Hidden treasures in Ceno valley, closely south of Parma.
Active
6h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Only 50 kilometers south of Parma, you will experience a time travel back to the Medieval age. At the heart of the enchanting Ceno valley lies the small but characteristic village of Bardi, overlooked by a perfectly mantained fortress.
The wonders of history and nature will be accompanied by the gastronomic excellence of the area: Parmigiano cheese, whose production and exquisite taste will be widely explained during a private visit to a local dairy factory.
Available options
Complete private tour
What's included
Private tour to a local dairy and Parmigiano tasting
Qualified private guide
Three-courses lunch, based on local delicacies, served in a downtown restaurant
Entrance tickets to Bardi Fortress
Detailed itinerary
1
A private guided tour will go through the production stages of Parmigiano cheese, in a plant which combines modern technologies and traditional knowledge. It will start from the green fields around cattle stables, then entering the halls with their reverse bell-shaped copper boilers and brine basins, then ending in the seasoning area. Afterwards, a complete tasting of Parmigiano and homemade bread will be offered.
2
A professional qualified guide will lead the private tour of the amazing Bardi fortress, a medieval castle which belonged for more than four centuries to the noble Landi family from Piacenza.
Starting from the impressive defensive structures, the tour will touch the ice house, the stables and the cellar, finally reaching the Princes'residence. Its halls are decorated with frescoes, celebrating the marriage union with Grimaldi family of Monaco.
Up to the main tower, the guests will follow the steps of Sir Moroello, whose ghost is said to be still haunting the castle.
3
At the end of the visit you will taste different ages of the precious cheese, with local wines and, then, you will be ready to reach a very small restaurant inside a micro-farm, for a delicious lunch with traditional dishes.
What's not included
Gratuities
Private transportation
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
IT
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Meeting with the guide in front of the "Piccolo" Bar, at the beginning of the Via Pietro Cella, close the big church in Bardi
About Parma
Parma is a charming city in northern Italy, renowned for its rich culinary heritage, particularly its ham (Prosciutto di Parma) and cheese (Parmigiano Reggiano). It's a city where history, art, and gastronomy blend seamlessly, offering visitors a delightful Italian experience.
Top Attractions
Baptistery of Parma
The Baptistery of Parma is a stunning example of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, known for its intricate frescoes and sculptures.
Historical/Religious
1 hour
€3
Parma Cathedral
The Parma Cathedral, dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, is a masterpiece of Romanesque and Gothic architecture with stunning frescoes and a beautiful bell tower.
Religious/Historical
1 hour
€3 (combined ticket with Baptistery)
Palazzo della Pilotta
The Palazzo della Pilotta is a grand Renaissance palace housing several museums, including the National Gallery, the Archaeological Museum, and the Bodoni Museum.
Historical/Museum
2-3 hours
€7 (combined ticket for all museums)
Teatro Regio
The Teatro Regio is a historic opera house and one of the most important cultural venues in Parma, known for its stunning architecture and world-class performances.
Cultural/Entertainment
2-3 hours (depending on the performance)
Varies by performance (€20-€100)
Parco Ducale
Parco Ducale is a beautiful public park in the heart of Parma, offering a peaceful escape from the city with its lush gardens, ponds, and historic architecture.
Nature/Park
1-2 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Prosciutto di Parma
A world-famous cured ham made from the hind legs of pigs, salt-cured, and aged for at least 12 months. It is thinly sliced and served on its own or with other appetizers.
Appetizer
Contains pork, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Parmigiano Reggiano
A hard, granular cheese made from cow's milk, aged for at least 12 months. It is often served in small chunks or grated over pasta dishes.
Appetizer/Dessert
Contains dairy, not suitable for vegans or those with lactose intolerance.
Tortelli d'Erbetta
A traditional Parmesan pasta filled with a mixture of ricotta, spinach, and herbs, served with a sage and butter sauce.
Main Course
Contains dairy and eggs, not suitable for vegans.
Gnocchi di Patate
Potato dumplings made with a mixture of potatoes, flour, and eggs, often served with a rich ragù or tomato sauce.
Main Course
Contains eggs, not suitable for vegans.
Popular Activities
Hiking in the surrounding countryside
Biking along the Po River
Rock climbing in nearby valleys
Spa treatments in Salsomaggiore Terme
Strolling through Parco Ducale
Enjoying an aperitivo at a local wine bar
Visiting museums and historic sites
Attending opera and concert performances
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April to June) and Fall (September to October)
Spring and fall offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and are ideal for exploring the city's attractions and enjoying outdoor dining.
15°C to 28°C
59°F to 82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Italian
- Widely spoken: English, French, German
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Parma is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, it is always advisable to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
- • Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid using them at night
Getting there
By air
- Giuseppe Verdi Airport • 6 km from city center
By train
Parma Centrale
By bus
Parma Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The public bus system in Parma is efficient and covers most of the city. Buses are a convenient and affordable way to get around.
Taxis
Available • Apps: FreeNow, ItTaxi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Centro Storico
Oltretorrente
Viale Mentana
Day trips
Castello di Torrechiara
20 km from Parma • Half day
A stunning 15th-century castle with a rich history and beautiful architecture, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Castello di Bardi
40 km from Parma • Full day
A medieval castle perched on a hilltop, offering stunning views of the surrounding valleys and forests, with a rich history and fascinating exhibits.
Salsomaggiore Terme
30 km from Parma • Half day
A charming spa town known for its thermal springs and luxurious spa treatments, offering a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.
Festivals
Parma Jazz Frontiers Festival • November
Parma Ham Festival • February
Festa di San Giovanni • June 24
Pro tips
- Visit local producers of Prosciutto di Parma and Parmigiano Reggiano for an authentic taste of the city's culinary heritage
- Explore the underground tunnels of Parma for a unique and fascinating experience
- Attend a performance at the Teatro Regio for a taste of the city's rich cultural heritage
- Stroll through Parco Ducale for a peaceful escape from the city and a chance to enjoy nature
- Sample local wines and cheeses at Enoteca del Tribunale and Caseificio di Parma
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
