The relaxed city of Parma, Italy, is renowned for its cheese and ham (yes, Parmigiano-Reggiano and Prosciutto di Parma!), but that’s just the beginning of what makes Parma so enchanting.
Conveniently situated along major train routes in Emilia-Romagna, Parma lies approximately 60 miles/100 kilometers west of its more famous neighbor, Bologna.
With its vibrant architecture, impressive yet uncrowded monuments, a lively student community, affordable prices, and some of Italy’s finest cuisine, Parma is a city that’s easy to fall in love with.
Parma feels like the perfect balance among northern Italian cities: it’s neither too big nor too small, offers delightful attractions without the crowds, is well-positioned for travel, and is a real bargain compared to many nearby spots.
It’s no surprise that Parma was named the Italian Capital of Culture for 2020-2021!
If this sounds like your ideal Italian escape, it’s time to discover Parma.
We’ve had the pleasure of visiting Parma twice—first on a day trip and later for an extended stay—and have become completely enamored with it.
Here’s a guide to the best things to do in Parma, Italy—plus everything you need to know before planning your trip!
The Best Things to Do in Parma, Italy
Explore the Duomo di Parma.
Consecrated in 1106, the Duomo di Parma stands out as one of the most remarkable cathedrals in Emilia-Romagna, if not northern Italy!
Featuring an intricately frescoed ceiling and a magnificent dome painted by Antonio da Correggio, a visit to the Duomo is undeniably one of Parma’s top experiences.
The cathedral is free to enter and doesn’t take much time to explore, making it an easy addition to any Parma itinerary.
(Also, Ristorante Angiol d’Or, located right next door, serves excellent Emila-Romagnan cuisine.)
Admire Parma’s medieval baptistery.
Commissioned in 1196 and constructed from Verona marble, the Parma Baptistery is renowned as one of Europe’s most significant medieval monuments due to its unique design!
The baptistery merges Romanesque and Gothic styles, reflecting the transitional phase from Romanesque to Gothic architecture in Europe.
The ceiling of the baptistery, with its stunning frescoes, is especially noteworthy.
Unlike the cathedral, entering the Parma Baptistery requires a 12 Euro ticket, which also includes admission to the Diocesan Museum.
Tickets are available at the Diocesan Museum, situated across from the Piazza del Duomo from the baptistery.
Visit the Diocesan Museum.
Located in the Bishop’s Palace, this small museum complements a visit to both the Duomo and the Parma Baptistery.
The museum details the history of Christianity in Parma, from Roman times through the medieval period, reflected in the other two monuments on Piazza del Duomo.
Some of the art in the museum once belonged to the cathedral or baptistery, similar to the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo near Florence’s Duomo.
Currently, most signage in the museum is in Italian, but an English audio guide is available.
Explore the museums at Palazzo della Pilotta.
Several of Parma’s museums, including the famous Teatro Farnese featured in numerous Parma attraction lists, are housed within the centrally located Palazzo della Pilotta.
As of late 2022, the only way to visit these museums (including Teatro Farnese) is by purchasing a combined ticket for 12 Euros, as confirmed by the ticket office.
Here’s what you’ll find inside Palazzo della Pilotta!
Teatro Farnese
When you visit Parma’s Teatro Farnese, the first thing you notice is the smell: the entire theater is constructed from wood!
Originally built in 1618, Teatro Farnese is one of the few remaining Renaissance theaters globally.
It was extensively rebuilt after being damaged in Allied bombing in 1944, but remains a striking site and is among Parma’s most famous attractions.
National Gallery of Parma
We were particularly impressed by the extensive and engaging collection at the National Gallery of Parma.
To our surprise, it houses a Da Vinci!
The collection’s origins date back to the Academy of Fine Arts established in Parma in 1752, and features a range of Italian and European art.
Biblioteca Palatina + Bodoni Museum
Founded in 1761, Biblioteca Palatina reminds us of Bologna’s Library of Archiginnasio but allows visitors to walk through!
It’s connected to the Bodoni Museum, which highlights Parma’s role in printing from the 18th century.
Although the Bodoni Museum is currently closed for updates, checking future reopening dates is recommended.
Even with the museum closed, Biblioteca Palatina is worth a visit!
National Archaeological Museum
Established in 1760 as the Ducal Museum of Antiquity, Parma’s National Archaeological Museum is one of Italy’s oldest!
It features artifacts from Roman times as well as Ancient Egypt and other ancient cultures.
Tour a Parmigiano-Reggiano factory.
Our initial interest in visiting Parma was driven by the desire to tour a Parmigiano-Reggiano factory and see the rows of aging cheese!
This experience fully lived up to our expectations and remains one of our most memorable Italian travel moments.
Factories are located outside the city, so booking a guided tour or arranging a visit in advance is necessary.
Many tours, including this popular one, also include a visit to a Prosciutto di Parma factory, which is well worth it!
If you prefer just cheese, this shorter tour is a great choice.
… and a Prosciutto di Parma factory.
Parma’s second iconic food, Prosciutto di Parma, is also worth experiencing through a factory tour and tasting!
The distinct flavors of aging Prosciutto di Parma are delightful, and touring the factory is a fascinating experience.
Many Parma tours that visit a Parmigiano-Reggiano factory also include a stop at a Prosciutto di Parma factory.
Stroll through Ducal Park and see the Ducal Palace.
