Emilia-Romagna is one of Italy’s most rewarding regions because it combines world-famous food, beautiful medieval cities, fast cars, beaches, and art—all within a few hours’ drive.
Here are the highlights:
🍝 Bologna – Italy’s Food Capital
• Bologna
• Wander the historic center and the famous porticoes.
• Visit Piazza Maggiore and climb the Asinelli Tower.
• Take a pasta-making class to learn tortellini and tagliatelle.
• Enjoy local specialties like ragù, mortadella, and tortellini in brodo.
🏎️ Motor Valley
• Visit the museums dedicated to Ferrari.
• Tour nearby factories and driving experiences (when available).
• Explore the region that is also home to Lamborghini, Maserati, Ducati, and Pagani.
🧀 Parma
• Parma
• Tour Parmigiano Reggiano cheese producers.
• Visit producers of Prosciutto di Parma.
• Explore the elegant historic center and cathedral.
🏛️ Modena
• Modena
• Visit the UNESCO-listed cathedral.
• Taste authentic traditional balsamic vinegar.
• Enjoy one of Italy’s finest culinary cities.
✨ Ravenna
• Ravenna
• Discover breathtaking Byzantine mosaics.
• Visit several UNESCO World Heritage churches and mausoleums.
• A paradise for history and art lovers.
🌊 Rimini & the Adriatic Coast
• Rimini
• Relax on wide sandy beaches.
• Walk through the Roman and medieval old town.
• Enjoy lively nightlife and seaside dining.
🏰 Ferrara
• Ferrara
• Explore the impressive moated castle.
• Cycle around one of Italy’s best-preserved Renaissance cities.
• Walk the ancient city walls.
🍷 Food & Wine Experiences
Don’t miss:
• Parmigiano Reggiano cheese tastings
• Prosciutto di Parma
• Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena
• Homemade pasta
• Lambrusco wine
• Piadina flatbread along the Adriatic coast
Hidden Gems
• Brisighella – One of Italy’s prettiest hill towns.
• Dozza – A medieval village with colorful murals painted on its buildings.
• Comacchio – Known as “Little Venice” for its canals and bridges.
If you’re creating a luxury Italy travel guide, Emilia-Romagna is a region I would dedicate 4–7 days to, combining:
• 2 days in Bologna
• 1 day in Modena & Ferrari
• 1 day in Parma
• 1 day in Ravenna
• 1–2 days on the Adriatic Coast (Rimini or nearby)
It offers one of the best combinations of cuisine, culture, automotive history, and authentic Italian experiences anywhere in the country.
Alessandro Colao 