Best Food Tours in Rome
If there’s one thing you absolutely must do in Rome (besides the Colosseum and the Vatican), it’s eat. Roman food is hands down my favourite regional cuisine in Italy: bold, comforting, and full of tradition. I’m talking about perfectly creamy carbonara, crispy supplì, artichokes cooked every which way, and of course, sweet maritozzi filled with clouds of whipped cream.
Food in Rome isn’t just a meal: it’s a deep dive into history, culture, and passion. And the best way to experience it all is with a local expert leading the way. Whether you're a first-timer or you’ve been to Rome before, joining a food tour is the easiest (and tastiest) way to discover hidden gems, try authentic dishes, and learn what makes Roman cuisine so special.
1. Trastevere Food and Wine Tour
Tons of tastings, local guides who actually know their stuff, and the kind of charming Roman neighborhood you wish you could live in: this Trastevere food tour ticks all the boxes. You’ll wander through little lanes, pop into family-run delis, and try a little bit of everything, from cheese and wine to street food classics.
My personal highlight was definitely the fried artichokes. Perfectly crisp on the outside, tender inside, and so simple but absolutely unforgettable. If you're after a tour that feels less touristy and more like eating your way through a Roman friend's favorite spots, this is it.
2. Testaccio Market Tour
This food tour through Testaccio is perfect if you want to explore a more local, non-touristy side of Rome and truly eat like a Roman. Testaccio is where Roman food culture runs deep: it’s home to butchers, bakers, market stalls, and generations of food tradition that haven’t been polished up for tourists.
The tour takes you through the neighborhood's heart: Mercato di Testaccio, where you’ll sample everything from cheeses and cured meats to traditional Roman dishes. But you can also visit independently, and I’d absolutely recommend it if you’re short on time. Just make sure you stop by Casa Manco for the most incredible pizza al taglio I’ve ever had: fluffy, crispy, topped to perfection. It’s a local gem that completely lives up to the hype.
3. Pasta-Making Class near the Pantheon
If you want to truly immerse yourself in Roman food culture, a cooking class is the way to do it. This hands-on pasta-making experience near the Pantheon is not just about following a recipe: it’s about learning the traditions, getting your hands messy, and understanding why Italians take food so seriously.
You'll make fresh pasta from scratch, sip on wine as you go, and sit down to enjoy your meal with the group afterward. It’s a super fun, low-pressure setting where you’ll meet other travelers (solo or couples!) and leave with both a full belly and a new skill. Definitely one of the most fun things you can do in the city.
Whether you're a foodie, a first-timer, or just hungry after a day of sightseeing, these food tours are one of the best ways to experience the real Rome. You'll eat incredibly well, learn from locals, and discover neighborhoods you might’ve missed otherwise.
If you’re planning a trip and want even more insider tips, like where to find the best gelato, local-loved restaurants, and underrated spots, grab my Rome Insider Guide.
And if you’re ready to book a tour, check out my curated list of Rome food experiences. Trust me, your stomach will thank you!
with love,
Your Italian Bestie xx
