What is cicchetti and will I try it on a Venice food tour?
Cicchetti are small, delicious Venetian tapas served in local bars called bacari. These bite-sized treats are an essential part of Venetian food traditions. On our Tastes & Traditions of Venice Food Tour, you'll dive deep into this tradition, sampling some of the best cicchetti in Venice. From baccalà mantecato (creamy salt cod spread) to sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines), you'll taste these authentic Venetian snacks while learning about their history. Whether you're on the Cicchetti, Food & Wine Tour or our Private Venice Food Tour, cicchetti will be a key feature, giving you an authentic taste of Venice's culinary culture.
Do the tours include a visit to the Rialto Market?
Yes! On our Tastes & Traditions of Venice: Food Tour with Rialto Farmers Market, we take you to the heart of Venice’s food scene: the Rialto Fish Market. This historic market has been bustling with fresh fish from the nearby Mediterranean for centuries. You'll see fish arriving daily by boat, learn about Venice’s unique food culture (with no farmland to rely on), and explore the vibrant produce stalls. After taking in the market’s sights, you’ll get to sample fresh fried seafood from a nearby shop that sources directly from the market, paired with a glass of bubbly prosecco.
In addition to the market's seafood, we'll take you to the fruit and vegetable stands for a tasting of seasonal produce, and then onto a Venetian bacaro for a traditional panino and a spritz. The tour wraps up with a visit to a cozy local wine bar, where you'll enjoy freshly prepared risotto and a delightful homemade dessert. Throughout the tour, you’ll gain a deep understanding of how Venetians navigate their food culture, all while tasting some of the best local bites.
Which Venetian neighborhoods will we explore during the tour? (e.g., Cannaregio, Dorsoduro)
On our Tastes & Traditions of Venice Food Tour, we explore the Rialto and San Polo neighborhoods, diving deep into Venice's rich culinary history. You'll experience the iconic Rialto Market and the authentic bacari that locals frequent. For the Venice at Sunset Food & Wine Tour, we explore the charming San Polo and Dorsoduro neighborhoods, famous for their wine bars and hidden food gems. Our Private Venice Food Tour also takes you beyond the tourist trail, discovering the quiet corners and local favorites in neighborhoods like Dorsoduro and San Polo.
Will I get to try local Venetian drinks like prosecco or spritz?
Yes, you will! Venetian drinks are an integral part of the city’s food culture. On our Cicchetti, Food & Wine Tour, you'll sip on prosecco, the region's famous sparkling wine, and enjoy the beloved spritz, a classic Venetian aperitif. If you're on our Private Venice Food Tour, you’ll also sample local wines, including crisp prosecco and bold reds from the Veneto region. These local drinks perfectly complement the cicchetti, giving you a complete Venetian food experience.
Is the Venice food tour suitable for families with children?
We definitely offer Venice food tours that are family-friendly! On the Tastes & Traditions of Venice Food Tour, we keep the pace relaxed and provide lots of opportunities for kids to taste and learn about Venice’s food culture. The Private Venice Food Tour allows for a personalized experience, so you can explore at your own pace and ask questions, making it great for families. No matter which tour you join, your kids will love sampling local treats like cicchetti, gelato, and other Venetian snacks.
Do your Venice food tours run during Carnival or other local festivals?
While our Venice food tours typically run year-round, including during local festivals, we recommend checking each tour listing for specific availability during Carnival or other festivals. During these times, Venice can get quite busy, and certain tours may be adjusted to accommodate the festival crowds. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please visit the individual tour pages to confirm availability and ensure your preferred tour fits into your travel schedule.
Do I need to book my Venice food tour in advance?
Yes, it’s highly recommended to book your Venice food tour in advance, especially during peak seasons or local festivals like Carnival. With limited spots available on each tour, booking early ensures you don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience authentic food experiences in Venice. Whether you choose the Tastes & Traditions of Venice Food Tour or the Cicchetti, Food & Wine Tour, securing your spot ahead of time guarantees a place on the tour and allows us to accommodate dietary needs or special requests.
