Citalia's Guide to Emilia-Romagna
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Citalia's Guide to Emilia-Romagna
Tucked between the Apennine Mountains and the Adriatic Sea, Emilia-Romagna is one of Italy’s most culturally rich and gastronomically famous regions. Known as the birthplace of beloved foods like Parmigiano Reggiano, Prosciutto di Parma, and balsamic vinegar, it’s also home to historic cities, grand piazzas and a deep-rooted passion for music, motors, and tradition.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to visit, things to do, where to eat and stay, and how to experience the real Emilia-Romagna. Read on to discover what makes this region a must for any Italian itinerary.
Places to visit in Emilia-Romagna
Bologna
At the heart of the region lies Bologna, the capital city known for its medieval towers, terracotta rooftops and the oldest university in the Western world. Wander under the city’s 23 miles of iconic porticoes, grab a coffee in Piazza Maggiore, and explore the twin towers of Asinelli and Garisenda for panoramic views over the city.
Bologna is also a culinary capital. It’s the birthplace of ragù alla bolognese and the perfect place to sample handmade tortellini, tagliatelle, and lasagne. Local markets like Mercato delle Erbe or Quadrilatero are full of colour, flavour and character.
Parma and Modena
To the west lies Parma, a refined city of music, art and food. It’s the home of Prosciutto di Parma and Parmigiano Reggiano, and you can tour dairies and ham producers to learn about these protected delicacies. The city also boasts beautiful architecture, from the pink marble Baptistery to the frescoed interior of Teatro Farnese.
Nearby Modena is famed not only for balsamic vinegar but also for its connections to Ferrari. It’s a city where slow food and fast cars live side by side. Visit the Enzo Ferrari Museum, or dine at Osteria Francescana, one of the world’s top-rated restaurants.
Inland
Ravenna is a cultural gem with a relaxed coastal feel. Once the capital of the Western Roman Empire, it’s now known for its astonishing Byzantine mosaics, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Further east, Rimini offers long stretches of beach and a lively seaside atmosphere, along with Roman ruins and Renaissance piazzas. Rimini is also home to Federico Fellini’s cinematic legacy.
Things to do in Emilia-Romagna
Explore the Motor Valley
Emilia-Romagna is known as Italy’s Motor Valley, the home of Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati and Ducati. Visit the Ferrari Museum in Maranello, tour the Lamborghini factory, or see Ducati motorcycles up close in Bologna. A must for fans of Italian engineering and speed.
Tour the Vinegar Lofts of Modena
In Modena, traditional balsamic vinegar is made using centuries-old methods. Take a guided tour of an acetaia (which translates to ‘vinegar loft’), where barrels made of chestnut, oak and juniper age the vinegar slowly to create the dark, syrupy flavour unique to the region.
Visit a Parmigiano Reggiano Dairy
A visit to a working Parmigiano Reggiano dairy is a true feast for the senses. Watch skilled cheesemakers in action as they stir giant copper vats of milk, before shaping the curds by hand. Step into the ageing rooms where thousands of wheels are stacked from floor to ceiling, filling the air with a rich, nutty aroma. Most tours end with a guided tasting, where you can sample Parmigiano at different stages of ageing.
Step Back in Time to Ravenna
Ravenna is one of Italy’s most underrated gems and a must for lovers of history, art and architecture. Once the capital of the Western Roman Empire and later of the Byzantine Empire in Italy, the city is home to eight UNESCO-listed sites and some of the finest mosaics in Europe. From the Basilica of San Vitale to the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, these glittering works of art tell stories of early Christianity and imperial Rome in dazzling colour and detail.
Food in Emilia-Romagna
Emilia-Romagna is often called the culinary heart of Italy, and for good reason. The region is a showcase of bold, hearty and deeply traditional cuisine. Start with a platter of cured meats such as Prosciutto di Parma, Mortadella and Salame Felino, paired with aged Parmigiano Reggiano and a drizzle of rich balsamic vinegar. Pasta lovers are in for a treat here try tortellini in brodo, tagliatelle al ragù or lasagne verdi made with spinach pasta sheets and béchamel.
If you are visiting the coast, try brodetto, a traditional Adriatic fish stew. And wherever you go, do not miss a glass (or bottle) of Lambrusco, the region’s signature sparkling red wine, best served chilled. You will also find crisp Pignoletto from the hills near Bologna and earthy Sangiovese wines throughout Romagna.
Eating here often means sitting down at a family-run trattoria where recipes have been passed down for generations. Meals are unhurried and generous, filled with local pride and flavour. From market stalls to Michelin-starred restaurants, Emilia-Romagna offers one of the most authentic and rewarding food experiences in Italy.
Hotels in Emilia-Romagna
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- Only a short walk from Piazza Maggiore and the Two Towers
- Situated in the heart of Medieval Bologna
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- Iconic Art Nouveau style hotel close to Rimini’s sights
- Private beach, swimming pool and luxury spa
- Choice of rooms and suites with classic Italian design
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- Family run hotel with private beach
- Prime beachfront location close to Milano Marittima
- Classic Italian style with modern facilities
Ready to Experience Emilia-Romagna?
If you’re ready to start planning your trip to Emilia-Romagna, you can easily book online or get in touch with one of our Italy Experts who will help curare your perfect itinerary.
Call us today to speak to one of our Italy Experts for further travel advice, hotel recommendations or to begin planning your next Italian holiday.
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