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The 7 Best Tours & Experiences in Reggio Emilia
Reggio Emilia isn’t just about its charming piazzas and historic streets — it’s a city rich with unique tours and experiences that reveal Italy’s culinary secrets, artistic soul, and intriguing past. Whether you’re passionate about aged balsamic vinegar, eager to master homemade gelato, or curious about the city’s mysterious crime stories, Reggio Emilia offers something for every kind of traveler. We especially love the Emilia Flavors: Parmigiano, balsamic, cured meats & wines, which combines tastings with stories from local producers — a perfect way to deepen your appreciation of Emilia-Romagna’s culinary treasures.
Reggio Emilia shines as a place where food, history, and art blend seamlessly. The city’s tours are thoughtfully designed to bring you closer to local traditions, whether that’s through a bike ride along elegant streets or a candlelit night tour exploring crime stories of the past. No matter your interests, each experience provides a genuine glimpse into what makes Reggio Emilia special.
Quick Overview
Our top picks include culinary tours, such as the Emilia Flavors, which combines cheese, balsamic vinegar, and cured meats tastings into a full-day adventure. For those interested in regional beverages, the Balsamic Vinegar Tasting & Barrel Tour near Parma & Reggio offers a quick but immersive experience in vineyard landscapes and barrel cellars. History lovers can explore the city’s darker side with the La Reggio Noire: a tour of the crime stories of the past by Night, while active travelers might enjoy the Reggio Emilia Bike City Tour for a scenic two-hour ride. For hands-on food fun, the Gelato Making Class and Cheese Tasting & Tortelli Cooking Class provide delicious, interactive experiences. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Reggiani Artists’ Houses, a curated look at local creative history.
1. Emilia Flavors: Parmigiano, balsamic, cured meats & wines
At number 1, the Emilia Flavors tour offers an all-encompassing culinary experience that combines Parmigiano Reggiano, aged balsamic vinegar, and regional cured meats. This full-day adventure, lasting between 5 and 8 hours, is designed for food lovers who want to see how some of Italy’s most iconic products are made. The tour starts from Piazzale Guglielmo Marconi, then moves through three carefully selected locations. You’ll visit a Parmesan cheese factory where you can watch wheels of cheese being crafted, and then taste Parmigiano aged from just a few months to over a year. The guide introduces you to the secrets behind the cheese’s aging process, making it a fascinating lesson in patience and tradition.
Next, your journey takes you to Acetaia Picci, a family-run balsamic vinegar producer. Here, you learn about the meticulous process of aging balsamic in traditional barrels, and sample vinegars aged from 3 to 25 years. The final stop, Salumificio Ca’ Bianca, unveils the regional cured meats, with a guided tasting that highlights regional specialties like Prosciutto di Parma and Salami. Guests consistently praise the tour for its knowledgeable guides, delicious tastings, and friendly atmosphere. One reviewer exclaimed, “Alessandro was an excellent guide — fun, informative, and passionate about the food!”
Bottom line: This tour offers a comprehensive deep-dive into Emilia-Romagna’s culinary excellence, making it perfect for serious foodies or anyone eager to connect with local producers.
2. Balsamic Vinegar Tasting & Barrel Tour near Parma & Reggio
For a shorter yet equally immersive experience, the Balsamic Vinegar Tasting & Barrel Tour near Parma and Reggio Emilia is a standout. This 1-hour guided tour begins at Tenuta Medici Ermete, a historic estate famous for its balsamic production. You’ll explore the vineyard grounds, learn about the grape varieties used for balsamic, and walk through the aging barrels where the vinegar matures.
The highlight is the tasting of three DOP balsamic vinegars, each aged more than 10 years, paired with Parmesan cheese. The guide offers insights into the aging process, the importance of quality in DOP products, and how to best enjoy balsamic in your cuisine. Guests rave about the educational nature of the tour and the friendly staff. One reviewer noted, “The team was very helpful and made everything easy to understand — a real eye-opener on how complex balsamic can be.”
Bottom line: Ideal for those short on time but eager for a taste of authentic balsamic and vineyard scenery, this tour is a perfect introduction to Emilia-Romagna’s prized condiment.
3. La Reggio Noire: a tour of the crime stories of the past by Night
If you’re intrigued by dark stories and historical mysteries, La Reggio Noire offers a 1.5-hour evening tour exploring the city’s crime stories and notorious events. The tour includes tales of 16th-century murders in the church, conflicts between the Guelphs and Ghibellines, and the tragic 1915 events at the Ariosto theater. Led by licensed guides with over 10 years of experience, this tour combines storytelling with a touch of theatrical flair.
