cycling race over 139.6 kilometers (86.7 miles) with start in Pinerolo, Italy and finish in Valloire, France, Tuesday, July 2, 2024. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole)

Claudette, right, and Jacky Lemeije stand in the doorway of their house as the pack with Slovenia’s Tadej Pogacar, wearing the overall leader’s yellow jersey, right, passes through the village of Ligny-le-Ribault during the tenth stage of the Tour de France cycling race over 187.3 kilometers (116.4 miles) with start in Orleans and finish in Saint-Amand-Montrond, France, Tuesday, July 9, 2024. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole)

Britain’s Mark Cavendish greets spectators during the team presentation in Florence, Italy, Thursday, June 27, 2024, two days before the start of the Tour de France cycling race. (AP Photo/Jerome Delay)

Spectators watch the pack speed by during the sixth stage of the Tour de France cycling race over 163.5 kilometers (101.6 miles) with start in Macon and finish in Dijon, France, Thursday, July 4, 2024. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole)

Norway’s Jonas Abrahamsen, wearing the best climber’s dotted jersey, rides breakaway during the eighth stage of the Tour de France cycling race over 183.4 kilometers (114 miles) with start in Semur-en-Auxois and finish in Colombey-les-Deux-Eglises, France, Saturday, July 6, 2024. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole)

Slovenia’s Tadej Pogacar, wearing the overall leader’s yellow jersey, rides in the pack during the sixth stage of the Tour de France cycling race over 163.5 kilometers (101.6 miles) with start in Macon and finish in Dijon, France, Thursday, July 4, 2024. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole)

A man in a monk’s robe waves the French flag as the peloton passes during the sixth stage of the Tour de France cycling race over 163.5 kilometers (101.6 miles) with start in Macon and finish in Dijon, France, Thursday, July 4, 2024. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole)

The pack with France’s Romain Bardet, wearing the overall leader’s yellow jersey, center, rides during the second stage of the Tour de France cycling race over 199.2 kilometers (123.8 miles) with start in Cesenatico and finish in Bologna, Italy, Sunday, June 30, 2024. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole)

Luc van de Populiere poses for a picture with pictures of Belgium’s Wout van Aert as Norway’s Jonas Abrahamsen, wearing the best climber’s dotted jersey, rear, passes during the eighth stage of the Tour de France cycling race over 183.4 kilometers (114 miles) with start in Semur-en-Auxois and finish in Colombey-les-Deux-Eglises, France, Saturday, July 6, 2024. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole)

The pack rides during the third stage of the Tour de France cycling race over 230.8 kilometers (143.4 miles) with start in Piacenza and finish in Turin, Italy, Monday, July 1, 2024. (AP Photo/Jerome Delay)

The pack with Slovenia’s Tadej Pogacar, wearing the overall leader’s yellow jersey, and Netherlands’ Mathieu van der Poel, left of Pogacar in white, rides on a gravel road during the ninth stage of the Tour de France cycling race over 199 kilometers (123.7 miles) with start and finish in Troyes, France, Sunday, July 7, 2024. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole)

Eritrea’s Biniam Girmay celebrates as he crosses the finish line ahead of Netherlands’ Dylan Groenewegen, left, Belgium’s Arnaud de Lie, second left, Colombia’s Fernado Gavira, second right, ans Netherlands’ Fabio Jakobsen, right, to win the third stage of the Tour de France cycling race over 230.8 kilometers (143.4 miles) with start in Piacenza and finish in Turin, Italy, Monday, July 1, 2024. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole)

ADDS THAT THE PHOTO WAS TAKEN IN MENNETOUR SUR CHER - People watch the riders pass from their garage in Mennetou sur Cher during the tenth stage of the Tour de France cycling race over 187.3 kilometers (116.4 miles) with start in Orleans and finish in Saint-Amand-Montrond, France, Tuesday, July 9, 2024. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole)

