Are you planning your trip to Emilia-Romagna, Italy? That’s great! Let me help you learn more about the best things to do in this beautiful region. Follow along as I show you a range of different activities perfect for all ages and interests.
Emilia-Romagna is a region in north-central Italy, famous for its history, food, and cars. With its diverse geography and history, this region has a lot to offer. From Etruscan and Ancient Roman ruins to Medieval castles and Renaissance cities, from green flatlands around the Po River to hills and beautiful beaches. There’s something to see for everyone!
And let’s not forget the food! Emilia-Romagna is known as the food valley, as it is home to well-known products like Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, balsamic vinegar, or prosciutto crudo.
Its great variety of culture, food, and wine make it the perfect destination for travelers interested in lesser-known destinations in Italy.
THINGS TO DO IN EMILIA-ROMAGNA
It’s easy to be overwhelmed when you’re trying to decide what to do on your trip. So I put together a list of my favorite things to do in Emilia-Romagna, from well-known to lesser-known activities.
GO BACK IN TIME SPENDING THE DAY IN A MEDIEVAL CASTLE
There are about 200 castles in Emilia-Romagna and they are the perfect place for a day trip. Built as protection from pirates and bandits, these castles became a symbol of wealth for the most influential families of the Middle Ages to the Renaissance. Enjoy the architecture and beautiful art, discover the history of the town and its people, and find out about love stories, war, and secrets. Between legend and history, this is the perfect spot for a fun trip with your family or a romantic tour. Some of my favorites are the castles in Torrechiara, Bardi, and San Leo.
VISIT SOME OF THE MOST CHARMING VILLAGES
Emilia-Romagna is famous for its borghi, charming medieval villages that are a must-see for someone visiting this region for the first time. All of them are perfect for food and wine lovers, and especially art lovers. Visiting them is also a good way to learn about the history of this region.
My favorites are:
Dozza
This is one of the most vibrant villages, as over the years it has become an outdoor museum. As soon as you arrive you will notice that all the buildings are now covered in beautiful street art. If you’re interested in the history of this beautiful village, visit Rocca Sforzesca and its museum.
Brisighella
Brisighella is a small town packed with houses, narrow streets, and imposing churches. It is surrounded by green hills and overlooked by a castle, a clock tower, and the Santuario della Madonna di Monticino, a monastery. If you visit in June, you can take part in Brisighella Medioevale 1413, a historical re-enactment to celebrate the town’s rich history.
Bobbio
Voted the most beautiful town in Emilia-Romagna, Bobbio is full of art, history, and culture. The symbol of the town is a long bridge that welcomes visitors, called the Devil’s Bridge. Bobbio has been an important spiritual and cultural center in Italy. According to the legend the priest of the town wanted to reach the other side of the river, in order to spread God’s word. So he asked the Devil for help. This is why the bridge has different highs and is also crooked.
WALK UNDER THE PORTICOES OF BOLOGNA
The porticoes of Bologna are a UNESCO World Heritage site, as well as one of the symbols of the capital of Emilia-Romagna. Since they were built in the 1100s they have always been a place where people can socialize and trade. Visit this beautiful city and take a walk under the porticoes to immerse yourself in the Italian culture. If you’re interested in visiting the beautiful capital of Emilia-Romagna, check out this Bologna travel guide where you can find out more about the best things to do!
RELAX AT THE BEACH
If you are visiting during the summer you can’t miss the coast of Emilia-Romagna. Spend the day relaxing at the beach and at night take a stroll on the main street and experience the Italian nightlife.
Spend a few days in Rimini, the most popular and well-known beach town in Emilia-Romagna. Sunbathe or take a walk on the long beachfront, or visit the historical center.
If you prefer a more lively town, then Riccione is the place for you. Visit the famous Viale Ceccarini for the best stores or clubs.
SPEND A DAY AT A THERMAL BATH
Whether you want to unwind and recharge or simply want to indulge in a little self-care, the thermal baths in Emilia-Romagna are the place for you. These natural springs are also known for their therapeutic properties and have been used since ancient times. So if you’re looking for things to do in Emilia-Romagna that are both luxurious and beneficial to your health, and want to experience the unique culture of the region, look no further than the region’s thermal baths! They offer an experience like no other.
