The fantastic Emilia Romagna region in northern Italy is steeped in history and overflowing with one delicious dish after another.
With roots tracing back to ancient Rome and the Renaissance, it’s a place where you can stroll through medieval streets in classic Italian cities, enjoy stunning landscapes from the Apennine Mountains to the Adriatic coast, and did I mention eat to your heart’s content with arguably the best food in all of Italy?!
Places like Bologna and Ravenna steal the spotlight for all the right reasons. They were my first entry points to the region, too. But Emilia Romagna has so much more to offer anyone willing to set off and discover all the region has to offer.
I’ve been fortunate to visit Emilia Romagna several times (and counting) so I’ve put together this list to show why it deserves a spot on your northern Italy itinerary!
Andiamo!
Where is Emilia Romagna?
Emilia Romagna stretches from the Adriatic Sea on the east side of Italy and nearly across the entire peninsula towards the Mediterranean Sea. It’s bordered by the Po River to the north and the Ligurian and Tuscan Apennines to the west and south.
To the north, it’s next to Veneto and Lombardy; to the west, it meets Piedmont and Liguria; and to the south, it borders Tuscany, Le Marche, and the Republic of San Marino. Bologna is the main city and the capital of the region.
Map of Emilia Romagna
The map of Emilia Romagna below highlights the key towns and areas within the region and their relative locations.
Bologna, the vibrant capital, serves as the central hub of Emilia Romagna, surrounded by other important cities like Modena, known for its Balsamic Vinegar, and Ravenna, famed for its stunning Byzantine mosaics. Parma, an absolute underrated gem, is home to the Parma Cathedral and Baptistery with incredible frescoes dating back to the 14th-16th centuries. Plus, the city is renowned for its mouth-watering Parmigiano Reggiano cheese.
The region’s natural beauty ranges from the rolling hills of the Apennines to the picturesque Adriatic coastline. In between, you’ll find long stretches of plains dedicated to dairy farming, agriculture, and grape vines.
Emilia Romagna also features popular seaside towns such as Rimini and Cesenatico, which offer a mix of sandy beaches and historic sites. Throughout the region, you’ll find bucolic countryside with medieval castles and lush nature parks with thick forests and wetlands perfect for hiking and birdwatching.
Reasons to Visit Emilia Romagna
Emilia Romagna has its own identity and one-of-a-kind allure that sets it apart from other regions of northern Italy. It’s also no stranger to visitors who come for the food, art, history, and popular cities in the region.
But there’s plenty more to explore! So, I’ve included 12 reasons why your northern Italy trip should include time in Emilia Romagna. The list is a mix of the region’s top destinations, sights, and experiences but also lesser-known spots to help you explore all Emilia Romagna has to offer.
Are you ready? Let’s head to Emilia Romagna!
1. Explore the capital of Emilia Romagna.
Bologna, the regional capital, is a beautiful Italian city that is at once cultured and sophisticated while also being unabashedly bold and bohemian. It’s a vibrant university town with youthful energy, a maze of historic and UNESCO-recognized porticoes stretching for nearly 40 miles (perfect for rainy days!) throughout the city, and some of the most beautiful piazzas and architecture I’ve ever seen.
Bologna’s two towers, Asinelli and Garisenda, date back to the early 1100s and are instantly recognizable in the city’s skyline. The University of Bologna opened in 1088 and is now the world’s oldest university.
Bologna’s culinary reputation is unmatched—whether you’re enjoying Tagliatelle al Ragu, sampling local cheeses, or indulging in gelato. The city’s main square, Piazza Maggiore, is the perfect spot to sit back with a caffe and admire the Basilica di San Petronio while plotting your next meal. And believe me, there’s always a next meal in Bologna! (And if you’re unsure where to start, you can’t go wrong with a food tour to sample a bit of everything.)
In short, Bologna is a must-visit in northern Italy! It’s the perfect mix of centuries-old art, history, and vibrant energy, all while never being more than a few steps away from another best meal of your life.
2. Visit the region’s small cities & towns.
Beyond Bologna, you’ll find a string of beautiful towns and cities in the region of Emilia Romagna, each with its unique character. Lose yourself in Ravenna’s Byzantine art, uncover hidden gem Parma, or wander through the medieval town of Modena.
