Renowned for its rich cultural and gastronomic heritage, Emilia-Romagna is a region that awakens the senses and appeals to gourmets and art and history lovers alike. The cities of Bologna, Parma and Modena are true treasures of the region, offering immersion in an exceptionally rich medieval and Renaissance past. Bologna's narrow streets reveal sumptuous architectural details, while Parma's historic center is a veritable hymn to Italian art. Gourmets will delight in its authentic, generous cuisine, with delicacies such as Parmigiano Reggiano and Modena balsamic vinegar. A visit to Emilia-Romagna is a multi-sensory journey, combining history, gastronomy and breathtaking scenery.
Dolce Vita!
1. Bologna, an architectural gem
Home to the oldest university in the Western world, Bologna is a true architectural gem. As you stroll along its cobbled streets, you're immediately charmed by the city's warm atmosphere . The red-tinted buildings, which have earned it the nickname "La Rossa", contrast with the greenery of the surrounding hills. Among the must-sees in Bologna, be sure to visit the Due Torri, Asinelli and Garisenda, emblematic symbols of the city, and climb the Asinelli Tower for a breathtaking panoramic view. The Basilica of San Petronio, in Piazza Maggiore, is one of the largest churches in Europe. Its unfinished façade is unique and its interior richly decorated. But what really makes every visitor's heart beat faster is Bologna's gastronomic reputation. Considered the cradle of Italian cuisine, the city is home to such delicacies as tagliatelle with ragù, mortadella and Parmigiano Reggiano.
Did you know? Bologna is one of our Top 15 tourist alternatives to avoid mass tourism!
2. What to do in Emilia-Romagna? Enjoy the peace and quiet of Parma
Strolling through the heart of Parma, you're immediately enveloped by a feeling of serenity, as if nothing could disturb the tranquility that reigns here. You feel transported to a world apart, where time seems to stand still. The Piazza del Duomo, dominated by one of Italy's most beautiful baptisteries, exudes a timeless atmosphere. Even the Palazzo della Pilotta, an ambitious Farnese project, blends harmoniously with the other buildings without disturbing the balance. Parma is also appreciated for its quality of life and its cuisine. Consecrated "City of Gastronomy" by UNESCO, Parma is renowned for its cured ham, Parmigiano Reggiano and authentic, refined cuisine, prepared using the finest local produce.
Read more: What to eat in Italy 20 culinary specialities to discover
3. Modena, world-famous for its automotive industry
Welcome to Modena, world-famous for its prestigious automotive industry, with iconic brands such as Ferrari, Maserati and Lamborghini. It's also a city of gastronomy, renowned for its traditional balsamic vinegar, Parmesan producers and lambrusco, a sparkling red wine. At the heart of the city, the Romanesque cathedral, with its exceptional sculptural decoration, is a veritable book in stone. Don't miss a visit to the Enzo Ferrari Museum, housed in the UI car designer's childhood home and featuring exhibitions on his life and work, as well as iconic cars in a futuristic building. The Museum Palace houses the Estense Gallery, where you can admire works by Tintoretto and Correggio, as well as a bust by Bernini.
4. Rimini, an invitation to let go and relax
Head for the northeast coast of Italy, to Rimini, in the Emilia-Romagna region. With its heavenly beaches stretching as far as the eye can see, its historic buildings and charming, colorful houses, Rimini fully deserves its reputation! This seaside resort, popular with Italians and foreigners alike, is an invitation to let go and relax during your stay. Rimini is often perceived as Italy's trendy destination, attracting mainly young people looking to party in the Riviera's nightclubs. It's a city that never sleeps, except perhaps during the day, when holidaymakers lounge on deckchairs on the beach. However, as you move away from the marina, you discover a fascinating historic center, rich in Roman remains and Renaissance monuments. The old fishermen's quarter, with its pastel-colored houses, adds a picturesque touch to the town.
Read more: What to do and see in Rimini The 11 must-sees
6. Brisighella, one of Emilia Romagna's most beautiful villages
Its origins date back to the late 13th century... Welcome to the medieval village of Brisighella, one of the most beautiful in Italy. Superbly preserved, it lies at the foot of three rocky gables on which stand its emblematic monuments: the Rocca, the Monticino sanctuary and the Torre dell'Orologio. If you're visiting in summer, don't miss the "Romantic Brisighella" experience, an event dedicated to lovers. A magical atmosphere, lit by ancient torches, takes us back to the spirit and culture of the past. Living the life of the village by candlelight, surrounded by such natural beauty, is truly a unique experience to enjoy during your stay!
