Emilia-Romagna
Italy's undisputed food capital, where every meal is a masterpiece and every city tells a story.
About Emilia-Romagna
If Italy is a country that lives to eat, then Emilia-Romagna is its beating heart. This is where Parmigiano-Reggiano, Prosciutto di Parma, balsamic vinegar, and fresh egg pasta were born. But this region is far more than a menu. Bologna's medieval towers and porticoes are UNESCO-listed, Ravenna's Byzantine mosaics will stop you in your tracks, and Modena houses both the world's best restaurant and the Ferrari museum. From the Apennine foothills to the Adriatic coast, Emilia-Romagna is a journey through Italy's richest cultural landscape.
Best Time to Visit
April to June or September to October. The Po Valley can be foggy in winter and hot in summer. Autumn is truffle season and the food festivals are at their peak.
Local Tips
- Do the Food Valley trail.
A local can arrange factory visits to Parmigiano-Reggiano dairies, prosciutto cellars, and traditional balsamic vinegar acetaie that have been aging vinegar for generations. This is a pilgrimage, not a tour.
- Get lost under Bologna's porticoes.
Bologna has 40km of porticoes, now UNESCO-listed. A local knows the hidden courtyard gardens, the best tortellini in brodo spots, and the climb up to San Luca basilica via the world's longest portico.
- See the mosaics that rival anything in Rome.
Ravenna's Byzantine mosaics are 1,500 years old and blindingly beautiful. A local will time your visit to catch the light flooding through the windows of the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia.
Highlights
(the local lens)
Meet the Local Experts
Your on-the-ground insiders. The ones who know the enduring favourites, the quiet corners and what’s worth your time.
Edoardo
Amalfi, Sorrento +11
Born and raised in Italy's Marche region, I have explored the country from north to south during travels and study periods away from home. I have lived part of my life in amazing cities such as Venice and Bologna, and have visited Rome a lot since I have family and friends there. I am an experienced trip planner for destinations all over Italy, from the breezy Cinqueterre in Liguria down to the sun kissed Amalfi coast. If you want someone to help you with all-encompassing guidance and make the best out of your trip to Italy, I will be most happy to help you!
Elisabeth
Bologna, Naples +2
Hi, I’m Elisabeth. I live in Italy and I’ve always been deeply connected to the rhythms of everyday life here—slow walks through historic streets, good food shared without rush, and small details that most travellers might miss. I love exploring places both like a local and like a curious outsider: from hidden cafés and traditional bakeries to quiet corners where you can really feel the atmosphere of a city. I’ve spent a lot of time discovering how to enjoy Italian life in a balanced, authentic way—whether that means finding the right spot for a relaxed meal, a scenic walk, or simply a peaceful moment away from the crowds. I’m especially drawn to culture, storytelling, and traditions, particularly from southern Italy, so I naturally bring a more emotional and immersive perspective to travel. If you’re looking to experience a place beyond the typical tourist path, I’ll help you see it with different eyes.
Silvia
Ravenna, Ferrara +8
I’m an Italian travel consultant, licensed tour guide, and passionate traveler with over 20 years of experience helping visitors discover the real Italy. I was born and raised in Ravenna, the extraordinary city of mosaics, where I work as a licensed tour guide. My background in Art at the Academy of Fine Arts in Ravenna deepened my love for mosaics and history, and I enjoy sharing this passion with travelers who want to experience Italy beyond the surface. I’m also a certified environmental hiking guide and tour leader, and I love combining culture, nature, and authentic local life. When I travel, or design experiences for others, I’m always looking for inspiring museums, beautiful landscapes, great food, and memorable wines. In recent years I’ve also started hosting cooking classes in my home, where guests learn traditional Italian recipes and enjoy genuine Italian hospitality. While Ravenna and Emilia-Romagna are my home base, I also offer travel expertise for Sardinia, especially the province of Oristano, an area I know and love for its wild coastline, traditions, and authentic culture.
Emanuele
Milan, Como +10
Hi! I’m Emanuele, a passionate traveler and sports enthusiast with a love for discovering cities through their hidden corners and authentic experiences. While I’ve explored many places around the world, my heart is in Milan, a city I know inside out. I enjoy everything from iconic landmarks to quiet streets off the beaten path, and I love sharing those special spots that only a local can show. Whether it’s culture, food, history, or hidden gems, my goal is to create personalized experiences that make you feel truly connected to the city. I believe travel is about curiosity, discovery, and living a place fully (and I’d love to be your guide to experience Italy in a mindful, authentic way).