20 Best villages in Emilia Romagna you will fall in love with

We never expected to love Emilia-Romagna so much. During our road trip, we discovered some of the best villages in Emilia Romagna. From the romantic village of Castell’Arquato to the incredible cultural borgo of Dozza, in this article, you will find inspiration for your next trip to an underrated region in northern Italy.

Through the valleys of the flat Region, you will pass by many villages, often made of a few hundred inhabitants. The Region protect the villages and the local heritage. Also, consider that Emilia Romagna is various, and the landscape constantly changes, passing you from valleys and hills to a beautiful seascape.

We also had the pleasure of travelling to the internal part of Emilia Romagna, discovering Fiumalbo and Pievepelago, a few kilometres away from the Tuscany border. There we met the true Emilia, made of tasty food, fantastic hikes and wonderful people. So let’s start our trip together and explore some of the most enchanting towns in Emilia Romagna.

For sure, one of the best times to visit Emilia Romagna is off-season. Spring and autumn months are ideal for planning a road trip in Emilia Romagna. We’ve been exploring the region since the end of September/beginning of October, and we still found warm weather and sunny days along our trip.

Exploring the best villages in Emilia Romagna off-season will give you the opportunity to be off the tourist radar, so what are you waiting for?

Emilia Romagna is a central region in the north side of Italy. The region span from west to east of the country and is perfect for reaching if flying into international hubs such as Milan, Bergamo, Verona and Venice.

If you are landing in one of the above airports, the distance to Piacenza, the first city in Emilia Romagna, coming from the north, is about 1 hour and 30 minutes drive on a highway.

However, the most convenient way to get to Emilia Romagna is by flying into Bologna, Region’s Capital. Bologna is an international hub with flights from the main capitals in Europe, including London, Paris and Berlin. Bologna is a fantastic and large city, ideal as the hub for your Emilia Romagna Road Trip.

Search for the most convenient flights to Bologna from your location.

Located in the north of Italy, Emilia-Romagna is one of the best regions to visit in the southern country. This region is just above Tuscany and Marche and cuts Italy from East to West taking the best part of each side.

With its capital, Bologna, Emilia Romagna is today one of the top places to visit in Europe.

Known for its delicious food, tasty wine, for being home to the Ferrari car and motor valley, if Emilia Romagna is not on your Italian bucket list, in this article, you will find all the reasons why you should visit this region. Through this guide, you will get the best insights to organize your own Italy road trip in Emilia Romagna.

Carpi | Discover the pearl of the Renaissance

Situated in the province of Modena, Carpi is one of the most suggestive villages in Emilia Romagna. When we reached the main square, Piazza dei Martiri, thanks to its significant heritage and cultural history, Carpi is known as the pearl of the Renaissance. While walking around the city centre, you will see many classic Romanesque-style buildings.

Finally, reach the end of Piazza dei Martiri and step inside the stunning Cathedral. If the outside leaves you speechless, wait to go inside and admire the incredible interior.

Before ending your day in Carpi, head to the delicious cremeria Gioelia and grab a tasty gelato. You will notice the difference between all the gelatos you have ever tried. It’s called cremeria for a reason. 

The way that they make the gelato is like a cream. But, I must say, it was the best one that we have ever tried.

Things to do in Carpi

• Roam around Piazza dei Martiri
• Visit Palazzo Ducale
• Grab a gelato in Gioelia cremeria
• Step inside Carpi Cathedral

Where to stay in Carpi 

• Luna Sul Tetto Carpi

Pieve di Cento

Pieve di Cento was a lovely surprise for us. We arrived around lunchtime and had the opportunity to meet locals, grab a coffee and discuss the news decision in the main piazza. Then, after grabbing a bite in the local restaurant, go for a walk around this village and visit Museo delle Storie di Pieve di Cento.

You should know that Pieve di Cento is listed in the guide of the best Borghi in Italy and awarded the orange flag by the Italian Touring Club.

Things to do in Pieve di Cento 

• Grab a coffee in Piazza Guercino
• Visit Pieve di Cento Museo delle Storie
• Step inside Magi ’900 museum 

Where to stay in Pieve di Cento 

• Dimora del Voltone

Santarcangelo di Romagna | Slow village in Emilia Romagna

Considered one of the best villages in Emilia Romagna, Santarcangelo di Romagna is known as a slow village and has been awarded the Orange Flag by the Italian Touring Club. If you are visiting this village, you can’t rush around. It’s kind of not allowed.

