Parma isn’t just a pretty city with a stunning cathedral; it’s a culinary treasure trove, famous for Parmigiano Reggiano, Prosciutto di Parma, and balsamic vinegar. What makes Parma special for tours is the authentic access many experiences offer—visiting small producers, seeing traditional methods firsthand, and sampling at the source. We love tours like the Parmigiano Reggiano dairy and Parma ham, which dives into Italy’s iconic foods with expert visits, tastings, and a relaxed countryside backdrop. Whether you’re a foodie or just curious about how Italy’s best ingredients are made, Parma’s tours deliver memorable, delicious experiences.
In this list, you’ll find a variety of food-focused tours — from half-day explorations of Parma’s best eateries, private small-group adventures, to full-day in-depth visits to cheese, ham, and vinegar producers. There are also unique ways to enjoy Parma’s flavors by bike or cooking class. Now, let’s explore each of these top-rated experiences and see what makes each one special.
1. Tour Parmigiano Reggiano dairy and Parma ham
At number 1 on our list, this immersive food tour combines visits to a traditional Parmigiano Reggiano cheese dairy and a Parma ham producer. The tour lasts around 4 to 5 hours and includes tastings of both cheese and ham, paired with local wine. Guests rave about the authentic experience, with guide Loris receiving exceptional praise for his knowledge and friendliness. The tour begins with a scenic drive through the countryside to witness cheese-making and aging firsthand, then moves to ham curing cellars where the aroma alone tells the story.
What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to see the artisanal craft of cheese and ham production from start to finish. Plus, with free tastings, a knowledgeable guide, and a hassle-free pickup, it offers great value at $129.76 per person. It’s ideal for food lovers eager to understand Parma’s culinary pride. If you’re interested in these iconic products, this tour offers a memorable, comprehensive experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a hands-on, authentic look at Parma’s cheese and ham with guided tastings and local wines.
2. Private Half Day Parma Food Walking Tour
Coming in at number 2, this private walking food tour is a 3-hour deep dive into Parma’s culinary scene. Your personal guide takes you through the city’s streets, visiting favorite local spots such as prosciutterie, pasta shops, and gelato parlors. The tour emphasizes local traditions with the option to customize tastings—your choice to skip or indulge makes it flexible for different appetites.
Guests love the intimate format, with reviews highlighting the guide Cecilia’s expert knowledge and the chance to sample Parma’s specialties like Prosciutto di Parma, Culatello, and local wine. The tour starts from Garibaldi Square, offering a blend of cultural sights and genuine food experiences. This tour is especially suited for those who want a personalized, relaxed exploration of Parma’s food and cityscape.
Bottom Line: Ideal if you prefer a private, customizable experience that combines city sightseeing with authentic tastings.
3. Guided group tour TastyBus: Parmesan Cheese and Parma Ham
Number 3 is a guided group tour that lasts about 4 to 7 hours, perfect for travelers who enjoy socializing while exploring. It covers the source of Parma ham and Parmigiano-Reggiano, with visits to production factories and tastings. Plus, the option to upgrade for balsamic vinegar and a traditional trattoria lunch makes it flexible.
Rated highly, guests mention how engaging the guide, Mati, is, sharing detailed insights into each product’s history and production. Round-trip transportation is included, removing logistical stress. The tour offers a good balance of education and tasting, making it suitable for small groups seeking an immersive experience without the hassle of planning.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for travelers wanting a full-day, guided, and social experience with authentic tastings.
4. Tasting and Biking Parma
At number 4, this bike tour combines light exercise with culinary discovery. Over about 4 hours, you’ll pedal from Parma city to a cheese factory, then back along quiet country roads, ending with a lunch featuring cured meats and wine. Bikes are included, with options for e-bikes, making it accessible for most fitness levels.
