Brisighella
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Latest page update: 26 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Brisighella
Brisighella has only a small number of established hotels, with most accommodation in the village consisting of B&Bs, small residences and agriturismi. For full-service hotels with strong and consistent reviews, the best selection is found in the wider Province of Ravenna, particularly in nearby Faenza where larger and long-running properties are based.
In Brisighella itself, Albergo La Rocca is the main hotel option, set close to the historic centre and known for its traditional atmosphere, on-site restaurant and convenient position for exploring the village (€€). In Faenza, Hotel Vittoria offers a more upscale experience in a 19th-century building, appreciated for its elegant interiors, central location and well-regarded service (€€€). Also in Faenza, Cavallino Hotel provides a practical alternative with spacious rooms, helpful staff and easy access to transport links, attracting consistently positive guest feedback (€€).
In Brisighella itself, Albergo La Rocca is the main hotel option, set close to the historic centre and known for its traditional atmosphere, on-site restaurant and convenient position for exploring the village (€€). In Faenza, Hotel Vittoria offers a more upscale experience in a 19th-century building, appreciated for its elegant interiors, central location and well-regarded service (€€€). Also in Faenza, Cavallino Hotel provides a practical alternative with spacious rooms, helpful staff and easy access to transport links, attracting consistently positive guest feedback (€€).
Where is
Where is Brisighella?
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The town of Brisighella is situated within the Province of Ravenna and has a population of around 7,500 residents.
It stands at an elevation of 115 metres above sea level and is included in the list of Borghi Più Belli d'Italia (most beautiful villages in Italy). Places of interest nearby include Faenza, Dozza, Terra del Sole, Castrocaro Terme and Imola. |
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Comune di Brisighella
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Province: Ravenna
Region: Emilia Romagna Population: 7,173 (in 2024 - source) Size: 194 km² Elevation: 115 metres Close by: Faenza, Dozza, Terra del Sole, Castrocaro Terme, Imola |
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One of I Borghi più belli d'Italia (Italy's Most Beautiful Villages)
Listing headline: La Fiesole di Romagna (The Fiesole of Romagna) |
Awarded the Bandiera Arancione (Orange Flag)
Since: 2005 1 of 12 in Emilia Romagna listed by Touring Club Italiano |
What People Ask About Brisighella
Is Brisighella worth visiting?
What can you do in Brisighella?
How do you get to Brisighella?
What is Brisighella known for?
When is the best time to visit Brisighella?
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Discover
Discover Brisighella
Brisighella is a town in the province of Ravenna, set in the foothills of the Apennines along the Lamone Valley. It is recognised as one of the most picturesque centres of Romagna, with a medieval core framed by rocky outcrops and towers that rise above the town. Narrow streets, colourful houses, and arcades characterise the historic centre, which is surrounded by olive groves and vineyards.
The town is dominated by three landmarks: the Rocca Manfrediana, the Sanctuary of Monticino, and the Torre dell’Orologio, each standing on separate hills. Another feature is the Via degli Asini, a covered street once used by donkey drivers, which remains one of the most distinctive sights of Brisighella. Road and rail connections link the town with Faenza and Florence, making it accessible while retaining its medieval atmosphere.
The town is dominated by three landmarks: the Rocca Manfrediana, the Sanctuary of Monticino, and the Torre dell’Orologio, each standing on separate hills. Another feature is the Via degli Asini, a covered street once used by donkey drivers, which remains one of the most distinctive sights of Brisighella. Road and rail connections link the town with Faenza and Florence, making it accessible while retaining its medieval atmosphere.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Brisighella
- Rocca Manfrediana: This 14th-century fortress rises above the town on one of Brisighella’s three iconic hills. Originally built by the Manfredi family of Faenza, it features two towers and panoramic views over the Lamone Valley. Visitors can explore its ramparts and learn about its defensive history through small exhibitions inside.
