Welcome to Italy!

 

In this blog post, we’ll cover all the must-do activities in Emilia-Romagna, from hidden gems, events and amazing food experiences.

 

Let’s get started.

Emilia Romagna Region Overview

Located in Northern Italy, Emilia-Romagna is a region known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and good food. It’s home to iconic cities like Bologna, Parma, and Ravenna, and it also boasts beautiful countryside filled with vineyards, rolling hills and is home to the oldest university in the world.
If you are traveling by car to Italy from Europe, then you will most probably pass this region of Italy if you are heading south.
Fun Fact: The name Romagna derives from the Latin name “Romània”, which at the time meant land occupied by Romans.

Emilia Romagna Map

As you can see on the map, Emilia Romagna covers an area of 22,446 km2 (8,666 sq mi) and is bordered by the regions of Lombardy, Veneto, Tuscany, and Marche. It also has a long coastline along the Adriatic Sea and the regional capital is Bologna.

How to get there

Emilia-Romagna is easily accessible by plane, train, or car. The main airports in the region are Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport and Parma Airport, with direct flights to major European cities.
The region is also well connected by train, with high-speed trains running from major Italian cities like Rome and Milan to Bologna and other smaller towns within the region.
For those traveling by car, several highways run through Emilia-Romagna, making it easy to access from neighboring countries or other regions of Italy.
When we travel, we always rent our car with Discover Cars. Their platform is straightforward and user-friendly, offering a wide range of vehicles at competitive prices.
The highways in Italy have a toll system, a major travel hack we used there was having a bip-and-go pass. This made us avoid queueing at the toll stations, and we could do everything online, making traveling much smoother.

 

Best things to do in Emilia Romagna Italy

Bologna

Let’s start with the most obvious activity when you visit Emilia Romagna, exploring the capital of the region.

The history of Bologna goes back in time to the Middle Ages, we found the architecture here remarkable. We spent a day here walking around the city, exploring the architecture and cultural landmarks such as the iconic Two Towers and Piazza Maggiore.

 

Bologna is also home to the world’s oldest university, it is open to the public to visit for free from Monday to Saturday.

 

Fun Fact: Bologna is known as “La Dotta” (The Learned), “La Rossa” (The Red), and “La Grassa” (The Fat).

Ferrara

 

Ferrara is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved Renaissance architecture.
We recommend taking a guided walking tour to fully appreciate the history and art of this charming city.

 

One of the highlights of our trip to Ferrara was visiting the Estense Castle, a medieval fortress that houses several museums and exhibits. We were also able to climb up to the top of the tower for an incredible view of the city.

Ravenna

 

Ravenna is a must-visit for art lovers! The city has eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites showcasing intricate and colorful works of art such as Byzantine mosaics.

 

One of the most famous sites in Ravenna is the Basilica di San Vitale, which features astonishingly well-preserved mosaics dating back to the 6th century. Other notable sites include the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia and the Arian Baptistery.

 

If you are interested in history, Ravenna also has a rich past as the capital of the Western Roman Empire. There are numerous ancient ruins and artifacts scattered throughout the city, including the Arch of Augustus and Domus dei Tappeti di Pietra.

 

The combined ticket for the main sites costs €9.50, granting access to the Basilica of San Vitale, Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, and more.

Visit Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna

One of the first activities we plan when we go to the capital is a visit to the National Museum.

 

Pinacoteca Nazionale di Bologna is home to an amazing collection of artworks from the 13th to the 18th centuries. It has works from famous Italian artists such as Giotto, Raphael, and Titian. The museum also features impressive collections of ceramics and sculptures.

 

One of the highlights of the museum is the room dedicated to Bologna’s own artist, Guido Reni. His paintings are known for their beautiful colors and dramatic depictions, making this exhibit a must-see for art enthusiasts.

 

Galleria Estense

Explore the Galleria Estense in Modena, home to a remarkable collection of art, including paintings, sculptures, musical instruments and decorative arts from the Este family’s private collection.

 

Entrance fees are €4 for adults and €2 for those aged 18-25, while visitors under 18 can enter for free.

