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Parma

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From Parma: Parma's Gastronomic Heart

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What you’ll do

Discover the authentic tastes of Parma, a UNESCO creative city for Gastronomy, on our full-day tour—Parma’s Gastronomic Heart. Immerse yourself in a journey that unveils the true flavours of this gastronomic haven. From renowned culinary traditions to hidden gems, explore the heart of Parma's rich food culture. Elevate your senses with a curated experience that captures the essence of this UNESCO-recognized city. Join a full-day exploration that promises a feast for your taste buds and a deep dive into the culinary treasures of Parma.

Highlights

Parmesan Cheese: Witness the fascinating process of lifting Parmigiano cheese wheels at a renowned PDO-certified Parmigiano Reggiano cheese dairy and delve into the secrets of its production
Farm Exploration: Embark on a journey to a local farm to discover the art of cow breeding, feeding, and the stringent standards imposed by the Consortium to ensure the highest quality products
Culinary Tasting Experience: Tasting session featuring PDO-certified Parmigiano Reggiano, Prosciutto di Parma, and the King of Salami, Culatello di Zibello
Lunch: Delight in a light lunch showcasing local 0 km artisan products, and wine
UNESCO Creative City: Immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of Parma, designated as a UNESCO Creative City for Gastronomy, and discover the rich history and tradition behind the region's premium food products

Itinerary

Duration : 6 hours

Group Size : 2-15 people

Start Time : 8.30 am or 9 am

Meeting Point : Hotel pick-up and drop-off are included with this tour

Departure and Introduction:

Meet your guide at 9:00 am at your hotel or accommodation. Drive to the Hills of Parma

Witness the lifting of Parmigiano cheese wheels:

This could be a fascinating experience, as you observe the traditional method of lifting and handling the massive Parmigiano Reggiano cheese wheels. The process involves lifting the wheels out of the brine baths and onto the racks for ageing

Explore the farm and learn about cow breeding:

A tour of the farm provides an opportunity to understand the agricultural side of the production. Learning about cow breeding gives insight into the quality of milk, an essential factor in producing high-quality Parmigiano Reggiano

Understand the cheese production process:

A detailed explanation of the cheese production process would likely cover milk collection, curdling, moulding, salting, and ageing. This educational aspect enhances the overall experience, allowing visitors to appreciate the craftsmanship behind Parmigiano Reggiano

Delight in a light lunch:

A light lunch featuring Culatello, Prosciutto, Parmigiano Reggiano, and local salami sounds like a culinary delight. Pairing this with local Lambrusco or Malvasia Wines adds a touch of authenticity, allowing visitors to savour the flavours of the region

Ending the meal with artisan 0 km Gelato with 3 toppings:

A sweet conclusion to the meal with artisan gelato and local toppings adds a refreshing touch. This could showcase the local flavours and craftsmanship of the region's gelato makers.

Tour End Time:

The tour ends at approximately 3-3.30 pm with drop-off at your accommodation in Parma

What’s included

Start Time: TBA

Duration: Approximately 4 Hours

Group Size: 2 to 6 Guests

Meeting Point: Pick up time in Parma depends on your exact location and will be shared via email following confirmation of booking

Availability: Every day except Tuesday. All year except August Italian public holidays

Morning (Half-day Tour)

9:00 AM – 9:30 AM: Arrival & Introduction

Arrive in Parma, the heart of Italy’s food culture. If you are already staying in the city, it’s just a short drive or walk to the starting point of the tour. For those coming by train, Parma is easily accessible from Modena and Bologna. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by local food experts, guides, and artisans ready to take you through the gastronomic journey of Parma’s world-renowned products

9:30 AM – 11:00 AM: Visit to Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese Dairy

Your first stop is the Bertinelli Cheese Dairy, a family-run operation where Parmigiano Reggiano is produced using traditional methods passed down through generations

Tour Highlights :

Learn the step-by-step process of making Parmigiano Reggiano, the “King of Cheeses.”

Watch the cheese masters as they demonstrate how this semi-fat, non-pasteurized cheese is crafted and aged to perfection

Discover how the high-quality milk used in production comes from peaceful, well-cared-for cows fed with alfalfa and hay—ensuring top-tier milk quality without the need for preservatives

Explore the farm, located just 5 minutes away from the cheese dairy, where you will see how the cows are bred and cared for under strict Animal Welfare standards

11:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Discover Parma’s Charcuterie

After the Parmigiano Reggiano experience, the tour continues to the Bassa Parmense, the flatland region known for its artisan production of Culatello di Zibello, the King of Salami

Visit a local workshop where you will learn how Culatello di Zibello is made, including the special conditions of the region, foggy winters and high humidity, that are crucial for developing the noble molds that give this cured meat its distinctive aroma

Enjoy a guided tasting of Culatello, Prosciutto di Parma, and other traditional local salumi

12:00 PM – 1:30 PM: Tasting and Lunch

The tour culminates with a traditional Parma lunch, showcasing the very best of the region’s flavours:

Parma Tagliere (a platter of local cured meats): Culatello, Prosciutto di Parma, and other salumi, paired with Parmigiano Reggiano at various ages

Torta Fritta : A traditional fried bread served with cheese, cured meats, and spreads

Artisanal Gelato : Made with fresh, locally sourced milk, this sweet treat is served with three different toppings for the perfect finish to your meal

Paired with local wines that complement the flavors of Parma’s finest foods

1:30 PM – 2:00 PM: Departure or Option for Extended Experience

After your delicious lunch, you will have time to reflect on the culinary experience or take part in the next activity of the tour.

Optional Extended Experience: Parmigiano Tour & Cooking Class at Bertinelli’s Hosteria

If you have a full day to explore Parma, consider the Parmigiano Reggiano Cooking Class, offered at the Bertinelli Cheese Dairy’s Hosteria. In this hands-on workshop, you'll learn to cook with Parmigiano Reggiano and other local ingredients. A great way to deepen your appreciation for the flavors of the region while learning some new culinary techniques

Optional Add-On: Visit to Castle of Torrechiara

For those with a little more time, drive towards the gentle hills of Langhirano, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Castle of Torrechiara. This castle is not only a stunning example of medieval architecture but also famous for the romantic legend of a struggled love story

Optional Stop : A quick visit to the castle, perfect for a photo op or a peaceful walk around the grounds.