How to reach Parma: useful info for a stress-free arrival

Reaching Parma is convenient thanks to its strategic position in Northern Italy and its efficient connections with the main cities. Whether you land at Parma Giuseppe Verdi Airport, arrive by train at Parma Centrale station or choose to drive, you will find a welcoming and easily accessible city.

The airport is just a few kilometres from the centre and is connected by taxi and transfer services. Trains link Parma to Milan, Bologna, Turin and the main cities along the north-south spine, while the A1 and A15 motorways guarantee direct and rapid access.

Planning your arrival well means starting to enjoy Parma's elegant and authentic atmosphere right away, between culture, music and gastronomy.

Parma is an accessible and well-connected city, easily reachable both from Italy and from abroad.

Whether you are coming for a cultural holiday, a gastronomic weekend or as a stop on a longer journey, here you will find the essential information to organise your arrival and start without stress.

Documents required to enter Parma

European Union citizens can enter Italy (and therefore Parma) simply with a valid identity card for travel.

Travellers from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand and other countries with visa exemption agreements can stay for up to 90 days for tourism without a visa.

From 2025 it will be necessary to obtain ETIAS authorisation before departure for non-EU citizens, similar to the ESTA used to travel to the United States.

For longer stays or for purposes other than tourism, such as study, work or family reunification, a specific visa is required, to be applied for in advance at the relevant Italian consulate or embassy.

How to reach Parma

By plane: Parma is served by Parma Giuseppe Verdi Airport, with selected national and European connections. From the airport you can reach the city centre by taxi or via private transfer services. Alternatively, the airports of Bologna and Milan offer numerous international flights and are connected to Parma by train.

By train: Parma Centrale station is a well-connected railway hub. Regional and high-speed trains connect Parma to Milan, Bologna, Turin, Florence and the main Italian cities.

By car: Parma is easily reachable via:

  • A1 (Autostrada del Sole) – fast connections with Milan and Bologna
  • A15 (Parma–La Spezia) – ideal for those arriving from Liguria or the Apennine areas

Checks on arrival in Parma

On arrival at Parma airport or Parma station, security checks may be carried out. It is therefore advisable to always carry a valid identity document with you.

Italian customs may, in some cases, request proof of accommodation or of the reason for travel, although this rarely happens for short tourist stays.

Vaccinations and health requirements

There are no compulsory vaccinations to enter Italy. It is, however, advisable to have valid travel health insurance, especially for non-European citizens, since healthcare in Italy may not be free for those coming from non-EU countries.

Useful tips for entry to Parma

  • Bring a copy of your accommodation booking with you (digital or on paper).
  • If you travel with medication, keep it in its original packaging and with the prescription.
  • Checks are generally quick and friendly: respond calmly and clearly if asked.
  • Whichever means you choose, Parma will welcome you with its discreet elegance and quality of life that make it a pleasant destination from the very first moment.