5. Enjoy the hiking trails around Serramazzoni
Located 36 km from Modena, Serramazzoni is often referred to as the gateway to the Apennines. The town is famous forits many hiking and mountain-biking trails, as well as for the Sassi di Varana, volcanic rocks located at the entrance to the village of Varana, reaching heights of 6 to 12 meters and very popular with climbers. Just 4 km from Serramazzoni, the village of Monfestino, perched on a balcony above the plain, is dominated by an imposing ancient fortress. Towards Cerreto, you'll discover the Pieve di Rocca San Maria, built of sandstone around the 11th century. Inside this church is one of the oldest bells in the province of Modena, dating back to 1370.
Read more: Where to go hiking? Top destinations
7. What to do in Emilia-Romagna? Discover Dozza and its pretty alleyways
How can you resist the charm of this small village perched on a hill, often considered one of the most beautiful in Italy? Tiny, consisting essentially of two cobbled streets and the Rocca, a mighty fortress, Dozza ' s facades are adorned with contemporary frescoes that blend perfectly with the ancient buildings. The village is famous for its Biennale del Muro Dipinto (Painted Wall Biennial): every two years, during the third week of September, artists decorate the facades of houses with murals. This street art transforms the village's pretty alleyways into a veritable open-air gallery, accessible to all.
Read more: 5 Italian destinations off the beaten track
8. Ravenna and its unique early Christian sites
Ravenna, a city of discreet charm and pleasant bustle, is home to some of the world's most unique Paleo-Christian sites, listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites. Scattered throughout the historic center, these monuments with their elegantly sober brick facades reveal brightly colored mosaics and shimmering golds. The impassive looks of the figures in these mosaics have survived the centuries. These works from the 5th and 6th centuries are the fruit of two successive schools: the Greco-Roman school, characterized by its attention to landscapes and the naturalism of its representations, and the Byzantine school, where figures with schematized features stand out against golden backgrounds.
9. What to do in Emilia-Romagna Hiking in the Frignano Regional Park
Pievepelago, 80 km south of Modena, is nestled in the heart of the Frignano Regional Park. The hamlet is surrounded by magnificent beech and chestnut forests. From the village, footpaths lead to Lake Santo Modenese, a mountain lake of glacial origin at 1,500 m altitude, at the foot of Mount Giovo (1,991 m), which can be climbed. Other isolated lakes, such as Lago Baccio and Lago Turchino, can also be reached by hiking trails. The Perticara torrent, between Ponte Sant'Anna and Pievepelago, is ideal for canoeing and kayaking. In winter, hiking gives way to downhill and cross-country skiing.
Read more: Top 15 most beautiful lakes to see in Italy and Where to ski in Italy? The 13 biggest resorts
10. Ferrara, one of the region's most beautiful towns
Often overlooked by tourists, Ferrara is one of the region's most beautiful cities. The atmosphere of the Renaissance permeates every corner of the city: the colorful ceilings of the castle, the many palaces and monumental churches, the cloisters and gardens. Ferrara combines the architectural robustness of Florence with the sensual melancholy of Venice, accentuated by the mists that envelop it most of the year. Ferrara has also preserved some charming medieval corners, notably in the area south of the cathedral, in the former Jewish ghetto and along via delle Volte, the city's oldest street, picturesque with its covered passageways.
Read more: Vacations in Italy: where to escape the crowds?
11. Faenza and its ceramic workshops
A dynamic city, Faenza is famous for being the home of ceramics. The term "faïence", derived from the town's name and referring to glazed terracotta, spread throughout Europe as early as the 16th century. Even today, Faenza is home to numerous ceramics workshops and an international museum dedicated to the art. From the 15th century, under the Manfredi lordship, Faenza enjoyed a long period of prosperity. The Manfredis initiated an ambitious town-planning program that shaped the face of the town today, with four main streets converging on a central square adorned with porticoes. The square is surrounded by magnificent palaces and a 15th-century cathedral, not to be missed on your visit!
12. Cesenatico, a charming seaside resort
Cesenatico , 15 km east of Cesena, is a charming seaside resort that attracts many tourists in summer. The town is particularly pleasant, with a small historic center organized around the Porto Canale, a port-canal designed by Leonardo da Vinci and popular with locals for strolling. Behind this port is the Piazzetta delle Conserve, where fish used to be preserved in a huge well filled with ice. The small houses lining this square are very picturesque. One of the city's symbols is its 118-metre-high skyscraper, which was Italy's tallest when it was built in 1958, before being dethroned in 1960.
