What to Do in Parma in 48 Hours: Food, Art, and Timeless Italian Charm

Most tourists who visit Italy are captivated by Rome, Florence, and the Vatican, and often don’t realize there is a whole world of discovery waiting beyond the well-worn tourist trail. One such hidden gem is Parma, located in northern Italy in the Emilia-Romagna region. Known worldwide for its Parmesan cheese (Parmigiano Reggiano) and Parma ham (Prosciutto di Parma), this elegant city is also a treasure trove of art, Renaissance architecture, and cultural experiences.

If you only have two days to spare, here’s how to make the most of 48 hours in Parma—from world-class attractions to unforgettable dining experiences.

Day 1: Dive into Parma’s History and Art

1. Duomo di Parma

Your journey should begin with the Duomo di Parma, a Romanesque cathedral dating back to the 12th century. Its magnificent interior, decorated with frescoes by Correggio, is among the greatest masterpieces of the Italian Renaissance. Guarded by pink marble lions at its entrance, this sacred space will transport you back in time. A small donation lights up the vaulted ceiling, revealing the dramatic Assumption of the Virgin, a breathtaking sight worth every Euro.

2. Baptistery of Parma

Just next to the cathedral, the Baptistery is another must-see. Built in pink Verona marble, its octagonal shape and intricate sculptures make it one of Italy’s most important medieval monuments. Inside, you’ll find frescoes and statues that illustrate centuries of faith and craftsmanship.

3. Galleria Nazionale

Spend your afternoon at the Galleria Nazionale, housed in the imposing Palazzo della Pilotta. The collection includes works by Correggio, Parmigianino, Leonardo da Vinci, Canaletto, and Van Dyck, making it a paradise for art lovers.

Day 2: Music, Food, and Italian Lifestyle

1. Teatro Farnese

Begin your second day with a visit to Teatro Farnese, an extraordinary 17th-century wooden theater located inside the Palazzo della Pilotta. It’s one of the earliest examples of a permanent theater space in Europe and showcases Renaissance ingenuity in every corner.

2. Teatro Regio

No visit to Parma is complete without paying homage to its musical heritage. Parma is the hometown of Giuseppe Verdi, and the Teatro Regio remains one of the top opera houses in Italy. If you’re lucky, you might catch a live performance of Verdi’s operas—book your tickets well in advance.

Where to Eat in Parma

Parma is as much about food as it is about art and music. Make sure your evenings are dedicated to savoring local specialties.

1. Ai Due Platani

This rustic restaurant is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Famous for its prosciutto and tortelli alle erbette, it’s the perfect place to sample authentic Emilia-Romagna cuisine. Don’t miss the wide homemade pasta with rosemary-infused duck sauce—a dish that alone is worth the trip.

2. 12 Monaci

For a more romantic dining experience, head to 12 Monaci, a family-run restaurant housed in what was once a monastery. With vaulted ceilings and charming interiors, it offers both atmosphere and exceptional dishes such as veal and homemade pasta. The warmth of the service makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a local family’s dining room.

Extra Tips for 48 Hours in Parma

• Food Tours: Join a guided food tour to discover how Parmigiano Reggiano and Prosciutto di Parma are made. Tasting these delicacies at their source is an experience you won’t forget.

• Piazza Garibaldi: The heart of the city, perfect for people-watching with a coffee or aperitivo in hand.

• Day Trips: If you have extra time, nearby castles like Castello di Torrechiara provide stunning views and a taste of medieval history.