Parmesan Cheese Tour from Bologna

Visit a Parmigiano Reggiano Dairy Near Bologna & Modena

Experience a real Parmesan cheese tour from Bologna, visiting a traditional Parmigiano Reggiano dairy during live morning production. This guided experience lets you see how Italy’s most famous cheese is made, step by step, directly at the source.

Daily departures from Bologna and Modena · Small groups · Priority access

Live cheese-making · Guided visit · Tasting of three ages of Parmigiano Reggiano

A Parmesan cheese factory tour near Bologna and Modena is the most authentic way to understand how real Parmigiano Reggiano is made. During this guided morning visit, you enter a working caseificio while the cheesemakers are actively producing the cheese, following traditional methods unchanged for centuries.

With Emilia Delizia, you enjoy priority access, expert English-speaking guides, and a tasting of Parmigiano Reggiano aged 12, 24, and 36 months. Whether you are staying in Bologna or Modena, this Parmesan tour offers a true insight into the craftsmanship behind the “King of Cheeses.”

How the Parmesan Cheese Tour Works

This Parmesan cheese tour runs in the early morning, when production is actually happening. You arrive while the milk is already in the copper vats and follow every stage of the process: curd cutting, cooking, lifting, molding, salting, and the first stages of aging.

After visiting the production area, you continue to the aging rooms, where thousands of Parmigiano Reggiano wheels mature on wooden shelves. The tour ends with a guided tasting, allowing you to compare different ages and understand how flavor and texture evolve over time.

Highlights of the Parmesan Cheese Tour

• Live morning visit during Parmigiano Reggiano production
• Guided explanation of every production stage
• Tasting of Parmigiano Reggiano aged 12, 24, and 36 months
• Priority access and advance booking
• Easy departure from Bologna or Modena
• Option to combine with balsamic vinegar or Parma ham visits

Parmigiano Reggiano Dairies Near Bologna & Modena

Caseificio Rosola (Near Modena)

Located near Zocca, this dairy produces Parmigiano Reggiano using milk from the rare White Modenese cows. It’s an excellent choice for travelers interested in traditional production and unique local breeds.

Caseificio 4 Madonne (Near Modena)

Caseificio 4 Madonne offers a comprehensive guided tour lasting about 1 to 1.5 hours, including production areas, aging rooms, and tastings often paired with local cold cuts and traditional balsamic vinegar.

Dairy in Bazzano (Near Bologna)

This dairy is ideal if you are based in Bologna and prefer not to drive. It can be reached by train followed by a short transfer, and includes a full visit and tasting.

Combine the Parmesan Tour with Other Emilia-Romagna Experiences

This Parmesan cheese tour can be enjoyed on its own or combined with other iconic local producers. Many guests choose to include a visit to a traditional balsamic vinegar acetaia or a Parma ham factory as part of a full-day food experience.

👉 Want the complete experience?
This cheese visit is included in our popular Foodie’s Delight Tour ,
which combines Parmigiano Reggiano, balsamic vinegar, Parma ham, and a generous tasting lunch in one seamless itinerary.

What Our Guests Say

• John (UK): “Watching Parmigiano Reggiano being made was unforgettable. The tasting alone was worth the trip.”
• Maria (USA): “This was much more than a cheese tour. It felt like stepping into real Italian food culture.”
• Sophie (Australia): “The best food experience we had in Italy. The flavors were incredible.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the Parmesan cheese tour start?

Most visits start around 8:30 AM to match the live production schedule.

How long does the tour last?

The dairy visit usually lasts between 1.5 and 2 hours, including tasting.

Do I need a car from Bologna?

No. Some dairies are reachable by train and short transfers. Private transport can also be arranged.

Is the tour suitable for children?

Yes. Children enjoy seeing the production process and the aging rooms.

Can I combine this with balsamic vinegar or ham tours?

Yes. Many guests combine this Parmesan tour with balsamic vinegar or Parma ham visits on the same day.

In summary: a Parmesan cheese tour from Bologna with Emilia Delizia is the best way to experience Parmigiano Reggiano at its source—authentic, educational, and delicious.