An Italian city that gave the world Parmesan cheese and Parma ham, alongside a rich musical heritage tied to Verdi.

Why Visit Parma

Parma anchors Italy’s Food Valley, the source of both Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and Prosciutto di Parma, two of Italy’s most protected culinary exports, produced using centuries old methods visitors can witness firsthand at working caseifici and prosciuttifici. The city is equally proud of its ties to composer Giuseppe Verdi, born in the surrounding province.

Top Experiences

  • Parmigiano-Reggiano dairy tour: Visits to working caseifici to see the traditional cheese making process from milk to aged wheel.
  • Prosciutto di Parma tastings: Tours of traditional ham curing houses producing one of Italy’s most protected culinary exports.
  • Parma Cathedral and Baptistery: A Romanesque cathedral complex with an octagonal pink marble baptistery and Correggio frescoes.
  • Teatro Regio: Parma’s opera house, tied closely to the legacy of composer Giuseppe Verdi, born nearby.

Book these experiences and more through guided tours from Parma.

Half Day Private Parmigiano Reggiano and Parma Ham Experience

Half Day Private Parmigiano Reggiano and Parma Ham Experience

★ 5.0 (89)
From USD 179.01
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Private Parmigiano Balsamic Parma Ham and Wine Tasting Tour

Private Parmigiano Balsamic Parma Ham and Wine Tasting Tour

★ 5.0 (49)
From USD 255.09
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Truffle Hunting & Lunch halfway from Parma to Cinque Terre

Truffle Hunting & Lunch halfway from Parma to Cinque Terre

★ 5.0 (50)
From USD 179.01
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Exclusive Wine Tasting Experience at Palazzo Caraffini

Exclusive Wine Tasting Experience at Palazzo Caraffini

From USD 67.13
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Slow Parma Food Experience Half Day Private Tour and Tasting

Slow Parma Food Experience Half Day Private Tour and Tasting

★ 5.0 (15)
From USD 262.92
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Winery Tour and tasting

Winery Tour and tasting

★ 5.0 (13)
From USD 89.5
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Practical Tips

  • Book dairy and ham producer tours in advance, many are working farms with limited visitor slots.
  • Parma’s historic center is compact and best explored on foot or by bike.
  • Combine a Parma visit with nearby Modena for a fuller Food Valley culinary itinerary.

FAQ

What food is Parma famous for?
Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and Prosciutto di Parma ham, both protected products made using centuries old traditional methods.

Can you tour cheese and ham producers in Parma?
Yes, guided tours of working caseifici and prosciuttifici are available, though advance booking is recommended.

What is Parma’s connection to Verdi?
Composer Giuseppe Verdi was born in the nearby province, and the city’s Teatro Regio opera house carries his legacy.