Parma

The Baptistery of Parma is a stunning octagonal building in pink marble built between 1196 and 1216. It is one of the symbol of the city, also for its central location right near to the Cathedral of Parma. The Parmesan Baptistery is considered the junction point between Romantic and Gotic periods, and one of the most important bequest from the Middle Ages. Inside, you can admire plenty of Medieval works of art, magnificently explained by the museum headsets available on the spot.

The monumental symbol of Parma is located right in the heart of the city, next to the marble Baptistery. The Parma Cathedral was built in 1074, and it is one of the most beautiful example of Romanesque architecture in Northern Italy. Its magnificent cupola is covered in frescoes by Correggio, a masterpiece that worth a visit on its own. In addition, inside the cathedral you can also admire works of art, frescoes and sculptures made by the most representative artists of the Italian Middle Ages.

Monastero San Giovanni Evangelista is actually a monastery complex that includes a church, a convent and the Historical Pharmacy San Giovanni. It was built during the 10th century for the Benedectine Order, and it fully represents the principles of Romanesque architecture. Inside you can admire frescoes, sculptures and the ancient books housed in the monastic library. Normally, it is freely open to the public, and it is easily reached on foot — only few metres from the Cathedral of Parma.

This ancient cathedral is the epitome of Renaissance architecture. Indeed it is considered the most beautiful church in the entire Parma region. Built between the 1521 and the 1539, it is the result of work of many important local artists of the period. Among others, you will find the painter Parmigianino's stunning fresco called "Le vergini sagge e le vergini stolte" (Wise and foolish virgins), the most elaborated work in the entire church.

Enclosed by rolling green hills, this small location near Parma is a well-known destination for thermal spa tourism. The ideal place when seeking for the ultimate relaxation and getaway from the city stress. Numerous spas are scattered all around the Parmesan countryside where you can pamper yourself with health and beauty treatments.

This museum exhibits a prestigious collection of art and historical items regarding Maria Luigia of Habsburg Duchess of Parma and wife of Napoleon Bonaparte. Among its collections, the museum displays her wedding dress, make-up and perfume kit and lots of paintings and jewelleries belonged to the duchess and her husband.

The Castle of Roccabianca dates back to 1400. It was built by request of Pier Maria Rossi as a gift to his beloved Bianca Pellegrini. The castle has beautiful frescoes; literature buffs in particular will love Griselda's Room with its cycle of paintings inspired by the 100th story of the Decameron. In the castle you will also find the Museum of Distillery, where you can learn about local spirits, before tasting them.

Giuseppe Verdi, one of the greatest masters of opera, is celebrated by his hometown every year during the Verdi Festival. A series of concerts and performances dedicated to the brilliant creator of Nabucco and La Traviata are organised both in Parma and Busseto, during October. In this period, Parma is filled with music more than ever. Let yourself be captivated by this marvellous atmosphere and experience opera in its homeland.

If you are interested in painting, you cannot miss the gallery Pinacoteca Stuard. In this museum, located in a beautiful ancient cloister, you can marvel at a collection of portraits, antiques and tapestry masterpieces that belonged to the Stuard family from the 14th to the 20th century.

Parma's Arboretum was originally founded in 1600. First, it belonged to the medical university where they grew medical herbs and natural remedies. The contemporary botanical garden was designed under the Borboun domain around 1770. Take a stroll and appreciate the exotic plants species, including the beautiful local flora and when here look out for the distinctive tree with heart-shaped leaves called 'Ginkgo biloba'. The garden contains aquatic plants and mature trees, while the glass houses contain a tropical section with gorgeous Monstera Deliciosa and Theobroma cacao plants, as well as epiphytes, orchids, and tropical fruits. The desert house keeps a variety of cacti and succulents.

Rocca Sanvitale is an ancient fortress located in Fontanello (30 minutes from Parma). Inside you can admire several works of art by Parmigianino, or you can choose to take a break in the nearby countryside. But the best part comes if you are travelling with kids — do not miss the magic castle visit guided by Disney Princesses. Rapunzel, Merida and their friends will accompany you through this stunning location, sharing with you all their adventures.