A taste of Emilia Romagna

Welcome to Emilia-Romagna, the Mecca of gastronomy and the destination for those who want to experience Italy to the fullest, away from mass tourism. Soak up the atmosphere in cosy towns like Ferrara, Modena and Parma, where you can go for a stroll or cycle through history, past Renaissance and medieval times, past imposing castles and refined palazzos. Here, in the 'belly of Italy', with Bologna 'la grassa' as its capital, you taste everything gourmets love: parmesan, Parma ham and balsamic vinegar, seasoned with patience, and a rich array of stuffed pastas and elegant wines. The Ferrari, Lamborghini and Ducati museums, make this region a playground for those who love motorbikes.

Day 1 : Departure to Bologna

When you arrive at Bologna airport, pick up your rental car and start your drive of about 52 kilometres to Ferrara, where you will stay in the cosy historic centre of this surprising town. A town where almost everyone gets around by bike.

Day 2 : Ferrara

Explore this atmospheric city, with its imposing 'Castello Estense', the castle of the Dukes of Ferrara, its pretty squares, its medieval streets and stately 'palazzi'. Biking on the green city walls is an absolute must.

Day 3 : The Po Delta and Pomposa Abbey

You will explore the 'Valli di Comacchio', a beautiful lagoon area. Make sure to go eel tasting in the town of the same name, with its bridges and canals. You will also visit the 6th-century abbey of Pomposa, one of the most important in northern Italy, with beautiful frescoes.

Day 4 : Reggio Emilia

On day 4, you will head towards Reggio Emilia where you will stay the night in a small-scale luxury hotel, famous for its balsamic production.

Day 5 : Modena and Maranello

On day 5, you will soak up atmosphere in lovely Modena, city of 'aceto balsamico' and birthplace of the late Luciano Pavarotti, with a magnificent Romanesque Cathedral. Here you can visit the 'Collezione Maramotti', Max Mara's contemporary art collection. Furthermore, you will head to Maranello with its 'Galleria Ferrari'.

Day 6 : Parma

In this city of music, famous for its Parma ham, enjoy a lovely stroll along the beautiful 'Duomo' with its baptistery, the bustling 'Piazza Garibaldi' and the Teatro Farnese, entirely in wood.

Day 7 : Bologna - Fiumana

Today you will visit Bologna, home to Europe's oldest university and a particularly beautiful historic centre. Then continue to Fiumana, where you will stay on a wine estate, with breathtaking views the vineyards.

Day 8 : Ravenna

In this delightful city, a walk will lead you past ancient and colourful Byzantine mosaics, protected by UNESCO.

Day 9 : Cesena and Forlì

In Cesena, with its Malatesta castle and library, and in Forlì, with its weekly market, enjoy the atmosphere, fine shops and good food, far from mass tourism. Make a stop in the hilltop village of Bertinoro with beautiful panoramas.