There are many thermal baths throughout the region, and the most popular is Terme di Tabiano. Here you can also enjoy various treatments including mud therapy and hydrotherapy. Another famous thermal bath is the one in Salsomaggiore, known for its art. Each thermal bath has its unique features, such as swimming pools, massage centers, saunas, and much more.
No matter where you decide to go, you won’t regret this wonderful experience!
VISIT THE CASENTINESI FOREST NATIONAL PARK
Whether you’re a nature lover, looking for an adventure, or simply want to spend time outdoors with your family, the Casentinesi Forest National Park is a must-visit destination in Emilia-Romagna. The park is home to some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes in Italy and it offers plenty of activities for nature lovers of all ages.
MOTOR VALLEY
Emilia-Romagna is home to some of the most iconic automotive brands in the world, and it’s known as the Motor Valley for a reason. From Ferrari to Lamborghini, Maserati to Pagani, the Motor Valley has it all. If you’re a fan of fast cars or vintage motorcycles, there is a lot to do for you in this region.
For starters, you can take a tour of the factories of the most famous car brands in the world. Like the Lamborghini factory in Sant’Agata Bolognese, where you’ll get to see the entire production process of these cars from start to finish. You’ll even get to see some of these cars being tested.
You can also visit museums to learn about the history and culture behind each brand. An example is the Enzo Ferrari Museum, dedicated to his life and legacy. Here you’ll get to see iconic cars and also learn about the history of the brand and its impact on the world.
If motorcycles are more your thing, visit the Ducati Museum, where you can see some of the most impressive bikes, and learn about their technology and how the brand has evolved over the years.
VISIT RAVENNA – THE CITY OF MOSAICS
There are plenty of things to do in Emilia-Romagna, but you can’t miss the city of Ravenna. This city is famous for its stunning Byzantine mosaics, which can be found in various churches and monuments throughout the city. Visit the San Vitale Basilica, adorned with some of the most intricate and well-preserved mosaics in the city.
Make sure you also explore the ancient walls of the city, built during the Roman Empire. Walk along them to take in the view of the city and countryside.
TRY THE REGIONAL CUISINE
You can’t visit Emilia-Romagna without indulging in the local cuisine! Known as the food valley, this region offers lots of typical dishes. Everybody knows about Parmesan, Prosciutto di Parma, and balsamic vinegar. But there’s so much more to try in Emilia-Romagna! From handmade, stuffed pasta to hearty meat dishes, there’s something to try for everyone.
Every dish is made with passion and traditional recipes that have been passed down through generations. That’s why regional cuisine is not just about the food, it’s about culture and tradition.
LEARN HOW PARMIGIANO REGGIANO IS MADE
Parmigiano Reggiano is arguably the most famous product to come out of Emilia-Romagna. That’s why if you’re looking for an unforgettable experience during your trip, visiting a Parmigiano Reggiano cheese factory should be at the top of your list of things to do.
During your visit, you’ll get to see how this type of cheese is made and learn about the history and tradition behind it. And of course, try some of the freshest Parmigiano Reggiano you’ve ever had. Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity!
TAKE A BOAT TRIP ON THE PO RIVER
If you’re looking for a unique way to explore Emilia-Romagna, I suggest taking a boat trip on the Po River. I have lived next to this river my whole life and didn’t take a boat trip until a few years ago, but let me tell you it was one of the best things I ever did in Emilia-Romagna. During your boat trip, you’ll get to take in the beautiful scenery and learn about the wildlife. It’s definitely worth a try!
GO ON A TRIP TO SAN MARINO
Now I know San Marino is not part of Italy or Emilia-Romagna, but if you’re planning a trip to this region, why not take advantage of it and visit this beautiful and unique city? San Marino is one of the smallest countries in the world and it’s only accessible through Italy. On top of that, the charming city is full of history and culture and of course stunning views.