parma ham tour modena

• Vist Parmesan Cheese Factory
• Visit Balsamic Vinegar producer
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Visit Parmigiano Prosciutto di Parma  and Balsamic Vinegar 

Discover how theese three excellences of our Territory are produced

Tour Description

A fantastic experience in the heart of the Food Valley to discover three world-class products: Parmigiano Reggiano, Parma Ham and Balsamic Vinegar of Modena. The Tour starts from the established starting point and then heads to a traditional dairy producer to see live the different stages of Parmigiano Reggiano production. It will be possible to watch the extraction of the new forms of Parmesan, visit the brine room and the maturing warehouse. At the end, there will be a tasting of two different cheese ages accompanied by local wine. Afterwards, we move towards the town of Langhirano where Parma ham is born. After an introduction relating to the territory, a visit to the production rooms of the ham factory and to the maturing rooms is foreseen. At the end of the visit there will be a tasting of Parma ham aged for 24 months with homemade bread and wine from the hills of Parma.

To conclude, we will move towards the Balsamic vinegar factory in the city of Modena. A visit to the company and the processing rooms is planned, where the "black gold" is produced, aged and stored in ancient wooden barrels. There will therefore be a tasting of aged traditional PDO balsamic vinegars and other PGI balsamic vinegars

Experience Highlights

• Visit to the traditional  Producers of Parmigiano, Parma ham, Balsamic vinegar of Modena
• Discover the secrets of Italy's most famous ingredients
• Taste the products
• √    Headsets to hear the tour guide clearly
• √    Pickup and drop-off
• √    G uide
• √    Entry tickets
• √    Tastings
• X   Gratuities

Not suitable for

• People with mobility impairments
• Wheelchair users

Not allowed

• Sandals or flip flops
• Baby strollers
• Open-toed shoes
• Unaccompanied minors
• Alcoholic drinks in the vehicle

Know before you go

• This tour will take place rain or shine.
• The guide will wait max 10 minutes from the departure time

• Parmesan cheese, Prosciutto di Parma and Balsamic Vinegar Food Tour

Guided food tour in Parma and Modena with private car service and driver visiting the producers of Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, Prosciutto di Parma and Balsamic Vinegar.   Taste delicious parmesan cheese, Parma ham, and authentic balsamic vinegar of Modena enjoying a private experience in the food valley of the Emilia Romagna region.

FOOD TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

• Private daytrip in Parma and Modena with private driver and transportation
• Guided full day food experience by an English speaking guide and food expert
• Visit to a cheese dairy of Parmigiano-Reggiano with tastings of different Parmesan cheeses
• Discover how Prosciutto di Parma is made in the hills near Parma
• Visit to an family-run Acetaia of Balsamic Vinegar of Modena and taste it with the producer
• Enjoy an authentic Emilian lunch in an Agriturismo, tasting many traditional dishes of Emilia-Romagna region
• Parma, Unesco creative city of o gastronomy

FOOD TOUR DESCRIPTION

This once-in-a-life-time experience will take you to the  Italian Food Valley , where some of the most famous and delicious Italian typical products are made.

Visit to an authentic cheese dairy of Parmigiano-Reggiano  with tasting. Discover how “the King of all cheeses” is made in the same way since centuries ago like the Monks who invented it. You’ll see first hand the “making of” it, the salt pools and the “wheel cathedrals”, real walls of cheese up to 20.000 in the same place!

Visit to a plant where the worldwide famous “ Prosciutto di Parma ” ham is produced. Discover why the best ham can be made only in the hills of Parma where the “Marino” wind blows from the Ligurian Sea trough the “Food Valley”.

Have you ever heard about Italy’s black gold? We are talking about the traditional  Balsamic Vinegar  which is produced only in the areas of Modena and Reggio Emilia. Welcomed in a family-run Acetaia , we will taste this special traditional balsamic vinegar with the producer , learning family recipes and secrets!

Finally enjoy a delicious lunch arranged in an agriturismo on the Parma’s hills, overlooking all the Food Valley, tasting the typical Tortelli pasta and many other traditional dishes of Emilia-Romagna region. Let’s go!

Departure available from :

• The Parmesan cheese, Prosciutto di Parma and Balsamic Vinegar Food Tour is a private food experience available from Parma, Modena, Bologna, Milan and from all Tuscany: Florence, Siena, San Gimignano, Chianti (Greve, Gaiole, Radda, Castellina), Arezzo, Cortona, Montepulciano, Montalcino, Pienza, Lucca, Pisa, Volterra.
• approximately 6/8/10/12 hours

Inclusions:

• Qualified and professional English speaking driver
• Luxury vehicle (Mercedes-Benz or equivalent)
• Head office assistance and insurance coverage
• Complimentary water
• Wi-Fi on board
• Food guide and wine expert
• Parmigiano-Reggiano dairy visit with Parmesan tastings
• Visit of a producer of Prosciutto Parma
• Visit to an Acetaia with tasting of Balsamic Vinagar of Modena
• Lunch with traditional dishes of Emilia Romagna region (a vegetarian menu is also available)

Parmigiano Reggiano DOP (Parmesan) : Historical evidence shows that already in 1200-1300, Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese had reached its perfect typicality that has remained unchanged until the present day. The recent history of Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese is essentially the history of how the approximately 350 small artisan dairies of the typical area (that encompasses about three thousand milk producers) has obtained, by way of Law, the recognition of their determination in preserving the processing method and the very high qualitative level of the product. It is the story of how the guarantee of genuineness of Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese is now an absolute guarantee, thanks to the precise rules, applied with strict conformity self-discipline and control. Parmigiano-Reggiano is guaranteed from more than seventy years from the Consortium and, above all, it is loved since nine centuries for its generous taste.

