Easy Parmesan Tours from Parma

If you’re visiting Parma and want to experience the famous Parmigiano Reggiano cheese at its source, taking a Parmesan cheese tour is a must! This easy-to-organize tour will let you see firsthand how this world-renowned cheese is made, aged, and enjoyed. Best of all, you can arrange everything from Parma with minimal hassle.

Why Take a Parmesan Cheese Tour?

Parmigiano Reggiano, often called the “King of Cheeses,” is a staple of Italian cuisine and has been produced using traditional methods for centuries. A guided tour will give you an up-close look at the craftsmanship behind this beloved cheese, including:

• Watching the cheese-making process from fresh milk to solid wheels
• Exploring the aging rooms where cheese matures for months or even years
• Tasting different varieties of Parmigiano Reggiano at various aging stages

How to Get There

From Parma, visiting a Parmesan cheese factory is simple. Many dairies are located just outside the city, within a 20–30 minute drive. If you don’t have a car, many tour operators offer transportation as part of the package. Alternatively, taxis and rental cars are convenient options for those who prefer a self-guided trip.

What to Expect on the Tour

1. Arrival and Welcome: Most tours begin early in the morning, as the cheese-making process starts early. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by a guide who will explain the day’s schedule.
2. Milk Processing: See how fresh milk is transformed into curds and then cooked in large copper vats to form cheese wheels.
3. Salting & Aging: Learn about the salting and aging process that gives Parmigiano Reggiano its distinct flavor and texture.
4. Tasting Session: The highlight of the tour! You’ll sample Parmigiano Reggiano at different aging stages (12, 24, and 36 months) to understand how the flavors develop over time.
5. Opportunity to Buy: Many dairies have a small shop where you can purchase cheese at factory prices—perfect for taking a piece of Italy home with you!

Visit CPL Parma

One of the top Parmesan cheese producers in the area is CPL Parma. Conveniently located near the motorway and Parma itself, CPL Parma is known for its dedication to high-quality Parmigiano Reggiano production, following traditional methods. They source their milk from local farms and adhere to strict regulations to ensure the best cheese.

• Website: CPL Parma
• Products: Parmigiano Reggiano and other local dairy specialties.
• Production Process: Traditional cheese-making and long aging periods for superior taste.
• Tours & Visits: Check their website or contact them directly for guided tours to see the process up close and enjoy exclusive tastings.

Visit Paverazzi

Another renowned producer of Parmigiano Reggiano is Paverazzi. They are committed to producing high-quality cheese using traditional techniques and the best local ingredients. Their expertise ensures a rich and authentic taste that represents the best of Italian dairy craftsmanship.

• Website: Paverazzi
• Products: Parmigiano Reggiano and other fine dairy products.
• Production Process: High standards in milk selection and aging for premium cheese quality.
• Tours & Visits: Check their website for tour availability and tasting sessions.

Visit Caseificio Traversetolese

Another excellent dairy to visit is Caseificio Traversetolese, known for its expertise in Parmigiano Reggiano production. This dairy follows traditional cheese-making methods while maintaining high-quality standards to produce some of the finest cheese in the region.

• Website: Caseificio Traversetolese
• Products: Parmigiano Reggiano and other locally made dairy products.
• Production Process: Traditional cheese-making with a focus on quality milk and expert aging.
• Tours & Visits: Visit their website to check for available tours and tasting experiences.

Bonus Hint: Visit Acetaia Medici

For an added treat, consider visiting Acetaia Medici to experience the rich flavors of Balsamic Vinegar of Reggio Emilia. This historic acetaia offers guided tours where you can learn about the traditional balsamic aging process and enjoy tastings. Additionally, you can try Lambrusco wine, such as Concerto, a well-known sparkling red from the region.

• Website: Acetaia Medici
• Products: Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Reggio Emilia and high-quality Lambrusco wines.
• Tours & Tastings: Explore their aging barrels and sample exquisite vinegars and wines.

Booking a Tour

Several tour companies in Parma offer Parmesan cheese experiences. You can book directly through a tour agency, your hotel, or online. It’s best to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Tips for Your Visit

• Wear comfortable shoes as some walking is involved.
• Arrive on time since the cheese-making process happens early in the day.
• Be prepared for strong aromas—the aging rooms have a rich, cheesy scent!
• Bring a camera to capture the fascinating process.

Final Thoughts

A Parmesan cheese tour from Parma is a fun, educational, and delicious experience. Whether you’re a food lover, a curious traveler, or simply looking for an authentic Italian adventure, this easy trip is a fantastic way to learn about and enjoy one of Italy’s most treasured products.

So, if you’re in Parma, don’t miss the chance to take a delightful journey into the world of Parmigiano Reggiano!