Busseto​

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Latest page update: 26 May 2025

By: Dion Protani

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​​The town of Busseto is situated within the Province of Parma and stands at an elevation of 40 metres above sea level. It has a population of around 6,900 inhabitants.

Places of interest nearby include the towns of Fidenza, Grazzano Visconti, Fontanellato and Parma while the recommended accommodation is Alle Roncole which is five kilometres away.

Busseto, Emilia Romagna

Busseto, Emilia Romagna

Busseto is famous for being the home of 19th century Italian composer Giuseppe Verdi who was born in nearby Le Roncole in 1813. He moved to Busseto in 1824 and there are various vestiges of his time spent here, including the Teatro Giuseppe Verdi. 

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What People Ask About Busseto

Is Busseto worth visiting?

Yes, Busseto is known for being the birthplace of composer Giuseppe Verdi. The town has several sites dedicated to his life and music, and it’s set in the countryside of the Parma province.

What can you do in Busseto?

You can visit the Teatro Verdi, Casa Barezzi, and the National Verdi Museum. The town also offers local food specialities, historic squares, and nearby cycling routes through the countryside.

How do you get to Busseto?

Busseto has its own train station with connections to Parma and Fidenza. It is about 40 km from Parma and easily reached by car via the SS9 road or regional train services.

What is Busseto known for?

Busseto is best known as the home of Giuseppe Verdi. It has several locations linked to his life and work, as well as a long tradition of music and cultural events dedicated to his legacy.

When is the best time to visit Busseto?

Spring and early autumn are good times to visit, with cultural events and mild weather. October is popular due to festivals celebrating Verdi’s birthday and local food traditions.

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Related links

​Things to see in Emilia Romagna
​Orange Flag Towns of Italy

Orange Flag Towns of Emilia Romagna

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Discover

Discover Busseto

Busseto, located in the Emilia-Romagna region, is a small town known for its deep connection to the world of opera and its rich cultural heritage. Situated in the Po Valley, Busseto offers a peaceful setting surrounded by lush farmland and traditional Italian landscapes. The town’s historical significance and vibrant atmosphere make it an ideal destination for visitors interested in both history and music.
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Busseto is famous for its association with Giuseppe Verdi, the renowned opera composer, and the Museo Giuseppe Verdi, which showcases the life and works of this musical legend. The town is also home to the Chiesa di San Giovanni Evangelista, a beautiful church with historical and architectural significance. For those seeking outdoor activities, Busseto offers a variety of hiking and cycling routes that wind through the surrounding countryside, providing scenic views of the Po Valley. The combination of cultural landmarks, natural beauty, and a historical connection to Verdi makes Busseto a unique destination in the Emilia-Romagna region.

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Things to Do

Things to Do in Busseto

• Casa Barezzi: This 19th-century home belonged to Antonio Barezzi, patron and father-in-law of Giuseppe Verdi. It now houses a museum dedicated to Verdi’s early life and musical training, with original letters, portraits, and the salon where the composer gave his first public performances.
• Teatro Verdi: Located inside the Rocca Pallavicino, this intimate theatre was opened in 1868 and named in Verdi’s honour. Richly decorated with red velvet and gold detailing, it continues to host concerts and performances and remains a tribute to the town’s most famous resident.
• Rocca Pallavicino and Piazza Giuseppe Verdi: The castle of the Pallavicino family now serves as the town hall and cultural centre. It overlooks Piazza Giuseppe Verdi, the main square, where a statue of the composer stands, surrounded by cafés, porticoes, and elegant buildings.
• Villa Verdi in Sant’Agata: Just outside Busseto, this villa was Verdi’s residence for over 50 years. Visitors can tour the composer’s rooms, gardens, and personal belongings, offering a deeper insight into his private life and daily routine. It remains one of the most evocative Verdi sites in the region.
• Day Trip to Fidenza: Around 15 minutes away, Fidenza offers a larger town atmosphere with the Cathedral of San Donnino, shops, and additional dining options. It makes for a convenient addition to a visit to Busseto, especially for those exploring Verdi’s trail and local heritage.

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Busseto Tours and Activities

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Comune di Busseto

Province: Parma

Region: Emilia Romagna

Population: 6,841​ (in 2024 - source)

Size: 76 km²

Elevation: 40 metres

Close by: Fidenza, Grazzano Visconti, Fontanellato, Parma

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Awarded the Bandiera Arancione (Orange Flag)

Since: 2005

1 of 12 in Emilia Romagna listed by Touring Club Italiano

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Where to Stay

Where to Stay in Busseto

• Hotel I Due Foscari Located in the historic centre of Busseto, just steps from Piazza Giuseppe Verdi, this hotel offers comfortable rooms with classic furnishings. Guests appreciate the quiet setting, proximity to the Teatro Verdi and Verdi’s birthplace, and easy access to local restaurants. €€ (mid-range)
  
• Alle Lucciole Agriturismo Situated in the countryside about 5 minutes’ drive from Busseto, this agriturismo offers rustic rooms in a restored farmhouse surrounded by fields. Visitors enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, homemade breakfasts, and opportunities to explore the rural landscape linked to Verdi’s life. €€ (mid-range)
  
• Agriturismo Le Colombaie Set in the nearby hamlet of Roncole Verdi, close to the composer's childhood home, this property offers spacious rooms, a garden, and an on-site restaurant. Guests value the peaceful location, traditional food, and historical surroundings. €€ (mid-range)
  
