PARMA TRAVEL GUIDE

A Perfect Fusion of History, Art, and Italian Cuisine

Parma, located in the heart of Italy´s Emilia-Romagna region, offers a stunning blend of ancient history, artistic treasures, and world-renowned gastronomy. Nestled between Bologna and Milan, this charming city is known not only for its beauty but also as a UNESCO Creative City for Gastronomy. Visitors are drawn to its rich cultural heritage, exceptional architecture, and the unforgettable culinary experiences that define Parma´s identity.

A City Shaped by Time

Parma´s origins date back to the Lower Palaeolithic. It was officially founded in 183 BC under Roman rule, strategically located along the Via Emilia, a key route for trade and development. Over the centuries, Parma has been influenced by different rulers, including the Lombards, the Visconti, and the Farnese family, who significantly shaped the city´s artistic and architectural heritage. The city boasts magnificent palaces, churches, and monuments.

From the Lombard period to the establishment of the Duchy of Parma, the city’s influence grew, with remarkable buildings like the Parma Cathedral and Baptistery, symbols of its religious and architectural importance.

The city´s political landscape shifted in the 18th century with the influence of the Bourbons and the marriage of Maria Luigia to Napoleon Bonaparte, who later became the Duchess of Parma. Her reign marked a period of cultural and artistic revitalization.

Must-See Landmarks and Attractions in Parma

• Palazzo della Pilotta - This historical landmark houses several important museums, including the National Gallery, the Archaeological Museum, and the Museum Bodoni. The Palazzo also features the Teatro Farnese, a stunning theater made mostly of wood.

• Parma Cathedral (Duomo) - The Cathedral of Parma is a magnificent example of Romanesque architecture, built in 1059. Known for its impressive frescoed dome by Antonio da Correggio, which depicts the Virgin Mary surrounded by angels is one of Italy’s most famous Renaissance artworks. The cathedral is a must-visit for anyone interested in religious art and architecture.

• Baptistery of Parma - Located next to the Cathedral, the Baptistery is a stunning pink Verona marble building that blends Romanesque and early Gothic elements. Inside, visitors can admire the beautiful frescoes and an imposing marble baptismal font.

• Teatro Farnese - Built in 1616, the Farnese Theatre is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. The theater is renowned for its innovative design, where characters could be lowered from above the stage and a system for flooding the stage with water.

• Galleria Nazionale di Parma - The National Gallery of Parma is home to a remarkable collection of art, including works by masters like Correggio, Leonardo da Vinci, and Van Dyck. This museum offers a journey through Italian art from the Middle Ages to the Baroque period.

Culinary Excellence: A Taste of Parma’s Finest Flavors

• Parmigiano Reggiano - No trip to Parma is complete without indulging in its world-famous cheese, Parmigiano Reggiano. Produced in the region for over 800 years, this hard, aged cheese is a staple of Italian cuisine and is recognized for its distinctive flavour which is nutty and has hints of fruit with a granular texture. Only cheese produced in specific provinces of Emilia-Romagna and Lombardy can be called Parmigiano Reggiano.

• Prosciutto di Parma - Parma´s legendary cured ham is another must-try delicacy. Made using traditional methods, Prosciutto di Parma is renowned for its delicate, sweet flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Take a guided food tour to learn about the production process and sample the finest hams directly from local producers.

• Culatello di Zibello - This rare, slow-cured meat is considered one of the best types of ham in Italy. Made from the leg of pork, Culatello di Zibello is aged for at least a year in special cellars and is prized for its rich, tender texture.

• Torta Fritta - For a taste of Parma´s street food culture, try torta fritta which are squares of dough fried and served with cold cuts and cheeses. This simple yet delicious dish captures the essence of local culinary traditions. Enjoy it with a glass of local Lambrusco wine for a refreshing combination!

Parma’s Natural Beauty: Parks and Scenic Spots

• Parco Ducale - Parco Ducale is one of Parma´s main green spaces. It's located near the Oltretorrente district and is perfect for a relaxing walk or bike ride. The park´s centerpiece is the “Fontana del Trianon” statue, surrounded by a peaceful pond where turtles swim.

• Parco Cittadella - Originally a defensive fortress, the Parco Cittadella is now a public park where visitors can enjoy walking and cycling paths, sports facilities, and beautiful views of the surrounding area.

Cultural Events in Parma

• Parma Cittadella Musica - For music lovers, the Parma Cittadella Musica event in July is a must. This series of concerts and performances held in the Parco Ducale features a wide range of musical genres and offers a vibrant atmosphere for visitors to enjoy.

• Verdi Festival - Dedicated to the works of Giuseppe Verdi, one of Italy’s greatest composers, the Verdi Festival in Parma celebrates his life and music with performances of his operas and symphonic works. This annual event, held in October, attracts music enthusiasts from around the world.

Parma is not just a destination, it’s an experience. With its combination of historical sites, cultural events, and world-famous cuisine, it’s a city that will enchant visitors.

Population: 336,000 (2025) inhabitants

Our food experts have chosen the best tour operators offering tours with food, wine, and walking holidays in Parma. You can check our full list of things to do in Parma: top food tours to Parma and top boutique hotels in the sections of the travel to Parma destination guide.