Spotlight: internationals in… Parma

Parma is internationally known for its food culture, music and artistic heritage, but for those who live here it is also a lively university city with a welcoming atmosphere and plenty of opportunities to connect and build community. For international students and talents, settling in Parma means discovering a place where it is easy to meet people, engage in activities and feel at home.

Below you can find some local organisations, courses and opportunities that can help you connect with the international community, learn Italian and stay active.

International and social communities

One of the main reference points for international students and young people in Parma is ESN ASSI Parma, part of the Erasmus Student Network. ESN supports the integration of international students through social events, cultural activities, trips and workshops designed to help newcomers feel part of the local community.

For internationals living and working in Parma beyond university life, there are other active groups such as Expat Parma communities. One example is the InterNations Parma network, which hosts social and networking events for expats and global talents. Alternatively there’s Parma Mia Expats, an online community sharing information, stories and tips about living, working and exploring Parma.

An active space for both international and local communities is Common Home Parma, a project that promotes inclusion and intercultural exchange through events, workshops and shared activities.

Public spaces play a key role in community life. The Biblioteca Ilaria Alpi is more than a library: it is a cultural and social hub hosting talks, workshops and community initiatives, often open to an international audience and focused on participation and inclusion.

Finally, the University of Parma contributes to the city’s international life not only through academic programmes, but also by organising public lectures, cultural events and initiatives open to the wider community.

Italian language courses and language exchange

For students of the University of Parma, the CLA – Centro Linguistico di Ateneo is a key resource, offering Italian language courses for international students at different levels.

University of Bologna students based in Parma can also access free Italian language courses provided by the University of Parma through the Department of Humanities, Social Sciences and Cultural Industries (DUSIC). Courses designed for foreign students and represent a valuable opportunity to learn or improve Italian at no cost.

Italian can also be learned in a more informal setting at Scuola Penny Wirton Parma, which offers free one-to-one Italian lessons. The school is open to people of different backgrounds and levels and focuses on inclusion and language learning as a tool for integration.

Another option for learning Italian is CPIA Parma, which provides public Italian courses for adults, including foreign residents. 

Further options to improve Italian are available through private language schools and freelance teachers around the city. 

Sports and outdoor activities

Parma offers a wide range of sports activities thanks to a strong network of clubs and facilities across the city.

For university students, CUS Parma is the main reference point, offering access to various sports at reduced rates in an inclusive environment.

Beyond the university, numerous associations provide opportunities ranging from team sports to outdoor activities in parks and along the river, with information available through local portals and services.

Volunteering

Volunteering is a meaningful way to connect with the local community, practise Italian and contribute to the city. In Parma, many organisations are active in areas such as social support, culture, environment and events, and often welcome international volunteers. A good starting point is the CSV Emilia – Parma area which collects local volunteering opportunities. For more specific guidance, you can contact Informagiovani Parma or  search independently for volunteering organisations by consulting the National Register of the Third Sector (RUNTS), which includes officially registered non-profit organisations active throughout Italy.

Additional information and local support

If you’re new in Parma and looking for up-to-date information on living, working or studying here, EasyParma, the City of Parma’s Talent Office, is the main point of reference. The office provides practical guidance, orientation, and links to key resources for navigating daily life, housing, work, services, and activities in the city.

Lavoro?

Work and networking spaces

For internationals looking for places to work, study, or connect with professionals, Parma offers several coworking spaces and hubs. Officine On/Off and Lo Spaziotto provide flexible workspaces and networking opportunities for freelancers, students and professionals.

Creative and collaborative hubs such as Laboratorio Aperto Parma encourage innovation and community projects, offering access to workshops, events and professional networks.

Other open spaces, like Emc2 Onlus – L’Ostello e Luoghi, are ideal for informal gatherings, coworking and social interaction, providing a welcoming environment for meeting new people and sharing ideas.

Stay connected with it-ER: Ambassador Lab

To stay up to date on upcoming initiatives, follow the it-ER website and communication channels. In the coming months, it-ER will launch the Ambassador Lab, a series of meetings bringing together it-ER territorial communities across Emilia-Romagna.

The Ambassador Lab will offer opportunities to exchange experiences, connect with other internationals living in the region, and strengthen local networks.

A final tip

In Parma, many opportunities circulate through personal networks, social groups and informal channels. Asking at a language course, a university event or a community meetup is often the easiest way to find your place in the city.

Stay tuned as the Spotlight tour moves to its next destination