You could easily plan a northern Italy trip by hopping from one Emilia Romagna city to the next!
Parma
You may associate Parma with its most famous foods, Prosciutto di Parma (Parma ham) and Parmigiano Reggiano. But the city is so much more than this!
On my first visit to Parma, I was baffled at how I’d let this gorgeous city slip under my radar. I felt a little less of a fool because what I found was a classic Italian city full of art, history, and one mouth-watering dish after another…with hardly any visitors walking through its piazzas! Fast forward to today and it has become one of my favorite northern Italian cities.
Parma’s Piazza Duomo is home to the stunning Parma Cathedral and the nearby octagonal Baptistery of Parma. These sights plus a dish of Tortelli d’Erbetta (herb-filled pasta) or cappelletti in brodo (meat-filled pasta in broth) are enough to warrant time in Parma.
But, then you have the incredible Palazzo della Pilotta with several museums, including the National Gallery and the remarkable Farnese Theater. Other museums like Museo Glauco Lombardi are uniquely Parma, telling the story of the city in the 19th century and its Duchess, Marie Louise, who was also Napoleon’s second wife. Parco Ducale with its lovely fountains, as well as the city’s narrow, colorful lanes are perfect when you want to stroll.
Plus, just outside of Parma, you can visit any number of caseifici where you’ll get to learn all about how real Parmigiano Reggiano is made and get to taste the real deal straight from the source.
Modena
Modena’s got this quirky mix of old-world charm and modern flair that creates an irresistible allure.
As you stroll through the medieval heart of Modena, don’t miss the stunning Duomo and its iconic Ghirlandina tower. You can climb to the top of the tower for pretty views of the city and the landscape beyond.
Like other Emilia-Romagna cities, Modena is a foodie’s paradise. Originating in Modena, you can savor the finest balsamic vinegar, aged for years in wooden barrels. Several acetaios offer tours and tastings making it one of Modena’s top things to do. Mercato Albinelli sells local products and has places to stop for a bite to eat. (I ate the best artichoke bruschetta here that my mouth waters just writing this!)
Not to mention, it’s impossible to have a bad meal in Modena. Osteria Francescana has 3 Michelin stars and has been recognized as the best restaurant…in the world on more than one occasion. (Reservations are tough to get so plan ahead and be flexible if you want to eat here.) Not to worry, though, because this small city and the surrounding hills have plenty of unforgettable osterias and ristorantes to keep you in food heaven for as long as you can visit.
In between meals, dive into the history of Italian speed at the Enzo Ferrari Museum, right in the city where Ferrari was born. Then, venture just outside the city limits to visit the home of one of Modena’s most famous sons, Luciano Pavarotti.
Ravenna
If you’re into art history, Ravenna is your kind of place. It’s like stepping into a time capsule from the Byzantine Empire, with incredible Byzantine mosaics that decorate its churches and monuments. These aren’t just any mosaics. In fact, Ravenna has a whopping 8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites that’ll have you snapping photos like crazy.
Make sure to check out the Basilica di San Vitale, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, and the Basilica di Sant’Apollinare Nuovo. Each one is a masterpiece, showing off Ravenna’s rich artistic and historical roots. Whether you’re a history buff or just love beautiful things, Ravenna’s got something to make your jaw drop.
Rimini
Rimini is where Emilia Romagna and the sea come together in the best possible way. The town is known for its typical Italian beach scene with beach clubs renting sun beds and umbrellas and offering food, drinks, and music. The fun-loving vibes continue even after sunset with Rimini’s buzzing nightlife.
But even if you’re not a beach bum or you’re visiting outside of the summer months, Rimini’s history makes it worth a bit of your time. Wander through the historic center where Roman ruins and Renaissance palaces are just part of the scenery.
I was especially impressed by the Domus of the Surgeon which is a house that dates back to the 2nd century AD. I have a thing for Roman floor mosaics and the ones here were impressive! Plus, you can take a walk in the footsteps of the surgeon who lived here because of the collection of 100+ surgical tools that have survived.
Be sure to walk across the ancient Roman Tiberius Bridge into the Borgo San Giuliano. This part of the city was a small fisherman’s village, similar to the Boccadasse in Genoa, but has become one of the trendiest neighborhoods to stroll and eat out in Rimini. Check out the murals in this area. They honor Federico Fellini, a native son of Rimini, and his films.
