Reggio Emilia
|
Latest page update: 6 March 2025
|
By: Dion Protani
|
|
The city of Reggio Emilia is the capital city of the Province of Reggio Emilia with a population of 171,999 inhabitants.
Standing at an elevation of 58 metres above sea level, it covers a total area of 231 km² and lies 71 kilometres north west of Bologna, the regional capital of Emilia Romagna. The city is very easy to visit on foot with all of the main sights within easy walking distance. The first place to start any itinerary is Piazza San Prospero which is home to the eponymous Basilica. |
|
What People Ask About Reggio Emilia
Is Reggio Emilia worth visiting?
What can you do in Reggio Emilia?
How do you get to Reggio Emilia?
What is Reggio Emilia known for?
When is the best time to visit Reggio Emilia?
Related links
Reggio Emilia's market squares
On Tuesdays and Fridays it's market day in Reggio Emilia and much of the activity takes place outside the Basilica di San Prospero. From there, it's just a short walk to the city's second main square which is Piazza Prampolini. The square is dominated by the Romanesque Reggio Emilia Cathedral along one of the rectangular sides and the Palazzo del Monte di Pietà with its clock tower on one of the shorter sides.
Sightseeing Reggio Emilia
Most of Reggio Emilia's main sights are huddled together in the areas in and around the above piazzas and one of the oldest buildings is the 13th century Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo which nowadays houses the Hotel Posta. Across Piazza Prampolini on the other side of the cathedral lies another important institution: the Museo del Tricolore. The museum is entirely given over to the history of the Italian flag (known as the Tricolore), as it was here that Napoleon's Cispadane Republic was formed in 1797 and the red, white and green flag was first used.
Aside from the outdoor markets, the centre of Reggio Emilia is full of shops. At one corner of Piazza Prampolini there's an archway that leads to one of the best shopping streets, called Via Farini. Continuing along Via Farini you'll eventually come to another important church: the Chiesa di San Giorgio. If you then continue right to the end of Via Farini you'll find yourself on the expansive boulevard of Corso Giuseppe Garibaldi. A right turn here and a 5 minute walk (450 metres) will bring you to another of the most important churches in the city: the Basilica della Ghiara.
Aside from the outdoor markets, the centre of Reggio Emilia is full of shops. At one corner of Piazza Prampolini there's an archway that leads to one of the best shopping streets, called Via Farini. Continuing along Via Farini you'll eventually come to another important church: the Chiesa di San Giorgio. If you then continue right to the end of Via Farini you'll find yourself on the expansive boulevard of Corso Giuseppe Garibaldi. A right turn here and a 5 minute walk (450 metres) will bring you to another of the most important churches in the city: the Basilica della Ghiara.
The modern area of Reggio Emilia
Leaving the Basilica della Ghiara and walking again for around 5 minutes brings you to the final area of main sights in the city. Although this area has a much more modern feel to it, it still retains its own charm and some places of interest. There are two large squares that seem to be one but they have distinct areas. Following the route above, the first one you'll come to is Piazza della Vittoria and just off the piazza lies the Galleria Parmeggiani with its collection of European art, costumes and sculptures.
Back on Piazza della Vittoria; to one side there's the Ariosto Theatre and that lies just in front of the Parco del Popolo, a large, relaxing park area. Beside the park is the second square called Piazza Martiri del 7 Luglio 1960 which is dominated by the more famous theatre, the Teatro Municipale Romolo Valli. The other major building on this piazza is the Palazzo dei Musei which houses Reggio Emilia's Civic Museums (Musei Civici).
Back on Piazza della Vittoria; to one side there's the Ariosto Theatre and that lies just in front of the Parco del Popolo, a large, relaxing park area. Beside the park is the second square called Piazza Martiri del 7 Luglio 1960 which is dominated by the more famous theatre, the Teatro Municipale Romolo Valli. The other major building on this piazza is the Palazzo dei Musei which houses Reggio Emilia's Civic Museums (Musei Civici).