Prosciutto di Parma ham DOP : The production of genuine Parma Ham is the story of a special relationship between man and nature. Since Roman times, the unique conditions of the Parma region have made it possible to produce the highest quality hams that have been appreciated by gourmets for centuries. All Parma Ham authorized producers must be located within the geographical boundaries of the Parma production area, South of the Emilia way not less than 5 km from it and up to a maximum altitude of 900 metres. The name Parma Ham for instance is exclusively reserved to hams produced in Parma according to the strict rules defined by the Consorzio’s specifications, which are based on the ancient tradition of its place of origin; in 1996 Parma Ham became one of the first meat products to be awarded the Designation of Protected Origin status.

Modena Balsamic vinegar : Towards the end of the 13th century, the art of vinegar production was cultivated at the Este Court in Modena. But it was only 1747, that the adjective balsamic made its appearance for the first time, in the registers of the cellars of the Dukes of Este: it was recorded as half balsamic and refined balsamic, distinctions which correspond to the current Balsamic Vinegar of Modena (Aceto Balsamico di Modena IGP). The production regulations leave plenty of leeway, allowing the use of grape must in percentages between 20 and 90% and wine vinegar between 10 and 80%. The use of caramel is allowed, up to 2%.

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Every Cheese Lover Should Visit the Parmesan Cheese Trail in Italy — Here’s How to Do It Right

This cheese-centered journey in Emilia-Romagna, Italy, is a seriously delicious vacation.

Parmesan is so ubiquitous in Italian cuisine that little thought goes into what it actually is . Well, technically any hardened cheese could wear the label. Most of them would be imposters, however. There is but one authentic example of the style: the original Parmigiano-Reggiano.

Just as Champagne must come from a specific region in France , and Port from Portugal , authentic Parmigiano-Reggiano is cultivated exclusively in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy . In fact, its title was among the first protected designations of origin (PDOs) established in the European Union. And the region is well worth seeing for yourself. Any self-respecting gourmand needs to make a pilgrimage to the Parmesan cheese trail. If you’re ready to roll, you'd best come hungry.

“This strip of land crossed by the Via Emilia, from the river Po to the Apennines has birthed some of the most iconic products of Italian cuisine,” explained Nicola Bertinelli, president of the Parmigiano Reggiano Consortium , the trade council tasked with protecting the designation. “Parmigiano-Reggiano, Parma ham, Balsamic Vinegar of Modena, even the fresh egg pasta all come from here. They have their origins in the mists of time. Just think: the first document mentioning a cheese made in Parma dates back to 1254.”

Today, the region is known as the “Italian Food Valley” and boasts about 44 PDO products. That’s more than any other region in Europe. The U.S. does its fair share to promote its stature. Each year, we buy more than 10,000 tons of Parmigiano-Reggiano, making us the second biggest consumer after France.

Any exploration of the region typically begins in Parma, a mid-sized city with a population of 190,000 residents and a history dating back 3,500 years. Getting here requires an hour's drive from Bologna or a two-hour excursion out of Milan’s Malpensa Airport.

Once you arrive, park your bags at the Grand Hotel de la Ville , a five-star accommodation within easy walking distance of downtown attractions. This is also the perfect jumping-off point to explore dozens of dairies in the surrounding countryside — where the cheese is crafted — and Michelin-starred outposts where it is worked into elegant cuisine. Take your first meal at Parizzi for an example of how Parmesan, aged up to four years, can influence varied components throughout a three-course tasting menu.

Sleep off the jet lag before heading out on the trail. Then start your journey at the Museo del Parmigiano Reggiano . Dedicated to the namesake cheese, the museum is open to the public on weekends and holidays. Nearby, along the eastern outskirts of the city, you can also book a guided experience at Latteria Sociale San Pier Damiani . For 20 euros you’ll receive a two-hour tour showcasing a handmade technique that’s remained largely unchanged for generations. Skilled laborers stretch and sculpt curds, eventually hanging 100-pound wheels from a cloth suspended above copper-lined vats. Afterward, you’ll get to taste several examples of the finished product.

Further south, stop at Caseificio San Bernardino for a compelling illustration of how integral aging is to premium Parmesan. Among the bigger dairies in the region, the producer maintains a vast storage room where wheels are stacked 24 high and 90 long. A guide walks you through the tight rows, with thousands of pounds of cheese towering overhead. After a minimum of 12 months, an inspector will tap every one of these specimens, testing for uniform density and the absence of fissures.

The consortium maintains the most rigid standards in all of Italian cheese manufacturing. And it is evident in each bite, particularly when procured from the source. Fresh from the aging warehouse, blocks of Parmigiano-Reggiano have a crystalline grittiness — a signature crunch that inferior knockoffs lack. “It is the perfect umami,” said famed chef Massimo Bottura in describing the rich, protein-laced flavors of his native delicacy.

