Genoa: Walking Food Tour with Pasta, Focaccia & Ice Cream

Summary

Genoa’s tangled alleys, pesto pasta, focaccia and seaside flavors

You’ll wind through Genoa’s old town with a local guide, tasting real pesto pasta, cheese-stuffed focaccia eaten by the cathedral, fresh seafood by the fountain, and finish with artisan gelato and coffee in Piazza de Ferrari. Expect laughter over mispronounced words and moments where you forget you’re on a tour—just eating like locals do.

What’s the experience like?

We ducked into the narrow streets of Genoa just after noon, following our guide Luca who waved us forward like he was late for lunch (he probably was). The air smelled like dough and something green—basil?—and I could hear someone arguing over a scooter somewhere behind us. Our first stop was this tiny spot with faded tiles where Luca handed me a plate of pasta al pesto. I’d had “pesto” before but this tasted nothing like the jar at home—sharper, almost grassy, and the pine nuts were still warm somehow. He told us the basil only grows right here in Liguria because of the sea air. I tried to say it in Italian and he laughed, which broke the ice for everyone.

Next came these savory pies from an old Sciamadda—Luca said it’s what locals call their takeaways—and then that famous focaccia with stracchino cheese. The bread was oily in a good way, almost sticky on my fingers. We ate standing up outside Genoa Cathedral while church bells rang so loud we had to pause talking. Someone’s nonna walked by and nodded at our plates approvingly (or maybe she was judging my technique). Anyway, I still think about that cheese stretch.

By the Madonna Verona Fountain we tried fried squid—so light it barely tasted fried—and stockfish with olives that reminded me why Italians never rush meals. There was a moment when everyone went quiet except for forks scraping plates; even Luca stopped talking. We ended near Piazza de Ferrari with these little fried pancakes called frisceu and then gelato from a place that looked fancier than I expected. I picked pistachio and regretted not getting two scoops. Espresso to finish—I’m not sure if it helped or hurt my full stomach but it felt right.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Genoa food tasting walking tour

• Start tour in Genoa historical center
• Taste classic pasta with pesto
• Try typical savory pies and focaccia
• Sample fried squids, stockfish, anchovies
• Enjoy fried vegetable pancakes and artisan ice cream
• Finish with espresso coffee

Top questions

How long does the Genoa walking food tour last?

The food tour includes at least 4 stops and lasts several hours as you walk through Genoa’s historical center with your guide.

Is lunch included on this Genoa food tour?

Yes, lunch is included along with tastings at each stop plus one alcoholic beverage if you choose the Drink Card option.

What foods will I try on this Genoa food tour?

You’ll taste pasta al pesto, savory pies from a Sciamadda, cheese focaccia from Recco, fried squid and stockfish, frisceu pancakes, artisan ice cream and espresso.

Are drinks included during the tour?

Bottled water is always included; one alcoholic drink is also included if you select that option when booking.

Is this food tour suitable for vegetarians?

The tour includes vegetarian options like pasta al pesto and savory pies; let your guide know any dietary needs when booking.

Where does the Genoa food tour start?

The tour begins in Genoa’s historic center; exact meeting details are provided after booking.

Is there hotel pickup for this walking food tour?

No hotel pickup is included; you meet your local guide in central Genoa at the designated spot.

Can children join this Genoa walking food tour?

Yes, children can join but must be accompanied by an adult; infants can ride in strollers or prams.

What’s included

Your day includes several generous tastings across at least four stops: classic Ligurian pasta al pesto, cheese-filled focaccia from Recco, savory pies from an old Sciamadda takeaway, fresh seafood dishes near Madonna Verona Fountain plus frisceu pancakes. You’ll also get bottled water throughout, one alcoholic drink if selected, artisan ice cream to finish and espresso before heading off again—all led by a local guide who shares stories as you walk between each spot in Genoa’s old town.