Big, brash and industrious, Milan is nevertheless a city full of flair, with a well-earned reputation for creativity. It may not have Rome’s three thousand-year history or Venice’s picture-perfect gondolas, but it can comfortably claim the title of Italy’s most stylish city. The leader of Italy’s fashion and design industry, Milan oozes style, from its gothic duomo in the historic quarter to the hip bar-lined streets of Brera. And, it also knows a thing or two about good food and drink.
Milan is a city of silky saffron-infused risottos and vibrant sparkling wines. One of the most enjoyable ways to explore Milan’s complex history and culture is through its rich gastronomy. Helpfully, there are hundreds of food and wine tours that can assist, ranging from pizzeria pitstops to luxury vineyard hopping. So, to help make the decision easier, we’ve rounded up three of the best food and wine tours available in Milan, based on the itinerary, authenticity of experience and value for money.
1. Milan: 2-Hour Private Aperitivo Tour
In Milan, the aperitivo is an art form (Photo: Get Your Guide)
From: £54/ per person
Perfect the art of the aperitivo on this two-hour private tour. While this quintessentially Italian tradition – essentially pre-drinks and nibbles – is ubiquitous across the country, it was invented in Milan a century ago. The Milanese are true aperitivo aficionados. The tour begins at the Roman ruins of the Colonne di San Lorenzo and finishes up on the bar-lined canals of the historic Navigli district. Price includes a private tour with a local guide and the aperitivo.
2. Milan: Deluxe Food & Sightseeing Tour with Local Guide
Milan’s gastronomy is a product of its rich urban heritage (Photo: Get Your Guide)
From: £89/ per person
Combine the best of Milan’s gastronomy with local landmarks on this four-hour guided tour of the city. Weave your way across Milan’s most iconic sights with a local tour guide whilst uncovering some of the city’s culinary gems, such as freshly baked panettone, yellow saffron risotto and world-famous gelato. The tour begins at the Medieval Castello Sforzesco and finishes up along the Via Spadari, a well-known gastronomic paradise. Price includes food and drinks, as well as a local tour guide.
3. From Milan: Franciacorta Wine Tasting and Shopping Tour
The rolling gold vineyards of Franciacorta produce some of Italy’s best wine (Photo: Get Your Guide)
From: £53/ per person
Famed for its delicate sparkling wine, Franciacorta is one of Italy’s smallest and most impressive wine-producing regions. This eight-hour tour whisks visitors away from the hustle of the city to the gently tumbling foothills of Mount Orfano. Sample local wines and learn about boutique wine production, followed by a locally-sourced light lunch. On the return journey visitors also have the chance to snap up stylish bargains at the the Franciacorta Outlet Village. Price includes transport, wine tasting and lunch.
By Allie d’Almo