8 Best Food Tours In Naples, Italy In 2024 Picked By Locals

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Are you looking for the most exceptional food tours in Naples? Your search ends here!

In this guide, I have listed an exclusive collection of Naples’ finest food tours meticulously selected to offer you an authentic culinary experience. I am proud to share this guide from a local perspective to show the best Naples offers and allow you to explore Naples’ rich flavors from a unique angle.

Local English-speaking guides conduct all the food tours listed, so they are perfect for culinary enthusiasts who wish to experience Naples in its most genuine form.

I have chosen these tours based not just on their affordability and variety but also on their locations. Rest assured, this list contains nothing that I wouldn’t personally recommend to my friends and family. You won’t find overly touristy spots here; only places that even I, as a local, would eagerly visit.

Get ready to indulge in this list featuring the top food tours in Naples, Italy. Prepare your taste buds to savor some of this vibrant city’s dishes.

Best Food Tours In Naples: My Two Picks

For those who prefer to get straight to the best food tours in Naples, here’s my top recommendation for Naples’ ultimate food tour, along with a tremendous second choice:

Food Tours In Naples

This guide brings you the best of Naples’ food tours, thoughtfully organized by neighborhood. Whether you’re interested in a comprehensive experience combining sightseeing with culinary delights or prefer to focus solely on food and drink, this list has you covered.

Authentically local and handpicked by someone with extensive local knowledge of Naples, these tours guarantee an experience free from scams or the disappointment of inauthentic purchases.

To fully immerse yourself in the gastronomic wonders of Naples, it’s essential to book your food tour well in advance or at the earliest opportunity. This ensures you don’t miss out on the chance to indulge in the authentic flavors of the city, as expertly selected by a local connoisseur.

Naples Street Food Tour With Local Expert

This exceptional tour, distinguished with a badge of excellence for its outstanding ratings, embarks from the historic Piazza Dante. Here, your knowledgeable local guide will lead you to the bustling Piazza Bellini. Famous for its lively nightlife, Piazza Bellini offers an engaging introduction to Naples’ history and the ancient Greek walls, complemented by the delightful taste of a traditional tarallo.

As you stroll along Via dei Tribunali, an ancient street known as “decumano” in Roman times, you’ll delve deep into the secrets and flavors of Naples. Your guide will introduce you to exquisite local delicacies: savor the renowned mozzarella from a shop dating back to 1958, indulge in traditional fried pizza from one of the city’s top pizzerias, and discover the best local street food, all while absorbing the cultural highlights of Naples.

After enjoying the refreshing zest of limoncello, your journey continues along Via San Biagio dei Librai, affectionately known as Spaccanapoli, which translates to “split Naples in two.” Like Via dei Tribunali, Spaccanapoli was a primary thoroughfare in ancient Greek and Roman times.

Your path takes you past the prestigious Music Academy, the Conservatorio, one of Italy’s earliest and most esteemed, where celebrated composers like Bellini once studied. Immerse yourself in the local atmosphere as you navigate the narrow, bustling streets, visit local shops, taste artisanal gelato, and sample iconic Neapolitan pastries like Sfogliatella and Babà.

The tour culminates at Piazza del Gesù Nuovo, a square steeped in history and one of Naples’ most iconic and symbolic locales. Here, you will learn about the square’s significance, the church’s history, and the Obelisco dell’Immacolata. Discover why Naples’ historic center is celebrated as a World Heritage site, leaving with a rich tapestry of memories and flavors.

One of the many positive reviewers comes from Jeff, who wrote:

Great tour. Delicious food and also the history behind it. I would definitely recommend! We even went back to some of our favorites for more afterwards!

Naples Walking Food Tour

This exceptional tour, distinguished with a badge of excellence for its outstanding ratings, embarks from the historic Piazza Dante. Here, your knowledgeable local guide will lead you to the bustling Piazza Bellini. Famous for its lively nightlife, Piazza Bellini offers an engaging introduction to Naples’ history and the ancient Greek walls, complemented by the delightful taste of a traditional tarallo.