 

Museo della Città

Visit the Museo della Città in Rimini, an intriguing museum that delves into the city’s rich cultural heritage.

 

This museum showcases the city’s history through fascinating exhibits, including ancient Roman artifacts, medieval art, and contemporary installations.

 

Tickets cost €7 for adults and €5 for students, with free admission for children under 14.

 

DID YOU KNOW: You can use the Audio Tour Guide App from NaviCup to learn more about Bologna. It’s perfect to listen to while travelling! You can find it here. 

Parmigiano-Reggiano

Indulge in authentic Parmesan cheese in Parma, the birthplace of this world-renowned delicacy. Visit local cheese factories for a guided tour and tasting experience.

 

Traditional Balsamic Vinegar

Experience the unique flavors of traditional balsamic vinegar in Modena, where it has been produced for centuries. Join a guided tour of a balsamic vinegar factory.

 

Prosciutto di Parma

Relish the renowned Parma ham, a mouthwatering cured ham. Take a guided tour of a prosciutto factory to learn about its production process and enjoy tastings.

Food Tour

Embark on a food tour in Bologna and discover the iconic pasta dishes of the region, such as tagliatelle al ragù, tortellini, and lasagna, which showcase the rich flavors and culinary heritage of Emilia-Romagna.

 

Wine-Tasting Tour

Embark on a wine-tasting tour in the beautiful countryside of Emilia-Romagna, sampling local wines like Lambrusco, Sangiovese, and Albana, while enjoying the stunning landscapes and picturesque vineyards.

 

Restaurant recommendations in Emilia-Romagna

Osteria Francescana (Modena) – This three-Michelin-starred restaurant by Chef Massimo Bottura, is consistently ranked among the world’s best restaurants. It offers a modern take on traditional Italian cuisine with innovative dishes and exceptional service.

 

Trattoria La Buca (Zibello) – Located in the heart of Parma’s countryside, this family-run trattoria is well-known for its homemade pasta dishes and its signature dish, Culatello di Zibello, a prized local cured ham.

 

All’Osteria Bottega (Bologna) – This intimate osteria in Bologna is a favorite among italians and we totally get why, the food was so tasty! The menu features classic Bolognese dishes made from fresh, high-quality ingredients, with an emphasis on traditional recipes and techniques.

 

Ca’ de Ven (Ravenna) – Housed in a 15th-century building, Ca’ de Ven offers a unique dining experience that combines local cuisine with an extensive selection of regional wines.

 

Antica Corte Pallavicina (Polesine Parmense) – This Michelin-starred restaurant is part of a charming estate near Parma, offering refined dishes inspired by local traditions. Guests can also visit the property’s famous culatello aging cellar and enjoy a guided tasting of their renowned cured meats.

 

Relax On The Beach

Relax on the sandy beaches of Rimini and enjoy the vibrant beach culture, complete with lively beach clubs, seaside promenades, and various water sports activities.

 

Access to most beach areas is free, but renting sun loungers and umbrellas may cost around €10 to €20 per day, depending on the season.

 

Fishing Village

Explore the charming fishing village of Cervia, where you can stroll along the harbor, you can admire the colorful boats, and indulge in fresh seafood at local restaurants.

 

Po Delta Regional Park

Discover the hidden gems of the Po Delta Regional Park, a unique ecosystem boasting a rich biodiversity of flora and fauna, ideal for birdwatching, cycling, and boating. You can also visit the historic Abbey of Pomposa, located within the park.

 

Entrance to the park is free, while guided tours or boat trips may range from €10 to €30 per person.

 

Emilia-Romagna Countryside

Explore the rolling hills of the Emilia-Romagna countryside and its vineyards, where you can sample local wines and learn about the region’s winemaking traditions.

 

Apennine Mountains

Experience the beauty of the mountains, an ideal destination for hiking or biking enthusiasts, taking in breathtaking views and encountering diverse wildlife along the way. Trails are generally free to access, while guided tours or bike rentals can vary in price depending on the provider and duration.

 

Cascate del Dardagna

Visit the stunning Cascate del Dardagna waterfalls for a refreshing adventure, where you can marvel at the cascading waters, enjoy a picnic, and take a dip in the natural pools. Be prepared for a moderate hike to fully appreciate their splendor.

