Top 10 Places to Visit in Emilia Romagna
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Latest page update: 14 April 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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This top ten list brings together the food, history and architecture that define Emilia-Romagna, alongside lesser-known coastal and hillside towns. From the arcades of Bologna to the mosaics of Ravenna and the Renaissance charm of Ferrara, there’s a strong cultural thread throughout. Places like Modena, Parma and Cesena add variety with local identity and historic detail.
Further south, you’ll find coastal towns like Rimini and Cesenatico, as well as hill villages such as Brisighella. It’s a region known for tradition, atmosphere and some of Italy’s best food. |
Comacchio, Emilia-Romagna
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Bologna
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Bologna is the capital of Emilia-Romagna and one of Italy’s most underappreciated cities. It’s known for its medieval towers, extensive porticoes and world-class cuisine.
The city is home to the world’s oldest university and a lively student population. Climbing the Asinelli Tower gives great views, and Piazza Maggiore is a cultural hub. It’s well-connected by train and makes a great base. Bologna offers a perfect balance of culture, history and daily life without large tourist crowds. |
Bologna, Emilia-Romagna
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Ravenna
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Ravenna was once the capital of the Western Roman Empire and is famous for its mosaics. Eight UNESCO-listed buildings feature intricate early Christian and Byzantine artwork.
Highlights include the Basilica of San Vitale and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia. The city also holds Dante’s tomb and several interesting museums. It’s inland but close to the Adriatic coast. Ravenna is peaceful and walkable, making it a rewarding destination for lovers of history and art. |
Basilica di Sant'Apollinare in Classe, Ravenna
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Ferrara
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Ferrara is a Renaissance city with wide streets and a massive moated castle in the centre. The Este family ruled here for centuries and left behind a refined cityscape.
The historic centre is UNESCO-listed and can be explored by bike or on foot. Highlights include the cathedral, city walls and the Palazzo dei Diamanti. Ferrara is easy to reach by train from Bologna. It has a calm, elegant feel and is often overlooked by international tourists. |
Ferrara, Emilia-Romagna
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Cesena
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Cesena is a lesser-known city with strong cultural credentials, including the 15th-century Malatestiana Library — one of the oldest public libraries in Europe.
Its old town includes narrow alleys, a hilltop fortress and traditional shops. The city has a lively local atmosphere and is surrounded by rolling countryside. Cesena is between Forlì and Rimini and easy to reach by train. It’s ideal for those seeking somewhere authentic and not too crowded. |
Cesena, Emilia-Romagna
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Parma
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Parma is famous for food — especially Parmigiano Reggiano and Parma ham — but also for its elegant architecture and art. It has a calm, sophisticated atmosphere.
The Romanesque cathedral, pink Baptistery and Teatro Regio are key landmarks. The city also has green spaces and a lively university. Parma is on the main train line between Bologna and Milan. It’s a good stop for food lovers and a relaxing city break. |
Parma, Emilia-Romagna
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Cesenatico
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Cesenatico is a seaside town with a historic canal port designed by Leonardo da Vinci. Colourful fishing boats line the canal, now home to a maritime museum.
The town has a long sandy beach, cycle paths and plenty of seafood restaurants. It’s popular in summer but keeps a local feel. Cesenatico is a short train ride from Rimini. It’s ideal for a mix of beach, history and great food without large crowds. |
Cesenatico, Emilia-Romagna
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Modena
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Modena is best known for balsamic vinegar and fast cars — Ferrari and Maserati both have roots here. It’s also home to Michelin-starred restaurants and refined piazzas.
The city’s cathedral is a UNESCO site, and the main square is among the most attractive in Emilia-Romagna. The Enzo Ferrari Museum is a popular modern attraction. Modena is close to Bologna by train. It’s a great destination for culture, food and a touch of luxury. |
Modena, Emilia-Romagna
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Rimini
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Rimini is one of Italy’s most famous beach resorts, but it also has an unexpectedly historic centre. Roman ruins, a Renaissance bridge and lively piazzas give it real depth.
The beachfront stretches for kilometres with lidos, bars and hotels. Inland, the old town is full of cafés, markets and nightlife. Rimini is a transport hub with train and bus links across the region. It combines seaside fun with surprising cultural interest. |
Rimini, Emilia-Romagna
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Brisighella
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Brisighella is a beautiful hill town with a medieval centre, pastel houses and dramatic surroundings. It’s one of the prettiest small towns in Emilia-Romagna.
A walk through town takes you past the 14th-century clock tower, a Franciscan sanctuary and the hilltop fortress with panoramic views. Brisighella is on the Faenza–Florence train line. It’s a great choice for a day trip or overnight stay in a quieter, scenic setting. |
Brisighella, Emilia-Romagna
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Comacchio
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Comacchio is often called ‘Little Venice’ for its canals and bridges, but it’s smaller and more peaceful. The town sits in a lagoon landscape rich with birdlife.
It has a historic centre, a fish museum and links to eel fishing traditions. Boat trips and walking paths lead into the Po Delta Natural Park. Comacchio is best reached by car. It’s ideal for slow travel and exploring nature, culture and seafood in equal measure. |
Comacchio, Emilia-Romagna
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