Parma is one of the largest cities in the Emilia-Romagna region of northern Italy, especially famous for its prosciutto and cheese. In one form or another, settlements have existed here since the Bronze Age, and over the centuries the city continued to play an important role in the development of Italy. In the Middle Ages, Parma was ruled by the Franks and was part of the Holy Roman Empire, but in the 1200s it became involved in the conflict between the Guelphs and the Ghibellines. In the 1800s the city was annexed to France under the rule of Napoleon and then finally became part of the Kingdom of Italy in 1860. Thanks to its long history and the influence of various cultures and ruling empires, today you can see many historical monuments and fantastic religious buildings. There are also many interesting places in the vicinity, and if you’re looking for day trips from Parma, feel free to choose one of the places on our list.
Day trips from Parma: Modena
Modena, located in the heart of the Emilia-Romagna region, is a small town full of charm that is perfect for a day trip from Parma. Here you can plunge into the ancient history of the city, walk among the monuments of the historic center, and see with your own eyes the heritage of the turbulent past of the city, which was the capital of the Duchy of Este.
Grazzano Visconti
A perfect town where the achievements of the modern era were combined with the advantages of the Middle Ages. Its creator, Duke Giuseppe Visconti, considered the latter to be one of the best periods in history. In fact, according to the duke, in medieval villages, thanks to the protection of the lord, the inhabitants could safely engage in agriculture and crafts – a true expression of nature and human creativity.
To know more about this place:
Grazzano Visconti
Day trips from Parma: Cremona
The birthplace of the composer Monteverdi is famous for the fact that today more than a hundred violin makers work here. Founded by the Romans in 218 BC the city, where Guarneri and Stradivarius worked in the Middle Ages, will delight you with its impressive architecture. Cremona is also known as the city of three “T” – Torazzo (the tallest medieval tower in Italy), Tettone (sloping roof) and Torrone (almonds roasted in honey and sugar).
Soncino Castle
A typical medieval castle in Lombardy, Soncino was built in the distant 10th century and at one time played an important role in the defense of the province of Cremona. Today, the fortress, of course, has lost its defensive significance, but it invariably conquers with its unique medieval atmosphere.
Day trips from Parma: Piacenza
The ancient city, which at one time was the 53rd colony of the Roman Empire, is located between three rivers. Throughout history, Piacenza has been occupied many times, making it isolated and remote. There are not even many tourists here, so this is a great opportunity to wander through the old streets in relative silence.
Sirmione
This small and cozy town is famous not only for being located near the picturesque Lake Garda. Here you will find unique Scaliger castle, which has guarded Sirmione and its surroundings since 13th century.
Day trips from Parma: Park of the Hundred Lakes
A perfect place for a summer holiday, because the temperature in the park never exceeds +20°C. And although there are actually 19 lakes here, this does not make the park worse. Beech trees, a huge number of streams, pastures and meadows are a real delight for those who like to relax in nature. The local flora and fauna are like a protected oasis: rare flowers grow in the park, and martens, deer, eagles and owls can often be seen in the forest. And one more thing: there is almost no mobile connection here!
Verona
The ancient city, which is visited by millions of tourists from all over the world, will instantly envelop you in an atmosphere of romance. It’s time to believe that Romeo and Juliet once walked along these streets! Add to this the numerous churches, majestic architecture and picturesque bridges over the Adige River – and an unforgettable experience is guaranteed.
Day trips from Parma: Cinque Terre
One of the most picturesque sights of Italy is located on the coast of the Ligurian Sea. Nestled spectacularly on the cliffs, five small villages are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Milan
Of course, the capital of fashion is not the city that you should to come to just for one day. But this time is quite enough to see the most interesting sights of Milan and make sure that it is worth coming here for a longer period.