Start your day in the local piazza with a good Italian breakfast, then think about the rest. We really loved our time in Santarcangelo, from its gorgeous city centre, and alternative things to do, you can spend a couple of days in this cute borgo and fall in love.  

The town of Santarcangelo was just perfect; the locals were so friendly and welcoming that we felt at home. Look around and check out all the incredible things to do while in Santarcangelo. From Piazza Ganganelli, with its predominant triumphal arc in honour of Pope Clement XIV, to the stunning views over the city, Santarcangelo is undoubtedly one of the best villages in Emilia Romagna that you must visit. 

While in Santarcangelo, don’t forget to try the local wine. You can’t leave this borgo without trying Sangiovese.

You can book a table at Osteria Sangiovesa and have the best dinner ever! You can stay in Santarcangelo to enjoy the local lifestyle. In summer, drive 15 minutes to the seaside, visiting Rimini, Riccione or the rest of the Romagna Riviera for a day trip.

Bagno di Romagna | Spa Baths retreat

Our Emilia Romagna road trip ended in the best way ever. We spend a few days in Bagno di Romagna between interesting walking paths and a thermal spa. We stayed at Sant’Agnese Terme, where we had the opportunity to experience their incredible thermal paths. It was a fantastic way to end our trip in this beautiful region, from the sauna to a massage. But Bagno di Romagna is more than just thermal spas; you can choose the different hiking paths and discover the beautiful territory surrounding this cute village. 

Hike up and reach Vetta della Croce where you will have an incredible view of Bagno di Romagna or, if you’re travelling with kids, an alternative path would be Sentiero degli Gnomi. A small path designed to connect with nature.

San Marino | The village State inside Italy

Not many people know that apart from Vatican city, there is another small autonomous state with its law, rules, flag and heritage inside the Italian borders. The country of San Marino is a Medieval Village on top of the Titano, the highest mountain in this part of Emilia Romagna.

It is a beautiful roam around the narrow cobblestone streets of the old town. We spent half a day in a quirky spot in central Italy, a few kilometres from the sea. From the top of San Marino, where the most tourist locations are, there are a few scenic spots to enjoy the Adriatic sea and the rest of the Romagna countryside.

It is easy to reach San Marino, and you will get almost no differences; apart from the change of the flags. You can visit one of the smallest states in the world in a few hours and stay for lunchtime enjoying the romantic view. After our short visit to San Marino, we agree with many who consider this place one of the most romantic cities in Europe.

Things to do in San Marino

• See the Authority buildings in Piazza della Liberta’
• Step into the San Marino Basilica
• Walk up Mount Titan passing on the witches’ bridge
• Get up to the old town on the cable car
• Admire the Adriatic coastline from the city walls

Where to stay in San Marino

• Grand Hotel San Marino

Guastalla | Gateway to River Po

Located in Reggio Emilia province, Guastalla is a lovely village to visit in Emilia Romagna. I think we watched one of the best sunsets ever from Guastalla, and we absolutely recommend you witness it at least once in your life. Leaving the city centre on one side, you can reach Lido Po, where you can relax, walk or jog along the river. Locals and tourists love to hang out around this area as it is one of the most incredible and peaceful places where you can admire the sunset. 

Well, Guastalla is not only this; once you reach the heart of the city centre, you will be amazed to admire the stunning Palazzo Ducale. In fact, it is one of the main attractions to visit in Guastalla and, thanks to its architecture, history, and culture, is today one of the top things to do in Guastalla. The entire city centre is traffic-free, and you can roam around without having cars all over the place. Notable, isn’t it? Grab a drink in the main street and have fun while talking with locals. 

Fontanellato | The village of the Castel on the water

During the entire trip, Toti was super excited to visit Fontanellato. Why? Rocca San Vitale is surrounded by water, making it the perfect spot for night photography. This little village is located within a short distance from Parma, and you can easily reach it by car. Spending one day in Fontanellato is enough to visit the city centre and to get lost in Labirinto della Masone. We had such great fun getting lost between the paths inside the Labirinto. You can purchase your tickets here, and don’t worry; there is a number to call on the bracelet in case you get lost!

