What to see in Parma: 15 stops among castles, thermal baths, and food museums

Colorno Palace is one of those places that leaves you speechless as soon as you pass through the entrance gate. Built in the 18th century at the behest of the Farnese family and later expanded by the Bourbons, this ducal residence is often called the Versailles of Emilia for its grandeur and the elegance of its decorations. Upon entering, you are immediately struck by the Honor Staircase, an imposing marble staircase that leads to the noble floors, where you'll find frescoed halls and period furnishings that tell centuries of history. Among the most spectacular rooms are the Stucco Hall, with its richly decorated ceilings, and the Duke's Apartment, which preserves original furniture and valuable paintings. But it's not just the interior that deserves a visit: the Palace Gardens are a true gem, designed in the Italian style with geometric flowerbeds, fountains, and statues that invite relaxing strolls. Here, among tree-lined paths and flower-filled corners, you breathe a dreamlike atmosphere, far from the daily hustle and bustle. Today, the Palace also hosts cultural events, exhibitions, and concerts, making it a lively and dynamic hub. For those visiting the province of Parma, it's an unmissable stop, ideal for immersing yourself in art and history without having to face endless queues like at other more famous royal residences. A practical tip: check opening hours before you go, as they may vary depending on the season or scheduled events.

The Torrechiara Castle dominates the Parma stream valley from atop a hill in Langhirano, offering a breathtaking view of the gentle surrounding hills. Built between 1448 and 1460 at the behest of Pier Maria II de' Rossi, this fortress is one of the best-preserved examples of Renaissance military architecture in Emilia-Romagna. Its quadrangular structure with four corner towers and the massive central keep tell centuries of history, but it's the Golden Chamber that steals the show: a room entirely frescoed with scenes celebrating the love between Pier Maria and his lover Bianca Pellegrini, a true hymn to romantic sentiment. Climbing the towers, you can admire a panorama ranging from vineyards to the first foothills of the Apennines, while the interior halls preserve period furnishings and architectural details such as monumental fireplaces and coffered ceilings. The castle is open year-round, with hours varying by season, and often hosts cultural events and weddings. For those who want to delve deeper, the audio guide included with the ticket recounts anecdotes and curiosities, like the legend of Bianca's ghost said to still wander the walls. A practical tip: wear comfortable shoes to explore the paved courtyards and stone staircases, and don't miss the small internal chapel, a peaceful corner where time seems to have stood still.

Arriving at Bardi Castle is like taking a leap back in time. This imposing manor, perched on a spur of red jasper, dominates the entire Ceno Valley and stands out against the sky with its crenellated towers and powerful walls. Built between the 9th and 10th centuries, the castle has witnessed centuries of history, passing from the hands of the Landi family to the Farnese family, and today it is one of the best-preserved fortified complexes in the Parma Apennines.

The visit begins in the inner courtyard, where you can breathe an authentic atmosphere. Climbing the towers, such as the Rescue Tower and the Keep Tower, you'll enjoy a breathtaking view of the surrounding villages and the green hills of Val Ceno. Inside, the rooms are furnished with period furniture and host permanent exhibitions, including a collection of ancient weapons and archaeological finds that tell the story of daily life in the Middle Ages.

Particularly evocative is the legend of Moroello and Soleste, two lovers whose stories are intertwined with the castle walls. During the summer, the manor also becomes a stage for cultural events, such as historical reenactments and open-air concerts. For those visiting with children, the route is accessible and engaging, with clear explanations that make history come alive and exciting.

Bardi Castle is a gem not to be missed, perfect for those seeking an immersive experience in the history and nature of the Apennines.

