Parma Walking Tour with Audio and Written Guide by a Local

Parma, IT
91% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (45 reviews)
Self-guided - entry to attractions not included

Included

  • inclusion
    Other
    Best advices for local restaurant with authentic food
  • inclusion
    Other
    Audio-guide and text in multiple languages (Eng, Esp, Ita, De, Fr)
  • inclusion
    Other
    Digital guide to visit the city by yourself
  • inclusion
    Other
    Tips for monuments, history and curiosities and food!

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Other
    Ticket Baptistery and Diocesan Museum (not mandatory): 10€
  • exclusion
    Other
    Ticket Paul's Chamber and St. Catherine's Cell (not mandatory): 8€
  • exclusion
    Other
    Ticket Teatro Regio (not mandatory): 10€
  • exclusion
    Other
    Ticket Palazzo Pilotta (not mandatory): 18€

Meeting Point

We find it in the underpass of Mazzini street in Parma, next to Ghiaia square.

Meeting point

Strada Giuseppe Mazzini, 43, 43121 Parma PR , Italy

End point

End Point

We will finish our walk into this beautiful park!

Meeting point

Largo Luca Ganzi, 3, 43126 Parma PR , Italy

End point

What to expect

1

Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi

Garibaldi Square is the hub of Parma. The civic center of the city was located here, as opposed to the religious center located a few hundred meters away and represented by Piazza Duomo. This square is also commonly called Piazza del Comune or Piazza Grande .

Duration 25 minutes
2
Basilica di Santa Maria della Steccata (Madonna della Steccata)

The elegant Renaissance building of Santa Maria della Steccata is the first church in Parma to be built with a central plan. Inside we will see one of the masterpieces of Francesco Mazzola, known as Parmigianino: the large arch above the main altar, frescoed between 1533 and 1539.

Duration 15 minutes
3
Teatro Regio

Today it is recognized as a temple of the opera tradition and is one of the most prestigious theaters in Italy. Characterized by a neoclassical facade still today defined as “Parma yellow” and refined interiors adorned with gilded stuccos. Ticket cost: 10€

Duration 30 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included
4

Baptistery of Parma

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The Baptistery of San Giovanni Battista, or more commonly the Baptistery of Parma, is an octagonal building covered in pink Verona marble, a symbol of eternity, considered as one of the most important points of transition between the Romanesque and early Gothic styles in Italy. Ticket cost: 10€ (includes Diocesan Musem)

Duration 15 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included
5
Museo Diocesano

The idea of creating the museum dates back to the 1990s, with the treasurer of the Diocese, Monsignor Franco Grisenti, who proposed an exhibition of paintings, sacred vestments and silverware, as well as a lapidary in the basement rooms for the statues from the Baptistery . Ticket cost: 10€ (includes Baptistery entrance)

Duration 25 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included
6

Cattedrale di Parma

The Cathedral of Parma or rather, the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, is a Romanesque style building built starting from 1106 and still considered today as one of the Italian medieval masterpieces. lthough the Romanesque layout is well preserved, much of the interior, including the central nave, the dome and the transept, have been modified by subsequent Renaissance interventions. Furthermore, some side chapels have been frescoed in Gothic style in more recent times.

Duration 15 minutes
7

Camera di San Paolo e Cella di Santa Caterina

The Chamber of San Paolo is located inside the San Paolo museum and is a museum itinerary that recreates the rooms of the private apartment of the abbess Giovanna da Piacenza, an important figure in the religious and cultural context of Parma in the early sixteenth century. In the Cella di Santa Caterina you can find important frescoes and decorations that reflect the Renaissance art and the religious tradition of the time. The works present in the cell describe scenes from the life of Saint Catherine and other religious themes. Ticket cost: 8€

Duration 30 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included
8
Palazzo della Pilotta

Originally conceived to house the services of the Farnese court, one of the most influential noble families between the 15th and 18th centuries, Pilotta Palace was intended to integrate the system of ducal residences. It connected the Representative Palace with the more modest building that housed the headquarters of the Farnesian court, located on the opposite bank and no longer exists today. Ticket cost: 18€

Duration 60 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included
9
Teatro Farnese

The Farnese Theater is considered the first modern theater in the West. Located on the first floor of the Palazzo della Pilotta, it was built between 1617 and 1618 in the ancient “Sala d’Arme” of the court, designed by the Ferrara architect Giovan Battista Aleotti, known as Argenta. Ticket: included in the Palazzo della Pilotta fee (18€)

Duration 10 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included
10
Parco Ducale

The most famous garden in Parma, which with its 208 thousand square meters of greenery represents an important natural oasis for the inhabitants of the city. The Ducal Parl is in neoclassical style and stands out for its avenues and sections that intersect in a trapezoidal shape. Walking inside the park, you will have the opportunity to admire some historical monuments of Parma, such as the Palazzo Ducale del Giardino and the Trianon Fountain.

