Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie seeking culinary adventures, or simply in search of the perfect Italian getaway, Parma offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you longing to return.
Explore the enchanting streets of Parma, Italy, where every corner reveals a new story waiting to be discovered. This historic city in the heart of Emilia-Romagna beckons travelers with its blend of rich culture, exquisite architecture, and legendary cuisine. Lose yourself in the splendor of Renaissance palaces, wander through bustling markets filled with fresh produce and local delicacies, and savor the flavors of authentic Italian cuisine at charming trattorias tucked away in picturesque alleyways. Join us on a trip to Parma, which was named the Italian Capital of Culture in 2020
- Where Is Parma Italy On A Map?
- What to Do in Parma?
- A walk in Parma’s Piazza del Duomo
- The Pilotta complex
- National Gallery
- Palatine Library
- The monastery of St. John the Baptist
- Participate in the Apéritifs of Knowledge at the University of Parma
- The Botanical Garden
- The Regio theater
- Baptistery of Parma
- Explore Parma’s historic shops
- Food museums
- What to Eat in Parma, Italy
- How to Get to Parma?
What to Do in Parma?
In Parma, there’s a wealth of activities to keep you enthralled throughout your visit. Begin by immersing yourself in the city’s rich cultural heritage by exploring its stunning architecture, including the breathtaking Parma Cathedral and the regal Palazzo della Pilotta.
Art lovers shouldn’t miss the opportunity to visit the Galleria Nazionale, home to an impressive collection of Renaissance masterpieces. Food enthusiasts will delight in Parma’s culinary scene, where you can embark on a gastronomic journey through local markets, cheese factories, and traditional trattorias, savoring the famed Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, prosciutto di Parma, and balsamic vinegar. And for nature lovers, nearby attractions like the Boschi di Carrega regional’s Park offer opportunities for scenic hikes and picnics amidst lush landscapes. Whether you’re interested in history, art, food, or simply soaking up the Italian way of life, Parma has something to offer every traveler.
Visit the beauties of Emilia Romagna with Italo
A walk in Parma’s Piazza del Duomo
Our review can only start with Piazza del Duomo, the heart of Parma, with its medieval atmosphere and impressive architecture. The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta with its Baptistery (also visit their interiors, there are precious frescoes and masterpieces by Correggio and Benedetto Antelami!) and the Bishop’s Palace, with the Diocesan Museum, stand out above all.
The Pilotta complex
A short distance away, in the Piazzale della Pace, you will find the Palazzo della Pilotta complex, the huge palace of the Farnese dukes dating from the 16th-17th centuries that now houses the Farnese Theater, the National Archaeological Museum, the Palatina Library, the Bodoniano Museum and the National Gallery
National Gallery
The National Gallery in Parma is a cultural treasure trove, housing an impressive collection of art spanning centuries. Located within the Palazzo della Pilotta complex, this esteemed gallery showcases masterpieces from the Renaissance to the Baroque era, offering visitors a glimpse into the evolution of Italian art. Wander through its halls and admire works by iconic artists such as Correggio, Parmigianino, and Canaletto, each piece a testament to the region’s rich artistic heritage. From exquisite religious paintings to captivating portraits and landscapes, the National Gallery invites art enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the beauty and craftsmanship of Italy’s artistic legacy.
Palatine Library
The Palatine Library in Parma stands as a beacon of knowledge and culture in the heart of the city. Housed within the historic Palazzo della Pilotta, this esteemed library boasts a vast collection of rare manuscripts, ancient texts, and literary treasures dating back centuries. As you step into its hallowed halls, you’ll be greeted by towering bookshelves lined with priceless volumes, offering a glimpse into the intellectual heritage of Parma and beyond.
Scholars, researchers, and book lovers alike flock to the Palatine Library to peruse its extensive holdings, which include works by renowned authors and philosophers from around the world. Whether you’re seeking scholarly pursuits or simply wish to immerse yourself in the quiet ambiance of a distinguished library, the Palatine Library promises an enriching experience for all who visit.