Sadly, you’re probably not getting into his three-Michelin-starred restaurant Osteria Francescana in neighboring Modena, which books up more than three months in advance. But don’t despair. The smaller town of Reggio Emilia boasts plenty of comparable outposts, attracting far less international fanfare. Ca’ Matilde is a prime example, where the local ingredients are spun into dazzling displays of modern wizardry.

Masticabrodo is a quaint and cozy family-run trattoria where housemade pasta, such as anolini and tortelli, shines due to simple preparations involving Parmigiano-Reggiano, herbs, and oil. Cooking classes are offered here by appointment, so you can return to the States with an admirable new skillset — and a cheese-stuffed suitcase. Just be sure to declare any food items to customs agents upon arrival, as mandated by the USDA .

There’s nothing like a souvenir you can sink your teeth into. And your friends will surely agree. But with the prices of cheese increasing, you'll likely see more imposters flooding your local dairy case. “Safeguarding our products is increasingly difficult in a context in which the powerful international lobbies use Italian-sounding names to sell products that are not Italian,” said Bertinelli. “It’s a practice that damages not only our economy but also the consumers, who are deceived by these terms.” Journey to the source, and you won’t be fooled again.

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Escorted tour

Taste your way around beautiful bologna and modena.

Known as La Grassa - 'the fat one' - Bologna is Italy's gastronomic capital and renowned for its hearty homemade pastas, meaty ragùs and myrtle-spiced mortadella sausage.

This gourmet adventure includes a mouthwatering foodie tour of Bologna, where you'll have the chance to learn about this beautiful city through its fascinating gastronomic history and taste some of its world-famous dishes on a special guided tour.

But the tasty experiences don't stop there. You'll get the chance to sample some of the wider region's delicacies too, with a visit to a local Parmesan factory, a Balsamic vineyard, and a family-run Parma ham producer. And, of course, all of these visits include a chance to taste these delectable products for yourself.

As well as Bologna you'll also spend time in pretty Modena, where you can spend your free time discovering the city's history and culture, from the grand Duomo, to Ferrari and Lamborghini museums and the former home of opera legend Luciano Pavarotti, where you can see memorabilia, including letters, photos, and costumes.

A highlight of your time in Modena will be a very special cooking lesson with a welcoming local host, who'll show you how to make the most of the flavoursome local produce to create fantastic Italian dishes at home.

In both Bologna and Modena you'll be staying in stylish, centrally located hotels that will allow you to make the most of your free time, putting you in prime position to explore the city's many historical monuments in each city.

Reasons to book

Beautiful Bologna

Learn to cook like a local

Plenty of tastings

Pretty Parma

Magnificent Modena

Price includes.

• Return flights from the UK
• All transfers and airport pick-up and drop-off
• Services of a bilingual guide
• Three nights' hotel accommodation in Bologna
• Two nights' hotel accommodation in Modena
• Breakfast each day at your hotel
• Two lunches
• Bologna food walking tour
• Parmesan, Parma ham, and Balsamic vinegar tour and tasting
• Cooking lesson with a local chef

Additional information Flights 30 March - 4 April 2024 Departing London Heathrow 08.40 arriving Bologna 11.55 Returning from Bologna 11.50 arriving London Heathrow 13.10 4 - 9 April 2024 Departing London Heathrow 08.40 arriving Bologna 11.55 Returning from Bologna 11.50 arriving London Heathrow 13.10 24 September - 29 September 2024 Departing London Heathrow 07.40 arriving Bologna 10.50 Returning from Bologna 13.00 arriving London Heathrow 14.20 28 September - 3 October 2024 Departing London Heathrow Returning from Bologna Including 23kg hold luggage. Alternative flights are available, please call for details. Supplements may apply. Single supplement From £270* Accommodation Villa Savioli, Bologna La Casa di Valeria, Modena *This information is indicative and subject to change*

Availability

* From price is per person, based on two sharing, subject to availability. Price and itinerary correct at time of print but may be subject to change. Single supplement £270. Deposit 30%. Local charges such as tourist tax may apply. Travel insurance is not included and should be taken out at time of booking. This holiday may be sold through other selected brands. Images used may not reflect your actual tour experience. Tour is operated by and subject to the booking conditions of TS Travel Ltd (ATOL bonded).

* From price is per person, based on two sharing, subject to availability. Price and itinerary correct at time of print but may be subject to change. Single supplement £389. Deposit 30%. Local charges such as tourist tax may apply. Travel insurance is not included and should be taken out at time of booking. This holiday may be sold through other selected brands. Images used may not reflect your actual tour experience. Tour is operated by and subject to the booking conditions of TS Travel Ltd (ATOL bonded).

Today you'll arrive at Bologna airport where you'll be met by a guide and transferred to your stylish accommodation. Once you're settled in, the rest of the day is yours to spend at leisure. You might choose to visit Bologna's Piazza Maggiore in the very heart of the city, where you can see the elegant facades of many important buildings, like the Basilica of San Petronio and the Palazzo dei Notai.

In the evening there'll be a group meeting where you can meet your tour manager and prepare for the following days' excursions, depending on timings the meeting may take place the next morning.

This morning you'll enjoy a delicious food tour of Bologna, where you'll have the opportunity to learn about this beautiful city through its fascinating history and, of course, taste its world-renowned food. The city is famous for delicacies like mortadella sausage and tagliatelle al ragù - aka spaghetti bolognese.

In the afternoon you'll travel to Modena, a quintessential Italian city known for its operatic heritage and as being the home of Ferrari and Lamborghini sports cars. Once you've checked into your hotel you'll have the rest of the day at your leisure.