 

Mille Miglia

Experience the exhilarating atmosphere of the Mille Miglia vintage car race in Bologna, where you can admire classic cars and enjoy the festive ambiance along the race route. This event is held annually in May.

 

If you are a motorsports fan, this race is definitely one you shouldn’t miss!

 

All Ferrari fans know the legendary battle between automotive companies during the Mille Miglia back in the days when Ferrari and Maserati were batteling in this famous event.

 

Watching the race is free, but attending exclusive events or parties may require purchased tickets.

International Balloon Festival

Join the International Balloon Festival in Ferrara, usually held in September, and witness a sky full of colorful hot air balloons, creating a magical spectacle for visitors of all ages.

 

The event is free to attend, but booking a hot air balloon ride will cost around €200 per person. This is a very unique way to experience Emilia Romagna region from a different angle.

 

Festival del Prosciutto di Parma

Participate in the Festival del Prosciutto di Parma, held every September, and celebrate the local culinary heritage with tastings, live music, workshops, and cooking demonstrations.

 

Cinecittà Studios

Discover the art of Italian filmmaking with a guided tour of the famous Cinecittà Studios in Rome, exploring iconic film sets and learning about the history of Italian cinema.

 

Cooking Class

Take a cooking class in Bologna and learn the secrets of traditional Emilian cuisine, mastering the art of making pasta, ragù, and other regional specialties.

The best part, of course, is that all the food you make will be eaten after!

 

Basilica di San Vitale

Visit the Basilica di San Vitale in Ravenna, renowned for its stunning Byzantine mosaics. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features exquisite artwork that has captivated visitors for centuries and showcases the city’s significant role in early Christian art.

 

Etruscan Necropolis

Discover the archaeological site of the Etruscan Necropolis in Marzabotto, providing insights into ancient civilizations. Wander through the ruins and learn about the Etruscan people, their culture, and the significance of their burial practices.

 

Ducal Palace

Take a guided tour of the impressive Ducal Palace in Modena, a magnificent example of Renaissance architecture.

 

The palace, once the residence of the Este family, now houses various museums and galleries, allowing visitors to delve into the region’s artistic and cultural heritage.

 

Cesena

Wander through the historic town of Cesena and explore its well-preserved Malatestiana Library, one of the oldest public libraries in Europe.

 

Marvel at the library’s collection of ancient manuscripts, stunning frescoes, and unique architecture, which has remained unchanged since the 15th century.

 

Festa di San Geminiano

Attend the Festa di San Geminiano in Modena, a lively celebration honoring the patron saint of the city. Held annually in late January, this event features religious processions, market stalls, and various cultural activities that showcase the city’s rich heritage.

 

Palio di Ferrara

Join the Palio di Ferrara, a thrilling horse race held in the historic center of Ferrara. This exciting event takes place every May and is accompanied by medieval-themed parades, flag-throwing performances, and other entertaining activities that transport you back in time.

 

Notte Rosa

Experience the vibrant Notte Rosa (Pink Night) festival in Rimini, held each summer. This 24-hour beach party features music, fireworks, and entertainment along the coast, drawing crowds from all over Italy and beyond to celebrate life, love, and summer on the Adriatic Riviera.

 

Tortellini Festival

Celebrate the famous Tortellini Festival in Castelfranco Emilia, where you can indulge in various delicious tortellini dishes. Taking place annually in September, this gastronomic event showcases the region’s culinary heritage and allows visitors to sample some of the best homemade tortellini in Italy.

 

Grape Festival

Participate in the Grape Festival (Sagra dell’Uva) in Dozza, a charming event held in September that celebrates the region’s winemaking heritage. Enjoy wine tasting, traditional music, and grape stomping as you immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere and appreciate the beauty of this picturesque village.

 

Brisighella

Visit the picturesque village of Brisighella, known for its medieval architecture and olive oil production. Wander through its charming streets, visit the ancient fortress, and learn about the region’s famous extra virgin olive oil at local mills.