The pack with Slovenia’s Tadej Pogacar, wearing the overall leader’s yellow jersey, rides during the eleventh stage of the Tour de France cycling race over 211 kilometers (131.1 miles) with start in Evaux-les-Bains and finish in Le Lorian, France, Wednesday, July 10, 2024. (AP Photo/Jerome Delay)

France’s Anthony Turgis, right, leads before Canada’s Derek Gee, center, during the ninth stage of the Tour de France cycling race over 199 kilometers (123.7 miles) with start and finish in Troyes, France, Sunday, July 7, 2024. (AP Photo/Jerome Delay)

The pack rides on a gravel road during the ninth stage of the Tour de France cycling race over 199 kilometers (123.7 miles) with start and finish in Troyes, France, Sunday, July 7, 2024. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole)

A lone cyclist waits roadside for the peloton to pass during the sixth stage of the Tour de France cycling race over 163.5 kilometers (101.6 miles) with start in Macon and finish in Dijon, France, Thursday, July 4, 2024. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole)

The pack rides during the ninth stage of the Tour de France cycling race over 199 kilometers (123.7 miles) with start and finish in Troyes, France, Sunday, July 7, 2024. (AP Photo/Jerome Delay)

The pack with Eritrea’s Biniam Girmay, wearing the best sprinter’s green jersey, rides on a gravel road during the ninth stage of the Tour de France cycling race over 199 kilometers (123.7 miles) with start and finish in Troyes, France, Sunday, July 7, 2024. (AP Photo/Jerome Delay)

A cycling fan uses his mobile phone while waiting for the riders to pass on a gravel section of the ninth stage of the Tour de France cycling race over 199 kilometers (123.7 miles) with start and finish in Troyes, France, Sunday, July 7, 2024. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole)

Residents watch the pack with Slovenia’s Tadej Pogacar, wearing the overall leader’s yellow jersey, pass through their village during the sixth stage of the Tour de France cycling race over 163.5 kilometers (101.6 miles) with start in Macon and finish in Dijon, France, Thursday, July 4, 2024. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole)

People get up from their table to watch Norway’s Jonas Abrahamsen, wearing the best climber’s dotted jersey, pass during the eighth stage of the Tour de France cycling race over 183.4 kilometers (114 miles) with start in Semur-en-Auxois and finish in Colombey-les-Deux-Eglises, France, Saturday, July 6, 2024. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole)

A cycling fan waves the Italian flag as the pack with France’s Romain Bardet, wearing the overall leader’s yellow jersey, left, passes during the second stage of the Tour de France cycling race over 199.2 kilometers (123.8 miles) with start in Cesenatico and finish in Bologna, Italy, Sunday, June 30, 2024. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole)

The pack rides during the first stage of the Tour de France cycling race over 206 kilometers (128 miles) with start in Florence and finish in Rimini, Italy, Saturday, June 29, 2024. (AP Photo/Jerome Delay)

New overall leader France’s Romain Bardet, right, crosses the finish line with teammate Netherlands’ Frank van den Broek, left, to win the first stage of the Tour de France cycling race over 206 kilometers (128 miles) with start in Florence and finish in Rimini, Italy, Saturday, June 29, 2024. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole)

The pack speeds down Col de Valico Tre Faggi during the first stage of the Tour de France cycling race over 206 kilometers (128 miles) with start in Florence and finish in Rimini, Italy, Saturday, June 29, 2024. (AP Photo/Jerome Delay)

The pack with Slovenia’s Tadej Pogacar, wearing the overall leader’s yellow jersey, center left, rides on a gravel road during the ninth stage of the Tour de France cycling race over 199 kilometers (123.7 miles) with start and finish in Troyes, France, Sunday, July 7, 2024. (AP Photo/Jerome Delay)

Britain’s sprinter Mark Cavendish crosses the finish line to win a record 35th Tour de France stage and break the record of Belgian legend Eddy Merckx in the fifth stage of the Tour de France cycling race over 177.4 kilometers (110.2 miles) with start in Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne and finish in Saint-Vulbas, France, Wednesday, July 3, 2024. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole)

It almost looks more like surrealism than photojournalism.

