Trastevere and Ghetto Food Tour: Experience Authentic Local Cuisine and History
5.0
17 Ratings
Roma
Immerse yourself in the enchanting history, taste, and smells of Trastevere with our authentic food tour. Sample local street food classics, explore ancient churches, and indulge in artisanal gelato.
Duration: 2 hours, 30 minutes
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Fontana delle Tartarughe - Meet our expert local guide at Piazza Mattei, next to the Turtles Fountain
  • Via Portico d’Ottavia - The Portico of Ottavia is one of the most charming passageways in Rome. It was erected in 146 B.C. at the southernmost point of Campus Martius by Quintus Caecilius Metellus, who also built the Temple of Juno Regina in this area. The temple of Jupiter was later built here (the first temple in Rome to be built completely out of marble).

It was part of the triumphal procession route taken by the emperor in arms and the army to celebrate victories and the trophies of battle. It is no coincidence that various important temples lined this route, all built by victorious emperors in celebration of themselves.

Between 33 and 27 B.C., Emperor Augustus named the area Circus Flaminius. He restored the entire complex using victory spoils from Dalmatia, dedicating the portico to his sister Ottavia.

  • Isola Tiberina - In the middle of Rome’s Tiber River is the small island known as Isola Tiberina. The island is loaded with history, originally being home to an ancient temple of Asclepius, the god of healing. Legend said a snake from that god’s temple came to the island from a boat; the island itself has been shaped to resemble a boat. In the 16th century a hospital was founded there, and it is still in operation. You can easily stroll across the island going from the Jewish Ghetto to Trastevere, stopping for the views of the river and island on the bridges, then going through the tiny squares on the island. As well as the hospital, there’s also a church, San Bartolomeo on the island. It’s a lovely part of a stroll through the Eternal City.
  • Basilica di Santa Maria in Cosmedin - The Basilica was probably the first official place of Christian worship in Rome. According to the legend, it was built by Pope Callistus I in the 3rd century and was finished by Saint Julius I in 340. Many parts of the church date back to the 12th century; the mosaics, especially those of the façade and those of the apse made by Pietro Cavallini and depicting the “Life of the Virgin”, are important. On the outside, built in the 12th century, stands the bell tower with its square base.The basilica interior has three naves divided by twenty-two ancient granite columns of various diameters, all with Ionic and Corinthian capitals, probably coming from the Baths of Caracalla.
    The rich ceiling is in carved and gilded lacunars with polychrome funds, designed by Domenichino (1617) with the image of “L’Assunta” in the center. In 1860 the floor was almost completely rebuilt by the architect Vespignani with the the thirteenth century typical floor mosaics.
  • Fontana in Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere - With regard to the Fountain in Piazza Maria in Trastevere, an aura of mystery and legend still lingers around its origins. Indeed, according to tradition, this is the oldest fountain in Rome dating back to the 8th century, but the exact date of its construction is still unknown. The Fountain in Piazza Santa Maria in Trastevere was also featured in a city map dating back to 1471, designed by Pietro del Massaio. In his original drawing, the fountain featured two basins, one above the other, pouring water into the basin below.
  • Trastevere - Walking with our guide through the streets and intricate alleys of Trastevere, you will be able to discover some of the most amazing and well-kept secrets of this city and breathe the true Roman spirit. That’s why the area is commonly referred to as “the heart of Rome”. Trastevere is a district that lies on the west side of the Tiber, south of the Vatican City.
    This area has kept, almost untouched, a unique authentic charm. When you wander through the streets, you will feel as if you are in a movie, set two, three or maybe more centuries ago. Here, time has left its mark in a co-existence of architectural elements belonging to different historical periods.
    But, that alone, cannot fully explain the magic of Trastevere. In fact, Romans consider this district a sort of “keeper” of past traditions, and love to come here to explore boutiques, emporiums and craft shops or meet friends for a fun night out.
  • Ponte Sisto - Ponte Sisto, or Sisto Bridge, is one of the most popular bridges in Rome crossing the Tiber River and connecting Rome’s historic centre with Trastevere. It offers one of the most beautiful perspectives on St. Peter’s Church and Rome’s skyline.
What's Included
  • Food
  • Top rated tour guide
What's Not Included
  • drinks
Additional Information

