Emilia-Romagna offers a rich tapestry of experiences: a legendary food scene, picturesque rolling hills, charming cities, unparalleled art, and a refreshing lack of crowds. This is just a glimpse of what awaits you in a 7-day Emilia-Romagna itinerary!
Nestled between Italy’s most famed destinations—Florence to the southwest, Milan to the north, and Venice to the northeast—Emilia-Romagna often catches the eye of first-time Italy travelers only as a fleeting glimpse from a train window.
However, choosing to delve into this remarkable region will reward you—and your palate—beyond measure.
Emilia-Romagna is the birthplace of Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, traditional balsamic vinegar, tagliatelle al ragù, and much more.
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The region also boasts a fairy-tale landscape of castles, remnants of ancient dukedoms, and the oldest university in the world. Its topography is reminiscent of Tuscany, yet it’s far less crowded.
Our love for Romagna runs deep; we’ve visited multiple times and even spent a month living in Bologna, the region’s capital.
In this blog post, we’re sharing a detailed itinerary for a week-long adventure in Emilia-Romagna, hoping to help you fall in love with the region as much as we have!
How We Structured This 7-Day Emilia-Romagna Itinerary
Instead of a loop or point-to-point journey, this 7-day Emilia-Romagna itinerary is designed as a star radiating from Bologna, the region’s capital.
You can easily stay in Bologna for a week and complete this itinerary as a series of day trips. However, there are some destinations, like Ravenna or San Marino, where you might prefer to spend a night.
In addition to Bologna, our itinerary includes Parma, Modena, Ravenna, and San Marino. You’ll also have the chance to explore additional cities, towns, and villages like Ferrara, Brisighella, and Cesenatico, depending on your travel style.
While flying into Bologna is the simplest way to start your Emilia-Romagna adventure, flights to Milan, Venice, or Florence are also viable options.
This Emilia-Romagna itinerary can stand alone or be combined with other regions if you have more than a week in Italy!
Getting Around During Your Week in Emilia-Romagna
With one exception on day 6, this Emilia-Romagna itinerary is easily navigated by train.
Bologna, as the capital city, is well-connected to other cities in the region and throughout Italy. We recommend using Omio to check train schedules and travel times.
Omio aggregates train and bus tickets, making it easy to search for connections. Since the routes in this itinerary are regional with frequent connections, advance purchase is not always necessary, though planning ahead can be helpful.
If you prefer, you can purchase tickets in advance for peace of mind!
The Ultimate 7 Days in Emilia-Romagna Itinerary
Here’s how to experience the best of Emilia-Romagna in a week:
Day 1: Arrive in Bologna and Begin Exploring
Start your Emilia-Romagna adventure in Bologna, the region’s capital. Known as La Dotta (the learned), La Rossa (the red), and La Grassa (the fat), Bologna is renowned for its beauty and culinary delights.
Consider taking a food tour to kick off your week—this is a unique opportunity to learn about Bologna’s rich culinary scene. Spend your first day sipping coffee at Piazza Maggiore, strolling Via Drapperie, and visiting the Basilica of San Petronio. Don’t miss climbing the Asinelli Tower for stunning city views.
Day 2: Discover Bologna
Dedicate your second day to exploring Bologna at your own pace. Enjoy local cuisine, visit the Sanctuary of Madonna di San Luca, seek out Bologna’s secret canal views, and visit San Petronio’s Terrace for panoramic city views.
Explore Bologna’s museums, such as the Anatomical Theater in the Palace of Archiginnasio and the Bologna National Gallery. For a unique experience, visit the Museum for the Memory of Ustica, dedicated to a tragic plane crash.
Day 3: Savor the Flavors of Parma
Experience a Parmigiano-Reggiano factory tour and taste the famous cheese. This tour, which typically departs from Parma, will introduce you to the production of Parmigiano-Reggiano and Parma ham.
After the tour, explore Parma’s highlights, including the Duomo and Baptistery, Piazza Garibaldi, and the Sanctuary of Santa Maria della Steccata.
Day 4: Admire Ravenna’s Mosaics
Ravenna’s mosaics are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see. Visit the churches, chapels, and mausoleums featuring these ancient artworks. Consider joining a tour for a detailed introduction and then explore additional sites independently.
Prioritize the Basilica of San Vitale and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia if time is limited.
Day 5: Explore Emilia-Romagna’s Smaller Cities
On your fifth day, choose from Modena, Reggio Emilia, or Ferrara. Modena is famous for its balsamic vinegar, while Ferrara boasts a stunning cathedral and Castello Estense. Reggio Emilia is another charming option.
Visit Modena’s balsamic vinegar shops, explore Ferrara’s medieval streets, or admire Reggio Emilia’s historical sites.
Day 6: Visit the Republic of San Marino
Take a day trip to San Marino, one of Europe’s microstates and the world’s oldest republic. Explore its three towers, medieval streets, and the Basilica of San Marino. Consider renting a car for greater flexibility and to visit nearby towns like Brisighella, Cesenatico, or Rimini.
Day 7: Return to Bologna for a Final Feast
Wrap up your Emilia Romagna journey by returning to Bologna. If you traveled to San Marino, make a quick stop in a nearby town before heading back. Enjoy a final meal of tagliatelle al ragù in Bologna before concluding your trip.
From Bologna, you can easily depart by train or plane, already dreaming of your next Emilia-Romagna adventure.
Where to Stay During Your Trip to Emilia-Romagna
Staying in Bologna provides flexibility for exploring Emilia Romagna. Consider accommodations like B&B Casa Faccioli and Casa Isolani Piazza Maggiore, both centrally located. For budget options, B&B Lame 87 offers convenience and great reviews.
For a luxurious stay, Grand Hotel Majestic gia’ Baglioni is a grand choice.
The Best Time of Year to Visit Emilia-Romagna, Italy
Emilia-Romagna is a year-round destination, with pleasant weather in spring and fall. Summer offers warm temperatures, while winter is cool but not freezing.
Spring and fall are ideal for experiencing the region’s culinary delights and beautiful architecture. Summer can also be enjoyable, with average highs around 86°F/30°C in Bologna.