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.

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Travel plan

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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.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Parma on a Budget: A Delicious Day Trip

Travelers on a limited budget can enjoy a trip to Parma, Italy by staying in affordable accommodations such as hostels or budget hotels. They can experience the city's rich history by visiting landmarks and museums for free or taking a self-guided walking tour. Dining out can also be done inexpensively by trying street food or eating at local trattorias that offer affordable traditional dishes.

Parma: 3 Days of Art, Cheese, and Adventure!

Parma, Italy offers an abundance of cultural and gastronomic experiences for individuals on a limited budget. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks like the Palazzo della Pilotta and Piazza Garibaldi, as well as sample local delicacies like parmesan cheese and prosciutto at affordable prices. Additionally, budget-friendly accommodations are available throughout the city, making it an ideal destination for budget-conscious travelers.

A Romantic Long Weekend in Parma, Italy

Discover the enchanting and romantic city of Parma, Italy, with its mesmerizing Renaissance architecture and unparalleled gastronomic scene. Journey through the historic city center, visiting picturesque piazzas, stunning cathedrals, and grand palaces. Savor the flavors of the region, indulging in delectable dishes like Parmigiano Reggiano, Prosciutto di Parma, and fresh homemade pastas.

Parmesan Perfection: A 5-Day Cheese Lover's Guide to Parma

Parma, located in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, promises a memorable family-friendly trip full of culinary delights and cultural exploration. Explore the city's rich history by visiting landmarks such as the stunning Parma Cathedral and the imposing Palazzo della Pilotta. Delight your taste buds with the city's world-famous Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and prosciutto, while enjoying family-friendly activities like the Teatro Regio Opera House or taking a bike ride along the River Parma.