Parma Things to Do

Known for its very own delicious cheeses and ham, Parma is a city full of diverse local experiences for visitors of all ages and interests. From the history buff to the nature lover, there is something for everyone in this quaint city located in the Northern Italian region of Emilia-Romagna. Visitors can take in a variety of festive events, various tours both inside and outside, and experience scenic natural locations.

FESTIVALS AND EVENTS

The fall is an opportune time for those visiting Parma to immerse themselves in one of the city’s own festive, cultural events.

From late September to mid-October, the Verdi Opera Festival is put on to honor the legendary composer and province of Parma native Giuseppe Verdi and the beautiful music the city is famous for. The event takes over the “City of Music” with its festive ambiance – welcoming attendees from all over the world. Music lovers of all ages can attend well known productions such as Il trovatore, Attila, Macbeth and Un Giorno di Regno at the historic Teatro Regio and Teatro Farnese in Parma as well as Teatro Verdi in Busseto, Verdi’s hometown. In addition, there are workshops with musicians and artists, concerts in smaller venues, and dinner events highlighting local cuisine. The life of Verdi himself can be explored on a tour dedicated to visiting locations that were significant to his life and career. The musical roots of Renata Tebaldi and Arturo Toscanini can be investigated as well.

Also in September is the Prosciutto di Parma Festival, celebrating the “king” of hams. The event is full of activities for all ages throughout the festival’s duration, including musical entertainment, master classes, cooking demonstrations, and of course the star of the show, with thousands of ways to enjoy the famed cured ham. The meat factories invite guests to their Finestre Aperte, or “Open Windows” events to go behind the scenes and learn what it takes to create Prosciutto di Parma and enjoy free tastings along the way. Attendees can take in the Museum of Parma Ham’s exhibit featuring the history behind the favorite meat, as well as attend the fair in Garibaldi Square that closes out the festival in its final days.

Another September celebration is the Palio di Parma, which is a reenactment of a medieval race known as Corsa dello Scarlatto. During the festival, locals compete in games and tournaments as well as organize processions in medieval costumes, medieval dances, and other reenactments.

In March, the city comes alive with the Fiera di San Giuseppe in Oltretorrente. The vibrant festival features street side markets, carnival rides for kids, cultural exhibitions, and street musician performances.

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

Parma cannot be visited without enjoying its magnificent views – from the historic architecture to the scenic landscapes, this quaint, walk-able area has an abundance of outdoor sites to see.

From the rugged Apennine mountains to the Po River there is an immense landscape available to explore. There are lowland trails as well as more challenging hiking opportunities at the high mountainous elevations. Along the way, there are majestic fortresses and castles to be admired. These historic structures are from the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries and have been well preserved over time. Following are just a few of the must-see locations.

Fortress of Bardi was a protective military building turned dignified castle set on the rocky terrain of the mountains, Castle of Felino located in the Parma Valley between Baganza and Parma, Castle of Compiano can be found between Liguria and Emilia and is home to the International Masonic Museum.

Reggia of Colorno, or Royal Palace was built during the eighteenth century by the Duke of Parma and can be found adjacent to the Po River.

INDOOR ACTIVITIES

Just as there is a wide range of sites to be seen out amongst nature, Parma has plenty to see and do indoors. A popular means for discovering Parma is through the many tours available. From food and architecture to art and music, there are many tours to educate visitors on life in Parma. Food and wine tours can be attended to learn the specific process and history behind a particular aspect of local cuisine such as Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and Prosciutto di Parma. For a short excursion out of Parma, tourists can visit Modena to learn more about the makings of their fine balsamic vinegar.

Other notable locations that can be toured include: the Parma Baptistry, the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, the Farnese Theatre, and the Palazzo del Govenatore (Governor’s Palace) – just to name a few. There is no shortage of monuments, churches, and other historic locations to visit in and around Parma. Each landmark is full of rich history and stunning architecture to be admired.