Ferrara
Ferrara is a UNESCO-recognized Renaissance treasure with old city walls, grand palaces, secluded courtyards, and a wealth of artistic history. You could easily make a day trip from Bologna, Padua, or Venice by train. If you have a car, the city is also within easy reach from places like Mantua, Modena, Ravenna, Vicenza, Verona, and Reggio Emilia.
The medieval Castello Estense is a moated castle that captures the city’s grandeur. While the 15th-century Palazzo dei Diamanti, famous for its unique diamond-shaped marble facade, houses the Pinacoteca Nazionale with an impressive collection of Renaissance art.
The epitome of a gem, one of Emilia Romagna’s top treasures, and my favorite, the Palazzo Schifanoia is home to some of the most spectacular frescoes you’ll see anywhere in Italy.
Reggio Emilia
Reggio Emilia is often overshadowed by its neighbors Parma, Modena, and Bologna. But the city has a distinctly local feel with a blend of culture, history, and culinary tradition. And if you’re one of the savvy visitors who make a stop in Reggio Emilia, you’ll have successfully gotten away from the crowds in Bologna and found a more authentic feel all around.
Wander through Reggio Emilia’s well-preserved medieval center starting with Piazza Prampolini. Rent a bike and explore the city via its greenways. When hunger strikes, stop to taste the local dish, Erbazzone, a savory pie with spinach, chard, ricotta cheese, onions, and of course, Parmigiano Reggiano.
3. Visit the Parma Cathedral.
The Duomo di Parma, or the Parma Cathedral, is one of the most stunning churches in northern Italy. It’s a beautiful example of Romanesque architecture. Yet the mismatched facade doesn’t offer any clues about the spectacular interior that awaits.
Walk past the pair of 13th-century marble lions on either side of the entrance for your first glimpse of the gorgeous frescoes from floor to ceiling. On my first visit to Parma, I visited the Cathedral a few times. I couldn’t help myself and just wanted to fully take in its beauty. It’s absolutely incredible.
The main highlight is Correggio’s fresco, The Assumption of the Virgin, in the dome, which is beyond captivating! Don’t miss the carved marble pulpit by Benedetto Antelami either, where life-size figures are etched with incredible precision.
The Parma Cathedral isn’t just another stop on your itinerary—it’s a highlight of Emilia Romagna and northern Italy!
4. Indulge in the region’s best food and wine.
Emilia Romagna is arguably the ultimate food region in Italy, and for good reason. Many of Italy’s most iconic DOP (Denominazione di Origine Protetta) and IGP (Indicazione Geografica Protetta) foods originate here, all crafted with fresh, locally-grown ingredients.
Besides Parmigiano Reggiano and traditional Balsamic Vinegar which deserve their own spots on this list, the foods and drink below are must trys while you’re in Emilia Romagna.
- Tortellini in Brodo: This small, rounded pasta is filled with meat served in a rich, savory broth.
- Tortelloni: A vegetarian version of the above, this pasta is stuffed with cheese and typically served with butter and sage, but it’s also delicious with marinara and cream sauces.
- Tortelli d’Erbette: Similar to tortelloni, tortelli d’erbette are ravioli stuffed with chard. They’re generally served simply with butter and Parmigiano Reggiano.
- Gnocco Fritto: Fritto is the word for fried in Italian and does anything fried ever taste bad?! These fried dough squares can be an appetizer or a main course and are perfect with other regional favorites like prosciutto and mortadella.
- Tagliatelle alla Bolognese: No visit to Emilia Romagna is complete without this classic dish! The rich, meaty sauce clings to every long strand of tagliatelle, making each bite unforgettable.
- Prosciutto and Cured Meats: The region is famous for its cured meats, including the world-renowned Prosciutto di Parma, the flavorful Mortadella, and the delicately seasoned and very pricey(!) Culatello.
- Lasagna: Forget everything you thought you knew about lasagna. The Emilia Romagna version is a revelation, with layers of fresh pasta, rich ragu, and creamy béchamel sauce.
