Parmesan Palaces & Family Fun: A 3-Day Adventure in Parma

Discover Parma's rich heritage and delectable food, creating treasured memories for the whole family.

19 July 2023

A trip to Parma, Italy promises a delightful experience for families. Known as the "Food Valley," Parma offers not only famous Parmesan cheese and prosciutto but also charming attractions like Parma Cathedral and the Palace of Pilotta, housing museums and beautiful gardens. With its friendly atmosphere, rich history, and mouthwatering cuisine, Parma is an ideal destination for a family-friendly adventure in Italy.

Save and get deals

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Parmigiano Extravaganza

  • Start your day at Caffè delle Scimmie, a charming café that serves delicious pastries and strong Italian coffee.
  • Join a tour of a Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese factory and witness the birth of this legendary cheese. Prepare for a heavenly aroma overload!
  • Feast on a hearty lunch at Trattoria Corrieri, where you will be spoiled with traditional Parma dishes, like tortelli d'erbetta and luscious prosciutto.
  • Immerse yourself in history at Parma Cathedral, a stunning Romanesque masterpiece adorned with magnificent frescoes by Correggio.
  • Stroll along Strada Farini, the vibrant shopping street, and indulge in some retail therapy at the chic boutiques and antique stores.
  • End your day with a delectable dinner at Il Trovatore, an enchanting restaurant offering a blend of local and innovative cuisine.
Day 2

Art & Opera Delights

  • Fuel up with a flavorsome breakfast at Bar del Fico, where the locals gather for their morning caffeine fix and pastries.
  • Discover the artistic treasures of Galleria Nazionale, housing an impressive collection of Italian masterpieces from the Renaissance to modern art.
  • Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Osteria dello Zingaro, a rustic eatery that serves mouthwatering homemade pasta and savory meat dishes.
  • Experience the beauty of Teatro Regio, one of Italy's most prestigious opera houses. Check their event schedule for a captivating performance.
  • Treat your taste buds to a culinary adventure at Cocchi, a charming osteria known for its innovative reinterpretations of regional classics.
  • End your evening with a nightcap at Bottega del Vino, a cozy wine bar offering an extensive selection of regional wines.
Day 3

Palaces & Parks

  • Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at Pasticceria Torino, a delightful pastry shop revered for its delectable pastries and cappuccinos.
  • Explore the grandeur of Palazzo della Pilotta, a magnificent palace complex housing museums, galleries, and the Farnese Theatre.
  • Take a relaxing stroll in Parco Ducale, a vast green oasis with beautiful gardens, statues, and tranquil ponds.
  • For lunch, head to Trattoria Il Gallo d'Oro, a charming family-friendly establishment serving traditional dishes made from local, seasonal ingredients.
  • Feel like royalty as you wander through the opulent rooms of Palazzo Ducale, an extraordinary palace showcasing the city's aristocratic heritage.
  • Bid farewell to Parma with a memorable dinner at Antica Corte Pallavicina, a Michelin-starred restaurant set in a stunning 14th-century fortress. Enjoy their exceptional cuisine and exquisite cured meats, produced onsite.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Parma by plane is to fly into Parma Airport, also known as Giuseppe Verdi Airport, which is located just outside the city. Several airlines including Ryanair and Alitalia offer direct flights to Parma from major cities in Italy and throughout Europe.

Car

Parma can easily be reached by car, as it is located just off the A1 motorway which runs from Milan to Naples. The city offers several car rental options, and there are also numerous parking lots available in the city center.

Train

Parma is well connected to major cities throughout Italy by train. The city's main train station, Parma Centrale, is located in the city center and offers direct connections to cities such as Milan, Rome, and Florence.

Boat

As Parma is located inland, there are no boat options available for getting to the city.

Bus

Numerous bus companies operate routes to Parma from cities throughout Italy, including FlixBus and Baltour. The bus station in Parma is located in Piazzale della Pace, a short walk from the city center.

Destination

Parma

Welcome to the city that's not just famous for its ham, but also its cheese. You might just end up having more fun with Parmesan than with all those parmesan imitations you've been sprinkling on your pizza.

 Save and get deals

Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

A Delicious Day Trip to Parmigiano Reggiano Heaven

A trip to Parma, Italy as a tourist offers a journey through the city's rich history and culture. From marveling at the Romanesque and Gothic architecture of the Cathedral of Parma to relishing Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and prosciutto in local delicacies, the city is a gastronomic heaven. Visitors can also explore the famous Teatro Regio or take a leisurely stroll in the beautiful Parco Ducale.

Parmesan Paradise: Family Fun in Parma

A trip to Parma, Italy offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration and family-friendly activities. Explore the city's famous landmarks, such as the Duomo di Parma and the Palazzo della Pilotta, with its impressive art collections and historical exhibits. Indulge in the region's renowned cuisine, including mouth-watering Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and prosciutto, while children can enjoy gelato and pizza.

The Ultimate 2-Day Adventure in Parma!

Parma, Italy offers plenty of affordable and delicious culinary experiences including Parmesan cheese tours and visiting local markets. The city is also rich in architecture and history, with many free museums and landmarks to explore, such as the Cathedral and the Palazzo della Pilotta. Budget-friendly accommodation options can be found in guesthouses and hostels, while public transportation is easy to use and highly accessible.

Parma, Italy: Discover It All on a Budget!

Parma, Italy offers a budget-friendly trip with beautiful architecture and attractions. Enjoy the iconic Parma ham and Parmigiano Reggiano cheese without breaking the bank. Experience the city's rich history through visits to the Cathedral, Palazzo della Pilotta, and the Teatro Regio.