Piacenza​

Latest page update: 15 June 2025
By: Dion Protani

Where to Stay

Where to Stay in Piacenza
Piacenza has a varied and well-established hotel offering, with several reputable properties in and around the historic centre. The best-reviewed options combine convenient access to the city’s main streets and monuments with reliable service, comfortable rooms and professional, long-running management.
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Grande Albergo Roma is the standout choice in the city, offering a central location, modern facilities, a rooftop terrace and consistently strong feedback for comfort and service (€€€). Hotel Ovest, just outside the centre, is another long-established option, appreciated for its spacious rooms, parking, attentive staff and dependable standards that appeal to both business and leisure travellers (€€€). Best Western Park Hotel provides a practical alternative with larger common areas, fitness facilities and convenient access to major road routes, performing well for overall comfort and efficiency (€€).

Where is

Where is Piacenza?
The city of Piacenza is the capital city of the Province of Piacenza with a population of 103,942 inhabitants.

Standing at an elevation of 61 metres above sea level, it covers a total area of 118 km² and lies 160 kilometres north west of Bologna, the regional capital of Emilia Romagna.  

The main sight in Piacenza is its 12th century Romanesque cathedral which stands on Piazza Duomo. The city's main square however is Piazza Cavalli, home to the Palazzo Gotico.
The Palazzo Gotico is sometimes referred to as the Palazzo Comunale and from here it's a 6 minute walk (500 metres) to the Basilica di Sant'Antonino. Another Romanesque structure, construction first started on the Basilica in the 4th century. On the way from Piazza Cavalli to the Basilica di Sant'Antonino you can take in another of the city's important churches, the Chiesa di San Francesco. 

Two further basilicas lay on the outskirts of the city; the Basilica di Santa Maria di Campagna lies at Piacenza's north west perimeter while the Basilica di San Savino is on the opposite edge. Both basilicas are roughly 15 minutes' walk from the city centre. A slightly shorter distance from the centre (500 metres) is the Palazzo Farnese which is home to the Civic Museums and the Piacenza Archaeological Museum. 
Comune di Piacenza
Province: Piacenza

Region: Emilia Romagna

Population: 103,121​​ (in 2024 - source)

Size: 118 km²

Elevation: 61 metres

Highlights: Piacenza Cathedral, Palazzo Gotico, Piazza Cavalli

Close by: ​Grazzano Visconti, Castell'Arquato, Vigoleno, Bobbio

What People Ask About Piacenza

Is Piacenza worth visiting?
Yes, Piacenza is a historic city with Roman origins, known for its palaces, churches, and art collections. It has a compact centre and is less crowded than other cities in Emilia-Romagna.
What can you do in Piacenza?
You can visit Palazzo Farnese, the Cathedral, and Santa Maria di Campagna. The city also offers museums, art galleries, and local cuisine featuring cured meats and regional wines.
How do you get to Piacenza?
Piacenza has its own train station with direct services to Milan, Bologna, and Parma. It is located along the A1 motorway and the Via Emilia, making it easy to reach by car or train.
What is Piacenza known for?
Piacenza is known for its Renaissance and Baroque buildings, Romanesque churches, and local food products like coppa and Gutturnio wine. It also has a strong cultural and military history.
When is the best time to visit Piacenza?
Spring and early autumn are ideal for visiting Piacenza, with comfortable weather for walking and sightseeing. The city also hosts food and wine events during these seasons.
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Discover

Discover Piacenza
Piacenza is a city in Emilia-Romagna, set on the banks of the River Po near the border with Lombardy. Founded by the Romans, it developed as a strategic crossroads on routes linking the Po Valley with the Apennine passes to Liguria and Tuscany. Its historic centre combines wide piazzas, arcaded streets, and buildings that reflect its medieval and Renaissance importance.
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The central square, Piazza dei Cavalli, is dominated by the Palazzo Comunale (Palazzo Gotico) and equestrian statues of the Farnese dukes. Other landmarks include the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, the Basilica of Sant’Antonino, and the Palazzo Farnese, which houses museums and collections. Piacenza is also closely tied to the surrounding wine-producing hills of the Colli Piacentini. Road and rail links connect the city with Milan, Parma, and Bologna, making it a key hub in northern Italy.

Things to Do

Things to Do in Piacenza
  • Piazza Cavalli and Palazzo Gotico: The main square of Piacenza, Piazza Cavalli, is dominated by equestrian statues of the Farnese dukes and the striking Palazzo Gotico, a 13th-century Gothic building with a distinctive red brick façade. The square is a central meeting place, surrounded by historic cafés and important civic buildings.
  • Duomo di Piacenza: This Romanesque cathedral, dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, features a grand façade with arcades and a tall bell tower. Inside, it houses impressive frescoes by Guercino and Procaccini, along with a richly decorated crypt and chapels.
  • Palazzo Farnese and Civic Museums: Once a Renaissance fortress, Palazzo Farnese now houses several museums, including collections of art, archaeology, weaponry, and the famous Piacenza Liver, a bronze Etruscan artefact. The palace also includes grand halls that reflect the power of the Farnese family.
  • Riverside Walks and Cycling Paths: Piacenza lies on the banks of the River Po, with green areas and paths along the river suitable for walking and cycling. The surrounding countryside is also accessible via the Via Francigena, offering scenic routes through plains and small villages.
  • Day Trip to Castell’Arquato: Around 40 minutes away, Castell’Arquato is a beautifully preserved medieval town with a castle, Romanesque church, and panoramic views over the Val d’Arda. It makes an ideal companion to Piacenza for visitors interested in history and hilltop scenery.

