Brazil
Argentina
Chile
Colombia
Peru
Uruguay
Germany
Belgium
Spain
France
Greece
the Netherlands
Ireland
Portugal
the United Kingdom
Switzerland
Park · Parma, Emília-Romanha
Parco Ducale
Historic park of about 20 hectares created by the Farnese in the 16th century, on the opposite side of the river Parma. It has tree‑lined avenues, a lake with an island and the Palazzo Ducale del Giardino.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Parco Ducale
The Parco Ducale is in Oltretorrente, the neighborhood on the other side of the river Parma from the center. It was created in the 16th century by Duke Ottavio Farnese as the garden of the Palazzo Ducale del Giardino, the court's leisure residence, and acquired its current design in the 18th century, influenced by French gardens.
The straight tree‑lined avenues, the marble statues and the large rectangular lake with the Fontana del Trianon on an island are the park's best‑known features. The park covers about 20 hectares and is used by locals for walking, running and cycling.
The Palazzo Ducale del Giardino, inside the park, now houses the regional command of the Carabinieri, the Italian military police. On special occasions some frescoed rooms are opened for visits. In one corner of the park is the Palazzetto Eucherio Sanvitale, a small Renaissance palace.
The park is a good way to end a visit after the Pilotta: just cross the Ponte Verdi.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
30 minutes to 1 hour on foot.
Best time
Late afternoon, when the heat drops and locals go out for walks. In spring and autumn the trees often show nicer colors. The park closes at night; check the hours.
How to get there
Cross the Ponte Verdi from Piazza della Pilotta; the main entrance is on the other side, about a 5‑minute walk. From the station it's about a 15‑minute walk.
Tip
Bring a snack from the center and enjoy the benches by the lake. If the Palazzo Ducale del Giardino is open for visits, it's worth asking for information at the entrance.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Parco Ducale
Is there an entrance fee for the park?
No, entry to the Parco Ducale is free.
Can you enter the palace in the park?
Only on special occasions, because the Palazzo Ducale del Giardino houses the Carabinieri. Check if visits are available before you go.
Is it far from the center?
No. It's just across the river Parma, about a 5‑minute walk from the Pilotta via the Ponte Verdi.