13. Gropparello and its magnificent castle
30 km south of Piacenza, nestled in the verdant Val Vezzeno, the picturesque village of Gropparello is dominated by a magnificent castle perched on a rocky outcrop at the entrance to the village. Gropparello is a popular stopover for families: at the Parco delle Fiabe, in the castle garden, children, dressed as knights, plunge into the medieval world, its tales and legends, and meet fairies and trolls. Meanwhile, adults can relax in the tavern. Throughout the season, medieval festivals bring the town to life.
14.What to do in Emilia-Romagna? Party in Riccione
Riccione is a trendy seaside resort, particularly popular in summer with a chic clientele and young people attracted by its many nightclubs. Considered the queen of wild nights on the Romagna coast, Riccione's bathing establishments are transformed into open-air discos or street bars in the evenings, such as Paradise Beach, Hakuna Matata or Mojito in the Marano district. The hills of Riccione Alta are home to some of Italy's most famous nightclubs. Viale Ceccarini, the city's liveliest street, is lined with haute couture boutiques and friendly aperitif spots.
15. What to do in Emilia-Romagna? Taste its typical culinary delights
What to do in Emilia-Romagna? The region is famous for its authentic, generous cuisine, which delights palates the world over. Who hasn't heard of Parmigiano Reggiano, Bologna mortadella or Modena balsamic vinegar? These world-renowned culinary delights originated here. The region is also renowned for its fresh pastas, such as tortellini, tagliatelle and lasagne, often accompanied by rich, flavorful sauces. Local cured meats, such as prosciutto di Parma and culatello di Zibello, are must-tries. Cheeses such as Grana Padano and Squacquerone add a touch of variety to every dish. Finally, Emilia-Romagna's desserts are just as delicious. Tiramisu, zuppa inglese (a dessert based on sponge cake soaked in liqueur and cream) and crostate (fruit tart) are just some of the local sweets not to be missed.
What itinerary should I follow to visit Emilia-Romagna in a week?
Emilia-Romagna is a region rich in history, culture and gastronomy. To make the most of its treasures in a week, here's a well-balanced itinerary that will enable you to discover the region's must-sees.
Day 1-2: Bologna
Start your journey in Bologna, the capital of Emilia-Romagna. This city is famous for its porticos, medieval towers and rich gastronomy.
- Whatto see: The Due Torri (Asinelli and Garisenda), the Piazza Maggiore, the Basilica of San Petronio, the Archiginnasio, and the Museum of Modern Art (MAMbo).
- What to do: Stroll under the porticos, climb the Asinelli Tower for a panoramic view, and sample local specialties like tortellini and mortadella.
Day 3: Modena
Around 40 km from Bologna, Modena is a charming city known for its balsamic vinegar and sports cars.
- What to see: Modena Cathedral, Piazza Grande, Palazzo Ducale and the Enzo Ferrari Museum.
- What to do: Visit an acetaia (vinegar factory) to learn how balsamic vinegar is made, and be sure to try local specialties such as gnocco fritto and lambrusco.
Day 4: Parma
Around 60 km from Modena, Parma is famous for its Parmigiano Reggiano cheese and Parma ham.
- What to see: Parma Cathedral, the Baptistery, Palazzo della Pilotta and Teatro Farnese.
- Do: Visit a cheese factory to see how Parmigiano Reggiano is made, and sample local specialties such as anolini in brodo (pasta in broth).
Day 5: Ferrara
About 110 km from Parma, Ferrara is a medieval and Renaissance city listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Sights: Castello Estense, Ferrara Cathedral, Palazzo dei Diamanti, Jewish Ghetto.
- What to do: Stroll along the medieval streets and discover the city's unique architecture.
Day 6: Ravenna
About 80 km from Ferrara, Ravenna is famous for its Byzantine mosaics.
- What to see: The Basilica of San Vitale, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, the Basilica of Sant'Apollinare Nuovo and the Arian Baptistery.
- What to do: Admire the Byzantine mosaics and explore the city's historic center.
Day 7: Rimini and Riccione
End your trip with a seaside getaway in Rimini and Riccione, around 50 km from Ravenna.
- Whatto see: The Tempio Malatestiano in Rimini, the Tiberius Bridge and the beaches of Riccione.
- Whatto do: Enjoy the sandy beaches, water sports and lively nightlife.