A cyclist in a teardrop-shaped helmet and skin-tight racing suit hunches over his aerodynamic handlebars in the middle of a Burgundy vineyard with no road in sight. The rider is framed between a flag-waving woman and man facing in the opposite direction he’s going.

The image snapped by Associated Press photographer Jerome Delay in the fraction of a second is not so much an art photo as an artfully composed frame of professional cyclist Primoz Roglic going full speed in the Tour de France.

Shooting the three-week race that ends July 21 is as much about getting stage winners crossing the line with arms raised in victory as finding a unique angle that captures the scenic and quirky side of one of the world’s most epic competitions.

The race is a grueling contest that covers around 3,500 kilometers (2,175 miles) over 21 days and climbs a total elevation of around 52,000 meters (57,000 yards), the equivalent of riding up Mount Everest nearly six times.

It’s also an endurance contest for the photographers who cover it. Long days are spent snapping photos from the back of a motorcycle, or speeding ahead to find an ideal vantage point and then racing to catch up with the riders or zipping down winding mountain passes at high speed.

“It takes everything out of you,” said Daniel Cole, who is shooting the event for AP with Delay. “It’s really intense physically, mentally, creatively. ... It’s an absolute marathon to cover this.”

Cole and Delay are both avid cyclists with an understanding of a sport that can seem confusing to the casual observer with the nuances of team tactics, breakaway gambits and the races within the race for best sprinter and hill climber.

Cole raced in college and Delay boasts of owning six bicycles. If they weren’t taking part as journalists, they’d be watching it. For Delay, who grew up in France and has never been so close to it in his 64 years, it’s a dream assignment.

“It’s stunning,” he said. “I’m a kid in a candy store.”

To get his photo in the vineyard, Delay scouted the route several times in advance of the time trial, a short stage where each rider starts at intervals in a race against the clock.

Delay planted himself in a gap between the grape trellises where fans were scattered along the road and then “waited and waited and waited.” The vines blocked his view up the road, so he had to judge riders’ arrival by the smattering of cheers and then he had a mere moment to get the shot as they sped past at about 50 kph (30 mph) .

The main event is the race for the maillot jeune, the yellow jersey worn by the leader with the fastest time overall, but the spectacular French — and, in four stages this year, Italian — landscape can steal the show.

Postcards of the colorful peloton coursing through old world villages, riders bobbing in a sea of sunflowers or strung out in a line streaking down a pass in the Alps serve as little love letters to this corner of Europe.

Cole, shooting his fourth tour, likens it to taking a road trip through France that’s half sports story and half a feature.

Just as the tour passes in the blink of an eye, photo opportunities can vanish as quickly they appear. One of the rules of the road for a motorcycle rider transporting photographers is that you cannot turn back. Scouting for vantage points at 80 kph (50 mph) can become an exercise in frustration as you realize you’ve just shot past a good place to make a photo.

“Once you see something it’s almost too late to stop,” Cole said. “You start accumulating these failures one by one. You play this game where you try to get over the things you missed.”

Beyond the sweeping views, there are the small details, quiet moments in the race and vignettes that capture how the sport is interwoven in the culture of the country it circles every July.

There’s the lone breakaway rider seemingly levitating above a field of wheat. There’s former winner Geraint Thomas and teammates huddled under an umbrella before a rainy race start. There’s a man dressed as a monk waving a French flag who symbolizes the obsessive fans who arrive early to picnic and sip wine as they wait hours for the race to quickly pass by.

“Every little part of France has the Tour de France for 10 seconds and then it’s gone forever,” Cole said.

Cole talked himself into homes lining the route, where the owners with front-row seats stood in open doorways to glimpse the rolling spectacle. In a garage, a family had abandoned a table of food to cheer the riders, close enough to feel the breeze and hear the buzz of the passing peloton.

When they returned to the table, the tour was gone and so was Cole. He was on the motorbike, dashing ahead to catch the riders and find his next shot.

AP sports: https://apnews.com/hub/apf-sports