Duration 30 minutes

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    Wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    You will need a smartphone with internet connection to use the digital guide (details to activate the digital guide will be in your voucher, read it carefully!)
  • Additional information
    You'll be able to hear the audio through your speakers or, if you have them, through your headphones
Provided by Walking Cap

What our experts say

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    Try authentic Parma ham nearby.
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    Visit the Parma Cathedral after your tour.
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    Don't miss the beautiful Parco Ducale.
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    Sample local gelato at Gelateria La Romana.
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    Grab a bite at Trattoria Corrieri for local cuisine.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Parma, the charming heart of Italy, invites travelers to explore its rich history and culinary delights with the Parma Walking Tour, equipped with an engaging audio and written guide crafted by a local expert. Spanning 4 to 5 hours, this tour allows participants to meander through the city at their own pace, absorbing the vibrant stories that echo through its streets. From majestic piazzas to hidden gems, this self-guided experience not only highlights the most significant monuments but also delves into the gastronomic treasures of the region. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a history buff, or a food lover, this tour is designed to cater to all your curiosities and whims, making it the perfect adventure for anyone eager to uncover the essence of Parma. With options available in multiple languages including English, German, Italian, and Spanish, this tour is accessible to a diverse range of travelers, ensuring that everyone can connect with the city's narrative.

What to expect?

Expect a delightful immersion into Parma's culture and history, where each step reveals a new layer of its captivating story. The Parma Walking Tour with Audio and Written Guide offers a unique opportunity to explore the city’s most iconic landmarks, such as the stunning Basilica di Santa Maria della Steccata and the opulent Teatro Regio. As you stroll through the picturesque streets, the audio guide will accompany you with fascinating anecdotes and historical context, allowing you to truly appreciate the architectural marvels around you. But it's not just about the sights; the tour also introduces you to Parma's culinary scene, highlighting the must-try local foods and the best spots for an authentic Italian aperitivo. This experience guarantees a perfect blend of history, art, and gastronomy, ensuring that you leave with not just memories but a deeper understanding of what makes Parma so special.

Who is this for?

The Parma Walking Tour with Audio and Written Guide is ideal for a wide array of travelers. Whether you’re a solo adventurer seeking to dive deep into local culture, a couple looking for a romantic day out, or a family searching for an educational yet enjoyable experience, this tour caters to all. It's also perfect for language enthusiasts, thanks to its multilingual support, allowing non-Italian speakers to comfortably join in the exploration. History lovers will revel in the rich narratives surrounding each landmark, while foodies will delight in discovering the culinary gems of the city. Moreover, the tour is designed to accommodate all fitness levels, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the beauty of Parma, including those with mobility challenges. So, whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to rediscover the city’s charm, this tour promises to be an enriching experience for all.

Why book this?

Booking the Parma Walking Tour with Audio and Written Guide opens up a world of discovery that is unmatched by traditional guided tours. The freedom to explore at your own pace allows for a personalized experience, where you can spend as much time as you like at each monument or savor a leisurely meal in a local trattoria. The digital guide, supported by engaging audio commentary, enhances your journey, offering insights that a standard guidebook simply cannot provide. Additionally, the local perspective ensures that you receive authentic recommendations for dining and attractions, enriching your experience with genuine Italian flavor. With its flexibility and depth of content, this tour stands out as a unique opportunity to connect with Parma in a way that is both informative and pleasurable, making it a must-book for any visitor to the city.

Good to know

Before embarking on your Parma adventure, there are a few essential details to keep in mind. The tour is designed to be accessible for everyone, including those with strollers or wheelchairs, ensuring that no one is left behind in the exploration of this beautiful city. Participants will need a smartphone with an internet connection to access the digital guide, so be sure to have your device handy and ready to go. While the tour does not include entry fees to certain attractions, tickets can be purchased on-site, allowing you to choose which sites to explore further. It’s also worth noting that public transportation options are conveniently located nearby, making it easy to reach the meeting point, located at the underpass of Mazzini Street near Ghiaia Square. Overall, being prepared will enhance your experience and allow you to fully enjoy the wonders of Parma.

Reviews

Feedback from individuals who have experienced the Parma Walking Tour has been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising its flexibility and rich content. Travelers have expressed their delight in the engaging audio guide, which brings the history of Parma to life with captivating stories and insights. Many visitors appreciate the ability to explore the city at their own pace, allowing them to linger at their favorite spots and fully absorb the local ambiance. The culinary recommendations have also received accolades, with several participants highlighting the delicious local foods they discovered along the way. Overall, reviews reflect a high level of satisfaction, with many travelers stating that this tour has significantly enhanced their appreciation for Parma, making it a standout experience that they would highly recommend to others.

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