 

Bobbio

Explore the enchanting town of Bobbio, nestled in the Trebbia Valley. Famous for its medieval bridge and abbey, Bobbio offers a delightful mix of history, natural beauty, and a tranquil atmosphere that attracts visitors seeking a peaceful retreat.

 

Comacchio

Discover the colorful village of Comacchio, characterized by its charming canals and historic buildings. Often referred to as “Little Venice,” this quaint village is perfect for leisurely strolls along its waterways and exploring its rich architectural heritage.

Dozza

Wander through the medieval village of Dozza, renowned for its vibrant murals adorning the buildings. This unique open-air gallery showcases the works of both local and international artists, turning the village into a living canvas that celebrates art and creativity.

 

San Leo

Explore the hilltop town of San Leo, home to a majestic fortress offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The town’s rich history, beautiful architecture, and stunning vistas make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic Italian experience.

 

 

Conclusion

Emilia-Romagna is a captivating region that offers a wealth of experiences to enjoy!

 

From its stunning natural landscapes and historic sites to its vibrant festivals and enriching activities, we didn’t spend a day without an amazing experience planned.

 

We are really curious about your experience in Emilia Romagna, let us know in the comments below which activities you did during your trip!

 

 

 

FAQ

What is the best time of year to visit Emilia-Romagna?

The best time to visit Emilia-Romagna is during spring (April-May) and fall (September-October), when the weather is pleasant, and tourist crowds are smaller.

 

How do I get to Emilia-Romagna from major cities in Italy?

Emilia-Romagna is well-connected by train, bus, and car from major Italian cities like Rome, Milan, Florence, and Venice. Bologna, the region’s capital, serves as a central transportation hub.

 

Are there any vegetarian or vegan-friendly restaurants in the region?

Yes, Emilia-Romagna has a growing number of vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants, especially in larger cities like Bologna and Modena.

 

What are some lesser-known attractions in Emilia-Romagna?

Some lesser-known attractions include the medieval town of Brisighella, the Castle of Torrechiara, and the Labirinto della Masone, a maze made of bamboo plants.

 

Can I visit a Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese factory and see the production process?

Yes, many cheese factories in the region offer guided tours for visitors to learn about the production process and enjoy cheese tastings.

 

Are there any guided tours available to explore the historical sites?

Guided tours are available for many historical sites and attractions, including walking tours, bike tours, and specialized themed tours.

 

What are the top wine regions in Emilia-Romagna?

Top wine regions in Emilia-Romagna include Piacenza, Parma, Reggio Emilia, Modena, and Bologna, known for producing wines like Lambrusco, Sangiovese, and Albana.

 

Are there any local festivals or events happening during my visit?

Check local tourism websites or ask your accommodation provider for information on festivals and events happening during your visit.

 

Can I rent a bike to explore the countryside?

Yes, many towns and cities in Emilia-Romagna offer bike rental services, allowing visitors to explore the picturesque countryside at their own pace.

 

Are there any spa or wellness resorts in Emilia-Romagna?

Emilia-Romagna is home to several spa and wellness resorts, particularly in the areas around Salsomaggiore Terme, Castrocaro Terme, and Riolo Terme.

 

Are there any UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the region?

Yes, Emilia-Romagna has several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the mosaics of Ravenna, the Cathedral of Modena, and the historic center of Ferrara.

 

Can I take a day trip to neighboring regions from Emilia-Romagna?

Emilia-Romagna’s central location makes it easy to take day trips to neighboring regions like Tuscany, Lombardy, and Veneto.

 

What are some traditional dishes or local specialties I must try?

Traditional dishes in Emilia-Romagna include tagliatelle al ragù, tortellini, lasagna, piadina, and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.

 

Are there any family-friendly activities or attractions in Emilia-Romagna?

Family-friendly activities in the region include visiting theme parks like Mirabilandia, exploring nature reserves like Po Delta Regional Park, and attending kid-friendly festivals and events.

 

What are the best shopping destinations in the region?

The best shopping destinations in Emilia-Romagna include the Quadrilatero area in Bologna, the designer outlets near Parma and Modena, and local markets in various towns and cities throughout the region.