Just a short walk across the Parma River from Palazzo della Pilotta, Ducal Park is one of the city’s most picturesque and serene green spaces.
At its center is the Ducal Palace, built in the 18th century by the Duke of Parma.
Though the palace itself is not open to the public, its striking exterior is worth seeing when visiting Ducal Park!
Visit the Sanctuary of Santa Maria della Steccata.
Built in the 16th century, this beautiful church is free to enter and relatively uncrowded, and holds historical significance for the city.
The Sanctuary of Santa Maria della Steccata features an opulent Baroque interior that contrasts with its plain exterior.
The church’s crypt is the final resting place of 26 members of the Farnese family, who ruled Parma from 1545 to 1731.
People-watch at Piazza della Pace.
This charming green space, bordered by Palazzo della Pilotta and a selection of cafes and restaurants, is an excellent spot for people-watching.
Despite its proximity to popular attractions, this piazza retains a local atmosphere, partly due to the students who frequent it.
Tour Parma’s beautiful Baroque opera house, Teatro Regio.
Although Parma’s Teatro Regio may not have the immediate fame of Milan’s La Scala or Venice’s La Fenice, it is a stunning Baroque building.
Opened in 1829, the theater is still operational today (check show dates and times here).
Guided tours are available most days if you prefer to explore the theater without attending a performance.
Check out the Castle Puppets Museum.
This small, quirky museum might be easy to miss but is worth a visit!
Focusing on puppets and puppeteering from the 18th to 20th centuries, the museum is well-executed and engaging.
… and the House of Sound.
Another unique and free museum in Parma is the House of Sound.
This interactive museum explores the history of sound reproduction, featuring exhibits on phonographs, stereos, and more.
The museum primarily covers the 20th century.
Duck into the Church of San Giovanni Evangelista.
Built in the 1500s, the Church of San Giovanni Evangelista features frescoes by Antonio da Correggio, similar to those in the nearby Duomo.
Located just behind the Parma Cathedral, it’s easy to visit both churches in one trip!
Stop by Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi.
Also known as Piazza Grande, Piazza Garibaldi is the traditional “main” piazza of Parma and houses the town hall.
Today, traffic flows through it, giving it a more modern and lively feel compared to some quieter piazzas in Parma’s historic center.
For coffee and people-watching, we recommend the smaller, quieter piazzas, like Piazza della Steccata.
Sample pesto di cavallo.
Pesto di cavallo is one of Parma’s most distinctive dishes, featuring horse meat served raw (similar to French boeuf tartare).
Minced with salt, pepper, and lemon, this dish might be outside the usual American food culture.
We both tried it—Jeremy enjoyed it, while I found it okay but don’t generally prefer raw meat.
Though it’s a staple in Parma, you’ll have plenty of chances to
sample it at local restaurants.
Indulge in a classic Parma meal.
Parma is known for its rich cuisine, with classic dishes including tortelli d’erbetta (pasta stuffed with herbs and ricotta), risotto, and, of course, dishes featuring Parma ham and cheese.
We enjoyed a fantastic meal at Osteria del 36, a local favorite with a great atmosphere.
Stroll along the Parma River.
The Parma River meanders through the city, with several pleasant walking paths available along its banks.
This is a wonderful way to relax and enjoy Parma’s natural beauty.
Where to Stay in Parma
We’ve stayed at three different hotels in Parma and have loved each one.
Staying at NH Parma
Located near the train station, NH Parma is a modern, comfortable hotel that offers convenience for travelers.
Staying at Hotel Verdi
A charming hotel near the historic center of Parma, Hotel Verdi offers a cozy and classic Parma experience.
Staying at Palazzo Dalla Rosa Prati
For a more luxurious stay, consider Palazzo Dalla Rosa Prati, located in a historic building with beautiful views over the Duomo and the piazza.
Sample One Day in Parma Itinerary for a Quick Visit
If you’re visiting Parma for a short time, here’s a quick itinerary to help you make the most of your day:
- Morning: Visit the Duomo di Parma and the Baptistery.
- Midday: Explore the National Gallery and have lunch.
- Afternoon: Stroll through Ducal Park and visit Teatro Farnese.
- Evening: Enjoy a dinner featuring local cuisine.
Getting Around When Visiting Parma
Parma’s historic center is compact and easily navigable on foot. For reaching sites outside the center, such as Parmigiano-Reggiano factories, consider using public transport or booking a guided tour.
When to Visit Parma, Italy
The best time to visit Parma is during the spring or fall, when the weather is pleasant, and the city is less crowded. Summer can be hot, and winter might be chilly but offers a different charm.
FAQs for Travel to Parma, Italy
- What is Parma known for?
Parma is famous for its Parmesan cheese and Prosciutto di Parma, as well as its rich history and beautiful architecture. - How do I get to Parma?
Parma is easily accessible by train from major Italian cities like Bologna and Milan. The city also has a small airport with flights from various destinations. - What are the must-see attractions in Parma?
Key attractions include the Duomo di Parma, Parma Baptistery, Palazzo della Pilotta, Teatro Farnese, and the many museums and historical sites. - What are some local dishes to try in Parma?
Must-try dishes include tortelli d’erbetta, risotto, and various dishes featuring Parmigiano-Reggiano and Prosciutto di Parma. - Is Parma a good destination for a short visit?
Yes, Parma is ideal for a day or two visit, offering a rich experience without overwhelming crowds.