Is Parma worth visiting? I wondered that myself as I traced my slow travel route through northern Italy, bypassing the usual tourist trail.
Most people know Parma for its cheese and cured meats—and yes, I’ll talk about the food—but I wanted to see what else was behind the name. What kind of place lingers in your memory after the suitcases are unpacked?
I’ll share what surprised me, what I’d go back for, and what felt a bit underwhelming. If you’re weighing whether Parma is worth your time, here’s my take—on what it’s like to experience this lesser-known Italian city at a slower pace.
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The First Impression: What Parma Feels Like
I arrived in Parma on a quiet, grey, rainy morning in early October, stepping off the train from Reggio Emilia with no real agenda—just my phone’s Google Maps with a few bookmarked spots, and an open day to explore, in the rain. Reggio had been my home base for a few days, and it already felt familiar: calm, compact, and refreshingly untouristy, and I expected Parma to feel similar.
But I noticed some differences in Parma. It felt larger and much more polished. The streets were tidy and wide, the buildings in soft, faded tones that looked like they’d been gently aging for centuries. It didn’t feel sleepy exactly, but it also wasn’t in any hurry to impress me. And I liked that. No crowds, no tourists, no one trying to lure me into a restaurant—just the essence of dolce vita of everyday Italian life.
Compared to other Italian cities I’ve visited just before Parma, like Turin and Milan, Parma was quieter and more understated. It wasn’t love at first sight, but the more I explored, the more I liked it. It felt lived-in, like a city for locals first and visitors second. And for a slow traveller, that’s exactly what we look for, wouldn’t you agree?
Beyond the Food: What Else Parma Offers
Parma may be famous for what’s on the plate, but I quickly realized there’s more to it than Parma ham and cheese. Walking through the city without a schedule is where Parma really opened up. It’s the kind of place where you stumble into moments rather than chase them.
Parma’s streets invite wandering without aim. Wide enough to feel airy but narrow enough to keep things cozy, they carry the scent of bakeries and the murmur of locals chatting over espresso. I paused often—sometimes to admire a crumbling fresco, other times just to watch someone walk past, hiding their face under the umbrella, or greet a neighbour for a quick chat. This is a city that doesn’t rush, and I felt no pressure to either, even in the rain.
I came upon the Parma Cathedral, with its soft pink stone façade and fresco-covered interior, which feels almost hidden in plain sight, while the Baptistery beside it—carved from rose-colored Verona marble—stands like it hasn’t changed from the Middle Ages.
One of my favourite moments was doing absolutely nothing in Piazza Garibaldi. It wasn’t planned—I just needed to rest my feet. But sitting there, watching school kids drift by and locals warming up over a coffee under the awning of a cafe, I felt part of something, even if only for an hour.
And that’s the charm. Not the museums (though they’re here), not the landmarks (though they exist), but the quiet pace of everyday life that asks you to slow down, pay attention, and stay a little longer.
Yes, the Food is Famous—but Here’s What Makes It Special
It’s impossible to talk about Parma without mentioning the food; it was, after all, the first Italian city granted UNESCO status for its gastronomy. Even as a vegetarian, I felt the weight of its reputation—this is, after all, the land of Parmigiano Reggiano.
I skipped the factory tours—not out of disinterest, but because I wasn’t sure how relevant they’d be for me, and I had already visited a cheese farm in Tuscany weeks earlier. Instead, I visited Casa del Parmigiano Reggiano, a specialty cheese shop and listened to the shopkeeper explain the aging of Parmigiano Reggiano while sampling some samples.
I had lunch at Borgo 20, a cozy spot tucked into a quiet, narrow street near the center. In Italy, I can easily find yummy vegetarian options on every menu, and this was the case here. I had homemade pasta with seasonal autumn vegetables, with a healthy sprinkling of Parmigiano cheese shaved on top.
Of course, for the meat-eater travellers, you’ll want to order an appetizer that features a variety of cured meats.
The Drawbacks: What Didn’t Quite Click
As much as I appreciated Parma’s slower pace and understated charm, not everything resonated with me. There were moments when I felt like I had seen the best of it a little too quickly. For a city with such a rich history, I expected more layers to peel back—but after a few hours of wandering, I started to wonder if I’d missed something, or if there just wasn’t that much more to uncover.
It’s not that Parma lacks beauty or culture—it does in spades. But if you’re someone who craves energy or a sense of discovery around every corner, you might find the city a bit too small and underwhelming, especially in the low season. I visited in early October, when tourists were few and the streets felt almost empty. Peaceful, yes—but I also like a little more energy. It could have been the rainy day that impacted my impression.
If you’re someone who thrives on busy city vibes or is looking for constant excitement, Parma will feel a little too quiet for you. It’s not a place for those hoping to tick off major tourist sites or experience a high-energy nightlife scene.
And, if you’re wondering whether Parma is worth an overnight visit, I’d say yes, especially if you’re someone who enjoys good food. The city’s dining scene is worth exploring further—there were a few places I didn’t get to try that I’m already thinking about for next time.
Plus, a performance at Teatro Regio would be a perfect way to spend an evening. I was dying to step inside and experience the beauty of the theater, not to mention catch a Vivaldi concert. For a short stay, Parma offers just enough to make it worth the trip.
Final Thoughts: Is Parma Worth Visiting
Parma may not be for everyone, but if you’re a slow traveller with an appreciation for food, art, and quiet charm, it’s definitely worth a visit. I’m willing to return, and pray it’s a pleasant, sunny day.
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