Piacenza Hotel Collection

Although the city has yet to become one of Emilia Romagna's principal tourist attractions, Piacenza is more than worthy of visit. Despite being obviously well-healed, the inhabitants are rarely found "sitting comfortably", and the proximity to Milan (circa an hour's drive away) continues to exercise a decidedly energising influence. Piacenza boasts a wealth of important artistic and architectural works, all of which make a stroll through the city center, brimming with attractive shops, bars and restaurants, all the more appealing.

Piacenza, once united with Parma in the same historic Dukedom, is home to the 16th century Palazzo Farnese and the Palazzo Comunale, this latter dominating the Piazza dei Cavalli. Art and history lovers will no doubt spend more than a few hours visiting the city's churches (which totalled more than a hundred until Second World War bombing raids destroyed the most part). The imposing Basilica of San Francesco, is one of Italy's finest examples of Cistercian architecture.

A visit to Piacenza is also an occasion to enjoy some of the region's excellent food, and to taste highly prized specialities such as the "coppa piacentina dop": a delicately flavoured salame which takes pride of place in a great number of the city's delicatessens and restaurants.