Perhaps you'll choose to visit the Ferrari museum to learn more about Modena's connections to the luxury Italian brand. You can also pay a visit to Modena's magnificent 12th-century duomo.

This morning you'll pay a visit to a local Balsamic vineyard where you'll learn about the history of Balsamic vinegar as well as the patience and care required to produce the very best vinegar.

You'll have the opportunity to taste various different ages of Balsamic to get a true understanding of the art of vinegar making.

After your tour and tasting, you'll be taken for your next experience; learning to cook with a Modena local. This experience not only allows you to learn about the local cooking but gives you the opportunity to learn more about the local culture and customs from your hospitable hosts.

After lunch you'll have the rest of the day at your leisure to explore more of Modena, or simply relax in the hotel.

In the morning you'll visit a local Parmesan factory to learn about the interesting and intricate process required to produce the region's most popular cheese. Then, of course, you'll get to taste different ages of Parmesan with various condiments to complement and enhance the flavour.

Next you'll pay a visit to a local family-run Parma ham producer to learn about the painstaking process of creating Italy's most famous ham, which you'll also get to sample plenty of too.

Then you'll be taken to the city of Parma itself, where you'll have some time to explore and have lunch before travelling back to Bologna to spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Today you'll have a day to yourself to explore Bologna at your own pace. You'll have picked up plenty of tips on where to dine from your guides and from locals, from cheap eats to fancier restaurants, so now's your chance to try them for yourself and discover why Bologna is considered one of Italy's best foodie cities.

Check out of the hotel in the morning and transfer to the airport for your flight home, as your gourmet tour comes to an end. If your flight is later in the day, you'll be able to leave your luggage at reception and enjoy a little more of Bologna before heading home.

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FOOD LOVERS TOUR: BOLOGNA, MODENA, PARMA

6 DAYS • FROM $US 5,490

Delicious Bologna, Modena, Parma Tour Overview

6 days exploring italy’s food and cultural heritage in the emilia region.

In Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region, food is an institution that inextricably links the people who live there to their land and the culture. Nestled between the Po River, and the Reggiano Appenine mountains, the unique and fertile landscape surely adds to the deliciousness of the region’s iconic produce.

Join us on a 6 day adventure on the ultimate food lover’s tour through charming villages and vibrant cities, as the scent of rich prosciutto and the piquancy of sharp Parmigiano Reggiano wafts down the streets tempting you for a taste. This is truly authentic Italy where the pace of life is a little bit slower, and where the tourist hordes are yet to find their way.

Our exclusive food and wine focused tour introduces you to well known Bologna and takes you further afield to discover Modena, Parma, and the surrounding countryside where you’ll meet the people of Emilia to discover their way of life and connection to the land.

We meet food and wine producers who have worked this land for generations, chat to artisans, and soak up wonderful views that leave you with a deep appreciation for the importance of slow living and slow travel.

Upcoming Tours

Bologna Modena Parma Tour Highlights

Meet the artisan producers of Italy’s most beloved products • Parmigiano Reggiano dairy visit • Markets and historic providores • Balsamic Vinegar experiences • Pretty towns and 15th century castle  • Tortellini cooking class • Wine tasting

What our guests say about Untold Italy Tours

Magical! Beautiful! I’m a bit of a dreamer and I just got lost there last night. Lost in this beauty.. Magnificent! I just loved it –  view video

We have been to Italy several times, but never like this. It has been a wonderful experience  – view video

Aside from every little surprise around every corner, I’ll remember Cosimo and the genuine excitement and pride that come out of him and his storytelling – view video

Bologna Modena Parma Food Lovers Tour Itinerary

La Dotta, La Grassa, e La Rossa

Welcome to iconic Bologna, also known as la dotta (the learned), la grassa (the fat), and la rossa (the red). Did you know it’s home to the world’s oldest university dating back to 1088? The city is alive with a youthful, welcoming atmosphere which you will feel as we walk the medieval streets together.

Arrive mid-morning where you’ll meet with the rest of your group and your host Giulia to start discovering just why the city has so many nicknames. Bologna is a city full of contrasts. Admire the elegant portici interspersed with street art, terracotta hued buildings and striking medieval towers that loom out from the city center.

We meet with our expert local guide and set off for a three hour food walking tour where we share a drink in a historic bar, enjoy exquisite cured meats, taste the region’s ‘black gold’ that dates back to the 11th century, visit a local market, wander past the city’s iconic towers, and begin to understand what makes the Bolognese people tick.

This afternoon, we venture to our beautiful country house hotel where you have time to unpack and relax. Set amidst the rolling green hills and vineyards, unwind in your elegant suite or take a walk around the property and admire the views.

Tonight, our palates will be treated to the first of many gastronomic adventures over dinner. We’ll try wines from the Terre di Castelli region nestled between the plain and the Apennines in the province of Modena. This area is full of charming towns and we will travel to them through our glasses as we discover some of the hundreds of stories from this wine making land.

• ACTIVITIES: Guided food walking tour of Bologna
• MEALS: Lunch, Evening welcome apericena (light dinner)
• ACCOMMODATION: Luxury 4 Star country house hotel

12TH CENTURY CHEESE

If there is one iconic product (besides pasta) that makes you think of Italy, we’re guessing it’s parmesan cheese. Yet did you know that it is made almost exclusively in the Emilia region?

