Boasting beautiful Romanesque architecture and one of the oldest universities in the world, there is so much more to Parma than cheese and ham.
Already a built-up area in the Bronze Age, Parma’s history is long and varied, as is the list of things you can do in this beautiful city in Northern Italy.
The metropolis was founded in 183 B.C. by M. Emilio Lepido, T. Ebuzio Caro, and L. Quinto Crispino, as well as 2000 Roman citizens as part of a colonisation project.
Now home to churches, palaces, museums and restaurants in abundance, culture lovers will feel right at home, but there is also plenty to do for those looking for a little bit of adventure.
The region also has a great sporting pedigree, home to rugby club Zebre Parma and iconic professional football team Parma Calcio 1913.
So join us as we dive into the city of Parma and find out what you can get up to here during the 2023 TikTok Women’s Six Nations.
Main Attraction
Constructed in 1618, many claim the Teatro Farnese is the first permanent proscenium theatre ever built.
Either way, it is one of the grandest buildings in Parma, and a must-visit during your trip to the city.
As is the Cattedrale di Parma, with its iconic dome which is decorated by a highly influential illusionistic fresco by Renaissance painter Antonio da Correggio.
If world-famous architecture is not your thing, why not visit Galleria Nazionale di Parma?
There you can see the work of world-famous artists such as Leonardo da Vinci and Sebastiano del Piombo
There are also countless culinary tours, wine tastings, and cooking lessons to choose from, where you can taste Italian wines or even try your hand at carving your own parma ham or making your own parmesan cheese.
Food and Drink
Speaking of parmesan cheese, Parma is one of Italy’s culinary capitals.
It attracts visitors year-round for its world-famous dining options and signature dishes, including Parmigiano-Reggiano, Prosciutto di Parma, Culatello di Zibello, hand-made pasta, Spalla Cotta di San Secondo and Borgotaro mushroom.
No trip to the ‘Food Valley’ would be complete without visiting Ristorante Cocchi.
As authentic as it gets, this rustic little restaurant is welcoming to tourists, serving hand-rolled pasta and meats that are to die for.
Those looking for a more modern take on Italian cuisine should visit Ristorante Meltemi, which is known for its outstanding seafood.
And if you are looking for a quick drink before or after the game, why not stop by J. Roger Speakeasy, one of Parma’s most exciting cocktail bars.
The Venue
Stadio Sergio Lanfranchi is just a ten-minute drive outside the city centre.
Dedicated to rugby union, the ground can seat 5,000 fans and is the home stadium of the Zebre Parma.
The stadium opened in 2008, originally named Stadio XXV Aprile before being rechristened the Stadio Sergio Lanfranchi in 2015.
It replaced the original Stadio Sergio Lanfranchi, which was demolished in July 2008.
How do I get there?
Parma is a small city, so fans can easily walk from the city centre to the Stadio Sergio Lanfranchiin in 40 minutes or fewer.
If you would prefer to get public transport, you just need to get the 1 bus from Teatro Regio to Centro Torri, which is just a five-minute walk from the ground.
If flying in from abroad, fans should get the 6 bus from the airport to Stazione Ferroviaria, before changing and getting on the 7 bus all the way to Centro Torri.
Fun Facts
Parma is home to Labirinto della Mason, which is said to be the largest labyrinth in existence.
Parma Calcio 1913 is actually the phoenix club of Parma F.C.
The orginal club was declared bankrupt in 2015 and refounded in the Serie D, securing a record three straight promotions to return to the top flight in 2018.