The tour appeals to history buffs and families alike, offering an engaging look at Reggio Emilia’s less-glamorous past. The stories are vivid and well-researched, providing a different perspective from the usual sightseeing. While some may find the dark themes intense, many visitors enjoy the blend of history and entertainment. It’s an unusual way to see the city’s hidden stories, especially when the streets are quiet and lit by evening lights.
Bottom line: Perfect for curious travelers who want a memorable, engaging evening experience that uncovers Reggio Emilia’s mysterious side.
4. Reggio Emilia Bike City Tour
If you prefer exploring at a leisurely pace, the Reggio Emilia Bike City Tour is a fantastic way to see the city’s architecture, squares, and hidden corners in just two hours. Led by a certified cycling guide, this tour takes you along scenic streets, through historic piazzas, and past notable landmarks, all while enjoying the fresh air. The pace is comfortable, making it suitable for most fitness levels.
After your ride, you’ll enjoy a traditional aperitivo at one of the city’s historic bars, blending sightseeing with authentic local culture. Guests praise the tour for its friendly guide and insightful commentary. It’s a great option for active travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a bit of exercise and socializing.
Bottom line: Ideal for those who want to cover a lot of ground without rushing and love discovering a city on two wheels.
5. Reggio Emilia: Gelato Making Class with Tasting Experience
No visit to Italy is complete without sampling its gelato, and this hands-on class in Reggio Emilia is the perfect way to learn how to make it yourself. During 1.5 hours at Spatolata, you’ll be guided by a professional gelato maker who reveals the secrets behind creating smooth, flavorful gelato from scratch. You’ll taste a variety of natural, healthy ingredients, and even choose your own flavors to make.
The class emphasizes techniques that ensure your gelato turns out creamy and delicious every time. They also offer gluten-free and lactose-free options, accommodating special diets. Many participants leave with a newfound confidence in their dessert skills, plus the satisfaction of eating their own creations. Guests comment on the friendly, expert guidance and the fun atmosphere.
Bottom line: Great for families, couples, or anyone eager to bring home a delicious skill that’s easier than you think.
6. Reggio Emilia: Local Cheese Tasting & Tortelli Cooking Class
For a full-day experience that combines tasting and cooking, this class offers a genuine taste of Reggio Emilia’s food traditions. The day starts at a local dairy farm where you learn to appreciate the nuances of Parmigiano Reggiano, then moves on to making tortelli di ricotta e erbette — a classic regional pasta filled with fresh herbs and cheese. Under the guidance of a warm host, you’ll roll, fill, and cook your own tortelli, then enjoy them as part of a traditional aperitivo with Lambrusco wine and Erbazzone pie.
You’ll shop for ingredients at the farm, giving you a clear sense of the local products and cooking methods. This experience is perfect for food lovers who want hands-on learning and authentic hospitality. Guests appreciate the intimate setting and the chance to eat freshly made pasta while chatting with locals. One reviewer describes it as “a wonderful mix of learning and eating — really felt like being in an Italian home.”
Bottom line: Ideal for those who want a deep dive into regional cuisine with a friendly, authentic touch.
7. Reggiani Artists’ Houses: A Journey through History and Creativity
Art lovers will find this tour a fascinating look at Reggio Emilia’s creative spirit. It explores the homes and workspaces of illustrious local artists, painters, and sculptors, revealing how their environment influenced their work. This 1.5-hour experience is led by licensed guides with over a decade of organizing tours, ensuring engaging storytelling backed by expertise.
The tour is suitable for all ages and offers a rare glimpse into the personal spaces where art was born. It’s perfect for travelers interested in art history and local culture, providing a quiet but meaningful way to deepen your appreciation for Reggio Emilia’s artistic heritage.
Bottom line: A unique cultural experience for art enthusiasts eager to see the city’s creative side from a personal perspective.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding which experience suits you best, consider your interests, pace, and travel style. If you’re passionate about food, the Emilia Flavors tour offers a comprehensive deep dive into regional flavors. For a quick taste of balsamic vinegar, the Barrel Tour provides an educational yet brief experience. History buffs might prefer the crime stories tour, while active travelers will enjoy cycling around the city or making gelato.
Consider your budget and time constraints. Full-day classes like the cheese and tortelli experience deliver immersive, hands-on learning, but require more time. Shorter tours and tastings can fit into a busy schedule while still providing authentic insights. Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time slot.
Final Thoughts
Reggio Emilia’s tours and experiences cover a broad spectrum — from culinary delights to cultural stories and artistic explorations. For those who want an in-depth taste of Emilia-Romagna’s culinary excellence, the Emilia Flavors tour stands out. Active travelers eager to see the city on two wheels will love the Bike City Tour, while culture enthusiasts can’t miss the Artists’ Houses.
Whatever your interests, these carefully selected experiences promise memorable ways to enjoy Reggio Emilia beyond just sightseeing. Be sure to book ahead, especially during busy months, to ensure a smooth and enriching visit.