As you stroll along Via dei Tribunali, an ancient street known as “decumano” in Roman times, you’ll delve deep into the secrets and flavors of Naples. Your guide will introduce you to exquisite local delicacies: savor the renowned mozzarella from a shop dating back to 1958, indulge in traditional fried pizza from one of the city’s top pizzerias, and discover the best local street food, all while absorbing the cultural highlights of Naples.

After enjoying the refreshing zest of limoncello, your journey continues along Via San Biagio dei Librai, affectionately known as Spaccanapoli, which literally translates to “split Naples in two.” Like Via dei Tribunali, Spaccanapoli was a primary thoroughfare in ancient Greek and Roman times.

Your path takes you past the prestigious Music Academy, the Conservatorio, one of Italy’s earliest and most esteemed, where celebrated composers like Bellini once studied. Immerse yourself in the local atmosphere as you navigate the narrow, bustling streets, visiting local shops, tasting artisanal gelato, and sampling iconic Neapolitan pastries like Sfogliatella and Babà.

The tour culminates at Piazza del Gesù Nuovo, a square steeped in history and one of Naples’ most iconic and symbolic locales. Here, you will learn about the square’s significance, the history of the church, and the Obelisco dell’Immacolata. Discover for yourself why Naples’ historic center is celebrated as a World Heritage site, leaving with a rich tapestry of memories and flavors.

Don’t just go by what I say; check out the opinions of others, such as Kenneth:

Rebecca our guide was exceptional! Not only a food tour but gave us plenty of insight and knowledge of Naples. Pleasant young lady who, if she didn’t know the answer (which was seldom), found out and explained it. Oh! About the food samples…very nice variety and quality. The “secret” was the icing on the cake! If you love Naples and Neapolitan cuisine this tour should be high on your to do list.

Street Food in An Ancient Market In Naples

On this tour, you’ll not only savor some of Naples’ finest pizza but also embark on a shopping and tasting adventure through the city’s oldest market, guided by a local expert. This journey through time and taste begins at a traditional fish shop, where you’ll enjoy the delights of crocché and arancini, staples of Neapolitan street food.

As you venture deeper into the market, your senses will be tantalized at a local delicatessen and a traditional “trippaiolo,” offering a true taste of Naples’ culinary heritage. The tour’s highlight is the exploration of Naples’ pièce de résistance: its irresistible sweets and robust espresso.

Your path will lead you through La Pignasecca, the most chaotic and vibrant part of Naples. Known for its antique shops and unbeatable prices, La Pignasecca is like a journey back in time. Here, amidst the bustling atmosphere, you’ll sample various typical products that celebrate the rich flavors of the region.

A key stop on this culinary tour is Fiorenzano pizzaioli dal 1897, where you’ll have the chance to taste the famous Cuoppo fried, a beloved street food item known throughout Naples for its exceptional quality and taste.

Another notable visit includes Gagliotta Domenico, a renowned fish shop where you’ll witness the preparation of fresh fish, offering insights into the local seafood culture. This tour not only offers a feast for the palate but also a deep dive into the heart of Neapolitan food culture, making it a memorable experience for any food enthusiast.

Attendees have loved this tour, as per this sample review from Tanya:

This was an amazing tour with a authentic food experience that we would have never tried on our own. We loved the info and items.

Naples by Night Food Tour with Wine Tasting

Begin your culinary exploration in the heart of Naples at Piazza Bellini, right beside the ancient Greek Walls. Here, your guide awaits to lead you into the historic core of the city via Via dei Tribunali, an integral street of ancient Neapolis. As you tread along this historic route, you’ll reach the Tempietto del Pontano, where you’ll be captivated by the fascinating tale of the Church of the Holy Stone.