- Via degli Asini: One of Brisighella’s most distinctive features, this arched medieval walkway is partially enclosed and elevated above street level. Once used by donkeys transporting chalk from the surrounding hills, it is now a unique pedestrian route lined with arched windows and historical charm.
- Santuario del Monticino: Perched on a second hill above the town, this sanctuary is dedicated to the Madonna del Monticino. The small church offers peaceful interiors and sweeping views of the surrounding countryside, making it a popular stop for walkers and pilgrims.
- Trekking and Natural Trails: Brisighella lies within the Parco Regionale della Vena del Gesso Romagnola, known for its chalky ridges, caves, and woodland paths. Popular routes include hikes between the town’s three hills—fortress, clock tower, and sanctuary—as well as longer trails through the gypsum formations and scenic ridgelines.
- Day Trip to Faenza: About 20 minutes away, Faenza is world-famous for its ceramics tradition. The Museo Internazionale delle Ceramiche and numerous artisan workshops offer a rich cultural experience that complements Brisighella’s medieval and natural appeal.
Tours and Activities
Brisighella Tours and Activities
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Brisighella
Dining in Brisighella reflects the food traditions of Romagna, with a strong emphasis on olive oil, homemade pasta, and locally sourced produce. Restaurants are mainly found in the historic centre, where small trattorias and osterie serve regional dishes in a relaxed, family-run setting. Meals are unhurried and often feature ingredients from the surrounding hills. Lunch is usually served between 12:30 and 14:30, with dinner beginning from about 19:30.
Local cuisine includes specialities such as strozzapreti al ragù (handmade pasta with meat sauce), cappelletti in brodo (pasta parcels in broth), and coniglio in porchetta (rabbit cooked with fennel and herbs). Brisighella is also known for its DOP olive oil, which features prominently in many dishes. Local wines such as Sangiovese di Romagna, Albana di Romagna, and Trebbiano are widely served, typically €5–€7 by the glass or €18–€30 per bottle.
Typical Prices of Popular Dishes
Antipasto romagnolo (€10–€14), strozzapreti al ragù (€12–€16), coniglio in porchetta (€22–€30), and ciambella romagnola (€5–€6). A typical meal with wine costs around €35–€45 per person.
Local cuisine includes specialities such as strozzapreti al ragù (handmade pasta with meat sauce), cappelletti in brodo (pasta parcels in broth), and coniglio in porchetta (rabbit cooked with fennel and herbs). Brisighella is also known for its DOP olive oil, which features prominently in many dishes. Local wines such as Sangiovese di Romagna, Albana di Romagna, and Trebbiano are widely served, typically €5–€7 by the glass or €18–€30 per bottle.
Typical Prices of Popular Dishes
Antipasto romagnolo (€10–€14), strozzapreti al ragù (€12–€16), coniglio in porchetta (€22–€30), and ciambella romagnola (€5–€6). A typical meal with wine costs around €35–€45 per person.
Photo Gallery
Brisighella Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Brisighella
- Ravenna (approx. 45 km east of Brisighella): Famous for its stunning early Christian mosaics, Ravenna is home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Basilica di San Vitale and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia. The town offers a charming blend of history and art, with its vibrant cultural scene and scenic, pedestrian-friendly streets.
- Faenza (approx. 25 km south of Brisighella): Known for its rich history in ceramics, Faenza is home to the Museo Internazionale delle Ceramiche, one of the most important ceramics museums in the world. The town also features several historical landmarks, including the Piazza del Popolo and the Faenza Cathedral, along with beautiful parks and gardens.
- Marradi (approx. 15 km northwest of Brisighella): A small town nestled in the Apennine hills, Marradi is known for its beautiful natural surroundings and traditional architecture. The town is particularly famous for its connection to the poet Dante Alighieri, who wrote part of the Divine Comedy here. Marradi is a great destination for nature walks, with plenty of hiking trails through the nearby hills.
