Think you know Venice? Think again.
This city isn’t just about gondolas and canals—it’s about flavor.
I took Devour’s Tastes and Traditions of Venice Food Tour, and by the time I finished my last bite of fried seafood with polenta (and yes, a splash of local Prosecco), I understood Venice in a whole new way. You’ve probably heard the food in venice isn’t that great, I think people that say that, have no clue what they are talking about!
If you’re planning a trip to Venice and want to skip the tourist traps and taste your way through the city, keep reading.
**Please note that some of the links on this blog are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you decide to purchase after clicking through the link**
Table of Contents
Why This Venice Food Tour Is Worth It
Quick Facts: Tastes and Traditions of Venice Food Tour
Company: Devour Tours
Length: 3 hours
Start Point: Near the Rialto Market
Includes: Multiple food stops, Spritz tasting, cheese shop visit, Rialto Market walk
Perfect For: Solo travelers, couples, families
My Take: Great mix of storytelling, history, and seriously good bites
Book the tour here
Venetian Bars and Small Bites
Let’s start with the drink that defines Venice: the Spritz.
We kicked off our tour at a cozy bar—though in Italy, a ‘bar’ is more like a cafe. It’s a neighborhood spot where friends gather, sip coffee or wine, and share cicchetti (small bites). It’s all about connection.
At one stop, I tried a Tramezzino—a soft triangular sandwich that thrives in Venice’s humid air. My choice: mozzarella and tomato. Best enjoyed with a glass of ombra.
Venice Insider tip
Keep an eye out for bàcari—tiny taverns serving ombre (wine) and cicchetti. They’re the soul of Venetian snacking.
Spritz Showdown and Drunken Cheese
We sampled a variety of Spritz options:
- Aperol Spritz: Bright orange and bittersweet
- Campari Spritz: A bit more bitter and bold
- Cynar Spritz: Herbaceous, artichoke-based and Venetian
- Select Spritz: Local favorite—ask for it by name
I ditched my go-to Aperol and tried Cynar—bitter and earthy with an olive garnish. No regrets.
Just around the corner? A cheese shop that completely changed my understanding of what cheese can be.
Formaggio Ubriaco (“Drunken Cheese”) stole the show. Made from Montasio and aged in barrels of grape pomace and Prosecco, this cheese soaks up the flavors of Treviso. We tried it in a square once home to Venice’s cheese markets.
I almost walked away with an entire brick.
Coffee Matters in Italy
When it came to drinks, Barbara recommended Espresso as the way to go. A mention of Cappucino after 10 am drew a playful remark from her, “That’s a sin, we don’t do cappuccino after 10 am.”
This led to an enlightening discussion about Italian coffee culture. Milk can upset the digestive system, so it’s best to enjoy a cappuccino in the morning with a pastry.
I must confess, I think I have broken this cardinal rule many times, and now I understand those surprised looks from Italians.
Exploring the Rialto Market
This market isn’t just a photo op—it’s Venice’s pantry.
We explored its two sections:
- Vegetable market with artichoke heart flowers (nope, locals don’t eat the leaves)
- Fish market full of scampi, giant crabs, and fresh local catches
Rialto Market Insider Tip
Don’t touch the produce-Just point
Barbara showed us the best place for prosecco and handed us cups of crisp, floral wine paired with fried seafood and soft polenta. It was rich, salty, golden, and hot—aka perfection.
She even shared a fun fact: In the Middle Ages, polenta was considered “Poor People’s Food,” but I learned that the wealthy used to sneakily eat this. Wealthy women used to sneak polenta between their breasts to keep it warm. Who knew?
Book your Venice Food Tour here
Trust me—your taste buds (and your camera roll) will thank you.
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Venice Food Tours
Are food tours in Venice worth it?
Absolutely! Food tours in Venice give you insider access to local spots, authentic flavors, and cultural insights you won’t get just wandering on your own. Plus, with a guide, you’ll learn about the history behind each dish and tradition.
What’s the best food tour in Venice?
The Tastes and Traditions of Venice Food Tour with Rialto Market Visit by Devour Tours is one of the top-rated options. It covers everything from traditional cicchetti to local Spritz varieties, cheese tastings, and a deep dive into the iconic Rialto Market.
How long do Venice food tours last?
Most food tours in Venice last between 2.5 to 4 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore, eat, and enjoy without feeling rushed.
Do I need to book a Venice food tour in advance?
Yes! These tours often sell out, especially during peak season. Booking ahead ensures you get your preferred date and time. 👉 Book now to secure your spot! (Affiliate Link)
Are food tours in Venice good for solo travelers?
Totally! Food tours are a great way for solo travelers to meet people, enjoy local cuisine, and explore Venice with a guide who knows all the hidden gems.
What should I wear or bring on a Venice food tour?
Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking between stops. Bring a water bottle, and don’t forget your appetite! Some tours might include a stop in a market, so a small tote for local goodies isn’t a bad idea.
What kind of food will I try on a Venice food tour?
Expect to try cicchetti (small Venetian bites), fresh seafood, Spritz (Aperol, Campari, or Cynar), local cheeses like Asiago and Ubriaco, Tramezzini sandwiches, and Prosecco.
Is the Rialto Market included in Venice food tours?
Many top food tours include a visit to the Rialto Market, especially in the mornings. It’s one of the best places to see Venice’s food culture in action!
Final Thoughts: Venice Tastes Better With Devour
If you want to experience the real Venice—beyond the gondolas and postcard-perfect views—this food tour is the way to do it.
You’ll sip Spritz in hidden bàcari, taste artisan cheeses you can’t find back home, and explore Venice’s most vibrant market with a local who lives and breathes this city.
Need more Foodie inspiration in Italy?
One Day in Bologna Food Tour: Taste the City in 24 Hours
La Caseddha Rural Experience:An Unforgettable Pasta Class in Puglia
On Tiktok? Check out my adventures as a solo female traveler in Venice in real time!