Venturing into Via Atri, a delightful stop awaits where you can indulge in fresh buffalo mozzarella, a treat guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds. The journey through Neapolitan culinary traditions continues with local favorites like pasta e patate con la provola and the original, grandmother’s recipe of pippiato ragù. Encounter the unique taste of pizza fritta and frittatina, staples of Naples’ rich street food culture.

For a delightful interlude, visit a quaint limoncello factory nestled in the historical center. Here, a shot of this traditional liqueur offers a refreshing pause, aiding digestion before you proceed to Piazza del Plebiscito. At the renowned Caffè Gambrinus, enjoy a classic coffee paired with a sfogliatella or a babà, while soaking in the charming story of the suspended coffee tradition.

This comprehensive 4-hour tour will guide you through the most iconic areas of Naples, including San Gregorio Armeno, Spaccanapoli, Piazza San Domenico, and Piazza del Gesù. Your journey culminates as you stroll down Via Toledo, leading to the stunning Piazza del Plebiscito, a fitting finale to your immersive experience in Neapolitan culture and cuisine.

One reviewer (cimber) among the many has only words of appreciation:

I would recommend anyone visiting Naples to do this tour! It was one of the highlights during my time in Italy.

Guided Wine Tour in Old Town Napoli

If you are into wine, this Guided Wine Tour in Old Town Napoli is the perfect choice.

On this unique wine tour in Naples, you will be offered a meticulously curated selection of three local wines, each a testament to the rich winemaking tradition of the Campania region. As you immerse yourself in the nuanced flavors and aromas, a friendly sommelier will guide you, imparting knowledge about the region’s distinctive grape varieties and winemaking techniques. Set against the historic architecture of Naples, the tour features pleasant breaks in charming venues, each with a distinct personality. Your glasses will be filled with exquisite grape nectars that perfectly encapsulate the vibrant atmosphere of the city, allowing you to forge a deeper connection with Naples’ cultural heritage and its centuries-old viticulture passion.

The journey begins in Piazza Dante, an ideal starting point to understand the contrasts between Italy and the Old Naples – a discovery you’ll make before delving into the world of wine. Strolling down one of Napoli’s most renowned streets, you’ll observe the local lifestyle and habits. The adventure starts with a warm welcome in Piazza Dante, near Via Toledo, under the ancient arch built in 1625 by Don Antonio Álvarez de Toledo, Duke of Alba.

Your path will lead you to hidden gems, elusive even to GPS and Google Maps, where you’ll hear significant anecdotes about World War II, Maradona’s legendary victories, and key facts about the Spanish Quarters. While exploring countless ancient palaces, some rumored to be haunted, you’ll find yourself in mysterious yet lively streets. Here, a special winery/bar awaits, offering a chance to savor cold cuts paired with fine wine.

The tour continues towards one of Naples’ wealthier areas, where another winery delights you with two more exquisite wines. Concluding the experience, the guide may lead you towards Mergellina, or you may choose to linger in the charming Chiaia area, known for its abundance of gastronomic destinations and bars. This tour offers a unique exploration of Naples, blending historical insights, cultural anecdotes, and the joys of wine tasting.

Mikaila has described this experience as follows:

We went into this not knowing what to expect, and we are so glad we went! We were only in Naples a couple of nights on our honeymoon and AnnaRita showed us more than we would’ve experienced exploring alone. It was incredible to be shown around by someone local and hear more of the history of Naples. I felt like I was sipping wine with a friend! We were having so much fun, we stayed together after the tour ended and shared a couple bottles of wine! Would recommend to anyone.

Who can disagree?

Authentic pizza making lesson and secret dough with drink included

If you find yourself in Naples, the birthplace of pizza, what better way to immerse yourself in this culinary art than by learning how to make it yourself? You have the opportunity to become a pizza chef for two hours at the renowned Mammina Pizzeria Restaurant, located at Via Santa Brigida 65, in the heart of Naples near the port and Via Toledo, easily accessible from the Town Hall station on the underground metro line 1.