Top Things to Do in Reggio Emilia
- Piazza Prampolini is the main square, framed by important buildings including the cathedral and town hall. It hosts regular markets and public events throughout the year. The square is also known as Piazza Grande, reflecting its historical role in civic life. Its spacious layout makes it ideal for walking and photography.
- Teatro Municipale Valli is a grand 19th-century opera house with an ornate interior and impressive façade. It hosts opera, ballet and orchestral performances throughout the year. Guided tours are available, offering a glimpse behind the scenes. The theatre stands opposite a large park and fountain in Piazza Martiri del 7 Luglio.
- Musei Civici offer a wide-ranging collection, from archaeology and natural history to art and ethnography. Housed in the former San Francesco convent, the museum complex is extensive. Highlights include Roman mosaics and a section on the region’s geology. Entry is free, and the museums are located just off Piazza della Vittoria.
- Cycling and walking paths connect Reggio Emilia with its surrounding countryside and neighbouring towns. The Crostolo stream path runs from the city centre into rural areas with vineyards and farms. These green routes are popular with families and local residents. Bikes can be hired in the city for short or long excursions.
- Food and wine experiences include tastings of Parmigiano Reggiano and local Lambrusco wine. Several dairies and vineyards nearby offer guided tours and sampling. Markets and trattorias in town showcase traditional Emilian cuisine. Reggio Emilia is well placed for day trips to Modena or Parma for more regional specialities.
Comune di Reggio nell'Emilia
|
Province: Reggio Emilia
Region: Emilia Romagna Population: 171,342 (in 2024 - source) Size: 231 km² Elevation: 58 metres Highlights: Basilica di San Prospero, Museo del Tricolore Market days: Tuesdays and Fridays |
My recommended accommodation options for Reggio Emilia:
- Hotel Posta Located in the heart of the historic centre on Piazza del Monte, this elegant hotel is set in a 13th-century building and offers refined rooms with period décor. Guests appreciate the historic atmosphere, attentive service, and walking access to Reggio Emilia Cathedral, shops, and restaurants. €€€ (high-end)
- Hotel Mercure Reggio Emilia Centro Astoria Situated beside the city park and a short walk from the old town, this modern hotel features spacious rooms with parquet floors and modern amenities. Visitors enjoy the on-site restaurant, secure parking, and easy access to cultural landmarks. €€ (mid-range)
- Albergo Morandi Located near the city centre and close to the train station, this hotel offers comfortable, well-kept rooms and a friendly atmosphere. Guests value the personalised service, peaceful location, and proximity to public transport and key attractions. €€ (mid-range)
- Hotel Europa Just a few minutes from Reggio Emilia’s historic centre, this hotel provides air-conditioned rooms, a fitness centre, and private parking. Visitors appreciate the large breakfast buffet, helpful staff, and convenient access to both the city and the motorway. €€ (mid-range)
- B&B Anna&Ricca Situated in a quiet area near the town’s main squares, this bed and breakfast features stylish, individually decorated rooms. Guests enjoy the homemade breakfast, welcoming hosts, and central location ideal for exploring on foot. €€ (mid-range)
- Ristorante Canossa: Located in the historic centre, Canossa is one of Reggio Emilia’s most established restaurants, offering refined Emilian cuisine in an elegant setting. Specialities include cappelletti in broth, erbazzone, and slow-cooked meats, all presented with traditional flair and attentive service. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Trattoria della Ghiara: Situated near the Basilica della Ghiara, this trattoria focuses on home-style cooking with a strong connection to local culinary traditions. The menu features dishes such as tagliatelle al ragù, roast guinea fowl, and seasonal vegetable sides in a cosy, informal atmosphere. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Osteria del Teatro: Found close to the Teatro Municipale, this stylish osteria blends classic and creative approaches, offering a menu that includes fresh pasta, pork fillet with balsamic vinegar, and regional cheeses. The elegant yet relaxed setting makes it ideal for a leisurely evening meal. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Ristorante Santa Croce: Located just outside the town centre, Santa Croce offers a peaceful setting with a varied menu of Emilian dishes and grilled meats. With rustic decor and generous portions, it’s a reliable choice for a traditional lunch or dinner. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Pizzeria Mister Pizza: A popular, casual option in Reggio Emilia, Mister Pizza serves a wide range of wood-fired pizzas and simple pasta dishes. It’s a convenient and budget-friendly spot for families or a relaxed night out. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
Reggio Emilia Gallery
- Modena (approx. 20 km north of Reggio Emilia): Known for its rich history and culinary heritage, Modena is home to the famous Modena Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Museo Enzo Ferrari, dedicated to the iconic car manufacturer. The city is also renowned for its balsamic vinegar and offers a range of delightful restaurants, cafes, and markets for food lovers.
