Orto Botanico di Parma
A charming 18th-century botanical garden and natural history museum in Parma's heart, featuring over 2,000 plant species and a spectacular museum.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Witness peak bloom and fewer crowds.
Orto Botanico di Parma
Best Time
Witness peak bloom and fewer crowds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming 18th-century botanical garden and natural history museum in Parma's heart, featuring over 2,000 plant species and a spectacular museum.
"The most beautiful place in Parma. Calm, peaceful, quiet, meditative."
🦟 Pack Mosquito Repellent
Essential for July visits to avoid bites!
🏛️ Don't Skip the Museum
Spectacular natural history exhibits await inside.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Ancient Ginkgo Tree
Orto Botanico di Parma
Stand in awe of an 18th-century Ginkgo Biloba, a living testament to centuries of botanical history.
Natural History Museum
Inside the Orto Botanico
Explore a treasure trove of meticulously cataloged wonders: stuffed animals, shells, corals, and insects.
Wild and Overgrown Gardens
Orto Botanico di Parma
Wander through a charmingly untamed landscape, a testament to nature's enduring beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wild Charm
Beyond the Blooms: A Natural History Gem
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🦟 Pack Mosquito Repellent
Essential for July visits to avoid bites!
🏛️ Don't Skip the Museum
Spectacular natural history exhibits await inside. +1
🚶♀️ Stroll Near City Center
Easily accessible for a relaxing break from city exploration.
🌿 Embrace the Wild
The gardens are beautifully untamed; enjoy the natural charm.
Tips
from all over the internet
🦟 Pack Mosquito Repellent
Essential for July visits to avoid bites!
🏛️ Don't Skip the Museum
Spectacular natural history exhibits await inside. +1
🚶♀️ Stroll Near City Center
Easily accessible for a relaxing break from city exploration.
🌿 Embrace the Wild
The gardens are beautifully untamed; enjoy the natural charm.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Orto Botanico di Parma for its free access and central location, offering a peaceful retreat. The natural history museum is a standout highlight, lauded for its extensive and fascinating collections of flora and fauna. While the gardens are appreciated for their natural charm, some find them a bit wild and overgrown, and mosquitoes can be a significant issue in summer.
"Great Garden with free access. It is near the city center, it has a large collection of plants and allows to relax after a walk in the city."
SVC
"While the gardens, themselves, are a bit wild and overgrown, the apparently very old collection of flora and fauna in the attached building are spectacular. Room after room of meticulously notated wonders. Don't miss this treasure in the heart of the city."
Grey Zeien
"The most beautiful place in Parma. Calm, peaceful, quiet, meditative. The museum is very interesting and the staff is friendly and well prepared. The Orto Botanico hosts visits for tourists and school groups. Come and see it. I'm sure you'll enjoy it."
Richard Benecchi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Orto Botanico di Parma is conveniently located near the city center, making it easily accessible on foot after exploring Parma.
While specific parking details aren't widely shared, its central location suggests public parking options are available nearby. It's best to check local parking apps or signs upon arrival.
Given its proximity to the city center, it's likely accessible via Parma's local bus network. Check the local transport authority's website for routes and schedules.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Access to the Orto Botanico di Parma is free, making it a wonderful and accessible attraction for all visitors.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's recommended to check the official Orto Botanico di Parma website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
As admission is free, advance booking is generally not required for individual visitors. However, for school groups or special events, it's advisable to inquire about reservation policies.
While the gardens are free, there might be a nominal fee or specific access arrangements for the natural history museum. It's best to confirm this upon arrival or check their official information.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
You can explore a diverse collection of over 2,000 plant species, including an ancient Ginkgo tree, and a fascinating natural history museum with stuffed animals and scientific collections. +1
Reviews suggest the gardens are 'a bit wild and overgrown,' embracing a natural, untamed charm rather than manicured perfection.
Absolutely! Visitors rave about the 'spectacular' and 'awesome' museum, filled with meticulously cataloged stuffed mammals, birds, shells, corals, and insects. +1
The Orto Botanico hosts visits for tourists and school groups, and the museum staff are described as 'friendly and well prepared.' Inquire onsite for tour availability.
Take your time to wander through the gardens and the museum. Wear comfortable shoes, as the grounds can be uneven.
🎫 🦟 Health & Safety
Yes, visitors have reported being 'attacked by loads of mosquitos' and 'bitten to death,' especially in July. It's highly recommended to bring insect repellent.
Given the natural and potentially overgrown terrain, accessibility for those with mobility issues might be challenging in certain areas. It's advisable to contact the garden directly for specific information.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted in botanical gardens for personal use. However, always be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage regarding photography in certain areas or exhibits.
The ancient Ginkgo tree, the diverse plant collections, and the intriguing exhibits within the natural history museum offer excellent photographic opportunities. The 'wild and overgrown' gardens also provide a unique, natural aesthetic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Practical Tip: Be sure to pack mosquito repellent, especially during warmer months, as children can be particularly susceptible to bites.
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Garden Lovers
Beyond the living collections, the natural history museum provides a fascinating complement, showcasing preserved specimens that offer a deeper understanding of the natural world. The 'meticulously notated wonders' within the museum are a treat for anyone interested in zoology and entomology.
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers & City Explorers
While the plant collections are lovely, don't overlook the natural history museum. It's a surprisingly rich and engaging part of the visit that offers a different kind of discovery.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Living Museum: The Orto Botanico's Collections
Beyond the flora, the botanical garden houses an equally impressive natural history museum. This section is a significant draw, featuring a vast and 'spectacular' collection of stuffed mammals and birds, alongside extensive displays of shells, corals, and insects. Reviewers consistently highlight this museum as a 'treasure' and 'awesome,' making it a must-see component of any visit.
This dual focus on living plants and preserved specimens provides a comprehensive educational experience. It's a place where you can learn about botany and zoology side-by-side, making it appealing to a wide range of interests, from plant enthusiasts to natural history buffs. The staff are noted for being 'friendly and well prepared,' adding to the overall positive visitor experience.
Navigating Parma's Green Heart: Practicalities and Tips
However, visitors should be aware of potential environmental factors. Notably, mosquitoes can be a significant nuisance, particularly during the summer months like July. Several accounts mention being 'bitten to death,' underscoring the importance of bringing effective insect repellent to ensure a comfortable experience.
While the gardens offer a natural and somewhat untamed beauty, it's worth noting that the terrain might not be uniformly smooth. For those with mobility concerns, it's advisable to contact the Orto Botanico directly for specific accessibility information. Despite these minor considerations, the combination of its rich collections and easy access makes the Orto Botanico a highly recommended destination.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit