When I first arrived in Parma, I had no idea how much this small northern Italian city had to offer. Known for its prosciutto and parmesan, of course, but Parma attractions go far beyond food.
From elegant piazzas to lesser-known museums and peaceful parks, there’s a lot packed into a walkable historic center.
I’m sharing a full list of things to see and do in Parma—from iconic landmarks to hidden spots I stumbled upon by chance. If you’re planning a visit and wondering how to spend your time, this list will help you make the most of your trip.
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For the Culture Seeker
If you’re like me and enjoy diving into the heart of a city’s story, Parma has plenty to offer. Its deep ties to music, art, and architecture make it a cultural stop that’s far from overwhelming but incredibly rewarding.
Teatro Regio di Parma
Even if you’re not an opera buff, Teatro Regio is worth seeing for its elegance and its place in Italy’s musical heritage. Commissioned by Maria Luigia (Napoleon’s second wife), this 19th-century theatre is one of the country’s top opera houses and a tribute to the legacy of Giuseppe Verdi, who was born just outside Parma. You can take a guided tour or, if the timing works, attend a performance during the Verdi Festival in the fall.
Casa della Musica
Housed in a former monastery, the Casa della Musica is a quiet, under-the-radar spot that’s perfect for those curious about Parma’s deep connection to classical music. The exhibits include rare instruments, archival recordings, and an intimate look at Parma’s musical history through the 19th and 20th centuries. It’s small but thoughtfully curated.
Palazzo della Pilotta & National Gallery (Galleria Nazionale)
This enormous complex near the river is a cultural powerhouse. The National Gallery houses works by Correggio, Parmigianino, and even Leonardo da Vinci. The palace also contains the Farnese Theatre—a stunning wooden Renaissance theatre that looks straight out of a Shakespeare set. It’s a good place to explore if you want a combination of art, architecture, and history in one stop.
Here are a few worth looking into
- Palazzo della Pilotta – A large cultural complex home to several institutions, including the National Gallery, Teatro Farnese, and an archaeological museum.
- Pinacoteca Stuard – This small but diverse art gallery spans from medieval to modern works, all housed in a former monastery.
- Museo Diocesano – Located near the Cathedral, this museum showcases religious art and artifacts, offering insight into the region’s spiritual history.
- Bodoni Museum – A niche stop for design or typography lovers, dedicated to the famous typographer Giambattista Bodoni.
- House of Sound (Casa del Suono) – An interactive museum exploring the history and technology of sound, located inside a former church.
For the Strolling Type
One of my favourite ways to experience Parma was simply by walking. It’s a compact, easygoing city made for wandering. If you like to slow down, observe the details, and feel the pace of local life, these are the spots where that really comes through.
The Historic Center on Foot
Parma’s old town is a gentle maze of cobbled streets, colourful facades, and charming little courtyards. I didn’t follow a specific route—I just let myself wander. Sometimes I stumbled upon a tucked-away bakery, other times a quiet church courtyard with no one else in sight.
Piazza Garibaldi
This is the city’s main square and a natural meeting point. The yellow Palazzo del Governatore watches over the space, and you’ll often see people sitting at café tables or chatting. It’s a great spot to grab a coffee or aperitivo and soak up the energy of Parma without rushing anywhere.
Ponte di Mezzo
Crossing the Parma River on foot via this bridge is a scenic moment you might not think twice about—but don’t rush it. From here, you get a lovely view of both sides of the city and the gentle water below. It’s especially nice at sunset, when the warm light softens the pastel buildings along the banks.
Parco Ducale
This wide, tree-lined park just across the river from the old town feels like Parma’s backyard. Locals come here for their morning jog, lunch break, or an afternoon stroll. You’ll find statues, fountains, shaded benches, and the grand Palazzo Ducale at the center. It’s not overly landscaped or touristy—just a lovely place to pause while going from attraction to attraction.
For the Church & Architecture Enthusiast
Parma is full of historic churches—some grand and well-known, others quietly tucked into side streets. Even if you’re not religious, each of these churches offers a quiet, contemplative look into centuries of art, architecture, and local devotion. I found that stepping into these spaces—often free and open to the public—offered a welcome pause from sightseeing (and the downpour of rain throughout my day).
Parma Cathedral and Baptistery
Set in Piazza Duomo, these two landmarks are architectural showstoppers. The Cathedral’s Romanesque façade gives way to a richly frescoed interior, including Correggio’s masterpiece on the dome—one of the finest examples of Renaissance illusionistic painting. Right beside it, the Baptistery stands out with its pink Verona marble and octagonal design.