Your pizza-making journey begins with a detailed, hands-on lesson from an experienced pizzaiolo. The first crucial step is learning how to make the dough for authentic Neapolitan pizza. You’ll gain essential skills to create the perfect dough, with each couple preparing a batch using a recipe designed for two people – a recipe you can replicate at home. Additionally, you’ll have the chance to sample key ingredients like tomatoes, mozzarella, homemade bread, and olive oil, gaining an appreciation for the products of the land.

Next, you’ll be introduced to the traditional method of dividing dough balls, known as “mozzatura.” After learning about the ingredients that go into a classic Margherita pizza, it’s time for you to roll up your sleeves. You’ll roll out your dough, expertly top it with the traditional ingredients, and with the baker’s assistance, slide your creation onto the shovel and into the oven.

As you savor the pizza you’ve crafted, you’ll be regaled with the rich history of Neapolitan pizza, accompanied by a delightful alcoholic beverage. The experience culminates with the awarding of a pizza chef diploma, personalized with your names, serving as a cherished memento of your authentic Neapolitan pizza-making adventure.

Attendees are in love with this tour, as reported by Megan:

Our family highly enjoyed the pizza cooking class. Anthony was an outstanding guide! He gave us detailed information and instructions on how to make our own pizzas. It definitely was a highlight of our trip!!

Mount Vesuvius: Vineyard Tour with Wine Tasting and Lunch

Relax on the picturesque slopes of Mount Vesuvius and indulge in an experience that tantalizes both your palate and senses. Here, you will have the opportunity to taste delightful local dishes, each thoughtfully paired with organic Lacryma Christi DOC wines. Embark on a guided private tour of a traditional vineyard, where you’ll be captivated by stunning views of the iconic volcano.

As you stroll through the vineyards and explore the winery of this historic estate, your knowledgeable host will lead you on an educational journey about the production of Lacryma Christi DOC wines. Enjoy a selection of organic wines, each harmoniously paired with a light lunch featuring fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

Step into the world of the Russo family, who have been custodians of this ancient winery since the 1930s. You will gain exclusive insights into the winemaking process unique to this region, all while admiring breathtaking views of Mount Vesuvius, the Bay of Naples, Sorrento, and the distant Island of Capri.

After exploring the winery, you’ll have the delightful experience of tasting the vineyard’s range of organic Lacryma Christi DOC wines. Choose between a classic and a superior tasting experience, where you’ll be introduced to an array of white, rosé, and red wines. These exquisite wines are paired with a typical Neapolitan lunch, featuring dishes prepared with local olive oil and wine vinegar, enhancing your culinary journey on the slopes of Mount Vesuvius.

And attendees don’t have any doubt in awarding this experience, just like this user from Germany did:

We loved this tour! An authentic local vineyard with spectacular views of Vesuvius. The lunch was delicious! It is a full course meal so come hungry. You also have the courses paired with their wine

Naples Private Food Tour – 10 Tastings with Locals

Experience the flavors of Naples on a private food tour that offers a comprehensive sampling of the city’s culinary delights. This gastronomic adventure allows you to savor 10 of the finest food items that Naples is famous for, encompassing everything from savory treats to sweet delicacies and traditional local drinks.

As you navigate through the bustling streets of Naples, you’ll indulge in the ultimate classics like limoncello and Pizza Portafoglio, tasting them in their most authentic, local form. Each tasting is a quintessential representation of Neapolitan cuisine, carefully selected by a local guide who is both knowledgeable and passionate about food.

In addition to the culinary experience, the tour includes visits to significant landmarks like Piazza del Gesu and the vibrant Pignaseca Market, as well as the prestigious University Federico II. Between the food stops, you’ll learn about the history and cultural importance of these places from your guide, enriching your understanding of Naples. This tour is not just a feast for your taste buds but also an enlightening journey through the heart of the city’s rich heritage and culinary traditions.

