Bastian Contrario

Top choice in Parma


Owner Marco has done up this cosy neighbourhood bar, fashioning a draught distribution system made from recycled farming irrigation piping, with tap handles hand-carved by his father – a retired doctor who surely must harbour an admiration for the monolithic statues of Easter Island!

There's always a good mix of international and Italian craft beers on the 12 taps (two hand-pumps; pints €5); foreign and domestic tap takeovers and events are common. Individual chalkboard tap lists are delivered to tables (reserve ahead on weekends). The cavernous, rustic-styled space – full of sofas and and photo-packed walls – has expanded into the next door space as well. Best in show.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Parma attractions

1. Casa Natale di Toscanini

0.18 MILES

At the Parco Ducale's southeast corner, the birthplace of Italy's greatest modern conductor, Arturo Toscanini (1867–1957), retraces his life and travels…

2. Ponte Romano Spazio Aemilia

0.27 MILES

Parma's Roman Bridge originally dates to 187 BC and re-opened to the public after extensive renovations in 2018. Two of the bridge's 11 arches are now…

3. Parco Ducale

0.37 MILES

Stretching along the west bank of the Parma river, these formal gardens seem like Parma personified – refined, peaceful and with barely a blade of grass…

4. Museo Archeologico Nazionale

0.4 MILES

The Museo Archeologico Nazionale exhibits Roman artefacts discovered around Parma, Etruscan finds from the Po valley and a small but fascinating exhibit…

5. Galleria Nazionale

0.4 MILES

The Galleria Nazionale displays Parma’s main art collection in dark and ambiently affective environs. Alongside works by local artists Correggio and…

6. Teatro Farnese

0.42 MILES

Rebuilt to original plans after WWII bombing, this stunning theatre is almost entirely made out of wood. The great Monteverdi, frustrated by the theatre's…

7. Palazzo Ducale

0.42 MILES

Surrounded by the formal gardens of the Parco Ducale, this palace was originally built for the Farnese family in 1561. It now serves as headquarters of…

8. Chiesa di Santa Maria della Steccata

0.43 MILES

Behind the Palazzo del Governatore in the Chiesa di Santa Maria della Steccata, you’ll find some of Parmigianino’s most extraordinary work, notably the…