San Giovanni Evangelista
Just steps from the Cathedral, this church often gets overshadowed, but it holds its own with stunning frescoes by Correggio—especially the dizzying dome painting of Christ’s ascension. The cloisters and attached monastery add a peaceful contrast to the richly decorated interior. It’s a good spot to linger, sit quietly, and take in the details you might miss at first glance.
Chiesa della Steccata
This Renaissance church near the center has a wide, domed layout and an ornate interior filled with gold trim, frescoes, and the tomb of Duke Ottavio Farnese. What struck me most was how it felt tucked into the city—quiet and humble on the outside, but full of decorative richness once you step inside. A great stop for fans of symmetry and classical style.
Santa Maria della Pace
A bit outside the main tourist path, this Baroque-style church is peaceful and less visited, with a soft-toned interior and a sense of calm that makes it feel like a hidden retreat. It’s not as showy as the others, but if you’re nearby, it’s worth a few quiet minutes to reset.
Here are a few more that caught my eye
- San Francesco del Prato – A striking Gothic church with a fascinating history—it was once used as a prison and has recently been restored and reopened to the public.
- San Vitale – Located near the heart of town, this small church features a simple façade and peaceful interior, great for a quick visit or quiet moment.
- Santa Cristina – Known for its elegant Baroque architecture and ceiling frescoes, this lesser-known spot is often missed by tourists.
- Saint Mary of the Annunciation – A modest church with a serene atmosphere and delicate interior details that invite a slower pace.
For the Hidden-Gem Hunter
If you’re anything like me, the thrill of travel often lies in the unexpected. Parma has its share of impressive landmarks, but what really stuck with me were the quieter places—often overlooked, and all the more memorable because of it.
Camera di San Paolo
Tucked away behind a plain door near the Pilotta complex, this former convent holds a true artistic surprise. The highlight is a vaulted room painted by Correggio in the early 1500s. The ceiling is a whimsical display of playful cherubs, illusionistic depth, and Renaissance symbolism. I walked in not expecting much and left completely enchanted by the intimacy of it all.
Museo Glauco Lombardi
This small museum focuses on the life and legacy of Marie Louise, Duchess of Parma—and Napoleon’s second wife. You get a glimpse into her personal world: love letters, clothing, portraits, and objects from her time as ruler. I was the only person there during my visit, which made the experience feel even more personal.
The Botanical Garden (Orto Botanico di Parma)
Not far from the university, this little oasis is easy to miss—but worth the detour. It’s a peaceful garden space with greenhouses, medicinal plants, and shady benches that make it a calm break from sightseeing. If you enjoy nature without the crowds, this spot is ideal for a midday reset.
San Giovanni Evangelista Monastery Library
You might visit the monastery for its beautiful church or cloisters, but if you dig a little deeper (or ask nicely), the library is the real gem. Shelves lined with centuries-old books, wooden desks, and a hushed atmosphere make it feel frozen in time. It’s not always open to the public, but catching a glimpse—even briefly—is like stepping into a forgotten world of scholarship.
For the Food-Lover
If there’s one thing Parma is known for worldwide, it’s the food—and yes, it really is that good. As someone who plans meals before museums, I can confidently say this city delivers.
Prosciutto di Parma Tasting Experience
This cured ham is protected by strict production rules and aged to perfection in the hills outside Parma. Touring a prosciuttificio (ham producer) and tasting the final product should be top of your list (for meat eaters). You learn how air, time, and salt transform something so simple into something adored by locals.
Parmigiano Reggiano Factory Tour
Yes, it’s cheese. Yes, it’s that exciting. Since I went on a cheese tour while spending a week in Tuscany, I decided to skip the tour. But I highly recommend it. You learn about the cheese-making process that hasn’t changed in centuries, and by the end, I was able to taste young, aged, and extra-aged cheeses and spot the differences.
Traditional Trattorias
Parma is where you settle into a simple trattoria and order a plate of tortelli d’erbetta or anolini in brodo. I chose restaurants filled with locals, menus only in Italian, and servers who gently corrected my pronunciation. Linger here, as dining is the best way to experience a city like Parma. I have four restaurants that were recommended to me by a local. Try these:
Final Thoughts
Use this list of attractions in Parma, Italy, as a flexible tool to shape your itinerary—whether you’re here for a day or a few. Pick what aligns with your interests, and let your time in Parma unfold at your own pace.
Need help planning? I offer personalized travel consultations with curated recommendations tailored to your interests, budget, and travel style—from accommodations and itinerary planning to group tours and restaurant picks.