This private tour is considered a must-do in Naples, as well explained by Bob in his review:

Roberto was a gem! As a resident of Napoli he took us to places HE goes to get food for his family. We walked a LOT and from the meeting place at Calice Nero (Antonio the owner/manager treated us like family) to the final cafe for Baba and espresso, we learned so much about the city Roberto (and now we) loves. We were so immersed in the city we felt like locals and we ate so well. This tour was unforgettable and a must do

What to Expect on a Naples Food Tour

When embarking on a Naples food tour, anticipation and curiosity naturally pique as you delve into a realm where every sense is engaged. The experience is a blend of cultural immersion and culinary exploration, offering a unique perspective on the city’s gastronomic landscape. Typically, these tours last anywhere from a few hours to a full day, making them an accessible adventure for both short-term visitors and those with more time to savor the city’s flavors.

As you wander the vibrant streets of Naples, guided by knowledgeable locals, expect to be introduced to an array of authentic dishes. These tours are not just about tasting food; they are an educational journey through Naples’ rich culinary history. Each bite introduces the region’s produce and age-old culinary traditions.

One of the highlights of Naples food tours is the chance to sample the city’s world-famous pizza. Born in Naples, pizza here is an art form, with its perfectly charred crust, vibrant tomato sauce, and creamy mozzarella. Beyond pizza, expect to indulge in dishes like spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams) or sartù di riso – a complex rice dish testament to the city’s culinary ingenuity.

But Naples’ food scene isn’t just about traditional recipes; it’s also about innovation and modern flair. Many tours will include stops at contemporary eateries where classic dishes are given a modern twist, reflecting the dynamic nature of Neapolitan cuisine. Alongside the food, you’ll taste local wines and learn about their production and pairing with different dishes, which adds another layer to the gastronomic experience.

As you move from one tasting spot to another, the social aspect of food also comes into play. Food tours often involve sharing tables with fellow food enthusiasts to exchange stories and experiences. This communal aspect is fundamental to Italian dining culture and enhances the overall experience.

Sweet treats are not forgotten, as no tour in Naples would be complete without indulging in some local desserts. Delicacies like babà al rum, a rum-soaked cake, or sfogliatella, a shell-shaped filled pastry, provide a sweet endnote to the culinary journey.

As you explore the culinary landscape of Naples, remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring an appetite not just for food but for learning and adventure. This is not merely a food tasting; it’s a cultural expedition that engages and delights, offering memories that linger long after the last bite.

Benefits of Guided Food Tours

Embarking on a guided food tour in Naples offers many benefits beyond merely sampling delicious foods. One of the most significant advantages is the insights provided by local guides. These experts know the best places to eat and share fascinating stories and historical context that enrich your understanding of Neapolitan cuisine. They bring to life the traditions behind each dish, offering a deeper appreciation for the ingredients and cooking methods unique to the region.

Local guides also play a crucial role in unveiling hidden culinary gems that casual tourists might otherwise miss. They take you off the beaten path to small, family-run establishments, historic bakeries, and local markets that are the heart and soul of Naples’ food scene. These are places steeped in tradition and authenticity, often overlooked by guidebooks but beloved by locals. In these hidden corners, you experience Neapolitan cuisine’s true essence.

Another benefit of guided food tours is connecting with local culture. Food is a gateway to understanding a place’s heritage; through these tours, you engage with the community in an impossible way through sightseeing alone. Conversations with shop owners, chefs, and fellow food lovers offer insights into Naples’ contemporary life and rhythms, creating a more meaningful and personal experience.

Moreover, guided food tours help in supporting local businesses. By visiting smaller, locally-owned eateries, you contribute to the local economy and encourage the preservation of culinary traditions. This aspect of food tourism is vital, as it helps sustain the artisans and culinary experts who are the backbone of Naples’ food culture.

