I still remember stepping into FICO Eataly World back in 2017, just after it opened. I had no idea what to expect. I’d visited Eataly shops before—like the one in Florence just steps from the Duomo, where the smell of fresh bread draws you in off the street—but this? This was on a whole different level.
FICO isn’t just a food market. It’s a full-blown Italian food theme park.
A love letter to Italian gastronomy, written in pasta, cheese, olive oil, and tradition.
What Is FICO Eataly World?
Located in Bologna, FICO (short for Fabbrica Italiana Contadina) is the world’s largest agri-food park—spanning over 100,000 square meters and featuring farms, factories, markets, restaurants, and food labs.
It’s where Italy tells its story—through agriculture, craftsmanship, and yes, unforgettable flavors.
From Field to Fork – The Full Italian Experience
The journey inside FICO is divided into chapters—each one dedicated to a key part of Italy’s food heritage.
There’s a farming area with olive groves and livestock, representing rural traditions. Then come the production areas: cheese factories, salami workshops, pasta labs, bakeries. All of them working in real time, showing you how Italian products are made—step by step.
Yes, you can watch cheese being stretched, dough rolled, chocolate tempered.
And if you’re like me, you’ll find yourself smiling non-stop (especially near the pasta section).
Pasta Paradise
Let’s talk pasta. Because of course we must.
From Pastificio Gragnanese with its artisanal dry pasta, to fresh pasta labs where you can learn how to roll your own tagliatelle. There’s even bolognese ragù by Amerigo, one of Bologna’s oldest trattorias.
You’ll also find sauces from legendary brands like Mutti and Alce Nero, and jars of ready-to-serve sughi made right on site.
Beyond Pasta – Cheese, Wine & Sweet Moments
While I was writing this post, the news broke: Made in Italy cheeses have hit an all-time high in exports—even overtaking France in some markets.
At FICO, it’s no wonder. You’ll find dairies producing Parmigiano Reggiano, Squacquerone, Mozzarella di Bufala—and yes, you can sample them all.
And don’t even get me started on the bakeries. The smell alone will follow you through the corridors, tempting you at every turn.
More than once, I gave in and brought home a warm loaf for dinner.
How to Get Around
The space is vast, but brilliantly navigable—thanks to over 500 tricycles with baskets designed by Bianchi, ready to carry your gourmet treasures.
You’re not just strolling through a park. You’re cycling through Italy’s food soul.
Why FICO Eataly World Is Worth a Visit
If Italy is on your bucket list, and food is your love language—FICO is a must.
You’ll leave with a full belly, a happy heart, and a deeper appreciation for the culture that treats the dinner table not as routine, but as ritual.
Planning to visit Bologna? Make sure to add FICO to your itinerary. Trust me—Italy never tasted so good.