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
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.
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.
Rosa
Florence, Pisa +13
5.0(1)Hi, I’m Rosa - your local Italy travel planner based in Florence. I live in Florence, in the heart of Tuscany. Italy is not just where I live, it's what I love sharing with others. Over the years, I've explored many cities like Bologna, Milan, Venice, Rome Naples, Sicily, Sardinia, Puglia and many more. Each region has its own flow, flavors and traditions, and understanding these differeces is what makes a trip truly special. I help travelers experience Italy beyond the typical tourist path. From selecting the perfect area to stay, to reccomending authentic restaurants, wineries and hidden villages. I desing trips that feel personal and deeply Italian. If you want to experience Italy with local insight and thoughtful planning, I’ll help you create a journey you’ll never forget.
Barbara
Rome, Cinque Terre +13
5.0(2)As a certified Tour Leader, I've had the incredible privilege of guiding groups from all over the world across Italy and Europe. I adore my country, and over the years, I've realized that my favorite role is being a bridge between travelers and the true soul of a place. Today, I invite you to experience this through my eyes. Whether you need a customized itinerary for your trip or a cultural deep-dive anywhere in Italy, I am here to help you live the best experience of your vacation. I’m waiting for you! Let’s plan something beautiful together.
Alissia
Ravenna
Ciao! My name is Alissia. I live in the wonderful city of Ravenna! Yeah, it's not Florence. It's not Rome, but i'm 100% it will leave you speechless :) Stunning mosaics, great food, interesting culture, an amazing history and lots of nature: what do you want more? If you want to go off the beaten path and see a "less mainstream" side of Italy, join me in this adventure!