Trastevere is considered the soul of Rome, buzzing with local hangout hubs, authentic eateries and wine outlets. Accompany our knowledgeable food enthusiast guide and delve into its captivating history, flavours and aromas. Experience staple local street food such as pizza, suppli, gelato and more, while engaging with true ‘trasteverini’, local vendors and craftsmen who’ve been residing and working here for ages.

This gastronomic 2.5-hour walking tour introduces you to the finest delicacies of this vibrant district on the other side of the River Tiber. Discover the history of the ancient Byzantine style church, Santa Maria in Trastevere, while relishing a crispy Roman-style pizza from a renowned bakery that’s been operating since 1870. Pay a visit to one of Rome’s outdoor markets and uncover the quintessential Roman apetizer - suppli.

End your culinary exploration with the staple artisanal gelato at a top local bar.

With a capacity for only 10 people, this tour offers a bespoke sightseeing experience.

  • The tour cannot be done for celiacs.
Location
Piazza di San Simeone
The guide will meet you next to the fountain in Piazza San Simeone.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
5.0
(17 Ratings)
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Cydydiannel_p
Mar 7, 2024
Full and happy - My partner and I ended up having a private tour with Ferrara. It was amazing. Informative. We were so full! We would never have these foods if we did not take this tour.
Review provided by Viator
Melissa_c
Feb 5, 2024
Amazing Food Tour - Loved everything about this! We were in a small group of 6, really able to experience the amazing local food while taking in the scenery. Most importantly, our tour guide, Fiammetta, was excellent! Can’t say enough good things about her! She really made our experience!
Review provided by Viator
Samantha_b
Oct 19, 2023
Great tour, delicious food! - Julia was a great guide and taught us about the area and we had the chance to taste some terrific food. We received a lot of personal attention as we were the only participants that day.
Review provided by Viator
Brandy_p
Oct 18, 2023
Great Tour! - Julia was an amazing guide! We had a great time and excellent food! We were even a tiny bit late and she was gracious enough to wait for us!
Review provided by Viator
Jane_o
Sep 24, 2023
Exceptional - Lulia was an excellent guide. Her knowledge of the history of Rome was incredible. We were lucky enough to have a private tour which made it even more personal. Not an area of Rome that we probably would have gone, but so delighted that we did. Great communication from the tour organiser. Highly recommended. Great food!
Review provided by Viator
Claudine_k
Sep 9, 2023
Must do! - This tour was fantastic, Julia was a fabulous tour guide with a wealth of knowlegde. She was very engaging and humorous. I recommend this tour, its a must do. Thanks Julia!!!
Review provided by Viator
Patricia_g
Aug 27, 2023
Memorable Experience - Our tour guide was Julia. She was friendly and knowledgeable. She taught us so much history about the areas we visited. The food was delicious. We ate so much . Julia made the experience memorable.
Review provided by Viator
Kimberly_m
Aug 16, 2023
Great tour - Great tour, it was an area of Rome I may not have ever visited and so glad I did ! My family and I had a great time with Alessandro.
Review provided by Viator
Donna_c
Jul 18, 2023
Julia had the perfect... - Julia had the perfect amount of food knowledge and history of Rome. Each food stop had delicious options with interesting stories to go with it. Truly the highlight of my second day in Rome!
Review provided by Viator
Amy_v
Jul 18, 2023
Great food - great history lesson- great company - Julia was absolutely amazing & we felt lucky she was our guide. Perfect mix of history and delicious food. We loved the food choices she selected - felt authentic/ local and non touristy. She was so knowledgeable, passionate and patient answering all questions - made for a great overall experience.
Review provided by Viator
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up to 14 guests
1 Adult
June 2024
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