Last month I spent two weeks in Parma for work, initially thinking it was just an ordinary Italian city, but the lifestyle rhythm at Parma University and food culture here completely exceeded expectations. Today I’d like to share the real face of this city.
About the City of Parma
Parma is located in northern Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region, with a population of around 200,000. The Parma hotels here are most famous for Parma ham and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, but living here revealed that this city is far more than just food. The old town retains many medieval and Renaissance buildings, with centuries-old churches and palaces visible everywhere you walk.
Culinary Experience
When it comes to food, Parma is absolutely a paradise for food lovers. Locals are very strict about ingredients, with vegetables and fruits in markets delivered directly from nearby farms. The craftsmanship of Parma ham production has been passed down for centuries, with each ham factory having its own secret recipe. I visited a small ham factory where the entire curing and aging process takes at least 12 months, no wonder the price isn’t cheap.
Local Restaurant Comparison
| Restaurant Type | Average Cost | Signature Dishes |
|---|
| Traditional Tavern | 25-35 euros | Handmade pasta, stews |
| Fine Dining | 50-80 euros | Michelin-recommended dishes |
| Street Food | 5-15 euros | Panini, pizza |
Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese is also a must-try. The kind sold in supermarkets is completely different from authentic Parmigiano-Reggiano, which has a complex nutty aroma, delicious eaten alone or grated over pasta. Locals typically pair it with a glass of Lambrusco sparkling red wine, this slightly sweet sparkling wine surprisingly harmonizes with the salty cheese.
Daily Life Rhythm
The pace of life here is much slower than Milan or Rome. From noon to 3 PM, many small shops close for rest, as everyone goes home for lunch. It took some getting used to at first, but later I found this slow rhythm quite comfortable. After 7 PM, the city center square fills with locals, young people cycling around leisurely, elderly sitting on benches chatting.
Cultural Activities
Parma also has a wonderful opera house, Teatro Regio. This is Verdi’s homeland, with a very deep musical tradition. Even if you’re not an opera fan, the building itself is worth visiting, with quite magnificent interior decorations. Additionally, there are several nice museums in the city, and while the collections aren’t as extensive as those major museums in Florence, they’re less crowded and quiet, allowing for leisurely appreciation.
Parma is a city suitable for in-depth experiences. If you’re tired of those tourist-packed hotspots and want to feel authentic Italian life, this place is definitely worth spending a few days. However, be prepared that English proficiency at Parma ham slices isn’t very high, it’s best to learn some basic Italian phrases, and locals will be more friendly.
