Emilia Romagna is one of Italy’s most versatile regions. Here everything revolves around food, culture and the good life. You will find historic cities, elegant coastal towns and a rich landscape full of traditions. This is the region of pasta, Parmesan cheese and balsamic vinegar. But also of impressive art cities and quiet squares. On this page you will discover what makes Emilia Romagna so special and which places you should not miss.
Emilia Romagna is located in northern Italy, between the Po Valley and the Adriatic Sea. The region is known as the culinary heart of Italy. Many Italians consider it the place to eat the best. Besides gastronomy, Emilia Romagna has a long history. You’ll see Roman influences, medieval town centers and Renaissance palaces. The landscape is flat in the north and hilly toward the Apennines. This makes the region ideal for versatile road trips.
The Po Valley in the north takes up almost half of the region. This makes this region one of the flattest in all of Italy. In the south you have the height of the Appenines running right through Italy and that is precisely what makes for such a beautiful contrast in this region.
Emilia Romagna is easily accessible from the Netherlands and Belgium. You can fly into Bologna, which is a central base. By car, the region is easy to combine with Austria or Switzerland. Train connections are also excellent. Cities like Bologna, Parma and Modena are on Italy’s main rail lines. Within the region you travel easily by train or rental car.
Emilia-Romagna’s cuisine has everything you could want. Parmigano Reggiano, lasagna, tortellini but also prosciutto di Parma, mortadella and balsamico. The culinary heart of the region is the capital Bologna. This city proudly bears the nickname Il grosso, which means “the fat one. The Bolognesi know all too well how to prepare local dishes.
Spend the night at Ca’ dell’ Olivo in southern Emilia-Romagna. Monique and Silvester bought a beautiful vacation home and apartment several years ago. After making the necessary repairs and renovations, they now live year-round in Sogliano al Rubicone.
Bologna is the capital of the region. The city is known for its long colonnades and lively atmosphere. Bologna is a real student city with a historic center full of squares and churches. Here you can taste classics like tagliatelle al ragù, better known as bolognese sauce. Climb the Torre degli Asinelli for views over the red roofs.
Modena is inseparable from the culinary soul of the region. Here you will discover traditional balsamic vinegar, sometimes aged for decades. Visit an acetaia in the countryside and taste the difference. In the city, enjoy dishes like tortellini and local Lambrusco wine. Modena also has an elegant historic center with an impressive cathedral.
Parma is synonymous with Parmesan cheese and Parma ham. The city has a compact and attractive downtown with an elegant, relaxed feel. You will find beautiful parks, an impressive cathedral and quiet streets to wander through. Parma is perfect for those who want to combine culture with high-level culinary discoveries, in authentic Italian atmosphere.
Ravenna is known for its Byzantine mosaics. These are among the most beautiful in Europe and are on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Ravenna feels different from other cities in the region. Quieter and almost mystical, with an almost timeless and serene atmosphere that immediately touches you. Ideal for a cultural stopover during your tour of Italy.
Dozza is a small medieval village known for its colorful murals. Stroll through the cobbled streets and discover works of art on the facades of houses. In the Sforza Fortress you will find the Enoteca Regionale Emilia Romagna, where you can taste local wines accompanied by sommeliers. Dozza is located on the Strada dei Vini e dei Sapori Colli d'Imola and is a perfect stop on a road trip.
Maranello is an absolute must for car enthusiasts. Here you will find the Ferrari museum and the famous Ferrari factory. During a visit, you will learn all about the history and innovation of this iconic Italian brand. Even without a car passion, Maranello is a fun and unique stop in the region to visit during your trip through Emilia Romagna.
Ferrara is a UNESCO World Heritage city with wide streets, stately palaces and an impressive castle. The city is perfect for exploring by bicycle. Cycle along the medieval city walls and experience the quiet, elegant atmosphere that makes Ferrara so special. This atmosphere makes Ferrara an ideal destination for exploring Italy off the beaten path.
Cesenatico is an attractive fishing village on the Adriatic coast. The historic harbor canal was designed by Leonardo da Vinci and is the heart of the town. Stroll along the canals and enjoy fresh fish and seafood in the local restaurants. Cesenatico combines beach, culture and authentic charm. There is a relaxed atmosphere in the summer, while the village feels local in the off-season. Also fun is the maritime museum.
Bertinoro is known as the balcony of Romagna and as the city of wine. From the historic center, you have a wonderful view of the landscape all the way to the Adriatic coast. Along the Strada della Vendemmia, paintings tell the story of wine production. End the day with a spritz in Piazza della Libertà at sunset.
Cesena is home to one of the oldest public libraries in the world. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Biblioteca Malatestiana is a unique place for lovers of culture and history. High above the city is the Rocca Malatestiana, a medieval castle with stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside.
Rimini is located on the Adriatic Sea. Here you will find long sandy beaches and a lively boulevard. Rimini also has a historic center with Roman remains. The coast is popular with Italians themselves and ideal for a relaxing beach vacation. Stroll through the old center and discover squares, churches and local stores. This way you combine beach days effortlessly with culture, history and real Italian atmosphere.
Comacchio is also called the Little Venice of Emilia Romagna. The city is crisscrossed by canals and bridges and has a charming historic center. Located in the Po delta, Comacchio is known for local specialties such as eel. A perfect destination for those seeking tranquility and authenticity away from the crowds and mass tourism.
With over 188 pages about the region of Tuscany, my travel guide is indispensable when visiting Tuscany.
The travel guide contains more than 150 insider tips for the most beautiful spots, hidden locations, local wineries and unforgettable routes through this iconic Italian region; from rolling cypress hills to charming towns and culinary highlights.
With handy interactive maps, practical itineraries and authentic recommendations from locals in one convenient PDF, you’ll always have your perfect Tuscan holiday at your fingertips.
Buon viaggo!
The Tuscany Travel Guide is a digital edition. After ordering you will receive both on your screen and in your e-mail a link to download the Travel Guide. You can then save it and enjoy all the tips in the Travel Guide on multiple devices (PC, laptop, smartphone or tablet).
We have gathered some practical tips for you so that you can fully enjoy your stay in region:
Are you going to Emilia-Romagna soon and have questions about the region? Or are you looking for fine places to stay or tasty restaurants? Let me know. I’m happy to give you the tips you need. Do you prefer if I actively think with you to plan your journey? That is also possible. I am happy to help you.