This morning we have the opportunity to learn all about what makes it so special as we head off to visit a local dairy, who just so happened to be featured on Stanley Tucci’s Searching for Italy .

Parmigiano Reggiano dates back all the way to the 12th century thanks to the Benedictine and Cistercian monks in the area who wanted to make use of all the fresh milk. Not only does it taste delicious, but you are actually enjoying a bite of history today. The only question left to answer is how many months you prefer your parmesan is aged!

Next, we head off to a nearby chestnut museum where we will roll up our sleeves for a short fun cooking experience learning to make our own crescentine nelle tigelle. Afterwards, we’ll sit back and enjoy our lunch with products from the mountains, including borlenghi and ciacci. Squisito!

Relax back at the hotel this afternoon before tonight’s culinary adventure. This evening we visit a family run acetaia (balsamic vinegar cellar) for dinner. Here we learn about the incredible tradition of balsamic vinegar making that dates back to the 1700s and is carried on today only in Modena.

The family will show us all the steps of production, from the hilly vineyards of their farm to the cooking room, and two aging rooms before we sample five different kinds of balsamic vinegar. Buonissimo!

Afterwards, we learn how to make tortellini – the iconic pasta of this region together. Find out the cheeky way it got its name and shape in our class this evening and relax as we savor every last bite of pasta together with local wines.

• ACTIVITIES: Dairy visit with tastings, Chestnut museum, and Tortellini cooking class
• MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch with wine, Dinner with wine

Black gold – EMILIA’S TREASURE

Buongiorno and welcome to beautiful Spilamberto. Not on the regular tourist route, this charming village has some very sweet surprises just waiting to be discovered…

Here we will visit the Consortium of traditional balsamic vinegar producers via the Museum of Traditional Balsamic Vinegar to learn more about the history and traditions of this luxurious product. You will never go back to supermarket bought ‘dressing’ after trying the ‘black gold’ of Modena.

Enjoy some free time in the town of Spilamberto before we meet again for a light lunch with salads and local cured meats and cheeses.

If you’ve got a sweet tooth, you’re in luck for this afternoon we learn the art of gelato making with seasonal fruits like cherries in the springtime and gain a newfound appreciation for this creamy delight.

Later, we head off to another wonderful Emilia village off the beaten path. Bring your cameras and your sense of style to this afternoon’s activity. We can’t wait to see your reactions to our little Medieval surprise.

After all that excitement, it’s time to relax at our favorite restaurant in town. It’s the perfect opportunity to try more homemade tortellini in brodo or an indulgent parmigiano-reggiano cream sauce or some of the other tasty regional dishes.

• ACTIVITIES: Museum of Traditional Balsamic Vinegar visit, Gelato making class

MARVELLOUS MODENA

After a leisurely breakfast, we bid farewell to our countryside hotel and make our way towards culinary gem Modena. Famous for the most luxurious food product of all, we are in for a serious foodie treat.

Our day starts with a guided tour with an expert guide as we uncover the untold stories behind this small city of artisans, historic food shops, world famous restaurants, and art. We’ll wander the market together and chat to the vendors who share their passion for their produce, before we have some free time to explore, shop, or grab a bite to eat while the Modenese decide what they are having for dinner. 

This afternoon we take a drive to Parma and check-in to our elegant city center hotel and have some free time to relax or head out for shopping and more sightseeing. 

Tonight’s dinner is at a special restaurant dating back to 1925. Come hungry because a famous delicacy of Parma, scrumptious culatello cured meat is involved.

• ACTIVITIES: Walking tour of Modena
• MEALS: Breakfast, Dinner with wine
• ACCOMMODATION: Gorgeous 4 star city hotel

Parma’s proud artisan heritage

This morning starts with a deep dive into the local culture of Parma. We start our time here with a walking tour led by our local expert guide and uncover some of its most beautiful sites together as we talk about what makes this Emilian city so special. 

Enjoy some free time afterwards to continue wandering the charming streets, go shopping, or relax back at the hotel. We’ll let you know our favorite places for lunch too.

We meet again later in the afternoon for an olfactory experience like no other. Together we take part in a perfume making workshop and learn to craft our very own fragrance, the ultimate one-of-a-kind souvenir to bring home.

With our senses invigorated, relax back at the hotel before coming together for another convivial Parma dinner. 

• ACTIVITIES: Parma walking tour and perfume workshop

Prosciutto and a Fortress

Our tour’s final hours end on a high note that will see you forever enchanted with food-centric Emilia.  

This morning, we set off to explore the Torrechiara Castle. This magnificent fortress at the foot of the Appenines was constructed during the 15th century. Don’t forget your camera – the views of the surrounding countryside full of vineyards are splendid.

Since we haven’t had quite enough of the cured meats this region is known for, we are making a stop at a countryside prosciutteria. Here we will learn how prosciutto is made and sample some of the finest examples in all of Italy.

Our final adventure for the day is a beautiful winery in the area where we relax together for the last time over a long lunch. Soak up the views of the beautiful Emilia countryside and share your impressions of this wonderful central Italian region with your new friends.

With all of our senses buzzing, it’s time to head back to Bologna on our private bus. Inspired and energized by this unassuming region, we leave you dreaming of just one more bowl of tortellini or slice of mortadella as you continue on your Italian journey.

