Parmesan Paradise: A Family's Guide to Parma, Italy!

Discover the hidden charm of Parma, where family fun meets Italian culture.

19 July 2023

A family-friendly trip to Parma, Italy promises an enchanting experience filled with art, culture, and delicious food. Explore the city's impressive art galleries and historical sites, such as the magnificent Parma Cathedral and the Palazzo della Pilotta. Don't forget to indulge in the city's renowned cuisine, including Parmigiano Reggiano cheese and traditional Emilian dishes, making it an unforgettable adventure for the entire family.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Parmesan Passion

  • Check-in to Hotel San Marco, a charming family-friendly accommodation in Parma's historic center.
  • Immerse in cheese heaven at a Parmigiano-Reggiano factory tour. Taste, sniff, and fall in love with the creamy gold!
  • Discover Parma Cathedral, a magnificent Romanesque beauty. Don't just look up, but pay attention to the medieval pink marble statues too!
  • Get adventurous at the Teatro Regio, where opera comes to life. Feel the drama unfold as the voices reverberate off the golden walls.
  • Treat the little ones (or your inner child) to an evening gelato crawl. Try the zesty limone, rich cioccolato, and quirky balsamico flavors!
Day 2

Artistic Delights

  • Begin your day with a fluffy cappuccino and delectable brioche at Bar del Fico. The perfect fuel for an artsy adventure!
  • Visit the Galleria Nazionale, a treasure trove of Italian masterpieces. Marvel at Parmigianino's hauntingly beautiful "Madonna with the Long Neck."
  • Take a leisurely bike ride to the Parco Ducale. Breathe in the fresh air amidst blooming flowers, and enjoy a picnic with local delicacies.
  • Pop into the Camera di San Paolo, a hidden gem of medieval frescoes. Feel like an art detective as you uncover the secrets of the past.
  • Wrap up the day with a feast fit for royalty at Trattoria Corrieri. Savor homemade tortelli doused in a mouthwatering ragù sauce.
Day 3

Palaces & Pasta

  • Embark on a grand tour of Palazzo della Pilotta. From the elegant Teatro Farnese to the mesmerizing Biblioteca Palatina, this palace has it all!
  • Sample the golden elixir at Acetaia di Giorgio. Learn the art of balsamic vinegar production and relish its sweet, tangy magic.
  • Experience history at the Castle of Torrechiara. Stand in awe of the medieval stronghold and bask in breathtaking views of the countryside.
  • Indulge in heavenly pasta at Prosciutteria Corrieri. Twirl your fork in tagliatelle al ragù or risotto di Parmigiano, and let your taste buds dance!
  • Unwind with an evening stroll along Strada Luigi Carlo Farini, savoring the lively atmosphere and sipping on an Aperol Spritz.
Day 4

Market Meanderings

  • Kick-start your day at Mercato Albinelli, a bustling market brimming with vibrant produce, aromatic cheeses, and local food treasures.
  • Explore the quirky Museo Glauco Lombardi, where eccentric sculptures and playful art installations will leave you grinning from ear to ear.
  • Take a leisurely boat ride along Parma River, observing the charming city from a fresh perspective as the gentle breeze sweeps through.
  • Treat your palate to a sizzling porchetta sandwich at Rosticceria Barilla. Juicy, tender pork served on crusty bread will send your taste buds to paradise!
  • Bid farewell to Parma with a family-friendly cooking class. Roll pasta dough, craft tortellini like a pro, and create memories to savor forever!

Length of stay

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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

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Indulge in Parma's Best in 2 Days

Parma, located in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, is a must-visit destination for foodies and history buffs alike. The historic city is famous for its Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, Prosciutto di Parma, and balsamic vinegar. Visitors can also explore the city's Romanesque cathedral, Palladian and Renaissance-era architecture, and art museums.

4 Days of Art, Food, and Fun in Parma, Italy

As a tourist, a trip to Parma, Italy would provide a chance to indulge in delectable culinary treats, explore the city's vibrant art and cultural scene, and soak in the beauty of its stunning medieval architecture. Visitors can sample the city's world-renowned prosciutto and Parmigiano cheese, admire its stunning frescoes and sculptures, and stroll along its lovely piazzas lined with historic buildings, cafes, and boutique shops. From its breathtaking churches and palaces to its charming countryside, Parma offers a dreamy vacation experience that's sure to enchant all who visit.

Parma in 3 Days: Fun, Food, and Culture

A trip to Parma can provide an authentic Italian experience full of history, culture, and delicious cuisine. Visitors can explore the beautiful streets and landmarks of the city, including the magnificent Cathedral and the Renaissance-era Palazzo della Pilotta. And, of course, travelers should indulge in the famous Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and Parma ham, both made in the region, along with other gastronomical delights.

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.