Top 6 best places near Parma you didn’t know about

Are you planning a trip to Parma? Would you like to know which are the best places near Parma? There are not just the main streets in the city center such as via Farini and Piazza Garibaldi. You can go for a stroll near the river, but you can also take a look at other interesting sights you probably didn’t know about. Here are some tips for you!

1. Top best places near Parma: Palazzo della Pilotta

This Palazzo della Pilotta is in the core of the city and was constructed around 1583. From inside the building, you can access the Galleria Nazionale as well as the Farnese Theatre. The former includes paintings by many Italian artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Parmigianino, and Correggio. The latter is also well worth a visit. It dates back to 1618 and the idea came from the Duke of Parma and Piacenza. In addition to that, for those of you who are interested in graphic design, lettering and the history of printing here is another unexpected tip for you. The Palazzo della Pilotta also hosts the Museo Bodoniano.  This museum is dedicated to Giambattista Bodoni, a world-famous 18th-century printer and designer who created the bodoni character, one the most elegant printing characters still widely used and admired, and made Parma a centre of excellence in the printing world.

2. The House of Sound

The House of Sound is situated in the centre of Parma, inside what once was the Santa Elizabetha Cathedral. This certainly is an unusual museum. In fact, here you can go back in time and discover the technological inventions involved in the production and transmission process of sound throughout the centuries. It displays items such as the very first examples of phonographic cylinders to the latest Apple mp3s and Ipods. Moreover, there are also spatial audio-visual experiences that you can enjoy. Firstly, you can access a kind of cube where you can experience spatial sounds accompanied by pictures that flow across the cube’s wall. As well as that, you can wear a pair of digital glasses that will take you into virtual and augmented reality. It’s a unique kind of experience!

3. CSAC

CSAC is a contemporary art museum located just outside Parma, heading towards Colorno. Its aim is to display its collection of design, fashion, architectural projects, and art throughout the years. Its story dates back to the well-known ’68, which is also the year of the foundation of the archive. In the latest exhibition, it was possible to view all the main works by famous Italian modern artists such as Lucio Fontana and Luigi Ghirri. In addition to that, you can view famous fashion items and architectural projects relating to the year 1968. Moreover, the building is in itself alluring. It used to be an ancient monastery and now presents its self as a work of art on its own because of the renovation it has undergone and its new identity. In the courtyard, you can also admire sculptures by famous artists.

4. Best places near Parma: Labyrinth of the Mazone

The Labyrinth of the Mazone is one of the most important and one of the biggest in Europe. The project started in 2015 and it is mainly made of bamboo plants. Next to the labyrinth, it is also possible to visit a museum that hosts a collection of artworks collected by the owner of this property, the well-known art critic, Franco Maria Ricci. The deeply rooted and ever-lasting fascination with the shape of a maze is extremely attractive to many people. Moreover, this maze is also the venue for unusual events. For example, in October 2019 it hosted a Halloween techno party. At the same time as this event, there were also some artists exhibiting their work in some of the rooms of the museum. This surely is an unconventional and fun way to experience getting lost in a maze.

5. Vetto

Now let’s move on to the natural spots you could stop by while you are staying in Parma. Vetto is about one hour’s drive from the city centre and is located right up in the hills beyond Parma. The road trip to get there is fascinating because you get to see spectacular landscapes and you will find yourself surrounded by nature. Near this village, you can find the perfect spot to go for a swim. In fact, a torrent with crystal-clear water flows next to it (Enza), and there is also a waterfall. This location is accessible on foot only. You should take the first narrow road on the right after a bridge and then park near the power station. It’s perfect for a day trip on a hot summer’s day in order to refresh a little bit and get away from the city traffic of the city.

6. Berceto

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Here is another smaller point of interest in the Appennine Mountains. It is surely one of the best places near Parma. If you don’t want to be in the city all the time you should visit Berceto. This is a good location to stop by at all times of the year, as it has alluring views and you can go for a stroll in the village. There is also a Medieval castle you can go and see. In addition to that, many cultural events are organized throughout the year. So, check whether you are able to go when one of these gigs takes place! Have you got a bike? Well, this is also a great area to go cycling, as there are several cycling routes nearby.

Planning a trip around Europe? Read our article about the top 8 thrilling activities in Europe https://south.tours/adventurous-activities-top-8-thrilling-experiences-in-europe/