Things to do in Fontanellato

• Step inside Rocca San Vitale
• Saletta di Diana e Atteone of Parmigianino
• Coloured houses and arcades in Via Costa
• Sanctuary of Beata Vergine del Rosario
• Get lost in Labirinto della Masone

Where to stay in Fontanellato

• Le Notti in Villa

Fidenza

After Parma, Fidenza is the most significant urban centre and today is considered one of the most beautiful towns in Emilia Romagna to visit. Walk around the cute narrow streets of the city centre and step inside the stunning Cathedral dating back to the XI and XII centuries. Don’t leave the Cathedral without checking the crypt, as it holds the remains of Martyr Dominus. You can reach Fidenza from Piacenza, Bologna or Modena by train, or, if you’re renting a car you can take the highway and spend one day in Fidenza.

Things to do in Fidenza

• Visit Fidenza Cathedral 
• Step inside the church of San Giorgio
• Go for some shopping at Fidenza Village 
• Grab some lunch at KM90 

Where to stay in Fidenza

• Due Spade Fidenza

Salsomaggiore Terme | Old charme and thermal baths

Known as the Spa town, Salsomaggiore Terme is an incredible village ideal for all of those who are looking to relax while in Emilia Romagna. With its many outdoor activities, wellness centre and green open spaces, Salsomaggiore Terme is the perfect location to visit any time of the year. From April to October, you have different events: live music evenings, themed festivals and food sagras.

One of the most stunning structures in Salsomaggiore Terme is for sure Terme Berzieri, with its impressive architecture and Liberty-Deco influence, welcomes locals and tourists to the city.

Things to do in Salsomaggiore

• Admire Terme Berzieri 
• Roam around Piazza Liberta’ 
• Visit Parco Mazzini 

Where to stay in Salsomaggiore Terme

• Grand Hotel Salsomaggiore

Maranello

Calling all Ferrari lovers! Maranello is a must if you’re visiting Emilia Romagna. Home to Ferrari car, Maranello is the most unique village to visit in the region. From the incredible Museo Ferrari to the drive experience, you will end up on a Ferrari sooner or later.

The museum is just incredible; you will see the history of Ferrari, how it started and even the studio. Plus, you can end this incredible experience onboard a Ferrari Car. For these 10 minutes, you will have the most amazing time ever. Don’t miss this opportunity; visit Maranello and book your driving experience here.

Things to do in Maranello

• Visit Museo Ferrari
• Check out the Horse statue 
• Maranello Test and Drive Experience

Where to stay in Maranello

• Villa Maranello

Pievepelago

While we stayed in Fiumalbo, we had the meeting point for our e-bike in Pievepelago. Well, this was an excellent opportunity to explore another cute village in Emilia Romagna. Of course, we never said no, so we had to explore.

Small but cute, Pievepelago is popular among tourists as it is the ideal destination for everyone who wishes to combine nature and sport. In fact, if you wish to dust off your slopes, this is the right place for you.

Things to do in Pievepelago

• Visit Santo Lake
• Go for an e-bike tour
• Hike Mount Cimone 

Where to stay in Pievepelago

• Casa Santerini

Imola

Can you believe that we ended up in Imola because Toti wanted ice cream? Now, I can say that the 15 minutes drive from Dozza was worth it! Knowns for the Grand Prix, the city of Imola offers incredible things despite being famous only for the Prix.

The stunning fortress Rocca Sforzesca and San Domenico Museum are two of the main attractions in the city. In fact, the museum features over 500+ sculptures and painting worth visiting while spending 1 day in Imola. 

I know that we mentioned ice cream, and don’t worry, we will tell you where this delicious place is. Head in Via Cavour and grab a gelato at Gioelia cremeria. It will be the best gelato you have ever tried in your life!

Things to do in Imola

• Visit Rocca Sforzesca
• Visit San Domenico Musueum
• Eat the best gelato in Gioelia cremeria

Where to stay in Imola 

• Callegherie BnB

Castell’Arquato | Lovers Village

Known as Borgo degli Innamorati, “Lovers Village”, Castell’Arquato is one of the most beautiful villages in Emilia Romagna. We completely fell in love from the first moment we stepped inside the city centre.

Located in the province of Reggio-Emilia, Castell’Arquato overlooks Piacentino’s Valley. In fact, you can admire a stunning view of this village from the top of Rocca Viscontea.

While in Castell’Arquato, you can’t miss having a glass of wine at Enoteca Comunale with a delicious “tagliere”, which is a selection of local products with cheese, cured meat, prosciutto and typical culatta.

