Parmigiano & Balsamic Artisans: In-Depth Private Tour and Tasting

Parma , Italy

Parmigiano & Balsamic Artisans: In-Depth Private Tour and Tasting

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(85 reviews)

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

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About this experience

Go beyond the surface - uncover every step of Parmigiano Reggiano's production process with your private guide. Take a slow-paced journey through Emilia Romagna’s food traditions: taste, learn and connect with true local artisans. Choose a behind-the-scenes tour that takes you through sites, production rooms and farm areas usually closed to the public. Discover ancient tools and modern materials, method and passion, a magical combination that leads to the creation of Parmigiano Reggiano every morning. Learn how to taste it like a Cheese Sommelier, relying on the professionalism of a local experienced guide dedicated exclusively to you. Delve into the secrets of Traditional Balsamic Vinegar, one of the hidden and still little-known jewels of Reggio Emilia and Modena. At the end of this experience, Parmigiano and Balsamic Vinegar taste will always bring back memories of the passion and the marvels encountered along the way. We are waiting for you to live a truly unforgettable experience!

Available options

Price including transportation

Price including transportation: Price including a private vehicle (car/minivan) with Professional Driver <br/>Pickup included

Self-Drive Price

You must provide your own transport and follow the guide in a separate car

What's included

Professional local guide

Tasting of 12, 20 and 25 years old Traditional Balsamic Vinegar and 3 and 10 years old condiments

Traditional Balsamic Vinegar House admission fee

Bottled water

Tasting of 12, 24, 30 and 36 months old Parmigiano Reggiano cheese and fresh ricotta cheese

Option 1 includes Transportation

Parmigiano Reggiano cheese dairy admission fee

Detailed itinerary

We will visit an authentic Parmigiano Reggiano cheese dairy and the visit will be followed by tasting of 12 months, 24 months, 30 months and 36 months old Parmigiano Reggiano cheese.

We will discover the secrets of Traditional Balsamic Vinegar, one of the hidden and still little-known jewels of the Reggio Emilia and Modena area. We will visit a Traditional Balsamic Vinegar producer and the visit will be followed by tasting of 12 years old, 20 years old and 25 years old Traditional Balsamic Vinegar and 3 years old and 10 years old balsamic condiments.

What's not included

Option 2 does not include Transportation

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

44 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

41 reviews

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking.

Not available for vegans and vegetarians.

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