Living in Parma

Parma is situated in Northern Italy, in a beautiful area surrounded by mountains and green spaces. It offers a varied and unique landscape, a strong cultural heritage and a rich gastronomical tradition.

Parma – the home of food

EFSA’s headquarters are in the centre of Parma, in the region of Emilia-Romagna, which is also referred to as the ‘Food valley of Italy’. Parma is home to several protected geographical indications (among which the world-famous Parmigiano Reggiano cheese and Parma ham).  

Parma is an accessible and bike friendly city. It boasts proximity to important cities such as Bologna (100 km) and Milano (120 km) and in two hours you can be in the Renaissance city of Florence, at the Ligurian coast, which is home to the Cinque Terre, or at the Adriatic Sea with its sandy beaches.

Moving to and living in Parma

For those new to the city, the Parma for expats portal offers a useful guide, providing information about Italian language courses, healthcare, housing, transportation, emergency contacts, leisure, transportation activities and much more.

Those looking for news about the many activities on offer in the city can consult Parma welcome – a website for visitors to the city dedicated to cultural events, hotels and tips about Parma’s gastronomy. You can even book a tour on the “Walk of taste”.

Visit Parma is another useful website for those living in Parma, including information about what to see and do in the city and the immediate surroundings.

Scuola Per l’Europa

Parma has its own Scuola Per l’Europa, a multilingual school accredited to provide an education in line with the curricula of the European schools. EFSA staff can enrol their children at Scuola per l’Europa, where places are guaranteed for them.

Our office and work environment

EFSA’s headquarters are a short walk from Parma’s railway station, which is well connected to the main Italian cities. Our offices offer multifunctional and open spaces with a modern IT infrastructure. EFSA staff can also benefit from a vibrant array of staff communities and clubs, including football and volleyball teams, and other social initiatives. 

Find us

European Food Safety Authority
Via Carlo Magno 1A
43126 Parma – ITALY