A Culinary and Cultural Journey Through Parma

Sunday in Parma: History, Fragrance, and Culinary Delights

Today was a day of immersing ourselves in the heart of Parma, exploring its historical landmarks and indulging in its unique cultural offerings. It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel – the chance to step back in time, experience new sensations, and savor the local flavors.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Osteria del Teatro. The cozy atmosphere and the promise of traditional Parmesan cuisine was too good to pass up. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Italian coffee filled the air, setting the perfect tone for a day of exploration. It was a great start to the day, and Élodie was particularly pleased with the pastries, a testament to her discerning pastry chef's palate. We savored every bite, discussing our plans for the day ahead.

Our first stop was the Palazzo del Grano. The Palazzo's elegant façade and intricate details immediately captured my attention. Wandering through its spacious halls, I could almost hear the echoes of merchants haggling over prices centuries ago. Élodie, with her keen eye for architectural detail, was fascinated by the building's design and its historical significance.


Explore the historical beauty of Palazzo del Grano in Parma, a stunning Renaissance landmark rich in culture and architectural elegance.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning, you didn't even think to ask.

Next, we ventured to the Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Parma. As a history enthusiast, I was eager to explore the museum's collection of Roman artifacts and Etruscan finds. The exhibits provided a fascinating glimpse into the region's rich past, from prehistoric times to the early Middle Ages. Élodie, though more interested in the artistic aspects of the artifacts, appreciated the museum's efforts to preserve and showcase Parma's cultural heritage. I was particularly impressed by the depiction of a neolithic female deity. Élodie was more impressed by the collection of prized Baroque paintings. It's amazing how much history is packed into this relatively small city.


Discover the ancient treasures of the Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Parma, a must-visit archaeological museum showcasing a rich collection of historical artifacts.

After our museum visit, we sought a moment of peace and reflection at the Chiesa di San Francesco del Prato. The Gothic-style church, with its terracotta-framed rosette, exuded a sense of tranquility and reverence. Founded in the 13th century, the church has a rich history, having served as a place of worship for centuries. I found myself contemplating the passage of time and the enduring power of faith. Élodie, ever the artist, admired the church's architecture and the aged fresco depicting Christ Pantocrator. The church has undergone significant restoration in recent years, and it was inspiring to see the community come together to preserve this important landmark. It was once used as a city jail after being looted by Napoleonic troops in 1803. It's amazing to think of the history contained within those walls.


Explore the Chiesa di San Francesco del Prato, a stunning Catholic church in Parma, rich in history and architectural beauty, offering a serene escape for all visitors.

For lunch, we chose Trattoria Corrieri, a local favorite known for its authentic Parmesan cuisine. From the moment we stepped inside, we were enveloped in a warm and inviting atmosphere. The trattoria's rustic décor, with its stone columns and white vaults, created the perfect setting for a traditional meal. We savored the torta fritta, fresh homemade pasta, and local cured meats, each dish bursting with flavor and showcasing the region's culinary expertise. Élodie, of course, was particularly interested in the pasta-making process, chatting with the chef about the secrets to creating the perfect dough. It was a truly satisfying culinary experience, and we left feeling full and content.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Trattoria Corrieri in Parma – where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

In the afternoon, we indulged in some retail therapy at Violetta Di Parma Borsari Negozio Storico. This charming shop is dedicated to the iconic Violetta di Parma perfume, a fragrance that has been synonymous with the city for over a century. The shop's shelves were lined with bottles of the delicate scent, as well as soaps, lotions, and other violet-infused products. Élodie, with her love for all things fragrant, was in heaven, sampling the various scents and learning about the history of the perfume. I, on the other hand, was more interested in the shop's historical significance and its connection to Parma's cultural identity. We ended up purchasing a small bottle of the perfume as a souvenir, a reminder of our visit to this fragrant corner of Parma. It was created by Ludovico Borsari in 1870, and the brand is still owned by a Milan-based multinational corporation. The shop we visited wants to keep the tradition alive, free from marketing strategies.


Experience the luxurious world of fragrances at Violetta Di Parma, where Italian craftsmanship meets exquisite scent.

As the day drew to a close, we sought refuge at Vecchie Maniere, a cozy bar known for its Italian craft beers. The bar's dimly lit interior and rustic décor created a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. We sampled a few of the local brews, chatting with the friendly bartender about the city's beer scene. Élodie, though not a huge beer drinker, appreciated the bar's ambiance and the opportunity to experience another aspect of Parma's culture. I enjoyed the chance to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures. The bartender told us that the owners, Manuel Gallarotti and Marco Grzincich, opened the bar in 2010. It's a popular spot with locals, and we felt like we were getting a taste of the real Parma.


Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Vecchie Maniere, a charming pub in Parma known for its craft beers, tasty bites, and warm hospitality.

For dinner, we decided to try Ristorante Perlage Parma cucina tradizionale, enticed by its reputation for traditional Parmesan cuisine with a modern twist. The restaurant's elegant décor and attentive service created a sophisticated dining experience. We savored the ravioli, tuna, and Parmesan dishes, each plate a work of art that showcased the chef's creativity and skill. Élodie, with her discerning palate, was particularly impressed by the restaurant's innovative approach to traditional flavors. I appreciated the restaurant's commitment to using fresh, local ingredients. It was a fitting end to a day of culinary exploration.


Discover authentic Northern Italian cuisine at Ristorante Perlage in Parma - where tradition meets taste in every dish.

Tomorrow, we plan to delve deeper into Parma's musical heritage with visits to the Casa della Musica and the Museo del Violino. Élodie is especially excited about the Museo del Violino, given her appreciation for craftsmanship and artistry. We'll also explore the Galleria San Ludovico and indulge in some more local cuisine at Mama Mia - Bottega & Piaceri, Osteria Virgilio, and Il Trovatore Ristorante. It promises to be another day of discovery and delight.

Today was a reminder that travel is not just about seeing new places, but also about experiencing new things and connecting with the local culture. Parma has exceeded my expectations, and I'm excited to see what the rest of our trip holds.

As we walked back to our hotel, hand in hand, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with Élodie. Traveling with your spouse is a unique and rewarding experience, one that strengthens your bond and creates lasting memories. And as we drifted off to sleep, I knew that today's adventures would stay with us long after we left Parma.

The city is currently hosting the Festival Toscanini, which runs from June 14 to July 9. The festival celebrates the city and its heritage through symphonic concerts and more.