ARTEMILIA Guided Tours, Parma

We had a short stay in Parma with friends and only had one afternoon-evening free for a food tour. I contacted ArtEmila and Michelle promptly responded with suggested itineraries for a guided food work in Parma. Michelle was fantastic and was always quick in responding to my many questions. Our only regret is not booking a full day tour with her. We were met at our hotel and started off with gelato at one of Parma's best. We were given lots of information on the history of Parma, the food culture of the city, and a perspective from a local. Michelle has an incredible knowledge about art and food! She guided us through the Cathedral and pointed out all the fascinating things that one would usually just walk past and miss. During our Food Walk she also pointed out many local favourite eating and drinking spots. We went on to one of the biggest and best Procutteria shops where we tasted a variety of local hams from different cuts of meat, and she explained the differences in the making process and the difference in taste. We then tasted a variety of local cheeses and the difference the aging process makes. We moved on to taste 3 different pasta, each with a unique taste. We were also told stories of how the locals prefer to make their pasta, and the ingredients they use, and their traditions. We had a fantastic evening and feel we learned so much about Parma and about Italian life, and most importantly about the wonders of Parma food. I can highly recommend Artemilia and Michelle. And if you have the time, definitely do a full day tour!