Things To Do
in Piacenza

Piacenza is a charming city located in the northern part of Italy, known for its rich history and beautiful architecture. Nestled between the Po River and the Apennine Mountains, it offers a blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty. The city is famous for its gastronomy, particularly cured meats and traditional pasta dishes.

As a lesser-known gem compared to nearby cities like Milan and Parma, Piacenza provides an authentic Italian experience away from the tourist crowds.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Historic Piacenza
morning
:

Start your day at the Piazza Cavalli, where you can admire the stunning Palazzo Gotico and the equestrian statues. Afterward, visit the nearby Cathedral of Piacenza to take in its Romanesque architecture.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a local trattoria and then head to the Museo di Palazzo Farnese, which houses an impressive collection of art and artifacts. Stroll through the charming streets of the historic center, stopping at local shops.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a leisurely walk along the Po River promenade, where you can enjoy the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Visit the Basilica di Sant'Antonino, a beautiful church with a fascinating history. Afterward, head to the local market, Mercato di Piacenza, to sample some local products.

afternoon
:

Take a bike ride along the river or explore the nearby hills for some scenic views. Visit the Castello di Gropparello, a short drive from the city.

evening
:

Return to Piacenza and dine at a pizzeria, experiencing the local pizza style. Finish your night with a drink at a lively bar in the city center.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍕Pizza$8
Coffee$2
🍝Pasta Dish$12
🍷Glass of Wine$5
🏨Hotel Night$70

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Delicious local cuisine
  • Less crowded than nearby tourist destinations
  • Limited English-speaking locals
  • Fewer international transport options
  • Some attractions may have reduced hours in winter
  • "Buongiorno" - Good morning
  • "Grazie" - Thank you
  • "Per favore" - Please
  • "Dove si trova...?" - Where is...?
  • "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Piacenza

Visit one of these nice places.

Piazza Cavalli

The main square in Piacenza, surrounded by historical buildings and featuring striking equestrian statues.

Basilica di Sant'Antonino

This beautiful church offers a picturesque facade and ornate interior, perfect for capturing the essence of Piacenza.

Castello Farnese

The castle, with its impressive architecture and surrounding gardens, provides a stunning backdrop for photos.

Culinary Guide

Food in Piacenza

Piacenza is a culinary delight, renowned for its rich gastronomic traditions and local specialties that reflect the region's agricultural bounty.

Piacenza Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Culatta di Piacenza

A prized cured meat made from the thigh of the pig, known for its delicate flavor and texture.

Must-Try!

Tortelli con la Ricotta

Delicious pasta filled with creamy ricotta cheese, often served with a sage butter sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercato di Piacenza

A bustling market held every Saturday, offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisan goods.

Street Panzerotti

Fried dough filled with cheese and tomato, a popular street food item among locals.

Climate Guide

Weather

Piacenza has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and cold winters. Summers (June to August) can reach temperatures above 30°C (86°F), while winters (December to February) typically see lows around 0°C (32°F). Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Rain is spread throughout the year, so it's wise to prepare for sudden showers.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

Always greet people with a friendly 'Buongiorno' or 'Buonasera' depending on the time of day.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to begin eating before you start and avoid asking for modifications to traditional dishes.

Dress Code

Dressing well is appreciated in Italy; smart casual attire is recommended, especially when dining out.

Safety Guide

Safety

Piacenza is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas and when using public transportation. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur, so secure your belongings and be cautious. Additionally, avoid poorly lit areas at night and always have emergency contacts handy.

Tipping in Piacenza

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a small tip (5-10%) in restaurants; rounding up the bill is also common.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments or markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a lovely time for outdoor activities and exploring the city.

Summer

Summers can be hot, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Enjoy outdoor dining and festivals during this vibrant season.

Autumn

Autumn brings cooler temperatures and beautiful fall colors. It's also the season for local harvest festivals.

Winter

Winters are chilly and can be damp, but the city has a cozy charm with holiday decorations and local winter dishes.

Nightlife Guide

Piacenza at Night

Piacenza offers a vibrant nightlife scene with various bars, pubs, and clubs catering to different tastes. The city comes alive in the evenings, particularly in the historic center, where locals and visitors gather for aperitivo, a pre-dinner drink accompanied by light snacks. Popular areas like Via XX Settembre feature a mix of modern and traditional venues, where you can enjoy live music, dance, or simply relax with friends. Whether you prefer a quiet wine bar or a lively club, Piacenza has something for everyone after dark.

Hiking in Piacenza

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentiero dei Gessi

A scenic trail that winds through the hills near Piacenza, offering stunning views and a chance to explore local flora and fauna.

Monte Penice

A popular hiking spot about 30 km from Piacenza, featuring well-marked trails and panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.

Airports

How to reach Piacenza by plane.

Giuseppe Verdi Airport (PMF)

Located about 60 km from Piacenza, this airport serves both domestic and limited international flights, making it a convenient option for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Piacenza is a highly walkable city, with many of its main attractions located within a short distance of each other in the historic center. The streets are pedestrian-friendly, and walking is one of the best ways to explore the city's rich architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and there are plenty of cafes and shops to stop by along the way.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

A growing demographic in Piacenza, often engaged in the local service and technology sectors.

Students

With local universities, Piacenza has a vibrant student population contributing to the city's cultural and social life.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is extremely popular in Piacenza, with the local team, Piacenza Calcio, having a dedicated fan base.

Basketball

Basketball enjoys popularity as well, with various local teams and community leagues engaging players of all ages.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Piacenza is generally manageable, with most locals relying on cars or bicycles for transportation. Public transportation includes buses that connect various parts of the city and surrounding areas. The city center is often pedestrianized, making it easy to navigate on foot. Parking can be limited in the historic areas, so it's best to use public transport or walk.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Piacenza.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes; however, it's advisable to inquire about meat-based broths in pasta dishes.

Gluten-Free Options

While traditional pasta is wheat-based, some places offer gluten-free alternatives.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Piacenza is accessible, with several public hospitals and clinics available. The main hospital is Ospedale Guglielmo da Saliceto, which provides comprehensive medical services. Pharmacies are common throughout the city and can assist with minor health issues. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Discover Italy

Read more in our Italy 2025 Travel Guide.

Italy Travel Guide