Explore the heart of Italy’s renowned gastronomic region on this immersive tour from Milan. Discover the secrets behind the production of the world-famous Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, and indulge in a delectable regional lunch that perfectly complements the flavors of this iconic dairy product. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you’ll uncover the rich culinary traditions that have made this part of Italy a mecca for foodies worldwide. But the true delight lies in the unexpected moments that await, as you delve deeper into the region’s captivating history and culture.
Key Points
- A 12-hour tour from Milan that includes a guided visit to a Parmigiano Reggiano dairy farm, cheese tasting, and a regional lunch in the Food Valley.
- The tour features a bilingual tour leader, observation of the cheese-making process, and free time to explore the historic city of Parma.
- Travelers will be provided with audio headsets for groups of 7 or more and air-conditioned transportation throughout the tour.
- The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, and comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate attire are recommended.
- The tour operates rain or shine, and guests are encouraged to explore local delicacies during the free time in Parma.
Tour Overview
The tour is titled "From Milan: Food Valley with Cheese Factory Visit and Lunch" and lasts for 12 hours.
Priced at $151.79 per person, it offers a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
Meeting at Piazza IV Novembre in Milan, the tour includes a guided visit to a Parmigiano Reggiano dairy farm, a tasting of the freshly made cheese, and a regional lunch.
Participants will also explore the historic city of Parma during their free time.
The tour is led by a bilingual guide and features air-conditioned transportation, though it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments.
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Itinerary
Starting at Piazza IV Novembre in Milan, participants board a bus/coach for the 2-hour journey to the first stop on the itinerary. Upon arrival, they’ll enjoy a guided tour and food tasting for 2 hours. Then, it’s a quick 10-minute bus ride to a local tavern for a 2-hour lunch featuring regional specialties and premium wine. The tour continues with a 1.5-hour bus ride to historic Parma, where travelers have 1 hour of free time to explore the city center. Finally, the bus/coach takes them back to Piazza IV Novembre in Milan, a 2-hour journey.
| Itinerary | Duration |
|———-|———–|
| Travel | 2 hours |
| Guided Tour & Tasting | 2 hours |
| Travel | 10 minutes |
| Lunch | 2 hours |
| Travel | 1.5 hours |
| Free Time in Parma | 1 hour |
| Travel | 2 hours |
Highlights
A bilingual Tour Leader accompanies participants throughout the experience, providing insights in both English and Spanish.
At the Parmigiano Reggiano dairy farm, guests observe the cheese-making process and enjoy a tasting of the freshly made specialty.
The tour then continues to a tavern dedicated to Culatello di Zibello, where visitors savor local charcuterie and premium regional wine during a delightful lunch.
Finally, the group has free time to explore the historic city center of Parma, admiring the architecture and shopping for local delicacies.
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended for this immersive food-focused adventure.
Inclusions
This tour includes a professional English/Spanish-speaking Tour Leader who accompanies participants throughout the experience.
Visitors will have the opportunity to visit a Parmigiano Reggiano factory, where they can observe the cheese-making process and enjoy a tasting of the freshly made delicacy.
The tour also includes a delightful lunch at a tavern dedicated to Culatello di Zibello, featuring local specialties and premium regional wine.
Plus, you will be provided with audio headsets starting from 7 people, and transportation will be in an air-conditioned vehicle for the duration of the tour.
More Great Tours NearbyImportant Information
The tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments and wheelchair users, as the itinerary may involve walking and accessing locations that may not be fully accessible.
Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. The tour operates rain or shine, so be prepared for any weather conditions.
Participants should bring the following essentials:
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Comfortable walking shoes
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Weather-appropriate attire
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Camera to capture the scenic countryside
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Snacks or water, if desired
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Sun protection, such as a hat or sunscreen
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Explore the Parmigiano Reggiano Dairy Farm
One of the highlights of the tour is the visit to the Parmigiano Reggiano dairy farm. Guests will observe the intricate cheese-making process and enjoy a tasting of the freshly made Parmigiano Reggiano. This iconic Italian cheese is produced in a specific geographic region using traditional methods passed down for generations.
| Step | Description | Duration |
|——|————-|———-|
| 1 | Milk Curdling | 15 mins |
| 2 | Wheel Forming | 45 mins |
| 3 | Aging | 12-24 months |
The tour provides an authentic farm experience, allowing visitors to appreciate the craftsmanship and quality that goes into this beloved cheese.
Indulge in a Culinary Experience at a Tavern
After experiencing the artistry of Parmigiano Reggiano production, the tour moves on to another culinary highlight – a lunch at a tavern dedicated to Culatello di Zibello, a local charcuterie specialty.
Guests are treated to an immersive dining experience, featuring:
Expertly crafted Culatello di Zibello, a selection of premium regional delicacies, and a glass of fine local wine in an authentic Italian tavern.
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Expertly crafted Culatello di Zibello, a prized cured ham with a distinctive flavor
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A selection of other premium regional delicacies like salumi and cheeses
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A glass of fine local wine to complement the meal
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An opportunity to savor the flavors and ambiance of this authentic Italian tavern
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A chance to learn about the rich culinary traditions of the Parma region.
Discover the Historic City of Parma
After indulging in the local culinary delights, the tour takes visitors to the historic city of Parma, providing an opportunity to explore its charming city center. Parma boasts a rich cultural heritage, with stunning architecture and a thriving artisanal community. Visitors can stroll through the city’s picturesque streets, admiring the grand Duomo, the Baptistery, and the striking Teatro Regio opera house. Plus, the tour allows free time for guests to discover local specialties, from traditional balsamic vinegar to artisanal cheeses and cured meats. This immersion in Parma’s history and gastronomy truly completes the [ARTICLE TITLE] experience.
| Highlights of Parma | |
| — | — |
| Duomo | The impressive cathedral, known for its Romanesque architecture |
| Baptistery | A striking octagonal structure featuring intricate marble carvings |
| Teatro Regio | A renowned opera house that hosts world-class performances |
| Local Specialties | Opportunities to discover traditional balsamic vinegar, cheeses, and cured meats |
The Sum Up
This immersive tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich culinary heritage of Italy’s renowned Food Valley. From the guided tour of the Parmigiano Reggiano dairy farm to the savory regional lunch and exploration of historic Parma, this experience provides an unparalleled taste of Italian gastronomic excellence. With comfortable transportation and a knowledgeable tour leader, it’s the perfect blend of education and indulgence for any food enthusiast.
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