- Dozza (approx. 35 km southwest of Brisighella): A picturesque hilltop town known for its vibrant, mural-covered streets, Dozza is home to the Rocca di Dozza, a medieval castle offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The town is also famous for its wine production, with local wineries offering tours and tastings of the region’s finest wines.
- Imola (approx. 35 km south of Brisighella): Known for the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari, a motorsport race track that hosts various events, including the Formula 1 Grand Prix, Imola is also home to the Rocca Sforzesca, a Renaissance castle. The town offers a charming historic centre with local markets, cafes, and the Museo Civico San Domenico.
Emilia-Romagna Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations
1. Bologna
2. Ravenna
3. Ferrara
4. Cesena
5. Parma
6. Cesenatico
7. Modena
8. Rimini
9. Brisighella
10. Comacchio
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Emilia-Romagna
1. Bologna
2. Ravenna
3. Ferrara
4. Cesena
5. Parma
6. Cesenatico
7. Modena
8. Rimini
9. Brisighella
10. Comacchio
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Emilia-Romagna
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Brisighella
By Rail: Brisighella has its own train station on the Faenza–Florence railway line, served by Trenitalia regional services. Trains run regularly between Faenza and Florence, with journey times of around 15 minutes to Faenza and 1 hour and 45 minutes to Florence. From Bologna, travellers can reach Brisighella by changing trains in Faenza. The station is located about 1 kilometre from the historic centre and can be reached on foot or by local taxi.
By Road: Brisighella is situated in the foothills of the Apennines, in the province of Ravenna. It lies approximately 12 kilometres south-west of Faenza, 60 kilometres south-east of Bologna, and 80 kilometres north-east of Florence. The drive from Bologna takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes via the A14 motorway and SP302. From Florence, the journey takes about 2 hours across scenic mountain roads. Public parking is available near the old town, with additional spaces just outside the historic area.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: Brisighella is situated in the foothills of the Apennines, in the province of Ravenna. It lies approximately 12 kilometres south-west of Faenza, 60 kilometres south-east of Bologna, and 80 kilometres north-east of Florence. The drive from Bologna takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes via the A14 motorway and SP302. From Florence, the journey takes about 2 hours across scenic mountain roads. Public parking is available near the old town, with additional spaces just outside the historic area.
Nearest International Airports:
- Bologna Airport (Aeroporto di Bologna Guglielmo Marconi): Located about 75 kilometres north-west of Brisighella, the drive takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. Trains to Brisighella are available via a change at Faenza.
- Florence Airport (Aeroporto di Firenze-Peretola): Situated around 95 kilometres south-west, the journey takes about 2 hours by car. Train travel is also possible with a change at Faenza.
- Rimini Airport (Aeroporto di Rimini Federico Fellini): Roughly 90 kilometres east of Brisighella, the drive takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Train connections are available via Bologna or Faenza.
Private Transfers
Brisighella Private Transfers
A private transfer is the easiest way to travel to or from Brisighella, giving you a direct journey without the need to rely on regional trains or drive the winding Apennine roads yourself. You’ll be collected from your chosen location and driven by a local, professional driver, ensuring a smooth and comfortable service.
From Brisighella, the nearest hub is Faenza, which can be reached in about 15 minutes, a distance of 12 km. Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport is around 1 hour away at 70 km, while Florence Airport can be reached in about 1 hour 30 minutes, covering 95 km. A transfer to Rimini usually takes 1 hour with a journey of 65 km. For those travelling further afield, Milan Linate Airport is about 2 hours 30 minutes away, a distance of 230 km.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
From Brisighella, the nearest hub is Faenza, which can be reached in about 15 minutes, a distance of 12 km. Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport is around 1 hour away at 70 km, while Florence Airport can be reached in about 1 hour 30 minutes, covering 95 km. A transfer to Rimini usually takes 1 hour with a journey of 65 km. For those travelling further afield, Milan Linate Airport is about 2 hours 30 minutes away, a distance of 230 km.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
