About this tour
This 5-hour small-group tour takes you into the Langhirano hills south of Parma to meet the producers behind two of Italy's most celebrated ingredients. You'll walk through family workshops to see Parmigiano Reggiano and Prosciutto di Parma made by hand, taste them at different ages, and sample regional cured meats. The afternoon includes a drive to the hilltop Castle of Torrechiara with entry and a brief historical overview, leaving time to wander the medieval rooms and courtyards at your own pace.
Highlights
- Three ages of Parmigiano Reggiano compared side-by-side
- Watch curing rooms and aging vats at working dairies
- 24-month prosciutto, fiocco, and culatta tastings
- Countryside scenery from Parma toward the Apennines
- Torrechiara castle with independent exploration time
- Small group ensures access to producer conversations
- Air-conditioned transport between sites
What to expect
Your guide collects you at Parma station early morning and drives through green hills dotted with traditional stone buildings. At each producer—whether a dairy or curing facility—you'll see the actual craft: wheels of cheese ageing in climate-controlled rooms, legs of ham hanging in darkened sheds. Tastings are informal; producers often explain how weather, salt, and patience shape flavour. Lunch is not included in the half-day (5-hour) version. In the afternoon, the castle is a working Renaissance structure with period rooms, frescoes, and views across the valley. You have freedom to linger in corners that appeal to you.
Good to know
Wear comfortable shoes; some producers have steep stairs or uneven floors. The tour suits most fitness levels but involves standing and walking between tastings. Book ahead, especially spring and autumn. Half-day runs 8 am–1 pm roughly. Bring cash if buying direct from producers.
Tour sold and operated by Viator via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original BugBitten summaries written by our team — not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.