Brisighella | One of our favourite

Considered one of the most beautiful villages in Emilia Romagna for a reason, Brisighella was one of our favourite borgo. From its incredible view from the Clock Tower to the exciting history behind Via Degli Asini, Brisighella is such a lively village worth visiting.

We completely fell in love with its landscapes from the tower and Rocca Manfrediana. Despite the rainy day upon arrival, we must say that even with clouds, Brisighella is so charming. Walk along Donkey’s Road and reach the top of the Clock Tower to fully enjoy one of the best villages in Emilia Romagna.

Via degli Asini is the most charming way to access Brisighella’s top three points of interest: the Clock Tower, the church of Saint Michael and the church of John the Baptist. So Whare are you waiting for? Book your trip to Emilia Romagna now!

Top things to do in Brisighella:

• Via degli Asini 
• Rocca Manfrediana “Fortress” and Clock tower
• Parco del Carne’
• Eat La Grotta
• Olive oil tasting at Brisighella D.O.P Consortium

Where to stay in Brisighella

• Modus Vivendi

Dozza | The open-air museum in Emilia Romagna

Known as the art and culture village, Dozza is a unique and one of the most beautiful villages near Bologna. From Bologna, you can reach Dozza in 20 minutes by car or by taking a bus. This village won’t disappoint you. Thanks to its incredible and colourful street art, Dozza is today one of the most beautiful villages in Emilia Romagna.

With its Rocca Sforzesca dominating the town, Dozza is an alternative place to visit while in Bologna. You can easily spend 2 days in Dozza, enjoy the peaceful borgo, go for a hike around Sentiero del Vino and discover all the vineyards along the path. Don’t forget to step inside Enoteca Regionale and admire their incredible wine collections and perhaps buy a bottle for yourself. 

Fiumalbo | On top of the Tuscan-Emilian Apennine

Considered one of the most beautiful villages in Emilia Romagna for a reason, Fiumalbo is 953 meters above sea level. In fact, the landscape is entirely different from the other villages that we previously mentioned. Here, you will be surrounded by the Apennines. The old town is traffic-free, allowing you to roam freely around the cobblestone alleys.

You will know that you have arrived at the beginning of the old town, and you will spot a little chapel with a stunning ceiling from the Renaissance. If you’re fancy and wish to explore more about the surroundings of this incredible territory, join an e-bike tour and explore the incredible paths that will lead you to stunning views.

Things to do in Fiumalbo

• Roam around the city centre 
• Go on an e-bike tour

Where to stay in Fiumalbo 

• Casa Santerini

Vigoleno | The village in the clouds

We arrived in this fortified village on a rainy and foggy day. You might think, what a disappointment. Well, to be honest, it wasn’t. I think that the weather made us look at Vigoleno differently. It was a Sunday morning, and Pieve di San Giorgio Church was open for the function.

I think that it was the best moment of the entire trip. Stepping inside the church, admiring the stunning interior design and architecture and seeing the live function was just amazing.

The entire city looks like it held in the past, with locals taking it slow and with the Castle welcoming visitors from all over the world. This village in Emilia Romagna is today known for being the perfect location to host a wedding; in fact, while around the borgo, you might see couples looking for the perfect spots for their pictures and locations for their ceremony.

Things to do in Vigoleno

• Mastio di Vigoleno
• Museo Gli Orsanti 
• Pieve di San Giorgio

Where to stay in Vigoleno

• Castello di Vigoleno

Cesenatico | Leonardo’s Masterpiece project

When it comes to exploring the best seaside in Italy, we are always looking for the perfect locations. If you have heard about Rimini, you most likely know Cesenatico. In summer, Cesenatico becomes really busy with locals and tourists.

Thanks to its great bars, cafes and seaside, you can’t miss stopping here for a quick look around. It doesn’t matter when you visit Cesenatico; you will love it even in wintertime.

Walk along Porto Canale Leonardesco and admire the suggestive dock with boats and colourful buildings as a background.

Things to do in Cesenatico

• Walk along Porto Canale Leonardesco
• Go for a swim
• Visit Marco Pantani monument 
• Admire Leonardo da Vinci Municipal Gallery 

Where to stay in Cesenatico 

Villa Maria in Cesenatico

Cervia | Romagna Riviera

Among the hidden gems in Emilia Romagna, there is Cervia, one of the most attractive towns of the Adriatic Riviera. During Summer, Cervia becomes overcrowded, with tourists taking over the sandy beaches.

