Genoa isn’t just famous for its striking coastline, historic port, and vibrant streets—it’s also a fantastic place for wine lovers. The region of Liguria produces some quietly remarkable wines, and the city’s mix of historic sights and culinary traditions makes it an ideal backdrop for wine tours. Whether you’re after a quick tasting, a full-on food and wine journey, or a cooking class that ends with a glass in hand, Genoa has it all. We’re particularly fond of tours that combine local wines with regional foods, like the Genoa Food and Wine Tasting Tour with “Superb Gems”, which offers a balanced look at Genoese history, culture, and vinous craftsmanship. It’s a great way to appreciate Genoa’s maritime past while tasting authentic flavors.
While Genoa might not be as famed for its vineyards as Tuscany or Piedmont, its Liguria wines—like Pigato and Vermentino—are worth exploring. Plus, the city’s proximity to famous wine regions makes it easy to combine a short city visit with deeper vinous adventures.
1. Genoa Food and Wine Tasting Tour with “Superb Gems”
This tour offers a two-hour exploration of Genoa’s highlights, paired with tastings of local wines and regional dishes. Starting at the house of Christopher Columbus, the tour winds through iconic sights like Palazzo Ducale and San Lorenzo Cathedral, providing a perfect balance of history and flavors. Included are tastings of Genoese wines, focaccia, pesto, and fried fish, which give a vivid taste of the city’s culinary identity. The guide, Lorenzo, is praised for his local knowledge and storytelling, making each stop engaging and informative.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on authentic food and drink at small, often overlooked spots, not just tourist traps. Reviews highlight how Lorenzo’s insights and hidden gems—like secret chapels and boutique shops—bring Genoa’s history to life. The value is excellent, with price and authentic experiences making it a top choice for lovers of food and wine.
Bottom Line: If you want a compact, immersive experience combining Genoa’s history and vinous culture, this tour hits all the right notes.
2. Food Guided Tour with Wine Tastings in Genoa
For those looking for a more comprehensive walk through Genoa’s culinary traditions, this two-hour guided tour covers six tastings—from fish and focaccia to local flatbreads—with two regional wines. Starting at Porta Soprana, the route takes you past Doge’s Palace and Christopher Columbus’ house, mixing sightseeing with tasting. The guide provides insights into Genoa’s wine and food culture, along with stops at local bakeries, cafes, and bars.
Guests often praise the knowledgeable guide Lorenzo and the relaxed pace, ideal for those who want a deeper understanding of Ligurian cuisine without a lengthy commitment. The included local wines are carefully chosen, representing the best of Genoa and nearby Cinque Terre. The experience is well-suited for travelers who enjoy pairing food with wine and want a taste of Genoa’s culinary soul.
Bottom Line: A flavorful, educational walk that combines history, local wines, and authentic street food—perfect for a quick but comprehensive intro.
3. Tour of Genoa historic center and wine tasting with dinner
This three-hour evening tour offers an in-depth look at Genoa’s historic streets and noble palaces. It includes visits to Piazza San Matteo and Via dei Macelli di Soziglia, with a focus on local wines paired with traditional foods in a cellar situated right in the heart of the old town. The highlight is tasting three different wines alongside foods that complement their flavors.
What sets this apart is its combination of history, architecture, and wine tasting in a cozy, atmospheric setting. The guide shares anecdotes about Genoa’s maritime past, adding a personal touch to the experience. This tour is especially suited for those who want a dinner that’s more than just a meal—it’s an educational experience that connects history and gastronomy.
Based on reviews, guests love how the pairings enhance the wines, and the local cellar offers a genuine flavor of Genoa’s wine scene. The price point reflects a more comprehensive experience, with the dinner and tastings included.
Bottom Line: For history buffs and wine enthusiasts who want a relaxed, dinner-style experience, this tour is a hit.
4. Genoa: Wine Tasting with Pesto, Focaccia Near Columbus House
This small-group seated experience is hosted in a historic bottega close to Columbus House. Here, you can sample five Ligurian wines, paired with pesto, focaccia, and local cheeses from Val Graveglia. It’s a relaxing, authentic tasting that emphasizes storytelling by local hosts, making it feel like visiting a friend’s cellar rather than a commercial operation.
What makes this tour special is its intimate setting and local storytelling, which enrich the tasting of Liguria’s wines like Vermentino. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a hands-on experience with a small group and a focus on regional flavors. The price point is competitive, given the quality of wines and food offered.
Guests appreciate the mix of wine and local culinary culture, noting how the host’s stories add personal flavor. It’s perfect for those seeking a less touristy, more authentic tasting.
Bottom Line: An intimate, laid-back experience that highlights Liguria’s wine and food traditions in a cozy setting.
5. Genoa: Hands-On Home cooking Class Pasta Pesto and more with wine
This three-hour class takes you into a real Genoese kitchen. You’ll learn to make gnocchi, filled gnocchi, and Genoese pesto using traditional tools like a mortar and pestle. After cooking, you’ll sit down to enjoy your creations with local wine and coffee. The class emphasizes participation and hands-on learning, making it well-suited for foodies wanting to experience Genoese cuisine firsthand.
The guides, Silvia and Alessandra, are praised for their warmth and expertise, making each participant feel like they’re cooking with friends. The focus on pesto and pasta reflects authentic Genoese recipes, and the setting is casual but well-equipped. Guests get to ask questions and learn tips for recreating the dishes at home, which adds lasting value.
