The art of Parmigiano Reggiano and real Balsamic vinegar

Modena , Italy

The art of Parmigiano Reggiano and real Balsamic vinegar

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(9 reviews)

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About this experience

An unforgettable journey into the authentic heart of Modena’s culinary heritage — a must-do experience for food lovers visiting the region. Led by the passionate team of Acetaia Malagoli Daniele, this tour introduces you to two iconic Made in Italy treasures: Parmigiano Reggiano cheese and Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena, discovered directly where they are produced.
Begin at an organic dairy farm, where you’ll meet the cows, visit the milking area, and watch skilled cheesemakers craft authentic Parmigiano Reggiano using traditional methods. Then continue to a traditional Acetaia, stepping into an attic lined with wooden barrels, where cooked grape must slowly ages into precious Traditional Balsamic Vinegar. This family-run, behind-the-scenes experience offers rare insight into the craftsmanship and passion that define Modena’s food traditions. The experience takes place at two countryside locations. Transportation is required to reach the first site and to move between locations

Available options

The art of Parmigiano Reggiano and real Balsamic vinegar

What's included

Bottled water

Snacks

Coffee and/or Tea

Detailed itinerary

Guests will be welcomed to one of the most significant place, a cheese factory dedicated to the making of the king of the cheeses: the parmigiano reggiano.
This is a very authentic local farm and its most magical value is represented by the production chain, which means that all is made here. From the alfalfa for the cows to the seasoned cheese, ready to be tasted, all happens here. You'll see the cows, the little calves, the taurus, the milking parlor, the making and the seasoning. Most of all, the tour begins at 8:30am in the morning in order to see the cheese makers at work. This is maybe the most interesting and passionate part of the tour since you'll see how parmigiano reggiano is manually made, with passion and sacrifice.

Guests will be welcomed to another very significant place of the modenese culture, an Acetaia. It is the place where traditional balsamic vinegar of Modena is aged for years with lots passion and patience.
Maybe not all know that in the market, and by the italian law, there are 2 products: balsamic vinegar of Modena IGP and traditional balsamic vinegar of Modena DOP. Names and certifications sound very similar but even if they both are good products, they're different ones. Ingredients, ages, making processes, origin of the grapes... they're all different. This experience gives you the opportunity to discover the product that represents part of the local culture since thousand years. The traditional balsamic vinegar of Modena DOP has always been limited to family production, since it really represents an ancient heritage, and for this reason it has never represented a commercial product that people can easily find all over the world; here's the reason why many people don't know it.

What's not included

Private transportation

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

8 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Transportation is NOT included in any part of the experience: travelers will use their own car. If you won't have one, we can arrange the transfer for an extra cost. Also, please let us know in advance if you need the lift. Last but not least, dress comfortably; heels and flip flops are not recommended!

Prices for transportation: * From Castelfranco Emilia train station: €65. * From Bologna: €165. * From Modena: €106. TRANSPORTATION IS TO BE PAID DIRECTLY TO THE DRIVER AS IT IS NOT A SERVICE PROVIDED BY US.

Meeting point

Transportation made easy: We offer complimentary coordination and booking of transportation. Payment is made directly to the driver.
Meeting point: In front of the dairy shop. Guests arriving by car are advised to use Google Maps for easy navigation.

About Modena

Modena is a charming city in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, renowned for its rich history, exquisite cuisine, and world-famous balsamic vinegar and sports cars. The city is a blend of medieval and modern architecture, offering a unique cultural experience.

Top Attractions

Duomo di Modena

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this stunning cathedral is a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Free

Palazzo Ducale

A former ducal palace, now a museum showcasing the history and art of Modena.

Historical 1-2 hours €8

Enzo Ferrari Museum

A tribute to the legendary car designer Enzo Ferrari, featuring a collection of Ferrari cars and memorabilia.

Museum 1-2 hours €15

Mercato Albinelli

A historic covered market offering a variety of local produce, meats, and cheeses.

Market 30 minutes to 1 hour Free to enter

Must-Try Local Dishes

Tortellini in brodo

Handmade pasta rings filled with a mix of meats, served in a rich broth.

Main course Contains meat

Prosciutto di Modena

Cured ham from Modena, known for its delicate flavor and tender texture.

Appetizer Contains pork

Tigelle

Small, round flatbreads traditionally filled with cured meats and cheeses.

Snack Can be vegetarian or contain meat

Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Modena

Aged balsamic vinegar, a sweet and tangy condiment used to enhance the flavor of dishes.

Condiment Vegan, gluten-free

Popular Activities

Factory tours (Ferrari, Lamborghini) Cycling in the countryside Visiting parks and gardens Wine and balsamic vinegar tastings Museum visits Historical tours Winter markets Christmas events

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

These months offer pleasant weather with fewer tourists, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, French
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

Modena is generally safe, with low crime rates. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services

Getting there

By air

Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport • 40 km from Modena

By train

Modena Centrale

By bus

Modena Autostazione

Getting around

Public transport

The bus network covers the entire city and is efficient and affordable.

Taxis

Available • Apps:

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Cattedrale San Cataldo Buon Pastore

Day trips

Maranello

20 km from Modena • Half day

Home of the Ferrari factory and museum, offering a glimpse into the world of luxury sports cars.

Bologna

45 km from Modena • Full day

A vibrant city known for its medieval architecture, rich history, and delicious cuisine.

Reggio Emilia

30 km from Modena • Half day to Full day

A charming city with a rich history, known for its beautiful architecture and cultural attractions.

Festivals

Modena Terracotta Festival • September Modena Motor Gallery • November

Pro tips

Visit the Mercato Albinelli for an authentic local experience and to try traditional delicacies
Take a balsamic vinegar tour to learn about the production process and taste different varieties
Explore the city on foot or by bike to discover hidden gems and charming streets
Try the local specialty, tortellini in brodo, at a traditional osteria or trattoria
Visit the Enzo Ferrari Museum to learn about the history of the legendary car designer and see a collection of Ferrari cars