Parmesan Cheese Factory Tour & Tasting near Parma

Exploring the Parmesan Cheese Factory Tour & Tasting Near Parma

Imagine walking into a 120-year-old cheese factory just outside Parma, with its ancient walls and storied tradition of making Parmigiano Reggiano, known as the “King of Cheeses.” For $55.80 per person, this one-hour guided experience offers an authentic glimpse into Italy’s most famous cheese, blending history, craftsmanship, and delicious tastings. Tours are offered early in the morning, with limited slots, making it a perfect start for a food-focused day in Emilia-Romagna.

What we love about this experience is the chance to see traditional cheese-making in action—from the fresh curds to the massive aging rooms filled with hundreds of cheese wheels. Plus, the tasting of three aged varieties paired with regional wine and Parmigiano cream offers a flavorful highlight that’s both educational and satisfying. The fact that the farm emphasizes sustainable farming and animal welfare adds meaning to the indulgence, aligning with modern values of eco-friendly food production.

One potential consideration is that the production rooms are only accessible at specific times (7:30 AM and 8:30 AM). If you’re not an early riser or have a tight schedule, you’ll want to plan accordingly. This tour suits foodies, curious travelers, and anyone eager to understand Italy’s cheese heritage firsthand—especially those who appreciate a mix of tradition, sustainability, and good taste.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic craftsmanship: Witness traditional Parmigiano Reggiano production techniques.
• In-depth tasting: Sample three different ages of cheese with regional wine and Parmigiano cream.
• Educational value: Learn about sustainable farming and animal welfare practices.
• Limited group size: Small groups (max 10) ensure a personal experience.
• Convenient format: About an hour long, with guided commentary in multiple languages.
• Early start only: Production room visits are at 7:30 and 8:30 AM, so plan ahead.

A Close Look at the Tour Experience

Location and Logistics

The tour takes place at Azienda Agricola Bertinelli, located about 30 minutes by car from Parma in the village of Noceto. This proximity makes it a manageable addition to a day trip, perhaps combined with other nearby sights. The meeting point is straightforward, and the activity ends back at the original location, simplifying logistics for travelers who prefer not to worry about extra transport.

The Guided Tour

The core of the experience is a 40-minute guided walk through the cheese production process. You’ll see the artisans at work, shaping curds by hand and observing the traditional methods that have been used for decades. It’s a chance to really appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into each wheel of Parmigiano Reggiano, which has remained remarkably consistent since 1895.

Tour guides, like Lorenzo, earn high praise for their knowledge and engaging explanations. As one visitor noted, Lorenzo was “so good and informative,” making complex techniques accessible and interesting. Expect to learn about the curdling process, shaping, and aging, which are key to the cheese’s signature texture and flavor.

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The Aging Rooms

After the production area, the tour continues into the vast aging rooms. Here, hundreds of cheese wheels are stacked carefully, aging to perfection over 15, 24, and 36 months. The visual impact of these enormous wheels—some with greenish rinds and others with a more golden hue—offers both a sense of scale and tradition. Visitors often remark on the spectacle of the aging rooms, which underscore the importance of time and patience in fine cheese-making.

Cheese Tasting

The highlight for many is the tasting session — a thoughtfully curated selection of three Parmigiano Reggiano varieties at different ages. As one reviewer described, “tasting different aged Parmigiano and some wine” was “the perfect conclusion,” and you’ll likely agree. The cheeses reveal a spectrum of textures and flavors: younger cheeses have a milder, creamier profile, while the 36-month wheel offers a firmer, more intense flavor.

Complementing the cheese is a serving of Parmigiano cream—a delightful spread that amplifies the cheese’s savory qualities—and a glass of regional wine, either Lambrusco or Malvasia, depending on availability. This pairing enhances the tasting experience, making it both educational and indulgent.

Sustainability and Animal Welfare

Beyond the cheese, this farm emphasizes eco-friendly practices. Visitors learn how the farm cultivates organic feed for Friesian cows, ensuring that the milk used in cheese production aligns with animal welfare standards. This commitment to sustainability adds an extra layer of appreciation—knowing that your culinary indulgence supports environmentally conscious methods.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for food lovers, especially those interested in cheese and wine pairings. It’s also perfect for cultural explorers who enjoy understanding the tradition and craftsmanship behind regional specialties. If you’re traveling with family or friends who appreciate a small, intimate group setting, the limited size makes for a personalized and engaging experience.

Reviewers have praised guides like Lorenzo for their enthusiasm and clarity, making complex processes understandable and enjoyable. And those who enjoy delicious food and regional wines will find the tasting session particularly memorable.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

• Arrive early: The cheese production rooms are only accessible at 7:30 and 8:30 AM.
• Book ahead: Limited to 10 participants, so secure your spot in advance.
• Plan transportation: It’s about a 30-minute drive from Parma—consider renting a car or checking public transport options.
• Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be walking through production and storage areas.
• Bring an appetite: The cheese tasting is generous and paired with wine and cream.
• Consider dietary restrictions: The tour isn’t suitable for those with lactose intolerance.
• Check the schedule: Tours last about an hour, so plan your day accordingly.
• Language options: Guides speak English, French, Italian, and German.

The Sum Up: Is This the Right Tour for You?

If you’re keen on discovering how Italy’s iconic Parmigiano Reggiano is made, this tour offers an authentic, behind-the-scenes glimpse. You’ll gain an appreciation for the skills, patience, and tradition that go into each wheel—and taste the results at their best. With a small group, guided explanations, and a focus on sustainability, it’s a meaningful experience that combines education with pleasure.

This tour particularly suits foodies, cultural travelers, and those who love good wine and cheese. It’s a great choice if you want a hands-on, intimate connection with Italy’s culinary heritage in a setting that feels genuine and welcoming. Keep in mind the early start and limited availability, but rest assured, the experience is well worth it for the authentic flavors and stories you’ll take home.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs $55.80 per person, which covers the guided visit, tasting of three cheeses, a glass of regional wine, and water.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately one hour, including the guided explanation and tasting session.

Is transportation included?
No, transportation to and from Azienda Agricola Bertinelli is not included. It’s about a 30-minute drive from Parma, so plan accordingly.

What times are the production room visits?
The production rooms are only accessible during specific morning times—7:30 AM and 8:30 AM.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with dietary restrictions?
It’s ideal for adults interested in cheese and wine. The tour isn’t suitable for people with lactose intolerance.

Are guides available in multiple languages?
Yes, the guides speak English, French, Italian, and German, providing options for international visitors.

How many people are in each group?
The small group size is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since you’ll be walking through production and aging areas.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. You can also reserve now and pay later to keep your plans flexible.

This cheese tour near Parma offers more than just tasting—you’ll walk away with a deeper respect for Italy’s craftsmanship and a few delicious souvenirs, too. It’s a memorable way to connect with Italian culinary traditions in their purest form.

You can check availability for your dates here: