From Bologna/Milan/Florence to Parma in 1st class: Parmigiano and Prosciutto PDO
Marconi, Milan
Discover Parma: first-class high-speed train from Bologna, Milan, or Florence, transfers, and guided tours with tastings at a Parmigiano Reggiano cheese factory and a traditional ham factory.
Emilia Food Valley Tour with Parmigiano Reggiano and Parma Ham Tastings
This half-day guided tour explores Emilia’s food traditions, including Parmigiano Reggiano cheese and Prosciutto di Parma, ideal for food lovers departing from Bologna or Parma.
Highlights
- Round-trip high-speed train journey in first class (if included in the option)
- Guided discovery of Emilia hills and cheese aging process
- Visit to Parmigiano Reggiano cheese factory with food tasting
- Tour of a traditional Italian ham factory with Prosciutto di Parma PDO tasting
- Experience Food Valley’s culture, taste, and tradition
Description
Start your day at Bologna Centrale train station and travel in first class on the Italo high-speed train to Reggio Emilia Mediopadana station (if you select the train option). Upon arrival, a private driver transfers you to the Emilian countryside, where you meet your guide and group. For the “smart” option, the tour begins directly in Parma with no train ticket included.
Visit an authentic Parmigiano Reggiano dairy to tour the aging rooms, known as 'the cathedrals of cheese,' filled with thousands of wheels. The 8:30 AM option lets you witness the live extraction of hot cheese wheels and the “spinatura” (curd breaking) by master cheesemakers. The tasting session includes cheeses aged 12, 24, and 36 months to explore their flavor differences.
Next, explore the Parma hills’ microclimate during a visit to a selected ham factory. Here you learn how salt, air, and time transform pork legs into Prosciutto di Parma PDO. The tasting highlights freshly sliced Parma ham known for its distinctive sweetness.
The tour concludes with a return transfer to Mediopadana station or Parma central station, depending on your chosen option.
Includes
- Round-trip Italo high-speed first-class train ticket from Bologna to Reggio Emilia AV Mediopadana station (if included)
- Pick-up at Reggio Emilia AV station by minivan (if included)
- Meeting with the tour leader and group at Reggio Emilia AV Mediopadana station or in Parma (smart option)
- Shared transport by private vehicle during the tour
- Guided visits and food tastings at Parmigiano Reggiano and Parma ham producers
Excludes
- Personal expenses and tips
- Anything not explicitly mentioned in the inclusions
Important Information
- Please arrive at least 10 minutes before the departure time at the meeting point. Late arrivals may not be accommodated, and no refund will be issued.
- You will receive confirmation details from staff one day before the experience.
- If selecting the train option, meet your guide at Reggio Emilia Mediopadana Train Station. Train travel is independent for both outbound and return journeys.
- Notify the operator in advance of any food intolerances, allergies, or special needs. Accommodations will be attempted but are not guaranteed.
- No refunds are available for train delays if choosing the train option. In case of strikes, the operator will provide updates and assist in finding alternatives.
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
To ensure your place, book early. Bring comfortable walking shoes and a camera. The best time to visit is in the morning for the 8:30 option to see the cheese production live.