- Parma (approx. 35 km east of Reggio Emilia): A city steeped in culture and history, Parma is known for its stunning Romanesque architecture, including the Basilica di Santa Maria della Steccata and the Cattedrale di Parma. Parma is also famous for its culinary tradition, particularly Parmigiano Reggiano cheese and Prosciutto di Parma, which can be tasted at local eateries and markets.
- Correggio (approx. 20 km southwest of Reggio Emilia): A small town with a rich artistic heritage, Correggio is the birthplace of the Renaissance painter Antonio Allegri da Correggio. Visitors can explore the town’s beautiful Piazza Matteotti and the Chiesa di San Francesco, which houses works by Correggio himself. The town offers a peaceful atmosphere with a mix of historic buildings and local shops.
- Castelnovo di Sotto (approx. 15 km west of Reggio Emilia): A charming town set in the foothills of the Apennines, Castelnovo di Sotto is ideal for those looking to explore rural Italy. The area is known for its scenic views, traditional architecture, and local products. The town’s peaceful streets and surrounding countryside offer opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking and cycling.
- Sant'Ilario d'Enza (approx. 10 km southeast of Reggio Emilia): A small town surrounded by the beautiful countryside of Emilia-Romagna, Sant'Ilario d'Enza is a perfect place for those wanting to explore the region's rural charm. The town is known for its historical buildings, including the Chiesa di Sant'Ilario, and offers a tranquil setting ideal for walks in nature and enjoying local traditions.
Reggio Emilia Travel
Reggio Emilia's train station is located to the east of the city centre, a 15 minute walk (1.3 km) from Piazza Prampolini. Trains from Reggio Emilia to Bologna take 40 minutes, stopping along the way in Modena (16 minutes).
This same train continues its mammoth journey all the way to Lecce, the centre of the Salento in southern Italy's Puglia region. After Bologna this train stops in further Emilia Romagna towns including Faenza (1 hour 13 minutes), Forlì (1 hour 24 minutes), Cesena (1 hour 38 minutes) and Rimini (2 hours 1 minute).
The most convenient airport for Reggio Emilia is Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport which is 46 minutes by car, a distance of 67 kilometres. The next best alternative is Verona Airport which lies 118 kilometres to the north and takes an hour and a quarter by car.
This same train continues its mammoth journey all the way to Lecce, the centre of the Salento in southern Italy's Puglia region. After Bologna this train stops in further Emilia Romagna towns including Faenza (1 hour 13 minutes), Forlì (1 hour 24 minutes), Cesena (1 hour 38 minutes) and Rimini (2 hours 1 minute).
The most convenient airport for Reggio Emilia is Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport which is 46 minutes by car, a distance of 67 kilometres. The next best alternative is Verona Airport which lies 118 kilometres to the north and takes an hour and a quarter by car.
|
Public transport: train station 1.3 km from centre, local buses
By train: Modena - 16 minutes, Bologna - 40 minutes Recommended accommodation: Hotel Posta |
Connected to the Italian High Speed Train Network
