Keepers of Tradition & Culture in Travel

Travel to Emilia Romagna

Population: 4.4 million

Best time to visit: April-June/Sept.-Nov

Suggested length of stay: 7 days

Discover Emilia Romagna

Emilia Romagna is a region that offers a diverse mix of culinary heritage, vibrant cultural traditions, and scenic landscapes. This northern Italian region is known for producing some of Italy’s most iconic foods—think Parmigiano Reggiano, prosciutto di Parma, and traditional balsamic vinegar from Modena. Visitors can explore bustling markets, family-run trattorias, and vineyards producing Lambrusco, an experience that is authentically Italian.

Bologna, the region’s capital, is an architectural and culinary highlight of this part of the country, with a myriad of medieval towers and historic streets. Beyond the capital, charming coastal towns and UNESCO-listed Ravenna offer cultural insights through magnificent Byzantine mosaics. For those seeking coastal relaxation, Rimini’s beaches and atmosphere provide a different side of the region.

For motor enthusiasts, Emilia Romagna is home to world-class car makers like Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Maserati. Visitors can tour factories and museums that showcase the region’s automotive craftsmanship and racing legacy.

Emilia Romagna is also a destination for nature lovers. The Po Delta Park, with its tranquil lagoons and rich birdlife, provides a peaceful escape from the region’s bustling towns, while the Apennine Mountains offer hiking opportunities for outdoor adventurers.

Must experiences in Emilia Romagna

Bologna’s Two Towers

In the heart of Bologna, the iconic Two Towers—Asinelli and Garisenda. These leaning towers, built in the 12th century, offer a look back in time. Climbing to the top of Asinelli offers visitors panoramic views of Bologna’s historic streets from the top, while Garisenda’s steeper tilt makes it a unique architectural sight. Over time, the towers have become symbols of Bologna and its long and fascinating history.

Ravenna’s Mosaics

Ravenna is renowned for Byzantine art, most notably its intricate mosaics found in the city’s churches and basilicas. These mosaics, which date back to the 5th and 6th centuries, depict religious scenes with brightly colored tiles and exceptional detail, earning Ravenna a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Some of the best examples sit in the Basilica of San Vitale and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia.

Parma’s Prosciutto and Parmigiano Reggiano

Parma is synonymous with two of Italy’s most beloved culinary products: Prosciutto di Parma and Parmigiano Reggiano. These delicious two iconic products are made according to traditional methods. Visiting Parma offers a chance to explore the agricultural traditions behind these famous exports, with tastings and tours that highlight the craftsmanship involved.

Ferrari Museum (Modena)

For car enthusiasts, the Ferrari Museum in Modena cannot be missed. This museum takes visitors on a journey through the history of the legendary brand, from Enzo Ferrari’s early dreams to the cutting-edge technology behind today’s Formula 1 cars. Exhibits showcase iconic models, rare prototypes, and the evolution of Ferrari’s engineering.

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