If you enjoy your cheese, ham, and wine full of flavour, your fashion smart, your streets old and cobbled and your architecture dramatic, then Parma is the place for you. Most of Parma's highlights are within a leisurely stroll of the centre of town, with just a little more effort required to reach the attractions on the far side of the river. Most of our Guru’s recommendations for the best places to stay in Parma are within the medieval heart of town, with one converted palazzo on the central square itself. Our Gurus have also recommended a magically romantic castle estate in the hills outside Parma.
Parma has a real Italian air, but with more cyclists. In summer the air wafts with classical music — this is Verdi's home town — and people sip brightly coloured aperitivos on Via Farini. In winter, there are numerous cosy cafes and restaurants in which to escape from the dazzling splendour of the white light against glorious architecture. Whatever the season, our Gurus recommend the best places to stay in Parma to foodies, of course, but also to anyone looking for an unusual Italian shopping destination.
But many visitors are here to see the sights. Parma’s Piazza Duomo with its fresco filled cathedral and pink marble baptistery is of the most famous medieval buildings in Italy, and a good place to start your explorations. Garibaldi Square is where you'll find the Governor's Palace, and where the original Roman colony had its forum, if you come upon that first. Make sure you swing by the Palazzo della Pilotta, a wonderful Renaissance palace, the Galleria Nazionale and the Teatro Regio — the opera house — and see a Verdi opera if it's at all possible. The Galleria Nazionale houses a fabulous collection of late medieval and early Renaissance paintings, so the best places to stay in Parma are worth considering for art lovers too. Obviously you'll also want to eat. But as well as fitting in as many stops for cheese and ham as you can, it's also worth trying the local stuffed pasta.
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Parma
Elegant guesthouse featuring traditionally decorated rooms and apartments in the heart of Parma. Grab a coffee at the café before setting off for a spot of sightseeing and unwind at the end of a busy day by booking yourself a massage. Smart rooms feature colourful palettes and are great value.
Parma (Emilia Romagna)
A charming and characterful guesthouse on the outskirts of Parma. Eclectic and interesting interiors feature wall art, antique furnishings and original features such as a grand marble fireplace. A wonderful breakfast is served daily and the fragrant gardens are a welcome oasis. A peaceful getaway.
Parma (Emilia Romagna)
A classic hotel in Parma in front of the beautiful Parco Ducale. Interiors are elegant and colourful, with bold patterned wallpaper, vibrant headboards and statement lighting. A la carte and continental breakfast served daily and the restaurant and bar are perfect after a day exploring the city.
Parma (Emilia Romagna)
A sophisticated hotel housed in a classical hospital complex in the heart of Parma. The decor features airy, comfortable rooms with refined furnishings. Guests can enjoy top-tier amenities including a gourmet restaurant, lush garden, and suave meeting spaces. A perfect blend of comfort and style.
Parma (Emilia Romagna)
A luxurious hotel in the heart of Parma. The decor combines modern elegance with classic Italian charm, think polished steel and wall murals. Guests can enjoy themed menus at the restaurant - choose from Parmesan, Land and Sea, and plenty of quality wines at the stylish bar. A sophisticated escape.
Parma (Emilia Romagna)
A charming boutique B&B in the tiny village of Porporano, on the outskirts of Parma. High ceilings, original features and timeless interiors do the big talking here. Guests can enjoy the lush flower-filled gardens, outdoor pool, and lounges for cosy afternoons with a book in hand. An idyllic escape.