• ACTIVITIES: Torrechiara Castle visit, Prosciutteria visit, and Winery visit
• MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch with wine

Bologna Modena Parma Tour Inclusions

We have strived to make our tour of the Emilia region as all inclusive as possible with no hidden surprises. Included in your tour are:

• 3 nights in a charming luxury 4 star country house and 2 nights in beautiful 4 star hotel accommodation in Parma
• 4 guided walking tours with expert local guides
• Unique experiences:  Bologna food walking tour, Parmigiano Reggiano dairy visit, Balsamic Vinegar Museum visit, wine tastings, tortellini cooking class, gelato workshop, castle visit, prosciutto tasting, perfume making workshop
• Meals: 5 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 1 aperitivo and 5 dinners as specified in the itinerary, wine and bottled water is included with meals other than breakfast
• Luxury air-conditioned transportation
• Tips and gratuities for drivers and guides

Bologna Modena Parma Tour FAQ

Accommodation on tour, meet your host – giulia tamarri.

When Giulia introduced herself as being born under the star sign “tortellini” we knew we would be friends for life.

A professional bilingual tour leader with experience leading groups big and small over Europe, Giulia’s heart lies in her beloved Emilia, the food bowl of Italy.

Arrivals and Departures

Upcoming tour dates.

• SPRING 2025 – April 14 – 19 – book here
• SPRING 2025 – May 6 -11 – book here
• FALL 2025 – September 23 – 28 – book here
• FALL 2025 – October 7 – 12 – book here
• Exclusive tours available on request for groups of 6-10 – inquire

Booking information

• Price from $US 5,490 per person for double or twin share room
• A supplement applies for solo travelers wanting a private room
• 30% deposit required to reserve your spot
• Cancel for a full refund up to 120 days before departure
• Read complete terms and conditions

Discover the Emilia Region

Emilia-Romagna Travel Guide

Uncover the highlights of the region

Dishes to try in Bologna

A chat about the dishes of the Emilia region

• Why Tour With Us
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Escorted tour

Taste the delicious flavours of modena and bologna.

Bologna is Known as La Grassa - 'the fat one' - for good reason. This is Italy's foodie capital and is loved for its meaty ragùs, hearty homemade pastas, and spiced mortadella sausage.

Our gastronomic adventure starts with a tasty guided tour of Bologna, where you'll learn about the city through its gastronomic history and taste some of its renowned dishes for yourself.

You'll get to sample some of the wider region's delicacies as well with visits to a family-run Parma ham producer, a local Parmesan factory, and a Balsamic vineyard. Of course, all of these trips include the chance to taste these mouthwatering products for yourself.

In nearby Modena, a very special cooking lesson has been organised with a local host, who'll show you how to put the flavoursome local produce to good use and how to rustle up flavoursome Italian dishes at home.

Reasons to book

Beautiful Bologna

Learn to cook like a local

Plenty of tastings

Pretty Parma

Magnificent Modena

Price includes.

• Return flights from the UK
• All transfers and airport pick-up and drop-off
• Services of a bilingual guide
• Three nights' hotel accommodation in Bologna
• Two nights' hotel accommodation in Modena
• Breakfast each day at your hotel
• Two lunches
• Bologna food walking tour
• Parmesan, Parma ham, and Balsamic vinegar tour and tasting
• Cooking lesson with a local chef

Additional information Flights 30 March - 4 April 2024 Departing London Heathrow 08.40 arriving Bologna 11.55 Returning from Bologna 11.50 arriving London Heathrow 13.10 4 - 9 April 2024 Departing London Heathrow 08.40 arriving Bologna 11.55 Returning from Bologna 11.50 arriving London Heathrow 13.10 24 September - 29 September 2024 Departing London Heathrow 07.40 arriving Bologna 10.50 Returning from Bologna 13.00 arriving London Heathrow 14.20 28 September - 3 October 2024 Departing London Heathrow Returning from Bologna Including 23kg hold luggage. Alternative flights are available, please call for details. Supplements may apply. Single supplement From £270* Accommodation Villa Savioli, Bologna La Casa di Valeria, Modena *This information is indicative and subject to change*

Availability

* From price is per person, based on two sharing, subject to availability. Price and itinerary correct at time of print but may be subject to change. Single supplement £270. Deposit 30%. Local charges such as tourist tax may apply. Travel insurance is not included and should be taken out at time of booking. This holiday may be sold through other selected brands. Images used may not reflect your actual tour experience. Tour is operated by and subject to the booking conditions of TS Travel Ltd (ATOL bonded).

* From price is per person, based on two sharing, subject to availability. Price and itinerary correct at time of print but may be subject to change. Single supplement £389. Deposit 30%. Local charges such as tourist tax may apply. Travel insurance is not included and should be taken out at time of booking. This holiday may be sold through other selected brands. Images used may not reflect your actual tour experience. Tour is operated by and subject to the booking conditions of TS Travel Ltd (ATOL bonded).

Today you'll arrive at Bologna airport where you'll be met by a guide and transferred to your stylish accommodation. Once you're settled in, the rest of the day is yours to spend at leisure. You might choose to visit Bologna's Piazza Maggiore in the very heart of the city, where you can see the elegant facades of many important buildings, like the Basilica of San Petronio and the Palazzo dei Notai.

In the evening there'll be a group meeting where you can meet your tour manager and prepare for the following days' excursions, depending on timings the meeting may take place the next morning.

