Curator’s statement
Emilia-Romagna represents Italy at its most authentic—a region where culinary mastery and cultural treasures exist without the need for fanfare. While tourists crowd Florence and Venice, this northern region offers something more precious: the chance to experience Italy as Italians do, where life moves with the seasons, and every meal tells a story of generations-old traditions. Here, you’ll find the birthplace of beloved classics like Parmigiano Reggiano, Prosciutto di Parma, and true Bolognese ragù, crafted by artisans who view their work as both art and heritage. The region’s quiet confidence extends beyond its kitchens to its extraordinary mosaics in Ravenna, its legendary automotive heritage in Modena, and its scholarly atmosphere in Bologna. Emilia-Romagna doesn’t compete for attention—it simply delivers an Italy that feels both timeless and alive, where discovering hidden gems feels effortless because authenticity is woven into the fabric of daily life.
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Things to do in Emilia-Romagna
Photo credit: Alain Rouiller
Explore Ravenna's Byzantine mosaics: Step into the Basilica di San Vitale and Mausoleo di Galla Placidia to witness some of the world's finest Byzantine mosaics. These 1,500-year-old masterpieces shimmer with gold and jewel tones, telling stories that predate the Renaissance by centuries.
Wander Bologna’s historic porticoes: Stroll beneath 38 kilometers of UNESCO-protected porticoes that create covered walkways throughout the city. These architectural marvels provide the perfect backdrop for people-watching, while connecting you to Bologna’s vibrant university atmosphere, which just so happens to be considered the world’s oldest university in continuous operation.
Tour Modena’s acetaia (balsamic vinegar producers): Visit traditional balsamic vinegar producers to understand the decades-long aging process that transforms grape must into “liquid gold.” Many acetaie offer tastings that reveal the complexity of true aceto balsamico tradizionale.
Experience Parma’s food heritage: Tour a Parmigiano Reggiano caseificio to witness the ancient cheesemaking process, then visit a prosciutto factory to see how Prosciutto di Parma is crafted using only salt, air, and time.
Discover Motor Valley: Explore the birthplace of Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, and Ducati through factory tours and museums. The Enzo Ferrari Museum in Modena and Lamborghini Museum in Sant'Agata Bolognese offer immersive experiences into Italian automotive excellence.
Visit Ferrara’s Renaissance architecture: Wander this UNESCO World Heritage city’s perfectly preserved medieval and Renaissance streets, including the impressive Castello Estense and the world’s first modern urban planning project.
Relax in Rimini’s beach culture: Experience the Adriatic coast, where organized beach clubs (bagni) have been perfecting seaside leisure since the 1800s, complete with umbrellas arranged in precise geometric patterns.
Places to eat & drink in Emilia-Romagna
Photo credit: Nicoletta Spinozzi
Osteria Francescana, Modena ($$$$, reservations a must): Massimo Bottura’s three-Michelin-starred temple to Emilian cuisine, where traditional recipes receive contemporary interpretation without losing their soul.
Trattoria Anna Maria, Bologna ($$$): A family run institution serving handmade tortellini in brodo and perfect tagliatelle al ragù in a cozy, no-frills setting beloved by locals.
Al Brindisi, Ferrara ($$$): It says it is the world’s oldest wine bar (since 1435). It has great local wines and traditional dishes in a historic setting.
Tamburini, Bologna ($$): Historic delicatessen perfect for assembling gourmet picnics with local cheeses, cured meats, and fresh focaccia.
Mercato delle Erbe, Bologna ($$): A historic covered market with food stalls offering everything from fresh pasta to regional street food at excellent prices.
Need to know
In Emilia-Romagna, discover a region where slow food and fast cars live in perfect, delicious harmony. Emilia-Romagna is truly about slowing down, savoring the journey, and indulging in the flavors. It’s a place where every meal tells a story, and where you leave understanding that the best Italian experiences often happen away from the crowds. It’s a region that rewards those who venture beyond the well-worn tourist paths, offering a taste of authentic Italy that lingers long after you’ve left. If you’re looking for Italy beyond the postcard version—the one where locals still shop at markets, where recipes are family heirlooms, and where the pace allows you to actually taste your food—Emilia-Romagna is waiting.
Travel Advisor
Sara Umali
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