• B&B Casa Giovanna Located within walking distance of Busseto's centre, this family-run bed and breakfast features bright rooms and a friendly, informal setting. Guests enjoy the homemade cakes, helpful local advice, and proximity to the Giuseppe Verdi itinerary. €€ (mid-range)
  
• Hotel Palazzo Calvi Housed in a historical building near the centre of town, this small hotel offers simply furnished rooms and convenient access to Busseto’s main sights. Visitors appreciate the building’s character, the central location, and parking availability. €€ (mid-range)
  

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Where to Eat

Where to Eat in Busseto

• Ristorante I Due Foscari: Located in the heart of Busseto near the main square, this elegant restaurant offers refined Emilian cuisine in a formal setting. The menu includes cured meats, handmade pasta, and carefully prepared meat dishes, with a strong focus on local specialities. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
  
• Trattoria Campanini: A short walk from the centre, this traditional trattoria serves home-style dishes such as anolini in broth, roast pork, and seasonal vegetable sides. The relaxed, family-run atmosphere makes it a favourite with locals. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
  
• Osteria Vecchio Mulino: Set in a converted old mill, this rustic osteria offers a menu focused on typical Parma and Busseto recipes. Dishes include salumi di Parma, tortelli, and slow-cooked meat stews, all served in a characterful setting with exposed stone and wood. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
  
• Ristorante Guareschi: Located just outside the centre, this restaurant takes its name from local writer Giovannino Guareschi and reflects the region’s culinary traditions. The menu features hearty plates and local wines in a comfortable, informal environment. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
  
• Pizzeria La Fornace: An informal option on the edge of town, La Fornace is known for its crisp, wood-fired pizzas and quick service. It’s ideal for a casual, affordable dinner and also offers takeaway. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
  

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Photo Gallery

Busseto Photo Gallery

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Places Close to [Place Name]

Places Close to Busseto

• Fidenza (approx. 15 km south of Busseto): A charming town known for its beautiful Cathedral of Fidenza, which features striking Romanesque architecture. The town also has a lovely historic centre, where visitors can stroll through its quaint streets and enjoy local cafes and shops. Fidenza is a great base for exploring the surrounding countryside and vineyards.
  
• Parma (approx. 30 km north of Busseto): A city famous for its rich history, Parma is renowned for its Romanesque architecture, including the Basilica di Santa Maria della Steccata and the Cattedrale di Parma. The city is also famous for its food, particularly Parmigiano Reggiano cheese and Prosciutto di Parma. Visitors can enjoy the Palazzo della Pilotta museum complex and the beautiful Parco Ducale.
  
• Salsomaggiore Terme (approx. 20 km west of Busseto): A town known for its therapeutic thermal baths, Salsomaggiore Terme is surrounded by lush hills and offers a relaxing atmosphere. The town features the Palazzo dei Congressi, an elegant building from the early 20th century, and the Castello di Salsomaggiore, a historical castle with panoramic views over the surrounding area.
  
• Vigoleno (approx. 25 km southwest of Busseto): A picturesque medieval village, Vigoleno is famous for its well-preserved Castello di Vigoleno, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The village is a great place to wander through cobblestone streets, admire the ancient walls and buildings, and enjoy local food in one of its quaint restaurants.
  
• Colorno (approx. 35 km north of Busseto): Known for the magnificent Palazzo Ducale di Colorno, often referred to as the "Versailles of Parma," Colorno offers a mix of history and beauty. The town's palace is surrounded by vast gardens, making it a lovely spot for a leisurely walk. Colorno is also close to the Parco Ducale, a peaceful green space perfect for outdoor activities.
  

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Emilia-Romagna Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations

1. Bologna
2. Ravenna
3. Ferrara
4. Cesena
5. Parma
6. Cesenatico
7. Modena
8. Rimini​
9. Brisighella
10. Comacchio

​👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Emilia-Romagna

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How to Get to [Place Name]

How to Get to Busseto

By Rail: Busseto has its own train station on the Fidenza–Cremona railway line, operated by Trenitalia regional services. Trains run regularly between Fidenza and Cremona, with journey times of around 20 minutes to each. From Fidenza, there are frequent connections to Parma, Piacenza, and Bologna. The station is located a short walk from the town centre, making it convenient for visitors arriving by rail.

By Road: Busseto is situated in the province of Parma, in the north-west of Emilia-Romagna. It lies approximately 40 kilometres north-west of Parma and 30 kilometres south-east of Cremona. The drive from Parma takes around 45 minutes via the SS10 and SP588 roads. From Cremona, the journey takes about 35 minutes. Public parking is available in and around the town centre, including near the Giuseppe Verdi-related landmarks and museums.

Nearest International Airports:
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• Parma Airport (Aeroporto di Parma Giuseppe Verdi): Located about 35 kilometres south-east of Busseto, the drive takes around 40 minutes. Bus and train connections are available via Fidenza.
• Milan Linate Airport (Aeroporto di Milano-Linate): Situated approximately 105 kilometres north-west of Busseto, the drive takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. Travellers can also take a train via Fidenza or Cremona.
• Bologna Airport (Aeroporto di Bologna Guglielmo Marconi): Roughly 120 kilometres south-east of Busseto, the drive takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes. Public transport includes train travel via Parma or Fidenza.

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