Emilia-Romagna
From the Po River in the north to the Apennine Mountains, explore medieval cities, seaside resorts and delicious cuisine from the region known as the ‘bread basket of Italy’, and home of Ferrari and Pavarotti.
In Italy the freewheeling experience becomes more challenging with driving on the right hand side of the road. Don’t be put off, roads and autobahns are well surfaced and clearly signposted. Most major roads do have tolls so it is often cheaper and more scenic to stay on the secondary roads.
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1: Bologna – Ravenna (86km)
In Bologna, visit the Piazza Maggiore, lined with arched colonnades and Renaissance buildings. The Bolognese take their food tradition very seriously. Try the ‘Spaghetti Bolognese’, actually tagliatelle al ragu.
Day 2: Ravenna
See astonishing frescoes, Dante’s tomb, enjoy a piadina (pizza), Ravenna has eight UNESCO World Heritage-sites of amazing Byzantine mosaics.
Day 3: Ravenna – San Marino – Rimini – Ravenna (154km)
San Marino's cobblestone streets wind steeply up the mountain and at the top sits the mighty fortress and its towers with sweeping views. Relax in Rimini, a famous seaside resort on an endless stretch of white sand.
Day 4: Ravenna – Comacchio – Ferrara – Ravenna (226km)
Head to the small village of Comacchio before venturing through the Po Delta, a unique wetlands area and World Heritage-site. Inland you’ll find Ferrara's castle, basilica, monastery and lovely piazzas.
Day 5: Ravenna – Vignola – Maranello – Modena – Parma (222km)
Rocca di Vignola, has a stunning castle with free entry, beautiful frescoes and the amazing Spiral staircase. For Ferrari fans visit the Ferrari museum in Modena and for opera lovers Pavarotti’s house and museum.
Day 6: Parma
The city of gastronomy, great music, art and architecture, home of Parmesan cheese, Parma ham and the 19th century Teatro Regio, one of the best opera houses in Italy.
Day 7-8: Parma
Explore the medieval villages and castles littering the countryside.
Customise this itinerary to travel at your own pace.
Highlights worth seeing along the way
Osteria Del Sole in Bologna – This ancient tavern has kept its simple style since 1465. Chat with others at large wooden tables over a glass of wine.
San Marino – An independent country, the 5th smallest in fact, the most ancient republic in Europe (since AD 301).
Cross over the Trepponti in Comacchio – A famous 17th century bridge in the pretty fishing village.
Hire kayaks to discover the Po Delta – This protected natural reserve is a peaceful escape where you can spot otters and flamingos.
Abbey of Pomposa – 6th century Romanesque architecture and is surrounded by restaurants serving traditional food and wine of the Po Delta.
Walk the city walls of Ferrara – For great views before wandering the labyrinth of one of Europe’s oldest Jewish quarters.
Museo Ferrari Maranello – This second Ferrari museum tells the story through the actual cars. Sit in a Formula 1 simulator and take a tour to the track and factory.
Bobbio – Explore the ancient abbey, Basilica and famous Old Bridge in this small town located in the Trebbia River valley.
Delicious Food – Taste the products from this region including Parmigiano Reggiano (Parmesan cheese), Prosciutto crudo di Parma (Parma ham), Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena.
Our favourite places to stay:
• Palazzo Bezzi, Ravenna
• Sina Maria Luigia, Parma
Choosing your Rental Car
Take into consideration the size of the vehicle you require. We strongly recommend a compact size car for two adults. If the vehicle is to be used for day touring from a central base and not for transporting your luggage, a smaller vehicle may be adequate. We suggest you book your car before leaving home as this will save money and ensure you get the car of your choice.
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