Parmigiano and Culatello Private Tour with Lunch and Farm Visit
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
A behind-the-scenes tour that takes you through the production rooms of a Parmigiano Reggiano dairy and the farm areas which are usually closed to the public. With a private guide totally dedicated to you and your family or friends, you’ll have the chance to see first-hand the passion and craftsmanship that lead to the creation of the king of cheeses every morning. A slow-paced tour that leads you to discover the details of production technology, ancient tools and modern materials and ends with a delicious vertical tasting of Parmigiano Reggiano, to learn how to taste it like a cheese sommelier. The second stop of the morning takes us to discover the secrets of Culatello of Zibello, visiting a farm devoted to the recovery of ancient local breeds. We’ll observe the vegetable gardens, the vineyards and enter the magnificent cellars. Enjoy the masterpieces of the local culinary tradition such as Culatello, Spalla, Salami having a lunch based on local delicacies and wine.
Available options
Price including transportation
Description:: Parmigiano Reggiano Dairy Visit followed by Tasting and Culatello Farm Visit followed by Lunch <br/>Duration: 8 hours<br/>Lunch included<br/>Pickup at 7.30 am <br/>Price including transportation: Price including a private vehicle (car/minivan) with Professional Driver Pickup included<br/>Pickup included
Self-Drive Price
Description: Parmigiano Reggiano Dairy Visit followed by Tasting and Culatello Farm Visit followed by Lunch<br/>Duration: 8 hours<br/>Lunch included<br/>Meeting the guide at 7.30 am <br/>Self-Drive Price : You must provide your own vehicle
What's included
Professional local guide
Local wine
Bottled water
Traditional fresh egg pasta
Tastings of 12, 24, 30 and 36 months old Parmigiano Reggiano cheese and fresh ricotta cheese
Admission fees
Option 1 includes Transportation
Salad
Homemade focaccia
Coffee and/or Tea
Traditional desserts
Large selection of cured meat: Culatello of Zibello, Coppa, Pancetta or Lard, Salami, Strolghino...
Detailed itinerary
1
Our experience starts in the early morning with a visit to a Parmigiano Reggiano dairy, a small company between Parma and Reggio Emilia that handles the entire supply chain.
A private local guide will be dedicated to you and your family or group of friends throughout the day and will answer your questions, explaining what you are observing step by step.
You’ll see the whole production process of the king of cheeses, from the feeding of milking cows to the aging of the cheese. You’ll be able to experience the scooping of the huge cheese mass out of the kettle side by side with the master cheesemaker, immersing yourself in the scents of the production room.
The visit will end with a delicious vertical tasting of Parmigiano Reggiano cheese. You will learn how to taste it like a cheese sommelier, analyzing it through the sense of sight, smell, and taste.
2
We will have a Photo stop at the Castle of Roccabianca.
Our route to the discovery of the Parma Lowlands starts crossing by car the strip of land running from the northern outskirts of Parma to Roccabianca, near the meandering of the Taro river, to reach Zibello and Polesine Parmense, places where it seems as if time has stood still.
3
We will have a Photo stop in front of Palazzo Pallavicino in Zibello.
4
We will visit a farm devoted to the recovery of ancient local breeds, we will see the farm animals, the vegetable gardens, and the vineyards.
Few people know that this is the area in the world where you can find the greatest variety of cured meat!
During the visit, you will discover the masterpieces of the local culinary tradition and learn about the features and the origins of Fiocco, Spalla di San Secondo, Salami, Strolghino, and the king of cured meat, the PDO Culatello of Zibello, produced and refined in the magnificent cellars of an ancient fortress from the early 1300s that has been perfectly restored and endowed with a fine restaurant, where it is possible to enjoy the best of Parma cuisine. The visit will end with a rich taste, a real joy for the senses!
What's not included
Option 2 does not include Transportation
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
IT
Reviews breakdown
Viator
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Tripadvisor
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
This is a private tour, run exclusively for you and your family or friends.
Hotel pick-up and drop-off is included in the "Price including transportation" option. Pick-up and drop-off is intended within a radius of 15 kilometres of the city centre (Piazza Garibaldi in Parma). If your location is not among the pick up points listed, contact us to receive a customized quote for the extra transportation service. When travelers select the "Self-Drive Price" option, we'll see them at the Departure Point, they must provide their own transport and follow the guide in a separate car.
Meeting point
You will meet the guide in front of Emily Way Bar in Via Marco Emilio Lepido, 215, 43122 San Prospero PR at 7.30 am.
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
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Free cancellation available
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