Compiano Castle dominates the medieval village from atop a hill in the Taro Valley, offering a breathtaking view from the moment you arrive. Built between the 10th and 11th centuries, it is known for having been the residence of Countess Maria Luigia, who spent the last years of her life here. Today it houses the Museum of the Orsanti, a unique exhibition dedicated to the travelling artists who performed with trained bears throughout Europe between the 18th and 19th centuries. The interior rooms preserve period furnishings, monumental fireplaces and a collection of ancient weapons, while the ramparts offer panoramic views of the valley. During the summer, the courtyard becomes a stage for concerts and historical reenactments, such as the Palio delle Contrade, which enlivens the village with flag-wavers and medieval banquets. For visitors, the entrance ticket includes access to the museum and gardens, with reduced rates for children and seniors over 65. The castle is open from March to October, closed on Mondays, but it's always best to check the hours on the official website to avoid surprises. A tip: don't miss the climb to the tower, from which you can even see the Apennines on the clearest days.

The Rocca Pallavicino in Busseto is an architectural gem that dominates the historic centre with its imposing medieval structure. Built in the 13th century by the powerful Pallavicino family, this fortress represents one of the symbols of feudal power in Emilia-Romagna. Today, after careful restoration, the fortress houses the Civic Museum, where you can admire local archaeological finds, ancient weapons and historical documents that tell the story of the territory. Its frescoed halls, such as the Hall of the Giants with Renaissance decorations, offer an authentic glimpse into court life. Climbing the towers, you'll enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view over Busseto and the surrounding countryside, perfect for taking unforgettable photos. The fortress also hosts cultural events, such as temporary exhibitions and concerts, which bring the historic spaces to life. For those visiting Busseto, the birthplace of Giuseppe Verdi, Rocca Pallavicino is an essential stop to immerse yourself in history and art, away from the more crowded tourist routes. I recommend checking opening hours on the official website, as they may vary depending on the season.

The Montechiarugolo Castle stands imposingly in the small village of the same name, just a few kilometers from Parma. Built in the 14th century by the Torelli family, this fortress is a perfect example of Renaissance military architecture, with its crenellated walls and moat that still surrounds the structure today. What immediately strikes visitors is its excellent state of preservation: it's not a ruin, but a lived-in castle that has been carefully restored. Inside, the frescoed halls tell centuries of history, from Renaissance splendors to the events of the Sanvitale family, who purchased it in the 16th century. The Armory Hall displays original armor and swords, while the Banquet Hall preserves period furniture and a monumental fireplace. Climbing up to the towers, the view stretches across the Parma hills and the Enza valley - a panorama that alone makes the visit worthwhile. The castle frequently hosts cultural events, such as historical reenactments and temporary exhibitions, which bring its spaces to life with an engaging atmosphere. For those visiting the province of Parma, it's an essential stop: here, history isn't just read in books, but breathed in through the stones.

The Berzieri Thermal Baths are the undisputed symbol of Salsomaggiore Terme, an architectural masterpiece that will leave you breathless. Designed by architect Ugo Giusti and inaugurated in 1923, this thermal complex is a triumph of Art Nouveau style with Deco influences that manifest in every detail, from the stained glass windows to the ceramic decorations and wrought ironwork. The building stands out for its monumental facade and richly decorated interiors, where the works of Galileo Chini and the mosaics depicting mythological stories related to water particularly shine. Today, the Berzieri Thermal Baths are not just a place for treatment, but also a state-of-the-art wellness center. Here you can immerse yourself in the salt-bromine-iodine waters, known for their therapeutic properties, and enjoy treatments like mud therapies and inhalations. The facility also hosts cultural events and exhibitions, making it a vibrant hub for the community. For a complete visit, don't miss the Hall of Columns and the panoramic terrace, offering stunning views of the city. A practical tip: check the opening hours to avoid surprises, especially if you want to access the thermal areas.