This morning you'll enjoy a delicious food tour of Bologna, where you'll have the opportunity to learn about this beautiful city through its fascinating history and, of course, taste its world-renowned food. The city is famous for delicacies like mortadella sausage and tagliatelle al ragù - aka spaghetti bolognese.

In the afternoon you'll travel to Modena, a quintessential Italian city known for its operatic heritage and as being the home of Ferrari and Lamborghini sports cars. Once you've checked into your hotel you'll have the rest of the day at your leisure.

Perhaps you'll choose to visit the Ferrari museum to learn more about Modena's connections to the luxury Italian brand. You can also pay a visit to Modena's magnificent 12th-century duomo.

This morning you'll pay a visit to a local Balsamic vineyard where you'll learn about the history of Balsamic vinegar as well as the patience and care required to produce the very best vinegar.

You'll have the opportunity to taste various different ages of Balsamic to get a true understanding of the art of vinegar making.

After your tour and tasting, you'll be taken for your next experience; learning to cook with a Modena local. This experience not only allows you to learn about the local cooking but gives you the opportunity to learn more about the local culture and customs from your hospitable hosts.

After lunch you'll have the rest of the day at your leisure to explore more of Modena, or simply relax in the hotel.

In the morning you'll visit a local Parmesan factory to learn about the interesting and intricate process required to produce the region's most popular cheese. Then, of course, you'll get to taste different ages of Parmesan with various condiments to complement and enhance the flavour.

Next you'll pay a visit to a local family-run Parma ham producer to learn about the painstaking process of creating Italy's most famous ham, which you'll also get to sample plenty of too.

Then you'll be taken to the city of Parma itself, where you'll have some time to explore and have lunch before travelling back to Bologna to spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Today you'll have a day to yourself to explore Bologna at your own pace. You'll have picked up plenty of tips on where to dine from your guides and from locals, from cheap eats to fancier restaurants, so now's your chance to try them for yourself and discover why Bologna is considered one of Italy's best foodie cities.

Check out of the hotel in the morning and transfer to the airport for your flight home, as your gourmet tour comes to an end. If your flight is later in the day, you'll be able to leave your luggage at reception and enjoy a little more of Bologna before heading home.

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Emilia Delizia

Emilia Delizia | Food Tours Parmesan, Balsamic, and Ham

Balsamic Vinegar Tour: Dive into Modena’s Age-Old Secrets

Parmesan, Balsamic & Ham Tour - Foodie's Delight Tour

Modena Food Walking Tour

Afternoon Aperitivo Tour

How To Visit A Traditional Balsamic Vinegar Producer in Modena - Emilia Romagna - Italy.

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Emilia Delizia invites you to explore a traditional ACETAIA, known as a traditional balsamic vinegar producer, in Modena. Visitors are often astonished by the stark contrast between "regular" or industrial balsamic vinegar and the DOP traditional balsamic vinegar, exclusively crafted in private homes in Modena and Reggio Emilia. A new batch of balsamic vinegar was traditionally initiated at the birth of a baby girl, becoming part of her dowry upon marriage. In earlier centuries, aceto balsamico was primarily used within families and occasionally offered to distinguished guests. It is said that the Duke of Modena maintained his own prestigious vinegar attic in his palace, where notable individuals would be introduced to the exquisite black gold during their visits to Modena. Our Modena vinegar tours provide a unique opportunity to visit private villas and homes where this precious nectar continues to be produced in small quantities, honoring age-old traditions.

Experience the Art of Balsamic Vinegar Making in Modena on a Vinegar Tour.

Traditional balsamic vinegar of Modena is crafted through a meticulous process that begins with reducing organic grape juice (must) by about 30%. This is achieved by gently simmering the must for approximately 24 hours, which increases its sugar content. It's crucial to never reach the boiling point in order to preserve the beneficial bacteria already present in the liquid. This process takes place during the grape harvest season between September and October, using Lambrusco and Trebbiano grapes.

On a Modena vinegar tour, you'll learn about the aging process that involves a set of barrels, typically consisting of 4, 5, or 6 progressively smaller barrels made of different woods like acacia, ash, chestnut, mulberry, and cherry. Starting in autumn, the aging process requires at least 12 years of painstakingly topping up the evaporated must from the penultimate barrel to the last one. This sequence is repeated, moving from the second to last barrel to the penultimate one, and so on until the mother barrel is topped up with fresh grape must. No vinegar is drawn for at least 12 years, allowing for the production of the "younger balsamic vinegar."

Embark on a Modena vinegar tour to explore the fascinating world of traditional balsamic vinegar making and witness the dedication and craftsmanship that goes into producing this exceptional condiment.

The tradition wants that the precious black nectar obtained by the natural concentration of the flavours is used as a digestive at the end of the meal. It is best consumed on plastic or ceramic spoon as metal it is very cold and it would lower the sensory experience.

12 years old traditional balsamic vinegar.

It has more acidity than the other vintages and the sweetness is more subtle. You will soon find out that the favours of the woods are felt on different parts of your tongue and mouth. This balsamic vinegar is particularly indicated on fresher cheeses such as ricotta or mozzarella. You can also add to meat or fish dishes. The important that is used sparingly and only added the end of cooking.

