Parma: Parmigiano-Reggiano Cheese Tour

Parma is renowned for its production of the world-famous Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. This 3.5-hour small-group tour offers an immersive experience, taking visitors behind the scenes of a local cheese factory. From shaping the curds to aging the wheels, participants gain a deep understanding of the intricate process that creates this beloved Italian delicacy. With tastings of various maturation stages paired with regional delights, the tour promises an unforgettable insight into Parma’s rich culinary heritage.

Key Points

• Immersive 3.5-hour tour exploring traditional Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese production in Parma, including a guided factory visit and cheese tasting.
• Tour priced at $84.10 per person, with free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance and a maximum of 10 participants.
• Itinerary includes a 25-minute van ride to the cheese factory, guided tour of the cheese-making process, and return transport to the hotel.
• Participants gain insight into the EU-protected origins and certification of Parmigiano-Reggiano, as well as witness skilled cheesemakers in action.
• Tour has received a rating of 4.8/5 from 77 reviews, with praise for the knowledgeable guide and overall amazing experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour offers an immersive experience exploring the traditional production of Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese in Parma.

Priced from $84.10 per person, the 3.5-hour tour is limited to 10 participants and available in English and Italian.

Guests will travel by van to a local cheese factory where they’ll go on a guided tour, observe cheese makers in action, and learn about the EU’s protection and certification processes.

The tour also includes a tasting of Parmesan cheese with honey and local wine.

Cancelations are free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Itinerary Details

The tour begins at the NH Parma hotel, where you will board a van for the 25-minute drive to the traditional cheese factory.

Once there, the group will embark on a guided tour of the cheese-making process. They’ll visit the shaping and salting rooms, as well as the stagionatura, or aging area, observing the cheese makers at work.

The tour also covers the EU protection and certification processes for Parmigiano-Reggiano.

The tour covers the EU protection and certification processes for the renowned Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.

After the tour, the van will transport the group back to the NH Parma hotel, completing the 3.5-hour experience.

Cheese Factory Experience

One of the highlights of the Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese tour is the in-depth look at the traditional production methods used at the cheese factory.

Guests witness the skilled cheesemakers in action, observing the shaping and salting rooms as well as the stagionatura, or aging area.

The tour provides insight into the origins and EU-protected certification process of this renowned cheese.

Guests also have the opportunity to sample Parmesan of different ages, paired with local honey and wine.

This hands-on experience offers a comprehensive understanding of the craftsmanship and care that goes into producing the world-famous Parmigiano-Reggiano.

Customer Feedback

How do customers rate this Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese tour overall? Based on 77 reviews, the tour receives an impressive 4.8/5 rating.

Customers are particularly impressed with the knowledgeable and engaging guide, who leads them through the cheesemaking process.

One reviewer from South Africa, David, describes the experience as "amazing" with a "super guide, Loris."

Dianne from the United States highlights the informative tour and opportunity to meet fellow travelers.

Reviewer Nancy also praises the "great visuals and tasting of different cheese ages."

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Logistical Information

The tour meeting point is at the NH hotel near Parma station, specifically at the north exit Falcone/Borsellino.

You’ll find the van waiting at the bus parking area.

Please don’t bring large bags, as they’re not allowed on the van.

The tour operates rain or shine, as long as it’s safe.

If you need to book train tickets, you can do so through Trenitalia.

The tour will take you to a traditional cheese factory where you’ll learn about the origins and production of Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.

Enjoy the 25-minute van ride to and from the factory.

History and Tradition

Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese has a rich history dating back centuries, rooted in the Parma region’s unique climate and agricultural traditions.

This iconic Italian cheese originated in the Middle Ages, crafted by local monks who perfected the process of aging the curds.

The production of Parmigiano-Reggiano is tightly regulated, with strict controls over the ingredients, methods, and aging timeline.

Today, the cheese is protected by the European Union’s Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status, ensuring its authenticity and quality.

Visitors can witness the artisanal techniques of Parmesan-making during the tour, gaining a deeper appreciation for this time-honored culinary heritage.

Sensory Experience

Though the tour provides a comprehensive look into the intricate processes behind Parmigiano-Reggiano’s production, it’s the sensory experience that truly captivates visitors. At the cheese factory, guests are invited to engage all their senses. They can watch skilled artisans handcraft the iconic wheels, inhale the rich, nutty aroma, and feel the texture of the aging rinds. The tour culminates in a tasting, where participants savor the distinct flavors of Parmesan at various maturation stages, complemented by honey and local wines. This multi-sensory exploration immerses guests in the essence of this revered Italian delicacy.

| Sense | Experience |

| — | — |

| Sight | Observe cheese makers in action |

| Smell | Inhale the rich, nutty aroma |

| Touch | Feel the texture of the aging rinds |

| Taste | Sample Parmesan at various maturation stages |

Sustainability and Certification

As a globally protected designation, Parmigiano-Reggiano’s production adheres to strict sustainability and certification standards to ensure its authenticity and quality.

The cheese is only produced in designated regions of northern Italy using traditional methods passed down for centuries. Each wheel is closely monitored and certified by the Parmigiano-Reggiano Consortium, which oversees the entire production process.

Parmigiano-Reggiano is produced in designated northern Italian regions using traditional methods and closely monitored by the Parmigiano-Reggiano Consortium.

This guarantees the cheese meets rigorous DOP (Protected Designation of Origin) requirements, including the use of only natural ingredients and specific aging periods.

These certifications protect the Parmigiano-Reggiano name and reputation, ensuring consumers receive the genuine, high-quality product.

Ask Away

What Time Does the Tour Typically Start?

The tour typically starts at the NH hotel, with transportation provided to the cheese factory around 25 minutes away. The exact start time isn’t specified, but it’s likely in the morning or early afternoon to accommodate the 3.5-hour duration.

Can I Bring Children on the Tour?

The tour typically allows children, but it’s recommended for ages 12 and up due to the factory environment. Parents should check with the tour operator to ensure their child’s needs can be accommodated.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour duration can’t be extended. However, guests who wish to spend more time at the cheese factory can inquire about adding a private tasting or extra shopping time at the time of booking. The standard tour length is 3.5 hours.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Tasting Glass?

No, you don’t need to bring your own tasting glass. The cheese factory provides tasting glasses for guests to sample the Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese during the tour.

Can I Purchase Additional Cheese at the Factory?

Yes, visitors can purchase additional Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese at the factory. The tour includes a shopping opportunity where you can buy wheels of various ages and sizes of the famous Italian cheese to take home.

Final Words

The Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese tour in Parma offers an immersive experience into the rich culinary tradition of Italy. Visitors can explore the intricate cheese-making process, taste various ages of the renowned cheese, and learn about the region’s commitment to sustainability and quality certification. With high customer satisfaction, this small-group tour provides an unforgettable insight into Parma’s iconic gastronomic heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: