This November, I’ll journey through Emilia-Romagna — Italy’s fabled “Food Valley” — on a multi-day immersive experience into its gastronomic and cultural traditions. From the mist-shrouded Po plains to the hills of Bologna, the schedule is rich with tastings, agricultural visits, and local encounters.

Hosted and organized by the Emilia-Romagna Region Tourist Board, the trip will allow me to discover and write about the region’s celebrated food traditions — from the delicate curing of Culatello ham along the Po River to the making of Parmigiano Reggiano, the artistry of truffle hunting, and the production of Italy’s finest olive oils and balsamic vinegars. This adventure promises an inside look at the people and places behind some of the country’s most historic flavors.

Day 1 – The Po Lowlands & Culatello
Arriving in Bologna, I’ll be driven about two hours into the Po River lowlands of Parma province, home to Culatello di Zibello. After checking in at a countryside farmhouse, Antica Corte Pallavicina, I’ll visit producers to sample this elite ham, followed by dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 2– Parma, Barilla & City Flavors
In the morning, further tastings and explorations around Parma. In the afternoon, I’ll join the Michelin group and head into Parma’s center for a gourmet and cultural walking tour. A highlight: a visit to Bottega Barilla — the historic Barilla workshop and sensory experience in Parma.

That evening: a cooking show + dinner at Academia Barilla and a chance to meet Barilla representatives. Overnight in Parma.

Day 3 – Michelin Ceremony & Mutti Factory
Morning kickoff at Parma’s Teatro Regio with welcome receptions and the Michelin Guide 2025 Ceremony. After a cocktail lunch at Palazzo della Pilotta, we’ll head to Montechiarugolo for a visit at the Mutti tomato factory and meet with their team. The evening features dinner, balsamic vinegar and Lambrusco tastings, and an overnight in the Reggio Emilia countryside.

Day 4 – Cheese, Truffles & Dozza
The day begins with a visit to a Parmesan cheese dairy to witness the making of Parmigiano Reggiano. Then on to the hills of Bologna (the Valsamoggia region), where I’ll visit Appennino Food Group for specialties and a truffle hunt, followed by a truffle-focused lunch in Savigno. In the afternoon, I’ll check in at Palazzo di Varignana, an elegant countryside resort.

Later we’ll ride to the medieval village of Dozza, and enjoy wine tasting at the Enoteca Regionale Emilia Romagna, housed in the cellars of the Rocca Sforzesca.

Day 5 – Bologna, Olive Trees & a Quiet Retreat
After a guided tour of Bologna’s highlights, most guests depart. I’ll stay on at Palazzo di Varignana’s Country House, nestled among olive groves. The afternoon includes a light lunch and an “olive tree experience” at the estate — learning cultivation, oil extraction, tasting, and more. Overnight at the countryside retreat.

Palazzo di Varignana/Facebook