A Culinary and Cultural Journey Through Parma

A Day of Discovery in Parma

Today marked the beginning of our Parma adventure, and what a start it was! Élodie and I immersed ourselves in the heart of this beautiful city, exploring its rich history and savoring its culinary promises. From the awe-inspiring Cattedrale di Parma to the intricate Baptistery and the grand Palazzo della Pilotta, every corner held a new story.


Explore the architectural marvel of Cattedrale di Parma, featuring stunning frescoes and rich history in the heart of Italy's cultural gem.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Ristorante La Forchetta. I opted for a classic Italian breakfast of cappuccino and a pastry, while Élodie, ever the pastry chef, chose a selection of local delicacies. Fuelled up, we set off to explore the city's most iconic landmarks.

First on our list was the Cattedrale di Parma, also known as the Duomo di Parma. As we approached Piazza Duomo, the cathedral's Lombard-Romanesque facade was a sight to behold. Consecrated in 1106, its history seemed to echo through the very stones. Stepping inside, we were immediately struck by the contrast between the simple exterior and the ornate Baroque interior. The gilded pulpit and the intricate lamp-holders were particularly impressive. We spent a good hour wandering through the cathedral, admiring the frescoes and soaking in the serene atmosphere. The sheer scale of the place was humbling, a testament to centuries of faith and artistry.

The beauty of Parma lies not just in its landmarks, but in the stories whispered by its ancient stones.

Just a few steps away, the Baptistery of Parma beckoned. Designed by Benedetto Antelami, this octagonal structure of pink Verona marble is a masterpiece of the transition from Romanesque to Gothic architecture. The Baptistery's construction began in 1196, and its unique blend of artistic styles evolved over the decades. As we circled the building, we were captivated by the intricate sculptures and carvings that adorned its exterior. Each of the eight sides told a story, blending biblical scenes with allegorical and zodiacal motifs. Inside, the high, domed chamber amplified the light and sound in a way that was both surprising and enchanting. Élodie, with her keen eye for detail, pointed out the sixteen-sided polygon within, highlighting the sculptures depicting the Months, Seasons, and Signs of the Zodiac. The central baptismal font, octagonal in shape, stood as a symbol of eternity.


Discover the exquisite Baptistery of Parma, a masterpiece of medieval architecture and art, nestled in the heart of Parma's historic district.

Next, we made our way to the Palazzo della Pilotta, a monumental complex that embodies the power and history of the Farnese family. Originally built between 1583 and 1622, the palace has undergone significant reconstruction after being heavily bombed during World War II. Today, it houses several museums, including the Galleria Nazionale, the Museo Archeologico Nazionale, and the Teatro Farnese. We decided to focus on the Galleria Nazionale, which displays Parma's main art collection. The works by local artists Correggio and Parmigianino were particularly captivating, and we spent a long time admiring the Head of a Young Girl, attributed to Leonardo da Vinci, and the Portrait of Erasmus of Rotterdam by Hans Holbein the Younger.


Explore the breathtaking Palazzo della Pilotta in Parma, a Renaissance gem showcasing exquisite art, rich history, and stunning architecture.

For lunch, we chose Trattoria Del Tribunale, a charming spot in the heart of the historic center. We sat on the outdoor terrace, enjoying the pleasant June weather as we savored traditional Parmesan dishes. Élodie opted for the Tagliatelle al limone, a refreshing dish perfect for a warm day, while I chose the Parmigiana di melanzane. The flavors were authentic and comforting, and the atmosphere was lively and welcoming.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Trattoria Del Tribunale in Parma - where tradition meets taste.

After lunch, we strolled through the city center, eventually finding ourselves at Parma Point, a souvenir shop where we picked up a few mementos of our trip. I bought a small replica of the Baptistery, while Élodie chose a set of postcards featuring local culinary delights.


Explore Parma Point for unique souvenirs and local crafts, capturing the essence of Parma's rich culture and artistry.

As evening approached, we made reservations for dinner at Ristorante La Greppia. Known for its sophisticated take on Parmesan cuisine, La Greppia did not disappoint. The restaurant exuded an atmosphere of calm contentment, with its beamed ceiling and tea cosies hanging on the walls. Chef Paola Cola's creations were nothing short of exceptional. Élodie started with the Culatello, while I chose the slow-cooked veal cheek with wild fennel-flavored polenta. For dessert, we shared the latte e miele, a delightful combination of milk and honey with a crispy pollen wafer.


Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante La Greppia in Parma – where every dish tells a story.

To cap off our first day, we ventured to J. Roger Speakeasy, a Prohibition-era themed bar. The bar was modeled after the 1920s, with drinks served on playing cards and jazz music playing in the background. I ordered an absinthe cocktail, while Élodie chose a classic gin rickey. It was the perfect way to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures.


Discover the elegance of J. Roger Speakeasy, a premier cocktail bar in Parma, where exquisite drinks meet a charming ambiance.

Before heading back to the Novotel Parma Centro, we took a leisurely walk through the city. The streets were quiet, and the air was filled with the scent of jasmine. We talked about our favorite moments of the day and made plans for tomorrow. We are especially excited to visit the Teatro Regio, the Galleria nazionale di Parma, and Parco Ducale.


Experience a blend of modern comfort and rich cultural heritage at Novotel Parma Centro, just steps from the city's top attractions and dining.

What a day! Parma has already captured our hearts with its blend of history, art, and culinary excellence. I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings!

In thinking about our forgotten essentials, I made a mental note to buy a portable phone charger and a travel adapter tomorrow. It's always the little things that can make a big difference when you're on the go.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Teatro Regio, Galleria nazionale di Parma, and Parco Ducale. I'm particularly excited about the Teatro Regio, as I've heard it's one of the most beautiful opera houses in Italy. Élodie is looking forward to the Galleria nazionale, where she hopes to see more masterpieces by local artists. And of course, we both can't wait to relax in the Parco Ducale, a green oasis in the heart of the city.