If you love art and are looking for an experience beyond the usual tourist circuits, the Magnani-Rocca Foundation in Traversetolo is an unmissable stop. Born from the collecting passion of Luigi Magnani, this villa-museum houses one of Italy's most important private collections. The exhibition route winds through rooms preserving works by masters such as Goya, Monet, and De Chirico, alongside masterpieces by Morandi and a significant section of ancient art. What strikes you is the atmosphere: you're not in a conventional museum, but in a home where every painting, every sculpture tells the story of a man who lived surrounded by beauty. The villa is nestled in a centuries-old park with majestic trees and a pond, perfect for a refreshing break after your visit. The setup maintains the feel of a lived-in house, with period furnishings that dialogue with the artworks. Particularly interesting is the section dedicated to 20th-century Italian art, with a focus on artists linked to the local area. The entrance ticket includes access to the park, and temporary exhibitions are often organized to enrich the permanent offering. I recommend checking the opening hours on the official website, especially if you're visiting on weekdays.

The Antica Corte Pallavicina in Polesine Parmense is much more than just a castle: it's an immersive experience in Parmense gastronomic culture. This 14th-century manor, surrounded by the waters of the Po River, is today a renowned agriturismo and Michelin-starred restaurant managed by the Spigaroli family, who for generations have been producing the famous culatello di Zibello DOP. Visiting the natural cellars where the cured meats age is a unique opportunity to discover the secrets of this delicacy, appreciated worldwide. The guided tour takes you through the brick vaults, where hanging culatelli create a suggestive atmosphere, while explanations about the artisanal processing make it clear why this product is an excellence. Beyond tasting, the Al Cavallino Bianco restaurant offers dishes from the Emilian tradition, such as tortelli with greens and stewed duck, paired with local wines. The structure also hosts a museum of rural civilization, with period tools that tell the story of past rural life. For those who want to extend their visit, there are rooms furnished with antique furniture, ideal for an authentic stay. Antica Corte is easily accessible and offers free parking. Booking in advance is essential, especially on weekends, to secure a spot on tours or at the table. A practical takeaway: don't miss tasting the culatello accompanied by a glass of Malvasia, a pairing that enhances the flavors of the territory.

If you think tomatoes are just an ingredient, prepare to change your mind when you visit the Tomato Museum in Collecchio. Located within the Corte di Giarola, an ancient rural complex along the Taro River, this museum tells the story of how a fruit that arrived from the Americas became the star of Parmesan culinary tradition. Through vintage machinery, historical documents, and explanatory videos, you'll discover the evolution of tomato cultivation and processing, from the first artisanal preserves to modern industrial production. There are plenty of interesting facts too, like the history of tomato purée and the role of women in the countryside during harvest season. The museum is part of the Food Museums circuit in the province of Parma, so if you're a food enthusiast, you can combine your visit with the nearby Pasta Museum, also in Collecchio. Admission is affordable and often includes family-friendly activities, making it a perfect stop for those traveling with children. Remember to check the opening hours, which vary by season, and take advantage of the bookshop to bring home a tasty souvenir. In short, if you love food and history, this museum is a must: it will make you appreciate every dish of Emilian tradition even more.

If you're a food enthusiast, the Collecchio Pasta Museum is an essential stop in the province of Parma. Housed within a restored historic pasta factory, this museum takes you straight to the heart of pasta production, with perfectly preserved vintage machinery showing the journey from semolina to finished dish. It's not just a collection of objects: here you can see up close the bronze dies used to shape spaghetti and macaroni, and discover why the dried pasta from this area has superior quality, thanks to the pure water from the Parma stream and the durum wheat from the surrounding hills. The guided tours are rich with anecdotes, such as those about the evolution of natural drying systems that utilized the valley's breezy climate. For the more curious, there's also an interactive section where you can 'play' with the different stages of processing. The takeaway? Bring home not just memories, but also some packages of pasta produced using traditional methods, available in the bookshop. An experience that authentically blends culture, history, and taste.