Guests rave about Davide, the friendly guide, and the chance to see Parma’s countryside while sampling local cheese and meats. The tour is particularly appealing if you want to combine outdoor activity with food, creating a more active way to experience Parma’s flavors. The price is $103.04, which includes bike rental, tastings, and a scenic ride.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers who want a mix of cycling and authentic food sampling in Parma’s lush surroundings.
5. Parma: Traditional Cheese Factory Visit with Tasting
Number 5 offers a 2.5-hour guided visit to a traditional Parmigiano Reggiano cheese factory, with a focus on the cheese-making process. The tour includes a guided tasting of different aged cheeses paired with local wines, providing insight into why Parmigiano is considered Italy’s “king of cheese.”
The guide’s expertise makes this a rewarding experience for those eager to learn the secrets behind Italy’s most celebrated cheese. Guests mention the well-spoken guide and the opportunity to see the process up close. It’s a shorter, more focused option for cheese lovers.
Bottom Line: Best suited for visitors wanting a concise, in-depth cheese experience with tastings and expert insights.
6. Discover Parma foods with Laura
Ranked number 6, this private full-day tour combines visits to three small producers, including cheese, ham, and balsamic vinegar. The itinerary is flexible, with private transportation allowing visits to farms where these products are made and aged. Guests rave about Laura’s personalized service and her deep knowledge of the region.
This tour is ideal for travelers seeking an all-in-one culinary adventure with the chance to meet producers and taste products directly from their source. It’s more expensive at $438.42 but offers exclusive access and a full-day experience.
Bottom Line: Excellent for dedicated foodies wanting an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at Parma’s top products.
7. Parmigiano Cheese, Parma Ham and Balsamic
Number 7 presents a small-group day tour capped at just 8 people, ensuring intimacy. It includes visits to Parmigiano Reggiano, Parma ham, and balsamic vinegar producers, with tastings and guided explanations at each stop. The tour is flexible, with options for pickup or hotel transfer, and includes bottled water and Wi-Fi on board.
Guests appreciate the detailed insights and the chance to see each product’s unique production process. The price at $186.06 reflects the comprehensive nature and small-group intimacy. It’s perfect for those wanting a personalized, comprehensive day.
Bottom Line: Great for small groups seeking an in-depth, all-in-one culinary tour with a comfortable, guided experience.
8. Parma Food Valley Gourmet Private Tour Easy
Ranked 8, this private half-day tour combines visits to cheese and ham producers with a scenic stop at Torrechiara’s castle. The tour focuses on the production of Parmigiano Reggiano and Prosciutto di Parma, with tastings included.
Guests praise the guide for her knowledge and the seamless experience. The tour is flexible, with options to use your own vehicle or upgrade for transport. At around four hours, it’s well-suited for travelers who want a relaxed, private experience that blends food with views.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a personalized, scenic foodie experience with some historic sightseeing.
9. Private Full Day Parma Food Tour: Parmesan Cheese, Parma Ham, Lunch, Vinegar
Number 9 is a luxury, all-day private experience covering cheese, ham, and balsamic vinegar, plus lunch and wine. It’s comprehensive, offering insights into each product’s production and tasting at each stop. Guests appreciate the personal attention and expert guides.
The tour suits those who want to immerse themselves fully in Parma’s gastronomy, with the convenience of a private vehicle or optional transportation. With a duration of eight hours, it’s the most thorough experience on the list.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking a complete, personalized culinary journey with full insider access.
10. From Parma: Parmigiano Reggiano Farm Tour & Tasting with Transfer
Number 10 offers a short, 2.5-hour farm visit with a cheese tasting and wine pairing. It’s perfect for those wanting an intimate farm experience without a full-day commitment. The tour includes hotel pickup and a visit to a cheese ‘caseificio,’ witnessing cheese-making close up.
Guests love the authentic feel and the chance to see the cheese-making process in action. It’s a practical option for travelers on a tight schedule or those preferring a more relaxed pace.
Bottom Line: Great for short visits or first-timers who want a taste of cheese production with easy logistics.