- Lambrusco: To top it all off, a glass of Lambrusco, the region’s signature sparkling red wine, is the perfect way to toast your way through Emilia Romagna. Both fizzy and fruity, you can drink it on its own or as a complement to any of the region’s dishes.
5. Learn how Parmigiano Reggiano is made.
Once you get a taste of the real deal somewhere on your travels through Emilia Romagna, you’ll inevitably wonder how on Earth something so delicious is made!
Luckily, you can easily find a local dairy (caseificio in Italian) so you can see the simple yet very specific steps that go into crafting real Parmigiano Reggiano cheese.
On my last visit to Parma, I headed just outside of the city to Caseificio San Pier Damiani to learn about the classic process up close. Watching the skilled cheesemakers work their magic was amazing as they turned fresh milk into those huge wheels of cheese using methods that have been perfected in Emilia Romagna over centuries.
The best part of this quintessential regional experience, of course, was trying the cheese right there! Fresh from the source, it was so interesting to taste the rich, complex flavors of cheese aged over different periods of time.
6. Do a Balsamic Vinegar Tasting in Modena.
Trust me, you’ve never tasted true DOP balsamic vinegar until you’ve been to a real Acetaia (the place where vinegar is made) in Modena.
Originating in Modena, the process of making this “liquid gold” from aging the region’s grapes in wooden barrels (for at least 12 years) has been perfected over generations. The result is a variety of rich flavors depending on the wood used for the barrels and a velvety texture that lingers on your tongue and brings the flavors on your dish to life.
I visited Acetaia di Giorgio and had an amazing tasting experience with Marcello. It was unbelievable to see firsthand the aging process behind this famous product! Afterward, I tried different types of balsamic vinegar, each with its own unique taste and depth, depending on how long it was aged and the wooden barrels.
The only downside? You’ll want to put a few drops of real balsamic vinegar on every dish you make because it’s THAT good!
7. Marvel at the UNESCO-Recognized Byzantine Mosaics in Ravenna.
Ravenna’s Byzantine mosaics, a UNESCO World Heritage treasure, are a must-see not only for art and history enthusiasts but for anyone traveling or visiting the region of Emilia Romagna. These stunning mosaics, which date back from 5th to 6th century, adorn key sites like the Basilica di San Vitale, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, the Basilica of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, and the Arian Baptistry, with their intricate Christian designs and vibrant colors.
If you’ve only ever seen Roman mosaics in Italy, you’ll notice instantly the differences between the Byzantine and Roman styles. I absolutely love both styles but what adds to the effect in Ravenna is how they sparkle!
For the best experience, consider getting a combination ticket to access multiple sites or join a guided tour for a richer understanding. You’ll be amazed by the exceptional detail in each mosaic scene and how well-preserved each one is.
8. Drive a Ferrari.
Ever dreamed of driving a Ferrari? Emilia Romagna is the perfect place to make that dream come true!
Modena is the birthplace of Enzo Ferrari and where he started his iconic company before the headquarters moved to nearby Maranello. In Modena, you can visit the Enzo Ferrari Museum to learn more about his life and the Ferrari brand.
To up the thrill level, head to Maranello and take a spin driving one of these iconic sports cars for yourself!
You can choose from a range of Ferrari driving experiences that fit different budgets and excitement levels. Whether you’re looking for a short test drive or a longer, high-speed adventure, there’s a Ferrari test drive package for you. For a truly immersive experience, you can even try a realistic simulation in a real F1 cockpit.
Most experiences include a safety briefing, professional instruction, and the chance to drive a Ferrari on scenic routes or a racetrack. You can also add a visit to the Ferrari Museum to complete your day. It’s a great way to enjoy the beautiful Emilia Romagna landscape while indulging your passion for cars.
9. Admire all the castles.
Emilia Romagna is castle country! From hilltop fortresses and medieval castles to romantic Renaissance palaces, the region is full of these architectural marvels. Here are a few must-sees:
- Castello di Torrechiara: This imposing castle, perched on a hilltop overlooking Parma, is like something out of a fairytale.
- Castell’Arquato: This well-preserved medieval village, with its castle, towers, and cobblestone streets, will transport you back in time.
- Rocchetta Mattei: This eclectic castle, built in the 19th century, is a fascinating blend of architectural styles.