Lastly, these tours are not just about food but also about creating memories. Whether you’re traveling alone, with a partner, or in a group, food tours offer a shared experience that’s both enjoyable and memorable. They provide a sense of adventure and discovery, allowing you to bond over shared meals and stories, creating connections that last well beyond the tour itself.

Naples food tours offer a comprehensive experience that combines gastronomic delights with cultural immersion, personal connection, and local insight. It’s an enriching journey that satisfies the palate and the soul, leaving participants with a deeper understanding and appreciation of Naples’ rich culinary heritage.

Tips for Choosing the Right Food Tour In Naples

Selecting the ideal food tour in Naples can be as delightful as the tour itself, provided you know what to look for. Whether you are a culinary connoisseur or a curious traveler, the key is to find a tour that aligns with your tastes, interests, and needs. Here are some essential tips to help you choose the right food tour:

1. Assess Your Dietary Preferences and Restrictions: Before embarking on a food tour, it’s essential to consider any dietary needs you may have. Are you a vegetarian vegan, or do you have any allergies? Look for tours that cater to your dietary preferences or are flexible enough to accommodate them. This ensures that your experience is enjoyable and stress-free.

2. Determine Your Budget: Food tours can vary significantly in price, so finding one that fits your budget is crucial. While some tours offer gourmet experiences with fine dining elements, others focus on street foods that are more affordable yet equally satisfying. Decide how much you’ll spend and choose a tour with the best value within your budget.

3. Research the Itinerary and Duration: Different tours offer different experiences – some might be short and focused, while others take a more leisurely, comprehensive approach. Review the itinerary to see if it covers the places and types of foods you’re interested in. Also, consider the duration of the tour – whether you prefer a quick taste of the city or a full-day immersive experience.

4. Read Reviews and Testimonials: One of the best ways to gauge the quality of a food tour is by reading reviews and testimonials from previous participants. Look for feedback on the food quality, the guide’s knowledge and professionalism, and the overall experience. This can provide valuable insight into what you can expect.

5. Size of the Group: The tour group size can significantly affect your experience. Smaller groups offer a more intimate and personalized experience, making interacting with the guide and fellow food lovers easier. If you prefer a more private or focused tour, consider looking for tours that limit the number of participants.

6. Look for Local Guides: Opt for tours led by local guides, as they offer authentic insights and can take you to places that might not be widely known to tourists. Their local knowledge and expertise can immensely enhance your culinary adventure.

7. Check for Additional Benefits: Some tours offer additional benefits like a map of the places visited, recipes, or even discounts at certain eateries. These extras can enrich your experience and provide lasting value beyond the tour.

By considering these factors, you can select a Naples food tour that satisfies your taste buds and enriches your overall travel experience. Remember, the right tour can turn a simple meal into a memorable journey through the heart of Neapolitan culture and cuisine.

Visit Naples And Book The Best Naples Food Tours

If you’re planning to book a vacation in Naples, these are a few resources we recommend:

Book your flights with Booking. Compare prices to find your ideal flight.
Use Booking.com for hotel reservations. Check prices, and reviews to identify the best hotel. Begin your accommodation search.
Buy your SIM in advance through Airalo. With their eSIMs, you can connect instantly upon arrival. Avoid data roaming costs.
Check Viator to purchase tickets . Skip queues, or plan unique experiences during your holiday.
Rely on Klook to purchase tickets for destinations in Asia. Skip queues, or plan unique experiences during your holiday.
Utilize Skyscanner for car rental prices. Find the best deal for your travel needs.
Insure your trip with SafetyWing. It's an easy way to ensure your safety while traveling. Secure your journey.

Seeking more culinary insights for your Naples journey? Explore our comprehensive local pizza guides and begin crafting your food-focused itinerary:

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• Best Fried Pizza In Naples Chosen By A Local
• Naples’ Oldest Pizza Restaurants
• Michelin Star Pizza In Naples
• Best Pizza In Naples Near Cruise Port And Train Station