MileHacker Logo
How to Get to Parma

How to Get to Parma

Parma Emilia Romagna And San Marino, Italy Travel Guide

Air Travel

Major Airports Serving Parma

While Parma possesses its own small airport, most travelers from abroad arrive via larger hubs in the region.

Airport Overview

  • Parma Giuseppe Verdi Airport (PMF): Small regional airport, limited direct international flights.
  • Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ): Most convenient international gateway, approx. 1 hr from Parma.
  • Milan Linate (LIN) & Malpensa (MXP): Larger hubs, 1.5-2 hrs from Parma.

Airport Transfers to Parma

Various transfer options connect major air terminals to Parma, with differing costs and travel times.

Transfer Methods

  • From BLQ: Marconi Express monorail to Bologna Centrale, then train to Parma (1.5-A two-hour period total).
  • Taxi/Private transfer from BLQ to Parma: approx. €100-€150 (1 hr).
  • From PMF: TEP Line 6 local bus to the downtown area (15-20 mins) or taxi (€15-€20, 10-15 mins).

Price Fluctuations

Flight prices generally peak during summer (June-August) and major holidays. Dollar Flight Club for deals.

Direct Flights

Direct flights to Bologna (BLQ) from many European capitals. Intercontinental connections via major European hubs. Skyscanner for options.

Airport Facilities

Major airports have car rental, currency exchange, duty-free shops, restaurants. PMF has more limited facilities.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

  • Parma Centrale is a stop on Italy's national rail network.
  • High-speed trains (Trenitalia Frecciarossa, ItaloTreno) connect to Milan (1 hr), Bologna (50 mins), Rome (3.5 hrs).
  • Inter-town trains connect to nearby cities like Reggio Emilia, Modena.
  • Long-distance bus services (FlixBus) connect Parma to various In addition to italian Continental cities.

Self-Driving & Car Rental

  • The country of italy has an excellent network of toll highways (autostrade). Parma is on the A1 and A15.
  • Valid driving license. International Driving Permit (IDP) mandatory for non-EU citizens. DiscoverCars.com for rentals.
  • ZTL (Zona a Traffico Limitato): Restricted traffic zones in downtown areas. Fines for unauthorized entry are high.
  • Italian drivers can be assertive. Be aware of speed cameras.

Border Crossing & Sea/River Arrivals

Schengen Borders

Italy shares land borders with France, Switzerland, Austria, Slovenia, The Most serene republic of san marino, and Vatican City. Border controls between Schengen member states are minimal or non-existent.

Sea/River Travel

Sea or river arrivals are not applicable for Parma. It is a landlocked city without direct access to major navigable waterways for passenger transport.

Train Operators

Trenitalia is Italy's national rail operator. ItaloTreno operates on major high-speed routes, providing an alternative.

Departure Information

Airport Departure

Departure taxes are typically included in your airfare. You will not usually pay separate exit fees at the airport. Plan to arrive at Bologna or Milan airports at least 2-3 hours before your scheduled departure.

Timing Recommendations

  • Allow ample time for check-in (if checked luggage), security screening.
  • Allow time for potential VAT refund processing.
  • Allow extra time during peak travel seasons.

Train Departures

For departures of trains from Parma Centrale, arrive at least 15-30 minutes before departure. High-speed trains have designated platforms; locate yours in advance.

Departure Process

  • Regional trains are generally more casual than high-speed ones.
  • Learn about the station layout for a smooth departure.
  • Check departure boards for any remaining-minute platform changes.

VAT Refund Procedures

Non-EU residents are eligible for VAT (Value Added Tax) refunds on eligible purchases. Purchases usually need to be above €154.94 from participating stores.

Refund Steps

  • At the Retail outlet: Ask for a tax-free form when you have purchase.
  • At the Airport: Present purchased items (unused), forms, and passport to customs before checking in.
  • After customs validation, proceed to a tax refund service point (e.g., Global Blue) for your refund.

VAT Refund Documentation

Be certain you have all the necessary documentation for a smooth VAT refund process at departure.

Documents

  • Tax-free forms from participating stores.
  • The purchased items themselves (must be unused).
  • Your passport.

Important Reminders for Departure

  • Allow extra time for VAT refund processing, as lines can be long.
  • Save all receipts for eligible purchases together and organized.
  • Some airports offer digital validation kiosks for VAT forms.
  • Confirm luggage restrictions and weight limits with your airline.
  • Be aware of forbidden items on your person-on and checked luggage.
  • Check for any last-minute travel advisories or changes before heading to the airport.

Departure Checklist

Pre-Airport Prep

Ensure all travel documents are ready and easy to reach for a smooth departure process.

Final Checks

  • Passport, visa (if applicable), and boarding pass in hand.
  • Flight confirmed and checked-in online if you can.
  • Luggage weighed and within airline limits.

Airport Experience

Navigate the airport efficiently by knowing what to expect at all step of the departure process.

At the Airport

  • Head to check-in counter for baggage drop-off.
  • Proceed through security screening.
  • Explore duty-free shops or get a meal before boarding.

Digital Readiness

Ensure devices are charged and offline maps/documents are downloaded.

Currency & Payments

Carry some local currency for last-minute purchases or tips. Confirm card acceptance.

Communication

Inform loved ones of your departure schedule and arrival time.

Final Tips for Departure

Logistics Recap

Look over your travel plans one last time to avoid any unexpected surprises. A smooth departure completes a marvelous trip.

Checklist

  • Confirm flight/train times and gate/platform information.
  • Arrange transport to the airport/train station.
  • Double-check you have all essential documents.

Packing Final Review

A quick review of your packed things can prevent leaving anything important behind or packing things you can't bring.

What to Look For

  • All personal belongings accounted for.
  • Electronics a fee for travel.
  • No forbidden items in carry-on (liquids, sharp objects).

Last-Minute Checks

Hotel Check-out

Confirm check-out time and procedure. Settle any outstanding bills.

Local Contacts

Ensure you have area contacts saved in case of unexpected delays.

Souvenirs

Be certain any last-last-minute souvenirs fit in your luggage.

Smooth Departure

A well-planned departure means a stress-free end to your Parma adventure. Enjoy your return journey!