Though sometimes forgotten between the crush of Venice and Florence, Emilia-Romagna is undoubtedly Rome’s foremost culinary region. Eat out every night in the many restaurants and trattorias, put together daily picnics in markets and shops, or get up close to the ingredients with a tour of the institutions that make ham, parmesan or balsamic vinegar. After all that eating, walk it off by visiting Emilia-Romagna’s impressive palaces, churches and castles.
Start off strong in Parma, home to the world’s most famous ham, and it’s most famous cheese. See how the ham is produced at the Salumificio Conti factory. Cut through the richness with a visit to Modena, with its balsamic vinegar and slightly effervescent Lambrusco wine. In Ferrara, pull up a chair and a glass at Al Brindisi, the world’s oldest wine bar.
Continue the visit in Bologna, the capital and crowning glory of the province. Mingle with the lively student population of the University of Bologna which, founded in 1088, is the world’s oldest university. Work off meals by climbing to the top of the Torre Asinelli. Finally, head to the sea, to Rimini, for lovely beaches and lovelier seafood. While here, don’t miss the Basilica di San Vitale, whose Byzantine iconography attests to the region’s long connections with the empire across the Adriatic.
Emilia-Romagna is located in northern Italy, sandwiched between Veneto and Tuscany. Arrive at the Bologna international airport or travel by train or a car from Venice in 1.5 hours. Florence is an hour away by car or train. Trains provide easy, quick connections between Emilia-Romagna’s different cities and towns, but a car can provide more flexibility and easier access to the region’s small villages. A car is necessary for accessing many trails in the national parks.
Nestled into the southern border of Emilia-Romagna is the micro-nation of San Marino, the world’s oldest republic, where you’ll find charming medieval cityscapes and its famous three towers.
