Is it possible to visit Parma in just one day? Yes – but only if you accept that this city is not just for sightseeing. It’s meant to be savored, like a piece of fine Parmigiano Reggiano. Every corner invites you with art, history, and gastronomy, so while a single day can reveal wonders, ideally, this “little capital” deserves a full weekend.
We had only 24 hours, so we set off to explore as much as we could — a pinch of culture, a bite of history, and, of course, a delicious slice of Prosciutto di Parma awaited us.
Piazza del Duomo – The Heart of the City
Our city tour began at Piazza del Duomo, where the monumental cathedral and the unique octagonal Baptistery immediately impressed us. This square is also home to the Bishop’s Palace and the Diocesan Museum — a true sacred hub of Parma’s cultural heritage.
From here, a pleasant walk took us to the Basilica of Santa Maria della Steccata, whose namesake “steccata” (fence) evokes centuries of legends and faithful visitors.
Art in the Pilotta Palace
A must-see in Parma is the Palazzo della Pilotta, home to the National Gallery, where you can wander in the shadows of masters like Leonardo da Vinci and Correggio. Here, art and tranquility go hand in hand.
The Plate is Sacred Too – Prosciutto Crudo di Parma
When culture leaves you hungry, Parma offers only one perfect remedy: something truly delicious. We stopped at a small trattoria where the choice couldn’t have been better — Prosciutto Crudo di Parma, fresh bread, and a glass of local wine. Simple yet genius, a true taste of Italian food culture.
Torrechiara Castle – A Love Story Etched in Stone
We spent the afternoon on the outskirts at Torrechiara Castle, not just a medieval fortress but a love declaration in stone. Built by Pier Maria Rossi for his beloved Bianca Pellegrini, the castle impresses with its square towers, thick walls, moats, and frescoed rooms that evoke a fairy tale world. The Lovers’ Room is especially memorable — as if we were looking at the imprint of an ancient romance on the walls.
A Day That Was More Than Just Sightseeing
After tasting Parmigiano Reggiano at the Saliceto farm in the morning, by evening we stood at Torrechiara Castle watching the sunset from the hilltop, simply saying: this was a perfect day. Parma, with its history, flavors, and hidden gems, can captivate even in a single day. But we’re sure to return — next time for longer.