Parma Highlights Private Tour with a Local and Top Rated Guide

Parma , Italy

Parma Highlights Private Tour with a Local and Top Rated Guide

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About this experience

Nonetheless Parma is quite a small town it offers many outstanding monuments and art. Our knowledgeable English-speaking tour guide will lead you to discover the marvels of this charming town, in Piazza del Duomo, the heart of the city, you’ll find the main cathedral, with stunning frescoes by Correggio, and the baptistery, a great example of Romanesque architecture. Then the Farnese theatre, dating back to the 17th century, one of the most renowned wooden theatres that still stands today. The theatre is part of the Pilotta palace, a huge complex that houses the picture gallery, with amazing paintings and sculptures – where is possible admire the works of Leonardo Da Vinci, Canaletto, Parmigianino, Guercino, and many others.

Be sure to bring a huge bag with you, we are sure you will not resist to fill it with the local products!

Available options

Parma Highlights Private Tour with a Local and Top Rated Guide

What's included

Local and top rated guide

Small group tour

Detailed itinerary

Meet our fully qualified English-speaking tour guide just under the statue of Giuseppe Garibaldi in the homonym square to stroll this elegant and quiet town

You will enjoy the huge Parma Cathedral and its intriguingly octagonal baptistery constructed in 1196 in stunning pale pink stone, a perfect example of the passage from Romanesque to Gothic architecture.

You will see the huge Parma Cathedral and its intriguingly octagonal baptistery constructed in 1196 in stunning pale pink stone, a perfect example of the passage from Romanesque to Gothic architecture.

What's not included

Pick up / drop off

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Our guide will wait for you near the Garibaldi statue.

About Parma

Parma is a charming city in northern Italy, renowned for its rich culinary heritage, particularly its ham (Prosciutto di Parma) and cheese (Parmigiano Reggiano). It's a city where history, art, and gastronomy blend seamlessly, offering visitors a delightful Italian experience.

Top Attractions

Baptistery of Parma

The Baptistery of Parma is a stunning example of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, known for its intricate frescoes and sculptures.

Historical/Religious 1 hour €3

Parma Cathedral

The Parma Cathedral, dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, is a masterpiece of Romanesque and Gothic architecture with stunning frescoes and a beautiful bell tower.

Religious/Historical 1 hour €3 (combined ticket with Baptistery)

Palazzo della Pilotta

The Palazzo della Pilotta is a grand Renaissance palace housing several museums, including the National Gallery, the Archaeological Museum, and the Bodoni Museum.

Historical/Museum 2-3 hours €7 (combined ticket for all museums)

Teatro Regio

The Teatro Regio is a historic opera house and one of the most important cultural venues in Parma, known for its stunning architecture and world-class performances.

Cultural/Entertainment 2-3 hours (depending on the performance) Varies by performance (€20-€100)

Parco Ducale

Parco Ducale is a beautiful public park in the heart of Parma, offering a peaceful escape from the city with its lush gardens, ponds, and historic architecture.

Nature/Park 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Prosciutto di Parma

A world-famous cured ham made from the hind legs of pigs, salt-cured, and aged for at least 12 months. It is thinly sliced and served on its own or with other appetizers.

Appetizer Contains pork, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Parmigiano Reggiano

A hard, granular cheese made from cow's milk, aged for at least 12 months. It is often served in small chunks or grated over pasta dishes.

Appetizer/Dessert Contains dairy, not suitable for vegans or those with lactose intolerance.

Tortelli d'Erbetta

A traditional Parmesan pasta filled with a mixture of ricotta, spinach, and herbs, served with a sage and butter sauce.

Main Course Contains dairy and eggs, not suitable for vegans.

Gnocchi di Patate

Potato dumplings made with a mixture of potatoes, flour, and eggs, often served with a rich ragù or tomato sauce.

Main Course Contains eggs, not suitable for vegans.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the surrounding countryside Biking along the Po River Rock climbing in nearby valleys Spa treatments in Salsomaggiore Terme Strolling through Parco Ducale Enjoying an aperitivo at a local wine bar Visiting museums and historic sites Attending opera and concert performances

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April to June) and Fall (September to October)

Spring and fall offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and are ideal for exploring the city's attractions and enjoying outdoor dining.

15°C to 28°C 59°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, French, German
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Parma is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, it is always advisable to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid using them at night

Getting there

By air

Giuseppe Verdi Airport • 6 km from city center

By train

Parma Centrale

By bus

Parma Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The public bus system in Parma is efficient and covers most of the city. Buses are a convenient and affordable way to get around.

Taxis

Available • Apps: FreeNow, ItTaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Centro Storico Oltretorrente Viale Mentana

Day trips

Castello di Torrechiara

20 km from Parma • Half day

A stunning 15th-century castle with a rich history and beautiful architecture, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Castello di Bardi

40 km from Parma • Full day

A medieval castle perched on a hilltop, offering stunning views of the surrounding valleys and forests, with a rich history and fascinating exhibits.

Salsomaggiore Terme

30 km from Parma • Half day

A charming spa town known for its thermal springs and luxurious spa treatments, offering a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Festivals

Parma Jazz Frontiers Festival • November Parma Ham Festival • February Festa di San Giovanni • June 24

Pro tips

Visit local producers of Prosciutto di Parma and Parmigiano Reggiano for an authentic taste of the city's culinary heritage
Explore the underground tunnels of Parma for a unique and fascinating experience
Attend a performance at the Teatro Regio for a taste of the city's rich cultural heritage
Stroll through Parco Ducale for a peaceful escape from the city and a chance to enjoy nature
Sample local wines and cheeses at Enoteca del Tribunale and Caseificio di Parma