Piacenza, a small city in the heart of the region, offers an incredible combination of architecture, history and cuisine. 
Located in the north western part of the Emilia region, just 67 km from Milan (Lombardy), it is a quiet provincial city that is comfortable to live in.

The city and its surroundings offer opportunities for visits to important cultural and artistic sites, such as the Farnese Palace, the Ricci Oddi Gallery, the historic walls of the City and the Alberoni College with its important historical library, where Antonello da Messina’s Ecce Homo is preserved, and the basilica of Saint Maria of Campagna. 

It houses the campuses of two major national universities, the Polytechnic of Milan and the Catholic University of Milan, thus being characterised by a strong national and international attractiveness.
The main sectors of its economy belong to the areas of specialisation including the agri-food sector, which boasts the highest concentration of D.O.P. (Protected Designation of Origins)  and DOC (Controlled Denomination of Origins) in Italy, the mechatronics and motor engineering sector and the cultural and creative industries, thanks to the presence of important companies active in the design world.

A historically reserved and undiscovered city, it is open to curious people and those in search of alternative historical and naturalistic activities. The province of Piacenza is rich in castles, historic villages and valleys that reveal to visitors the beautiful views of the Trebbia, Arda, Aveto and Nure rivers.

Here are some tips to make the most of your 30 hours there! 

DAY 1

During the morning
Start your journey in the famous Piazza dei Cavalli, the central square of Piacenza. There, you can admire the surrounding architecture and the equestrian statues of two important Renaissance rulers, Alessandro and Ranuccio Farnese.

At the Piazza dei Cavalli, you can find the Palazzo Gotico, the former town hall that showcases the city's history, art and architecture. 
Move on and take an exploratory walk to the Duomo di Piacenza. This Cathedral is a gem of Gothic-Romanesque architecture. Its intricate facade will impress you as much as its frescoes inside. We recommend taking a guided tour to learn about its history.

At lunch
For lunch, we recommend trying local flavours like tortelli piacentini, stuffed pasta or some of the delicious, cured meats with a glass of typical regional wine.

In the afternoon
In the afternoon, don’t miss the Palazzo Farnese, a key visit in Piacenza. Explore the opulent building and the lush gardens of this Renaissance palace.
It is the house since 1983 of Musei Civici, the State Archive and some municipality offices, and also an area for temporary exhibitions. The museum path develops on different floors and offers visitors the chance to see several rooms in Palazzo Farnese: the duke’s apartment with its splendid stucco decorations, the duchess’s apartment with frescoed ceilings and trompe l’oeils, the dungeons of the Cittadella where there is the famous Etruscan Liver (the bronze model of a goat’s liver) that is the only existing witness to Etruscan religious practices. 
The architectural complex includes the 16th century duchy’s palace (non completed) and the citadel built by Visconti at the end of the 14th century.

At sunset
In the evening, we suggest strolling along the banks of the river Po, on whose shores Piacenza is situated. The surroundings of the river are enigmatic and charming.

Finally, enjoy a nighttime walk through the historic centre. The characteristic streets come alive at night, merging with the illuminated buildings to create a unique atmosphere. 
Here, you can choose from a variety of dining options.

DAY 2

During the morning
We recommend starting your day with a good cappuccino and a fresh pastry at a local café. With your energy replenished, you can venture to Ciclovia del Trebbia (cycling path).

From the historical centre of Piacenza (pedestrian area), cycling between Romanesque churches and lively squares, move south toward the hills, in the neighbouring villages and their green areas. The path is always bike only, reaching Gossolengo village. 
A short passage close by the provincial busy road leads to the bridge on Trebbia river, after which you cycle on the first ring on the river bank, under Rivalta castle. This is the fluvial area, where you can see poplars and willows that have never been touched by the river waters. After a break at Rivalta castle and village, go back to Trebbia bridge to ride on another ring, immersed in a hilly landscape, from Roveleto Landi and Pieve Dugliara to Rivergaro. Don’t miss the lush green landscape along the river before going back to Piacenza city. 

If you don't want to take the bike, take a short trip to the hills surrounding the city to enjoy the views and have a meal overlooking the vineyards with local flavours.
Piacenza’s territory is studded with strongholds, castles, noble mansions, many of which are open to the public. Each building has its own unique history to tell.
Intriguing family matters, adventures of valiant leaders, wise patrons, sad lovers still wandering about looking for peace of mind are still fascinating stories that lead visitors on a mysterious journey.

Piacenza is a city that will leave a piece of your heart behind. We wish you an excellent journey exploring this gem of the region!

_{Info and photos: VisitPiacenza}