Parma is a dream destination for anyone who loves football, food, and culture in equal measure.
Nestled in the heart of Emilia-Romagna, Parma offers a laid-back base with easy access to clubs across Serie A, B, C, and D, making it perfect for a weekend of groundhopping.
The city itself is compact and elegant, famous for its opera heritage, Renaissance art, and — of course — Parmigiano Reggiano and Parma ham.
In Parma, the love for calcio is matched only by the love for food, creating an unforgettable atmosphere on and off the pitch.
Groundhopping Options from Parma
Serie A
- Bologna FC – One hour by train. A classic Serie A club with passionate fans and a beautiful historic stadium.
- Sassuolo (plays in Reggio Emilia) – Around 45 minutes away. A modern, ambitious Serie A club.
- Parma Calcio 1913 – Stadio Ennio Tardini, a must-visit. Historic club and perfect home base.
Serie B
- Modena FC – 50 minutes by train, great atmosphere at Stadio Alberto Braglia.
- Reggiana – In Reggio Emilia, a short hop from Parma with a feisty fan culture.
- Cesena, – Within 1 to 1.5 hours. Great for gritty, local football with strong community backing.
Serie C
- Carpi – Also, within 1 to 1.5 hours. Great for gritty, local football with strong community backing.
Serie D
- Lentigione play in small towns nearby and offer authentic Sunday calcio.
- Piacenza – within 1 to 1.5 hours. Great for gritty, local football with strong community backing.
What to do in and around Parma
- Parma Cathedral & Baptistery – Romanesque masterpieces with stunning frescoes.
- Teatro Regio – Historic opera house for Verdi lovers.
- Palazzo della Pilotta – A complex housing museums and the sublime Teatro Farnese.
- Fontanellato & Torrechiara – Picturesque castles just outside Parma.
- Day trips – Bologna, Modena, and Mantua are all under 90 minutes away.
What to eat in Parma
Food in Parma is sacred. Make time to indulge in:
- Prosciutto di Parma – Air-cured ham with protected status.
- Parmigiano Reggiano – Often imitated, never equaled.
- Tortelli d’erbetta – Ricotta and herb-filled pasta, typically served with butter and cheese.
- Anolini in brodo – Stuffed pasta in meat broth, a winter classic.
- Lambrusco wine – A fizzy red that pairs perfectly with local salumi.
Flights & Travel
Parma Airport (PMF)
Parma’s small airport has limited direct flights. There are currently no direct commercial flights from the UK or Ireland to PMF.
Nearest Major Airports:
- Bologna Guglielmo Marconi (BLQ) – 1 hour by train/car. Direct flights from:
- London Heathrow (British Airways)
- London Gatwick (easyJet)
- Stansted (Ryanair)
- Dublin (Ryanair)
- Milan Linate (LIN) or Milan Malpensa (MXP) – Around 1.5–2 hours away.
Getting to the Centre from the Airport
- From Bologna Airport: Use the Marconi Express to Bologna Centrale (7 mins), then regional train to Parma (~1 hour).
- From Milan: Take a train from Milano Centrale to Parma, which takes about 1–1.5 hours.
Conclusion: Parma – A calcio and culinary gem
Parma is one of Italy’s most underrated cities — and that makes it perfect for a football weekend.
You’ll get the chance to explore one of Italy’s most historic clubs, visit nearby towns bursting with Serie B and C action, and eat some of the best food in the world in between matches.
Whether you’re chasing the thrill of lower-league derbies or soaking in the refined vibe of the city, Parma delivers a rich, rewarding groundhopping experience.
For lovers of food and football alike, this is where your weekend should start.