Museums are prominent throughout Italy and Parma has a few notable locations of its own. In particular, the Galleria Nazionale located in the Piazza della Pilotta complex, shows off the artwork of local and world-famous artists such as Antonio da Correggio, Parmigianino, Tintoretto, Fra Angelico, and Leonardo da Vinci. Additional art and photography exhibits can be viewed at the University of Parma.

No visit to Parma is complete without attending an opera performance. With notable musicians Arturo Toscanini and Giuseppe Verdi originating from the province of Parma, there is no doubt that opera remains at the heart of the city. Smaller venues such as the Paganini Auditorium offer concerts, but it is the Teatro Regio that is the city’s true opera house. The 1,400-seat venue opened in 1829 and was initially known as the Nuovo Teatro Ducale. Today, the opera company typically puts on one concert per season, for a total of four annually. In addition to taking in the beautiful music, there are guided tours available to provide discovery of its history and architecture.

SHOPPING ACTIVITIES

Up and down the streets of Parma, shoppers can browse the local favorites within the many shops and cafés. The heart of the city is home to a variety of local boutiques offering visitors a chance to peruse Italian clothing, shoes, handbags, jewelry, and other locally crafted items. Food is another popular choice as the numerous open markets offer all of the traditional favorites of Parma cuisine at much more affordable prices than the area’s larger food stores.

Piazza Ghiaia is home to a historic riverside market. Here, locals and travelers alike can purchase a variety of goods from fresh produce to clothes and household items.

Travelers interested in shopping should also make a point to stop by the Antique District. Within this part of Parma, there are specialty shops dedicated to historic items, woodworking, and goldsmithing as well as restoration workshops. Items for sale here include an eclectic mix of paintings, jewelry, fabrics, twentieth century furniture, manuscripts, Japanese art, Persian rugs, and more.

FAMILY & KIDS

The beautiful parks the city has to offer provide the perfect opportunity for visitors of all ages to take in the stunning natural scenery.

Parco Ducale is one of the more popular parks and is just a short walk from the center of town. Its numerous access points – Via dei Farnese, Ponte Caprazzucca, Ponte Verdi, Via Kennedy, and Via Pasini – make the park a convenient spot to take in a peaceful stroll or let young travelers play. Children can enjoy a ride on the merry-go-round, climbing on the play structure, or a chance to feed the ducks along the small lake.

There are numerous other parks that visitors can enjoy, including the sixteenth-century military location known as Parco Cittadella, Giardino Ducale Di Colorno near the palace of the same name, and the Orto Botanico (Botanical Garden). While the latter is a favorite of botanists, it offers a peaceful location to enjoy an abundance of local plants and flora, including the unusual Ginkgo biloba tree.

While travelers have options for how to get around Parma, bicycles are a favorite means of transport and one that can be fun for the whole family. They can be easily rented at one of the numerous rental centers located throughout the city, including at the entrance to Parco Ducale.

UNIQUE EXPERIENCES

As with any city, Parma has a number of distinctive sights to admire.

For a more varied experience, consider visiting the Casa del Suono (House of Sound). Once a religious venue known as Chiesa di Santa Elisabetta, this unusual museum provides visitors with a historical look at how music and technology come together. It delves into how the pair have evolved over the years – from the phonograph to the digital players of today and beyond.

If a day trip fits into the itinerary, an excursion to the small village of Torrechiara should be considered. Located just 35 minutes south of Parma by car, this destination is quaint with an extraordinary focal point. The Castello di Torrechiara was built in the mid-1400s by count Pier Maria II de’ Rossi for his lover Bianca Pellegrini. It sits majestically atop a nearby hill overlooking the village and its adjacent countryside. The castle is known for the timeless preservation both inside and out. It is embraced by four unique towers and walls featuring merlons in between. Visitors can admire the many intricately decorated rooms and the beautiful story-telling frescos in the arched lunettes in between.

Parma is a unique destination in Northern Italy filled with cultural attractions and enough delicious local specialties to put a smile on the face of all food and wine lovers. Surrounded by stunning countryside panoramas, Parma is a destination meant to be savored.

Travel Guides

The Emilia Romagna Region of Italy

The Cities of Emilia Romagna, Italy