The extra old vintage 24 years old traditional balsamic vinegar of Modena

The acidity decreases and the sweetness is more present, but it is not a flat sugary sensation, it is actually very complex. On your tongue you feel the taste of the blended wood tannins  such as the spiciness of juniper or the sweetness of the cherry wood. At this age it is a perfect match for aged cheese such as Parmesan or even for desserts: straberries, chocolate and ice creams.

28 YEARS OLD VINEGAR and over - Only in the Reggio Emilia province.

Only produced and marketed at this age in the Reggio Emilia. At this point the vinegar has lost a lot of its acidity and it the wood and the sweetness becomes even more accentuated, almost like a sweet complex black nectar. It is best consumed at the end of the meal as a digestive. The province of Reggio Emilia is also a producer of Traditional balsamic vinegar due to the proximity to Modena. The tradition was brought in Reggio Emilia as many women were marring across the 2 provinces bringing their dowry with them. During our Balsamic vinegar tour it is possible to visit Reggio Emilia producer and discover the 3 ageing typical of the area. If you want to learn more about Reggio Emilia culinary tradition please continue reading here .

Balsamic Vinegar Places You Can Visit On Your Own

If you’re an all-round foodie or just love food, there are some things that you can do during your stay in Italy that are food-related and are sure to enhance your experience. Besides trying out the local cuisine and all the traditional dishes available to you, there are activities you can do to fully immerse in the world of Emilia Romagna’s food. Restaurants are a thing you really cannot miss (you’re bound to end up eating out during your vacation, and there’s plenty of excellent places to choose from), but you can also go to local producers to sample ingredients and dishes made with them for a full-on experience. And while you’re looking through reviews and suggestions from fellow foodies on great places that offer food tasting experiences, don’t forget about other pleasures available to you. For example, wine tasting tours are a great idea – as are tours of balsamic vinegar places. Balsamic vinegar might just be a condiment, but if you get deeper into the local culture, you’ll discover that balsamic vinegar in Emilia Romagna is a whole different deal: it’s tradition, it’s pride in local ingredients, it’s about employing processing methods passed down through generations. In short, visiting the place of production of balsamic vinegar will give you a glimpse into the history of this part of Italy, and there are several options to choose from when it comes to where you’re supposed to go to have a taste of Emilia Romagna.

Villa San Donnino

Villa San Donnino is located in a liberty-style villa just outside Modena, the birthplace of Balsamic Vinegar, this will be a very picturesque destination if you want to enjoy the history of this product in a suggestive environment. Since the certified DOP Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena is produced throughout a very limited and controlled area of Emilia Romagna, it’s something that can truly be sampled only when in this type of location. The Acetaia Villa San Donnino would be a great choice for your balsamic vinegar tasting tour, or shopping and booking through the website is recommended . Once there, you’ll have a chance to see the traditional production methods for the vinegar and taste it paired with great local dishes.

Acetaia Di Giorgio

On their website it’s possible to book a visit to this acetaia (vinegar processing place) to, once again, see how the vinegar is produced, get in touch with the history of this excellent traditional product, sample and purchase DOP Balsamic Vinegar – right at the heart of the beautiful city of Modena. The Acetaia di Giorgio is a tiny balsamic vinegar place, family-owned and with a focus on how the vinegar truly is a legacy passed through the generations.

La Vecchia Dispensa

Another great place you can visit to explore the world of DOP Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena is this acetaia, located in Castelvetro di Modena. The acetaia offers guided tours and tastings of different products that can also be purchased at the shop, along with local jams, spirits, wines, sweets and other products from Modena to pair with the vinegar. Mailing the acetaia will allow you to book a tour but also to find out about special events held by La Vecchia Dispensa, such as lunches in the acetaia, cooking classes and hikes through the vineyards.

Acetaia Malpighi

In this acetaia , you will be able to go on a tour of the place, guided by experts, to discover the secrets of the production of this interesting local condiment. During the tour, you’ll learn more about the history of the Balsamic Vinegar of Modena, the techniques employed to achieve the final product, and you’ll have a chance to taste the vinegar. Groups of 10 people or more can arrange a special tour, which includes a vinegar and local food tasting, so you’ll be able to sample cold cuts, Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, baked goods and wine typical of Modena all in the same package, for an all-round culinary experience.

Acetaia Bompana

Free tastings are held on every opening day in the Acetaia Bompana , and you can book tours if you want to learn about the Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena, other than just sampling it in all of its amazing shades of taste. The vinegar can be used in many different ways to enhance dishes, or can just be drizzled on a piece of Parmigiano cheese. This acetaia, like the other certified ones in the area of Modena, is the perfect place to sample the excellence of this traditional and local product. Purchasing some balsamic vinegar for yourself at the outlets annexed to the acetaie will guarantee top quality and an unforgettable taste of Modena to bring back home with you.

In conclusion, a Modena vinegar tour offers a unique and immersive experience into the rich traditions and intricate processes involved in crafting traditional balsamic vinegar. By exploring the picturesque region of Modena and visiting authentic Acetaias, you will gain a deeper appreciation for the time, dedication, and skill required to create this exceptional condiment. The unforgettable sensory journey will leave you with a newfound respect for the craft and a lasting impression of the distinct flavors and aromas of true balsamic vinegar. A visit to Modena's traditional balsamic vinegar producers is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a cultural and educational experience that should not be missed.

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I had the 3 gourmet tour with Emilia Delizia including Parmesan and Parma ham. The balsamic vinegar guided visit in Modena was our highlight. Thank you again for such a great experience