An authentic journey through the cradle of fine food, exploring DOP and IGP specialities.

Italy is renowned worldwide for its vast culinary heritage, a treasure trove of local traditions, typical products and special recipes. Everyone loves good food, so why not combine tourism and flavour with a gastronomic tour?

If you’ve decided to savour some of Italy’s finest products in their places of origin but are unsure where to start, you’re in the right place! We’ve put together a guide with three gastronomic tours that are perfect for you and will take you on a journey to discover unique flavours.

Langhe Gastronomic Tour

The Langhe is one of Italy’s most renowned areas when it comes to culinary tradition. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers visitors the chance to explore charming villages, castles, and wineries, all set within a stunning landscape that reveals its most captivating side in autumn.

A first-class gastronomic itinerary can only begin in Barolo, a town famous for being home to the wine of the same name – one of the best in Italy! Here, you can visit WiMu, the Wine Museum, where you’ll learn about the history of this exceptional wine, its region of origin, and some fascinating facts.

Not far from Barolo is Bergolo nelle Langhe, which offers a splendid glimpse into local history. The Bergamaschi district is an excellent example of a rural medieval village. Heading north, you’ll arrive at Barbaresco, home to one of the most esteemed red wines. You can sample it alongside other local specialities such as cheeses and cured meats in one of the many wineries.

No trip would be complete without a stop in Alba, where you can visit its historic centre, filled with interesting sites and monuments such as the Duomo and the Palazzo del Comune.

Every year, the town also hosts the International White Truffle Fair, a chance to discover everything about this unique delicacy through cooking shows, tastings, talks, workshops, and more. This year, the fair will take place from 12th October to 8th December.

If you’re planning to stay a few days in the Langhe and are seeking a prestigious hotel, the Principi di Piemonte | UNA Esperienze is the perfect choice. This historic five-star establishment is located in the heart of Turin and offers a range of high-quality services, including the Casa Savoia by “UNA cucina” restaurant and an elegant spa with a wellness centre.  

The Food Valley: Parma and Surroundings

Emilia Romagna boasts an unparalleled culinary tradition, with an impressive array of typical products, including numerous DOP (Protected Designation of Origin) and IGP (Protected Geographical Indication) labels. From Parmigiano Reggiano to Balsamic Vinegar, culatello, tortellini, and much more, the region is a treasure trove of flavours.

So, it’s no surprise that the term “Food Valley” refers to the area between the provinces of Reggio Emilia, Modena and Parma. This is where many of the region’s finest products are made. Parma, in particular, has been designated a UNESCO Creative City for Gastronomy.

Parma’s signature product is undoubtedly its prosciutto, produced with meticulous care in the specific area of the Langhirano hills and surrounding region. Visiting this town will give you the chance to savour the most authentic Parma ham and learn all its secrets.

But that’s not all! Parma’s role in regional gastronomy is further showcased through the Food Museums, a collection of nine museums located across different towns in the province. Each offers a unique experience, with highlights including the Felino Salami Museum in Felino, the Wine Museum in Sala Baganza, and the Parmigiano Reggiano Museum in Soragna.

While in this area, a guided tour of one of the many local producers is a must. At various times of the year, dairy factories, wineries and ham producers open their doors to tourists, allowing them to discover and observe the different stages of production that result in these renowned products.

The cherry on top of your tour would be a stay in a luxury hotel, which is why we recommend the Grand Hotel di Parma | UNA Esperienze. This elegant 5-star gem, housed in the historic Palazzo Vighi in the city centre and complete with a restaurant and park, is just waiting to be explored.

Wine Tasting in Montepulciano

Wine enthusiasts know that Tuscany, particularly the area around Siena, is a must-visit destination for tasting some of Italy’s finest wines.

Your journey to discover these flavours will undoubtedly lead you to Montepulciano, where you’ll find Relais Villa Grazianella | UNA Esperienze. Nestled in the rolling Sienese hills, this villa, dating back to the late 18th century, is the perfect place to enjoy an authentic Tuscan experience.

Here, you can explore the historic wine cellar and take part in a unique tasting of the region’s most important wines, including Nobile di Montepulciano and Chianti.

In addition, you can fully immerse yourself in the surrounding countryside with personalised bike or horseback tours. Treat yourself to a journey back in time, discovering the diverse and enchanting Tuscan landscapes and the flavours born in these lands.

Guided by experts and agronomists, you’ll explore the trails of the Fattoria del Cerro and the medieval streets of Montepulciano, uncovering breathtaking views and exclusive wineries.

Embarking on gastronomic itineraries is the best way to explore some of Italy’s most beautiful regions and discover the rich variety of DOP and IGP products that originate here.