It’s no secret that Italy is famous for its delicious cheeses. From the soft and creamy burrata to the sharp and tangy Parmigiano Reggiano, there’s a cheese for every palate.

In fact, Italian cheeses hold a special place in the heart of many foodies worldwide. And what better way to celebrate this culinary excellence than by attending one of the many cheese festivals that take place in Italy every year? Here’s our guide to the best Italian cheese festivals you won’t want to miss.

Cheese in the City – Milan

Cheese in the City is a three-day festival that takes place in the heart of Milan every year in April. It’s a celebration of the best Italian cheese, featuring over a hundred varieties from all over the country.

The festival is set against the backdrop of the Piazza Eleonora Duse and admission is free. Visitors can sample many of the different cheeses available, as well as attending workshops, tastings, and demonstrations by professional cheesemakers.

Slow Cheese – Bra

Slow Cheese is another popular Italian cheese festival that takes place every two years in the Piedmont city of Bra.

It’s a festival that focuses on traditional, artisanal cheese-making techniques, so you can be sure to find only the best cheese here. Visitors can experience the unique taste of different types of cheese from all over Italy, and even meet the people who make them. Slow Cheese also offers workshops and seminars on cheese-making, food sustainability, and related topics.

Cacio e Pepe Festival – Rome

The Cacio e Pepe Festival is held every September in Rome. As the name suggests, the festival celebrates the famous Roman pasta dish, Cacio e Pepe, which is made with pecorino romano cheese and black pepper.

The festival takes place in the Trastevere district of Rome and is a celebration of all things cheese. Visitors can sample different types of cheese from all over Italy, watch cooking demonstrations, and take part in workshops.

But the highlight of the festival is undoubtedly the Cacio e Pepe contests, where chefs compete to make the best version of this famous pasta dish.

Formaggi sotto le Stelle – San Giovanni in Persiceto

The Formaggi sotto le Stelle festival is held every year in San Giovanni in Persiceto, a small town near Bologna. This festival is unique in that it takes place at night, under the stars.

It features an extensive variety of Italy’s most beloved cheeses – from pecorino romano to gorgonzola – as well as local wine and craft beer. Visitors can also enjoy live music and street food as part of the festivities. The event typically takes place in August, so you can enjoy the warm summer weather while indulging in your favorite cheese.

Toscano Cheese Festival – Florence

The Toscano Cheese Festival takes place in Florence every year in November. It’s a celebration of the best Tuscan cheeses, as well as other regional delicacies.

Visitors can sample a wide variety of these delicious cheeses, including pecorino toscano, ricotta, and stracchino. The festival also has a pomodoro e mozzarella section, where visitors can try the classic Italian dish of tomato and mozzarella. There are also cooking demonstrations, workshops, and other activities to participate in.

Cheese Wonders – Asiago

Asiago is a small town located in the Veneto region of Italy, famous for its delicious Asiago cheese.

Every year in September, the town hosts the Cheese Wonders festival, which celebrates not only Asiago cheese but also other types of cheese from around Italy and Europe. Whether you’re a cheese connoisseur or just a lover of good food, you’ll enjoy this festival that offers seminars, tastings, and cultural events.

Gorizia Cheese Festival – Gorizia

The Gorizia Cheese Festival takes place every year in September in Gorizia, a city in the Friuli Venezia Giulia region. The festival is a celebration of the best cheeses from this region of Italy, as well as the neighboring Balkans.

Visitors can sample a wide range of cheeses, including Montasio, Pecorino, and Jamar. The festival also includes workshops on cheese-making, cooking, and other activities. If you’re in the area, this festival is the best way to get a taste of the unique cheeses from the Friuli region.

Cheese and Wine Festival – Gubbio

The Cheese and Wine Festival is held in the medieval town of Gubbio in the Umbria region of Italy. It’s a celebration of the traditional Umbrian foods, including Umbrian cheeses and wines.

The festival includes numerous tastings, workshops, and other activities, such as cooking classes and wine tastings. Visitors can also buy local products and souvenirs, including cheeses, wines, olive oils, and more. The festival takes place in October, during the harvest season, so visitors can experience the vibrant colors and flavors of autumn.

Gorgonzola Cheese Festival – Novara

The Gorgonzola Cheese Festival is held in Novara every year in November. As the name suggests, this festival is dedicated entirely to Gorgonzola, one of Italy’s most beloved cheeses.

Visitors can sample different varieties of Gorgonzola, learn how to pair it with the perfect wine and enjoy other regional products. The festival also includes cooking demonstrations and workshops, where visitors can learn about the history and culture of this famous cheese.

Casaro Cheese Festival – Agnone

The Casaro Cheese Festival takes place in Agnone every year in August. The festival celebrates the tradition of the casaro, which is the artisanal cheesemaker.

Visitors can learn about the different types of cheese made in Agnone using traditional techniques and taste the unique flavors. The festival also includes food and wine stands, live music, and other events.