- Rocca di Brisighella: This medieval fortress offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. While you’re here you can also explore the medieval village of Brisighella, where you can explore winding streets, olive groves, and vineyards.
- Castello Estense di Ferrara: This castle is surrounded by a moat and it serves as a symbol of Ferrara’s power during the Renaissance.
- Rocca di Vignola: This well-preserved fortress is a great example of Renaissance military architecture.
- Castello dei Manzoli: This romantic castle, surrounded by vineyards, is the perfect place for a fairytale wedding.
10. Enjoy Emilia Romagna’s natural beauty.
Emilia Romagna’s diverse landscape ranges from rugged mountains to stunning coastlines.
The Apennine Mountains stretch like a spine down the center of Emilia Romagna. Here, you’ll find hiking trails that wind through dense forests and offer breathtaking views of the rolling hills and valleys you picture when you’re dreaming of Italy.
For a deeper dive into nature, explore Emilia Romagna’s two national parks: the UNESCO-recognized Casentino Forest National Park with its ancient Beech tree forests, and the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Tuscan-Emilian Apennines National Park. Each park defines the region’s natural beauty, from dense forests to panoramic peaks, and offers year-round outdoor activities.
In addition to these parks, there are around 14 regional parks and 17 nature reserves scattered throughout the region, each offering unique outdoor activities. For instance, the UNESCO Po River Delta Park is the 2nd largest wetland in Europe and a paradise for birdwatchers.
Whether you’re up for a mountain trek or exploring various nature reserves, Emilia Romagna’s diverse landscapes promise plenty of adventures and relaxing escapes away from northern Italy’s busier spots.
11. Soak up the sun along the Adriatic Coast.
You may not think of beaches when you hear the Emilia Romagna region mentioned but the region stretches along the Adriatic Coast for 50+ miles! Aside from Rimini, you can visit several other seaside towns for your Italian beach fix.
Bellaria-Igea Marina is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and well-maintained sandy beaches It’s an ideal mix of relaxation and family activities for a laid-back day by the sea.
Cattolica is at Emilia Romagna’s southern coastal edge. With a wide range of beach clubs, restaurants, seasonal events, and vibrant nightlife, Cattolica is the place to be if you’re looking for a bustling, social atmosphere.
Cervia is a seaside resort town with beautiful, clean Blue Flag beaches and a charming old town. At sunset, head towards the Park of the Saltern of Cervia (Parco della Salina di Cervia) where the town’s saltpans lie. If your timing is right, you’ll have a golden orange sky and a lagoon view with herons and flamingoes.
Cesenatico has a historical harbor designed by Leonardo da Vinci. It’s a quintessential seaside town with a blend of cultural and maritime heritage and a true coastal vibe.
Comacchio, located in Ferrara province, is often referred to as “Little Venice” due to its canals. The canals and town center are on the quiet side making Comacchio ideal for a more peaceful getaway.
12. Take a day trip to another country.
Did you know you can take a road trip to another country right from Emilia Romagna? San Marino, the 5th smallest country in the world, is perched on a mountaintop surrounded by the region and offers you the chance to add another country to your total visited.
Start your visit by exploring San Marino’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site for its medieval streets lined with stone buildings and shops. The Three Towers of San Marino—Guaita, Cesta, and Montale—are must-sees. Climb these towers for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the Adriatic coast.
San Marino is known for its well-preserved architecture and historic fortifications. Don’t miss the Palazzo Pubblico, the government building with the battlements on top. And enjoy the one-of-a-kind atmosphere of this tiny but fascinating country.
Are you ready to plan your visit to the Emilia Romagna region?
Whether you’re drawn by its rich history, stunning landscapes, or mouthwatering dishes, Emilia Romagna has something for everyone.
In many ways, the region feels like a microcosm of Italy. Soak up the Adriatic sunshine. Savor a dish of tagliatelle covered in Bologna’s signature ragu. Uncover classic Italian cities and smaller hidden gems towns alike. Trek through the Apennine mountains or up to the battlements of one of the region’s historic castles. Admire the many dazzling mosaics and frescoes.
No matter what, the Emilia-Romagna region promises an unforgettable experience that’ll give you the chance to discover more of northern Italy’s magnificence!
So, what questions do you have about visiting Emilia Romagna?
Like this post? Please share it using the social buttons!
