Parma: Parmigiano Production and Parma Ham Tour & Tasting

History

Parma, in Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region, has been a culinary powerhouse for centuries, renowned for Parmigiano Reggiano and Prosciutto di Parma. Parmigiano Reggiano, often called the “King of Cheeses,” traces its origins to the 12th century, when Benedictine and Cistercian monks began crafting this hard, granular cheese using traditional methods still followed today. Prosciutto di Parma, a dry-cured ham, emerged around the same period, with its production refined over generations in the hilly microclimate of Parma’s province, earning its Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status.

This tour celebrates these gastronomic treasures, offering an insider’s look at their meticulous production processes, rooted in centuries-old traditions. By visiting authentic factories and tasting these delicacies, it connects visitors to Parma’s rich food heritage, recognized globally as part of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network for Gastronomy since 2015.

Highlights

• Witness the artisanal production of Parmigiano Reggiano at a cheese factory.
• Explore the traditional process of crafting Prosciutto di Parma in its scenic hills.
• Enjoy tastings of aged Parmigiano Reggiano and Prosciutto di Parma with local wine.
• Learn from a knowledgeable guide about the history and techniques of these specialties.
• Benefit from convenient round-trip transport from Parma or Reggio Emilia.

Full Description

Embark on a 4-hour culinary journey through Parma’s gastronomic heart, with pickup from Parma or Reggio Emilia AV Mediopadana (Viale Paolo Borsellino, 31). Travel by van (15 minutes) to a Parmigiano Reggiano factory, where your guide (fluent in English and Italian) explains the cheese’s 800-year history. Watch master cheesemakers craft wheels using raw milk, copper vats, and time-honored techniques, then visit the seasoning rooms where wheels age for up to 36 months. Savor tastings of different-aged Parmigiano and browse the factory shop for local products.

Next, drive (40 minutes) to a Prosciutto di Parma producer in the picturesque hills. Learn about the ham’s history, from selecting premium pork to the salting and curing stages in refrigeration cells. Tour the seasoning chambers, where hams mature for at least 12 months, and discover the “spillatura” process, where experts test for the iconic “Crown of Parma” quality seal. Conclude with a tasting of silky Prosciutto paired with a glass of local wine, such as Malvasia or Lambrusco, before returning by van (40 minutes) to your drop-off point.

This small-group tour blends education, sensory delight, and Parma’s pastoral beauty, offering an authentic taste of Emilia-Romagna’s culinary legacy.

Why Choose This Experience?

This tour provides exclusive access to authentic Parmigiano Reggiano and Prosciutto di Parma production sites, guided by experts who demystify these iconic foods’ craftsmanship. The tastings, paired with local wine, elevate the experience, making it a must for food lovers and those eager to explore Parma’s UNESCO-recognized gastronomy.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours, reserve-now-pay-later, and convenient transport, it’s a hassle-free way to dive into Emilia-Romagna’s food culture. The small-group format ensures a personal touch, ideal for pairing with visits to Bologna or Modena.

What’s Included

• Pickup and drop-off (Parma or Reggio Emilia AV Mediopadana)
• Expert guide (English, Italian)
• Entry to Parmigiano Reggiano and Prosciutto di Parma factories
• Tastings of Parmigiano Reggiano, Prosciutto di Parma, and local wine

Itinerary

• Pickup at Reggio Emilia AV Mediopadana or Parma (8:30 AM, 9:30 AM, or 10:00 AM)
• Van transfer to Parmigiano Reggiano factory (15 minutes)
• Guided tour of cheese production and seasoning rooms, with tasting and shopping (1.5 hours)
• Van transfer to Prosciutto di Parma producer in Province de Parme (40 minutes)
• Guided tour of ham production, seasoning chambers, and “spillatura,” with tasting and wine (1 hour)
• Return by van to drop-off point (40 minutes)

Pricing

From $130 per person

Meeting Point

Viale Paolo Borsellino, 31 (Reggio Emilia AV Mediopadana) or designated Parma location (varies by option: 8:30 AM, 9:30 AM, or 10:00 AM)

How to Get There

• By train: Take Trenitalia to Reggio Emilia AV Mediopadana (15 minutes from Bologna) or Parma station; meeting points are nearby.
• By car: Drive to Viale Paolo Borsellino, 31, or Parma pickup point (parking available); Reggio Emilia is 30 minutes from Parma via A1.
• By bus: FlixBus or MarinoBus to Parma or Reggio Emilia; short walk or taxi to meeting point.

Good to Know

What to Bring

• Comfortable closed-toe shoes for factory tours
• Valid ID or passport for verification
• Light jacket, as factories can be cool
• Small bag for purchases at factory shops

Know Before You Go

• Late arrivals after the scheduled time are considered no-shows; bookings are non-refundable and non-reschedulable, so plan carefully.
• Sandals, flip-flops, pets, baby strollers, large bags, and food/drinks in the van are not allowed.
• The tour operates rain or shine; dress for weather during transfers.
• Factories adhere to hygiene standards; closed-toe shoes are mandatory.
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Reviews

• Everything was perfect! Our guide was incredibly informative and personable, making the cheese and ham processes fascinating. The tastings were delicious, and the wine pairing was a great touch. I’d do this tour again in a heartbeat!
• Sergio, our guide and local farmer, was awesome—his knowledge and humor brought the Parmigiano and Prosciutto tours to life. The factories were eye-opening, and the tastings were divine. A fantastic day in Parma!
• The guide’s expertise made this tour exceptional. Learning the intricate steps of Parmigiano and Prosciutto production was captivating, and the tastings were a highlight. A must for food lovers visiting Emilia-Romagna!