Parma’s tourist attractions are well-known, but if you want a less-touristy alternative to Florence, this city is the perfect choice.
Did you ever stop to consider where the Parmigiano Reggiano that you use on your pasta is made? If it is indeed authentic Parmigiano Reggiano—a product with a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO)—it was made in or around ParmaIt is a beautiful Italian city located an hour’s drive from Bologna.
As I discovered one early morning, while watching cheesemakers turn fresh milk into curds, the cheesemaking process is governed by strict rules. Caseificio Montecoppe, a family-run dairy. True Parmigiano Reggiano has to be produced using a 100% natural process.
You’ll enjoy some of the best food in Parma. Parma, after all, is located in Emilia RomagnaThe region is known as Italy’s Food Valley. UNESCO even named it a Creative City for Gastronomy.
Familie-run restaurants such as Trattoria Ai Due Platani The following are some examples of how to get started: Parma RottaThe quality of the ingredients is evident. The same milk is used to make the gelato as it is for the Parmigiano Reggiano. And there are many more local specialties—just think about prosciutto di Parma and balsamic vinegar from nearby Modena, the city that’s home to Massimo Bottura‘s three-Michelin-starred Osteria Francescana.
Parma is not only known for its food but also for its rich culture. You can see it all around the historical center. Parma, which was established during the Roman Empire, became prosperous in the Renaissance. The powerful Farnese Dukes ruled the city and left their mark with projects such as the Farnese Theater or Palatine library, both parts of the historic center. Palazzo della Pilotta museum complex The Farnese Dynasty built a palace for themselves. When I visited the museum one afternoon during my trip, I found myself alone face to face with a Da Vinci—unthinkable in busy, crowded Florence.
Parma’s Renaissance arts and culture were just as vibrant as Florence. Local artists like Correggio or Parmigianino created masterpieces including ceiling frescoes within the Camera di San Paolo In the Benedictine convent Saint Paul. I was almost alone when I gazed up at the ceilings, except for two other visitors.
Parma has long been considered Italy’s most liveable city. Parma is flat and many people use bicycles to get around. However, it is also easy to walk, particularly in the compact old center. While strolling the cobblestone streets of Parma, you can appreciate its charm and quality. Parma, a lively but not crowded city, is full of great places to eat, and fun things to do. It’s a place that allows you to see an authentic Italian side.
