Discover Parma's Charm on a Weekend Trip

Fall in love with the flavors and charm of Parma, Italy on your romantic getaway.

03 May 2023

Parma, Italy is the perfect romantic getaway, with its charming cobblestone streets, beautiful architecture and delicious cuisine. Visit the famous Parma Cathedral and explore the historic Palazzo della Pilotta. Sample local prosciutto, Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and enjoy a romantic picnic in the Parco Ducale gardens.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Cheese, Wine, and History

  • Start your day with a visit to the famous Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese Factory for a guided tour and a cheese tasting session.
  • Indulge in a wine tasting at one of the local wineries like Azienda Agricola Manara or Cantina della Volta.
  • Visit the Teatro Regio Parma, an opera house where Pavarotti performed, and marvel at the stunning architecture of the Palazzo della Pilotta.
  • Take a stroll through the historic center to see the iconic Duomo di Parma and the Baptistery of Parma, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
  • End your day with a romantic dinner at La Greppia, a Michelin star restaurant known for its local cuisine.
  • Hotel Recommendation: NH Parma, a modern hotel located in the city center.
Day 2

Culinary Delights and Artistic Wonders

  • Begin your day with breakfast at Caffè Ciacco, a charming café with homemade pastries and great coffee.
  • Explore the art galleries at the Galleria Nazionale di Parma, which houses works by Correggio and Van Dyck.
  • Taste the famous Parma ham and other cold cuts at Salumificio La Perla, a family-run store with over 60 years of experience.
  • Walk through the lush gardens of Parco Ducale and visit the Palazzo Ducale, a palace turned art museum with fantastic collections.
  • End your day with dinner at Cocchi, a cozy restaurant that serves classic Italian dishes with a contemporary twist.
  • Hotel Recommendation: Grand Hotel de la Ville, a luxurious hotel with elegant rooms and a panoramic terrace.
Day 3

Road Trip to the Countryside

  • Rent a car and take a scenic drive through the countryside, passing pretty villages like Castell'Arquato and Bardi.
  • Enjoy a picnic lunch with local wine and cheese at the stunning Castle of Tabiano, a medieval fortress with breathtaking views.
  • Take a dip in the thermal waters of Salsomaggiore Terme, a famous spa town that offers relaxing treatments.
  • Visit the Rocca Meli Lupi di Soragna, a castle with a fascinating history and incredible architecture.
  • Finish your day with dinner at Trattoria Corrieri, a rustic restaurant that serves traditional Emilian dishes.
  • Hotel Recommendation: Relais Colombara Spa & Wellness, a charming hotel set in a lush park with a spa and wellness center.

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.

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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.

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Parma is a beautiful city in the heart of Italy, famous for its delicious cuisine and rich history. A trip to Parma on a limited budget can be affordable and enjoyable, with many free or low-cost attractions to explore such as the magnificent Cathedral, Palazzo della Pilotta and Parco Ducale. Visitors can also indulge in the local culinary delights with affordable options available at the markets, cafes and trattorias.

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