The Pieve of Santa Maria Assunta in Neviano degli Arduini is one of those places that makes you feel outside of time. Built between the 11th and 12th centuries, this Romanesque church stands alone on a hilltop surrounded by fields and woods, offering a panoramic view of the gentle hills of the Parma province. Its architecture is a perfect example of Emilian Romanesque style: the gabled facade, semicircular apse, and slender bell tower create a harmonious ensemble that strikes with its essentiality. Upon entering, you're enveloped in an atmosphere of silence and contemplation. Inside, some 14th-century frescoes stand out, which, despite the passage of time, still retain traces of color and evocative details, especially in the apse area. The single nave, with its wooden truss ceiling, conveys a sense of simplicity and spirituality. The Pieve was a reference point for local communities and pilgrims traveling along the Val Parma routes. Today, it's a destination for those seeking a corner of peace and authentic history, away from the more beaten tourist paths. To visit, it's advisable to check the opening hours, often managed by local volunteers, and take the opportunity for a walk in the surroundings, along paths winding through oak and chestnut trees. A practical takeaway: bring a camera to capture the sunset light illuminating the pale stone of the facade, creating unforgettable plays of shadows.

The San Moderanno Cathedral in Berceto is one of those places that makes you feel the weight of history. It's not just a church, but a fundamental landmark for those walking the Via Francigena, the ancient pilgrimage route from Canterbury to Rome. Its strategic location, right in the heart of the medieval village of Berceto, made it a refuge for pilgrims for centuries. The facade, made of local stone, is sober and massive, concealing an interior that surprises with the harmony of its Romanesque forms. The semicircular apse and the naves marked by pillars create an immediate atmosphere of contemplation. But the real treasure is the crypt, where the relics of San Moderanno, Bishop of Rennes who found rest here on his journey to Rome, are preserved. Observing the decorated capitals with vegetal motifs and symbolic figures, you understand why this cathedral is considered one of the most significant examples of Romanesque architecture in the Apennines. Don't miss the side portal, more elaborate than the main one, with archivolts that tell stories of faith and devotion. For those visiting Berceto, the cathedral is a must-see stop: it offers a plunge into the Middle Ages and a moment of peace away from daily frenzy. Entrance is free, but check the opening hours as they may vary depending on celebrations.

The Abbey Church of Santa Maria Assunta in Fidenza is a masterpiece of Emilian Romanesque architecture that will leave you breathless. Built between the 11th and 12th centuries along the Via Francigena, this abbey was a crucial landmark for pilgrims heading to Rome. The sandstone facade is like a carved history book: the bas-reliefs depict biblical stories and the life of San Donnino, the city's patron saint. Upon entering, you'll immediately notice the basilica plan with three naves featuring red Verona marble columns supporting round arches. The semicircular apse preserves 14th-century frescoes from the Emilian school, while the crypt houses relics of San Donnino. Look for the rose window on the facade: its tracery creates beautiful light plays that illuminate the interior during midday hours. The bell tower, added in the 15th century, offers panoramic city views when accessible. Recent restorations have uncovered medieval painted decorations hidden for centuries. For a complete visit, take time to appreciate the details: the figurative capitals on the columns depict animals and symbolic scenes. The abbey remains an active place of worship today, with festive masses allowing you to experience its authentic atmosphere. A tip: visit in the morning to enjoy the light that enhances the colors of the frescoes.

The Tizzano Val Parma Castle is a medieval jewel perched on a hill at 820 meters above sea level, offering an extraordinary panoramic view over the Parma Valley and the Apennines. Built between the 11th and 12th centuries, the castle has preserved its original structure with crenellated towers, sturdy walls, and an inner courtyard that tells centuries of history. Today it is privately owned but can be visited on special occasions and during cultural events, such as historical reenactments and local product tastings. Inside, you can admire frescoed halls and period furnishings that testify to the noble past of the manor, linked to the Pallavicino and Sanvitale families. The village of Tizzano, which spreads out at the foot of the castle, is a typical Apennine village with stone houses and cobblestone alleys, perfect for a peaceful stroll. For visitors, the takeaway is clear: book in advance for events and don't miss the chance to taste the local DOP cheeses, such as Parmigiano Reggiano and Culatello, often featured in the tastings organized at the castle.