11. Parmigiano Reggiano & Balsamic Vinegar Private Tour and Tasting
Number 11 features a private 4.5-hour tour combining Parmigiano Reggiano and balsamic vinegar tastings. It offers a behind-the-scenes look at the production of both products, with tastings of aged cheeses and vinegars at authentic producers.
Guests highlight the personalized approach and the chance to see how each delicacy is made. It’s suited for connoisseurs or anyone wanting a comprehensive tasting experience with private guidance.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting in-depth, private insights into two of Parma’s most iconic products.
12. Exclusive Cooking Class: Pasta, Truffle, and Wine tasting
Number 12 offers a 3-hour hands-on cooking class in Calestano, where you’ll learn to make tagliatelle and ravioli with seasonal fillings. The class is hosted in a picturesque setting, with the option for transportation if you don’t have a car.
Guests rave about instructor Virginia’s expertise and the chance to enjoy a home-cooked meal overlooking the village. It’s perfect for foodies wanting to learn authentic pasta-making techniques and enjoy local wine and truffle flavors.
Bottom Line: Best for those eager to take part in a culinary workshop and create their own Italian dishes.
13. Half Day Private Emilia Foodie Experience
Number 13 is a private half-day tour that combines visits to cheese and prosciutto producers with a quick stop at Torrechiara Castle. Guests praise the guide’s passion and the opportunity to see artisan production up close.
This experience is a good fit for travelers looking for a condensed but authentic culinary adventure on a flexible schedule. It’s especially suitable for those who want a personalized, insider look with ample tastings.
Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers seeking a private, focused experience with both food and a touch of history.
14. Taste Parma: A Full Meal Walking Food Tour by Do Eat Better
Number 14 presents a 3.5-hour walking tour that covers Parma’s top local delicacies. Alongside a knowledgeable guide, you’ll visit market stalls and eateries tasting everything from prosciutto to gelato, with an emphasis on regional specialties.
Guests appreciate the mix of food and city sights, making it perfect for those who want to sample many bites and learn stories behind each dish in a relaxed setting.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting a comprehensive food walk that combines taste, culture, and city exploration.
15. Parma Food Tour with Taste Bologna – Max 8 people
Finally, at number 15, this small-group tour caps at eight participants, focusing on five gourmet stops in Parma. It includes cured meats, pasta, desserts, and wines, ending with a full lunch. Guests love the personal atmosphere and the detailed insights from guides like Samantha.
Ideal for travelers who want an intimate, well-rounded food experience without rushing, this tour balances tasting and city sights in just about 3.5 hours.
Bottom Line: Perfect for small groups looking for an authentic and personal culinary adventure.
How to Choose the Right Tour
Choosing between Parma’s top tours depends on your interests, time, and budget. If you’re a food enthusiast craving a deep dive, the Full Day Parma Food Tour offers extensive access to multiple products. For a more relaxed, private experience, consider the Discover Parma foods with Laura or the Private Half Day Parma Food Walking Tour. Budget-conscious travelers might prefer shorter options like the Traditional Cheese Factory Visit or the Parmigiano Reggiano Farm Tour & Tasting.
For active travelers, Tasting and Biking Parma combines outdoor activity with food, while those interested in cooking can try the Cooking Class in Calestano. Remember, many tours include tastings, but some focus on exclusive visits or private guides—pick what suits your curiosity and schedule best.
Final Thoughts
Parma offers a wide array of culinary tours—from detailed factory visits to intimate food walks and active biking excursions. For a comprehensive experience, the full-day private tour is hard to beat. If you prefer a shorter introduction, the traditional cheese factory or half-day food walk are excellent options. For those wanting to learn a hands-on skill, the cooking class offers a memorable experience.
To make the most of your trip, booking early is recommended, especially for popular private or small-group tours. Whatever your choice, Parma’s food scene promises authentic flavors and stories that will stay with you long after you leave.
Happy eating and exploring in Parma—bon appétit!
