Italy Gastrotour - Emilia Romagna

Gourmet Escape in Emilia-Romagna: Bologna & Parma (Italy)

Passengers: 2 adults, 0 children

Itinerary and included services

• Accommodation in Bologna – 2 nights
• La Dimora degli Artisti – Bologna
• Charming boutique-style hotel in the heart of Bologna, within easy reach of the historic center, porticoed streets, and key landmarks. Standard double room with private bathroom and daily housekeeping.
• Local experiences in Bologna
• Free time to explore Piazza Maggiore, the Two Towers, and the Quadrilatero market. Ideal base for tasting traditional dishes such as tagliatelle al ragù, tortellini in brodo, and mortadella.
• Transportation: Bologna → Parma
• Ground transfer from Bologna Centrale to Parma. Comfortable rail journey with reserved seats (or equivalent transfer) to ensure a smooth and scenic connection between the two cities.
• Accommodation in Parma – 3 nights
• NH Parma – Parma
• Modern 4-star hotel conveniently located near the train station and within walking distance of Parma’s historic center. Double room with breakfast and Wi‑Fi included, ideal as a base for food and culture excursions.
• Gastronomic experience in Parma
• Ticket: “Tour Parmigiano Reggiano dairy and Parma ham” – Parma (Italy)
• Guided visit to an authentic Parmigiano Reggiano dairy and a Parma ham producer. Includes:
• Educational tour of the cheese-making process, from milk to aging cellars.
• Visit to a prosciutto di Parma facility with explanation of salting, curing, and quality controls.
• Guided tastings of Parmigiano Reggiano and Parma ham, paired with local products.
• English-speaking guide and small-group format for a more personalized experience.
• Support and travel documentation
• Detailed travel documents with hotel confirmations, transfer information, and timetable suggestions between visits, plus recommendations on restaurants and key sights in both cities.

Trip overview

This five-night itinerary is designed for two adults who want to immerse themselves in the flavors and culture of Emilia-Romagna. You will start in vibrant Bologna, strolling under its historic porticoes, discovering medieval towers, and sampling iconic dishes in traditional trattorias while staying at the welcoming La Dimora degli Artisti.

From Bologna you continue by train to elegant Parma, where your stay at NH Parma sets the stage for a deep dive into the region’s culinary heritage. The included “Parmigiano Reggiano dairy and Parma ham” tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at two of Italy’s most celebrated products, with tastings that showcase centuries of craftsmanship. Between visits, you will have time to explore Parma’s cathedral, charming streets, and atmospheric piazzas, making this journey a balanced blend of gastronomy, history, and Italian lifestyle.

Recommended guides and books to prepare your trip

• Travel guides
• Lonely Planet Italy – Comprehensive overview of the country with dedicated sections on Emilia-Romagna, practical tips, and city maps.
• DK Eyewitness Italy – Highly visual guide with photos, illustrations, and cutaway drawings of landmarks in Bologna and Parma.
• Regional and culinary guides
• Emilia-Romagna: The Food Lover’s Guide to Italy – Focused on local specialties, recommended trattorias, and food markets.
• Made in Italy: Food and Stories by Giorgio Locatelli – Insightful culinary journey through Italian regions, including excellent background on cheese and cured meats.
• Online and practical resources
• Official tourism websites for Bologna Welcome and Turismo Emilia-Romagna for updated event calendars, museum openings, and city passes.
• Printable city maps or mobile apps such as offline map services to help you navigate historic centers and locate recommended restaurants.