While the price is higher, the quality of instruction and the meal you share make it worthwhile. Guests mention how the atmosphere and personal attention elevate this experience beyond a simple cooking class.
Bottom Line: For those who want a hands-on culinary adventure with a focus on regional recipes, this class offers lasting memories and practical skills.
6. Easy Wine Tasting in Genoa City Center
If you’re after a short, relaxed wine experience, this one-hour tasting at Enoteca Rivali is ideal. You’ll sample four Ligurian wines paired with focaccia, grissini, and olives. The guide walks you through wine-tasting techniques, making it a good choice for beginners or anyone looking for a casual, educational experience.
What makes this tour appealing is its simplicity and focus. It’s perfect for those with limited time or who want a quick introduction to Liguria’s wines. Guests appreciate the friendly atmosphere and the opportunity to learn about grape varieties and pairing tips in a relaxed setting.
Given its affordable price point, it offers great value for a short, focused tasting. It’s well-suited for travelers who want a taste of Ligurian wine without a big time commitment.
Bottom Line: An easy, friendly way to sample Liguria’s wines and learn a few tasting tips in just an hour.
7. Guided Food Tour with Wine Tastings in Genoa
This two-hour tour combines historical sights with food and wine pairings. Starting at the Palazzo della Regione, the tour includes visits to local bakeries, markets, and a wine bar. You’ll sample focaccia, seafood, and Ligurian wines, all while walking through Genoa’s old town.
Guests mention the small group size and informative guide, making it easy to ask questions and get personalized insights. The tour emphasizes artisan food shops and local specialties, providing a culinary snapshot of Genoa. The price reflects the quality of tastings and guide expertise.
This tour suits travelers who enjoy learning on the go and want a combination of sightseeing, food, and wine. It’s also a good choice if you prefer a shorter, relaxed pace.
Bottom Line: An engaging, educational experience that combines Genoa’s sights with its flavors.
8. Dining experience with cooking demo and wines in Rapallo
This private experience offers an authentic home-cooked meal paired with local wines. You’ll participate in a short cooking demonstration before sitting down to a four-course dinner in Rapallo. The host shares tips and stories, making it a personalized, immersive experience.
Guests rave about the friendly atmosphere and the delicious food, especially the handmade pasta and pesto. The focus is on enjoying good company, local flavors, and wine, making it perfect for travelers wanting a culinary escape outside Genoa. The private setting allows for a more intimate experience and plenty of interaction with your hosts.
While the experience requires some planning and a short trip to Rapallo, many say it’s well worth the extra effort. Reviews highlight the generosity and knowledge of the hosts, as well as the quality of the meal.
Bottom Line: For a personalized, home-style Italian dinner with wine, this experience delivers warmth, authenticity, and great food.
9. Genoa: Wine Tasting Near The Cruise: the best Italian wine
Perfect for travelers short on time or arriving by cruise, this 1.5-hour tasting at Vinicola 23 showcases top Italian wines like Barolo, Amarone, and Franciacorta. It includes an aperitif of focaccia, pesto, cheeses, and meats, setting the stage for a focused tasting of premium wines.
What makes this tour stand out is its convenient location near the cruise port and its emphasis on high-quality wines. Critics note the knowledgeable guide and the wide selection of wines, making it suitable for those wanting a quick but refined experience.
Guests who enjoy learning about wine production and tasting techniques will find this session particularly rewarding. The value is high, with premium wines and food included.
Bottom Line: A smart choice for cruise travelers or those seeking a premium, concise wine experience close to Genoa’s port.
10. Wine Tasting near the Aquarium of Genoa
This one-hour tasting in the heart of Genoa offers four Ligurian wines paired with cheese, ham, and focaccia. Conducted by a live guide, it’s perfect for a quick, relaxed introduction to the wines of Liguria. The location near the Aquarium makes it easy to incorporate into your sightseeing plans.
Guests comment on the expertise of Lorenzo and the friendly atmosphere. The tasting covers scents, flavors, and pairing tips, making it accessible for beginners and casual wine lovers. The price point makes it an attractive option for a short, fun experience.
Bottom Line: An excellent way to sample Ligurian wines in a relaxed setting, especially if you’re pressed for time.
How to Choose the Best Wine Tour in Genoa
When deciding which tour fits your interests and schedule, consider these factors:
– Budget: Tours range from about $33 for a quick tasting to $113 for a comprehensive cooking class with wine. For a budget-friendly intro, Easy Wine Tasting in Genoa City Center offers excellent value.
– Time available: Short visits like Wine Tasting near the Aquarium suit busy travelers, while the Dinner with Wine and Dinner provides a more immersive experience.
– Interest level: If you’re eager to learn hands-on skills, the Cooking Class is perfect. For history and culture buffs, tours that combine sightseeing and tastings are ideal.
– Location and logistics: Tours near the port or the aquarium are great for quick stops, while others in the city center allow for more exploration.
Booking early is advisable, especially for popular experiences during peak season—don’t miss your chance to savor Genoa’s hidden wine treasures.
Genoa offers a compelling array of wine experiences—from quick tastings to full culinary adventures. The Genoa Food and Wine Tasting Tour with “Superb Gems” and the Cooking Class stand out for their authenticity and depth, while shorter options like the Wine Tasting near the Aquarium offer a great snapshot. Whether you’re here for a brief introduction or a deep dive into Ligurian wines, you’ll find a tour that matches your pace and palate. Book early, and enjoy tasting your way through one of Italy’s most scenic and flavorful cities.