Monastery of St. John the Baptist
Another unmissable pearl of the center is the monastery dedicated to St. John the Evangelist, with its seventeenth century façade and bell tower. Inside, admire the famous cycle of frescoes by Correggio.
The Botanical Garden (and an interesting exhibition at the same time)
And we remain in the Botanical Garden to mention the exhibition “Florilegium,” a solo show by British artist Rebecca Louise Law known for her floral installations: until 19 December 2020, visitors can admire her works and sculptures that investigate themes such as beauty, environmental sustainability and the relationship between man and nature.
Baptistery of Parma
The Baptistery of Parma is a stunning example of medieval architecture nestled in the heart of the city. Dating back to the 12th century, this architectural gem is renowned for its intricate marble facade adorned with sculptural details depicting biblical scenes and saints. Step inside to marvel at the exquisite frescoes that adorn the interior walls, showcasing the artistic prowess of renowned painters like Benedetto Antelami. As you explore the baptistery, you’ll be transported back in time to an era of religious devotion and artistic brilliance, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and art aficionados alike.
The Teatro Regio
And here’s another must-see for day-trip visitors to Parma: originally the Nuovo Teatro Ducale, Parma’s Teatro Regio was created at the behest of Duchess Maria Luigia of Habsburg-Lorraine, the wife of Napoleon.You can take a guided tour to discover its history in the Foyer, the Hall and the Redoubt.
Explore Parma’s historic shops
As you stroll through the downtown alleyways, don’t miss the chance to enter one of Parma’s historic guild shops, which tell ancient stories: from the watchmaker to the photographer, the tavern, and coffee roasting shop, you will find unique places to rediscover the objects of the past and perhaps buy a very particular souvenir! Bonus track: the Antica Spezieria di San Giovanni, a former apothecary converted to a museum, open only on Saturdays from 2.00 pm to 5.00 pm.
Visit the beauties of Emilia Romagna with Italo
Food museums
Food is culture too! And in the cities of Emilia, they know how to celebrate and enhance it to the fullest. Indeed, in Parma alone, there are as many as six museums dedicated to food: from the Parmigiano Reggiano Museum to the Feline Salami Museum, you should include at least one of them in your visit:
- Parmigiano Reggiano Museum
- Pasta Museum
- Tomato Museum
- Wine Museum
- Feline Salami Museum
- Parma Ham Museum
- Culatello Museum (cured meat)
- Borgotaro Porcini Mushroom Museum
What to Eat in Parma, Italy
Renowned for its gastronomic delights, Parma offers a feast of iconic dishes that celebrate the region’s rich culinary heritage.
Indulge in slices of creamy Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, crafted with centuries-old techniques, and savor the melt-in-your-mouth perfection of thinly sliced prosciutto di Parma, a delicacy prized around the world. Dive into a plate of tortelli d’erbetta, delicate stuffed pasta parcels bursting with ricotta and Swiss chard, or sample the hearty flavors of culatello, a prized dry-cured ham aged to perfection. And no visit to Parma is complete without a taste of its iconic dessert, the torta fritta (fried cake), golden-fried dough pillows served alongside savory cured meats or sweet spreads. Whether you’re dining in a rustic trattoria or a Michelin-starred restaurant, every meal in Parma promises an unforgettable culinary experience that will leave you craving more.
Visit the beauties of Emilia Romagna with Italo
Eat fried gnocchi in Parma
How can you pass through Parma without tasting one of the most delicious local specialties? Check out our selection of the best restaurants in which to eat fried dumpling in Parma and get ready to add an extra hole to your belt!
Visit a Cheese Producer
Staying on the topic of food, the last mouth-watering stop we suggest features the delicious cheeses typical of the Parma region: why not take advantage of your trip to visit a cheese producer too? There are several establishments that allow the public to enter, to discover the secrets of Parmesan and the like, and enjoy a good tasting.
How to Get to Parma?
Choose the convenience of the Itabus service that takes you to Parma by high-speed train + bus, and gets you directly to the city center comfortably and stress-free.
For example,
- from Naples to Parma, the trip takes just five hours;
- from Rome to Parma, just 3.5 hours!
- from Turin to Parma, in just 2.5 Hours
