Piacenza, a splendid city located in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy. Recently, I had the pleasure of taking a day trip from Milano to Piacenza and I want to tell you what impressions this city left me.
What to visit in Piacenza in a day
Piacenza is a city with a rich history and impressive architecture. Here are some of the places you shouldn’t miss once you get to Piacenza:
Piazza Cavalli:
is one of the most important markets in Piacenza, Italy. Its name, which translates to “Horse Square”, comes from two imposing equestrian statues by the sculptor Francesco Mochi in the 17th century.
These statues represent Alessandro and Ranuccio Farnese, influential members of the Farnese family who played a significant role in the city’s history.
The square is surrounded by historic buildings and is a popular place for meetings and events. It is an iconic part of the city, combining art, history and the daily life of the local community.
Palazzo Farnese:
is an impressive museum that houses a diverse collection of historical arts and artefacts. It is a remarkable Renaissance palace, known for its grand architecture and the art collections it houses, including paintings and sculptures.
In addition, Palazzo Farnese also houses a number of historical artefacts, providing a fascinating window into the region’s rich past. It is an essential place for art and history enthusiasts and is a cultural landmark in Piacenza.
Cathedral of Piacenza:
Cathedral of Piacenza:is an outstanding example of Romanesque architecture with Gothic elements. This impressive cathedral is known for its architectural beauty and its interior frescoes.
It is a symbol of Piacenza and a point of attraction for tourists and believers. The Cathedral reflects the rich religious and artistic history of the region and is an important monument in the cultural and spiritual landscape of the city.
Basilica di Sant’Antonino:
is an important place of worship and an outstanding example of religious architecture. It is dedicated to St Antoninus, the patron saint of the city.
The basilica stands out for its unique architecture and its spiritual importance for the local community.
It is a significant place for pilgrimages and an attraction for visitors interested in the religious and architectural history of Piacenza.
Picturesque Pond:
in Piacenza are known for their unique charm, offering an authentic and traditional atmosphere. These narrow, stone-paved streets are surrounded by historic buildings and various shops. Walking these streets is like a journey back in time, offering an intimate insight into the history and culture of the city.
During my winter visit, the atmosphere was lovely, even though it was cold outside. As it was Christmas time, the streets and shop windows were beautifully decorated with festive ornaments. The twinkling lights and Christmas lights decorations added a special charm to the city, creating a fairytale landscape that warmed hearts despite the cold temperatures. It was a memorable experience that combined architectural beauty with the warm spirit of the winter holidays.
How to get from Milan to Piacenza by car
It was a cold winter day, but we still decided to get out of the house in search of a new city to explore. That’s how we ended up in Piacenza. Starting from Milan by car, the drive is quite easy and comfortable.The distance between Milan and Piacenza is about 70 kilometers and can be covered in less than an hour, making it an ideal route for a day trip.
From Milan to Piacenza by train
To get to Piacenza from Milan without a car, you can travel by train.
There are several train options, including Frecciarossa, Trenitalia and DB – Intercity services.
Tickets for train travel from Milan to Piacenza start at about $5.64 and travel time is about one hour and 11 minutes, with about 171 connections available per day
- Useful Tips
- If you manage to visit Piacenza during the week to avoid the weekend crowds.
- if you are in Piacenza and you are hungry, try the local culinary specialties such as tortelli piacentini.
- Wear comfortable shoes because you will be walking a lot.
Piacenza is a perfect destination for those who live in Milan and are looking for a day trip away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