Tours and Activities

Piacenza Tours and Activities

Where to Eat

Where to Eat in Piacenza
  • Osteria Carducci: Located in the historic centre of Piacenza, this elegant osteria offers traditional Emilian cuisine with a refined touch. The menu includes cured meats from the local hills, tortelli with butter and sage, and seasonal dishes presented with care in a warm, characterful setting. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
  • Trattoria La Pireina: A long-standing favourite with locals, La Pireina serves hearty regional food in a simple and welcoming space. Specialities include pisarei e fasö (gnocchi with beans), roasted meats, and traditional soups, with generous portions and a relaxed, homely atmosphere. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
  • Antica Osteria del Teatro: Situated near Piazza Cavalli, this well-regarded restaurant blends local ingredients with creative presentation. The dining room is refined but unpretentious, and the menu includes both classic and modern interpretations of Piacenza’s culinary heritage. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
  • Ristorante Taverna In: Found in a quiet street near the centre, this intimate restaurant offers seasonal Italian dishes in a cosy, modern interior. The kitchen focuses on quality ingredients, with handmade pasta and a small but well-curated wine list. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
  • Pizzeria Il Picchio Rosso: A casual and popular spot in Piacenza, Il Picchio Rosso is known for its wide selection of wood-fired pizzas and fast, friendly service. It’s a convenient option for an informal lunch or dinner. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)

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Places Close to [Place Name]

Places Close to Piacenza
  • Cremona (approx. 40 km north of Piacenza): Known for its long tradition of violin making, Cremona is home to the Museo del Violino, a museum dedicated to the craft and history of violin-making. Visitors can also explore the stunning Cremona Cathedral and the Piazza del Comune, which is lined with historical buildings and cafes, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely walk.
  • Lodi (approx. 50 km west of Piacenza): A town with a rich history, Lodi is famous for its Piazza della Vittoria, a beautiful square surrounded by impressive buildings, including the Cattedrale di Lodi. The town’s peaceful atmosphere makes it perfect for a stroll through its historic centre, with its charming streets and local cafes.
  • Fiorenzuola d'Arda (approx. 20 km south of Piacenza): A small town with a rich history, Fiorenzuola d'Arda is known for its beautiful churches, including the Chiesa di San Francesco. The town offers a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for relaxing walks and enjoying local dining. It also serves as a gateway to the surrounding countryside, ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling.
  • Vigolzone (approx. 10 km southwest of Piacenza): A quaint village known for its scenic views and local charm, Vigolzone is a great spot for nature lovers. The town offers a variety of walking trails and is surrounded by lush hills, making it perfect for outdoor exploration. Visitors can also enjoy the peaceful environment and traditional Italian villages nearby.
  • Rivergaro (approx. 15 km south of Piacenza): Nestled along the River Trebbia, Rivergaro offers a picturesque setting with its charming streets and tranquil atmosphere. The town is ideal for outdoor activities, such as walking, cycling, or enjoying a boat ride along the river. Rivergaro also boasts several historical landmarks, including the Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista.
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

How to Get to [Place Name]

How to Get to Piacenza
Piacenza's train station is situated 1.3 kilometres from Piazza Cavalli, a walk of 16 minutes or a 6 minute bus ride using the number 2 or number 16 buses. Heading south east you can take a train from Piacenza to Bologna in 1 hour 22 minutes; the same train terminates at Pescara on the Adriatic Coast (4 hours 37 minutes), stopping along the way at Parma (34 minutes), Reggio Emilia (48 mins), Modena (1 hour 1 minute), Faenza (1 hour 48 minutes), Forlì (1 hour 57 minutes), Cesena (2 hours 9 minutes) and Rimini (2 hours 31 minutes). 

The most convenient airports for Piacenza are Milan Linate Airport which is 50 minutes away by car (67 km), Bergamo Orio al Serio - 1 hour 14 minutes (109 km), Milan Malpensa - 1 hour 26 minutes (121 km) and Bologna Airport which is an hour and 29 minutes away by car (147 km). A fourth option is Verona Airport which is an hour and 25 minutes, a distance of 136 kilometres.
Public transport: ​​​train station 1.3 km from centre, local buses

By train: ​​​Parma - 34 minutes, Reggio Emilia - 48 minutes
By car: ​​​Parma - 53 mins (64 km), Reggio Emilia - 1 hr 9 mins (91 km)

Fly to: ​​​Milan Linate Airport - 50 minutes by car (67 km)

Private Transfers

Piacenza Private Transfers
A private transfer is the most convenient way to travel to or from Piacenza, offering a direct journey without the need to manage train connections or drive the busy regional roads yourself. You’ll be collected from your chosen location and driven by a local, professional driver, ensuring a smooth and reliable service.

From Piacenza, the nearest hub is Parma, which can be reached in about 45 minutes, a distance of 65 km. Milan Linate Airport is around 1 hour 10 minutes away at 75 km, while Milan Malpensa Airport can be reached in about 1 hour 30 minutes, covering 115 km. A transfer to Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport usually takes 1 hour 40 minutes with a journey of 155 km. For those heading to Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport, the journey takes about 1 hour 40 minutes, a distance of 140 km.
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To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.

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