The scenery is perfect; to get to the shore, you have to pass by a thick pine forest. The riviera is full of typical “Italian Lidos” with a well-equipped bathing establishment, ideal for families.

The little town on the coast is perfect if explored on foot. There are interesting locations to explore in the historic city, accessible via the port and the canal, reflecting its past as a major salt manufacturer. Cervia is often seen as the place for families, while Milano Marittima, further north, is one of the most active nightlife scenes on the Riviera and is perfect for young travellers.

Things to do in Cervia

• San Michele Fortress
• Hang out in Piazza Garibaldi
• Spot the Flamingos in Saline di Cervia

Where to stay in Cervia

• Melody Hotel

Milano Marittima | Trendy places in Emilia Romagna

The Romagna Riviera comes to mind when you think of pleasure and summer, and Milano Marittima is, without a doubt, the most fashionable location on the Riviera. This village on the Romagna Riviera is a regular destination for seaside getaways for Italian youngsters and from a few years international travellers.

However, Milano Marittima is also a location for couples, families with children, and not only pleasure seekers. The town is tiny and part of Cervia (In Italian, this is called “Fraction”). During the year, Milano Marittima has little over 1,500 inhabitants, but in summer, these quickly become 5 times the number.

One of the most interesting things to do in Milano Marittima is sunbathing and enjoying a night out in a club on the shoreline after sunset. The famous beach club Papeete is the favourite of Italians; make sure to check in to visit Milano Marittima.

Things to do in Milano Marittima

• Papeete Beach Club
• Vialetto degli Artisti
• Reconnect with nature in Pineta di Pinarella
• Spend time roaming around the Artistic squares

Where to stay in Milano Marittima

• Hotel Premier & Suits
• Residence Crystal Palace

Emilia Romagna cuisine is well known among tourists; in fact, many people come to try delicious and tasty food from all over the world.

You must try the Emilia Romagna food:

TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR ITALY

Don’t travel anywhere without travel insurance, no matter your journey. We have learned that at our expense while travelling from Dubrovnik to Hvar, our ferry was cancelled because of rough sea weather.
Even though Emilia-Romagna is safe, the pandemic taught many people that things might go wrong everywhere in the world, and insurance is frequently the only option to mitigate any problems with the least cost or stress to you.

Hey Mondo | COVID-19 coverage, medical expenses and total travel costs. A fantastic app with 24-hour medical care and no extra charges. You can save 5% on your insurance by booking through our link.

SafetyWing | COVID-19 coverage, comprehensive travel & medical, and insurance can be purchased while travelling for digital nomads.

Q&A Best villages in Emilia Romagna

Which is the most beautiful village in Italy?

There are so many beautiful villages in Italy, from north to south, there is always something to see. Here are the most charming and beautiful villages in Italy:

Dozza, Emilia Romagna
San Gimignano, Tuscany
Bellagio, Lake Como
Positano, Amalfi Coast
Castel San Pietro Romano, Lazio
Alberobello, Puglia

Is Emilia-Romagna a wealthy region of Italy?

Yes! Emilia Romagna is one of the richest, wealthiest and most developed regions in Europe and Italy! With its capital, Bologna, Emilia Romagna offers one of the best and highest lifestyles, and it is seen as one of the best cities to live in Italy.

Is Emilia Romagna nice?

Yes, yes and yes! Emilia Romagna is one of the most beautiful regions we have ever been to. We never expected to love it so much. During our road trip, we had the best time exploring cute villages and small towns and tasting the local cuisine.

The weather, despite being October, was perfect with the warm temperature and sunny day. It’s, for sure, worth visiting. 

What is Emilia-Romagna region famous for?

Emilia Romagna is known for many things. Starting from the local production of cheese (Parmigiano Reggiano and Grana Padano) to the different varieties of wine.
Have you ever heard of Lambrusco or Sangiovese? Well, they are both coming from Emilia Romagna. However, let’s not forget about Tortellini. If you have ever been to Bologna, you know what we are talking about.

WHERE TO GO NEXT?

Every time is good to travel and make new experiences. As London-based travel bloggers, it’s easy to find cheap flights and explore new places even just at the weekend. Italy is our home country, and we explored most of it, and here are some of our favourite guides. Travel with us, and get some inspiration through the gorgeous Italian landscape. See more in Italy Travel Guide.

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