From the Trebbia Valley to the Apennines, here are 6 authentic places to visit in Emilia-Romagna beyond Bologna. Explore hidden villages, nature and great local food.
Discover Emilia-Romagna Beyond the Cities: An Authentic Journey
When people think of Emilia-Romagna, cities like Bologna, Parma or Modena often come to mind. But just a few kilometers away, there’s a whole different side to the region — gentle hills, time-stopped villages, traditional trattorias and surprising landscapes.
If you love slow travel and want to go beyond the usual tourist routes, this guide is for you.
1. Brisighella: The Village of the Three Hills
In the heart of Romagna, Brisighella is one of Italy’s most beautiful villages. Its three rocky hills — the fortress, the sanctuary and the clock tower — overlook colorful houses, medieval alleys and the unique “Donkeys’ Alley” (Via degli Asini), a covered walkway like no other.
2. Castell’Arquato: Medieval Vibes and Great Wine
Located in the province of Piacenza, Castell’Arquato is a medieval gem. Cobblestone streets lead up to the Visconti Fortress, offering stunning views of the Val d’Arda.
👉 This is also wine country: try Gutturnio or Malvasia over a slow lunch in a rustic winery.
3. Dozza: Contemporary Art Meets Ancient Walls
Ever seen a village turned into an open-air gallery? In Dozza, the “Painted Wall Festival” (Muro Dipinto) brings murals to every street corner.
👉 Also worth a visit: the Regional Wine Cellar, where you can sample Emilia-Romagna’s top wines all in one place.
4. Trebbia Valley: Wild Nature and Silent Villages
Called “the most beautiful valley in the world” by Ernest Hemingway, the Trebbia Valley is still a well-kept secret. Among its villages, Bobbio is a true gem, with its Devil’s Bridge (Ponte Gobbo), ancient abbey and the Trebbia River — perfect for a summer dip.
👉 Ideal for hiking, picnics and unplugging from it all.
5. Pennabilli: Poetry in the Apennines
Tucked in the Montefeltro hills, Pennabilli was beloved by Tonino Guerra, poet and screenwriter for Fellini. Art, poetry and nature blend here in every corner.
6. Sassi di Roccamalatina: Hiking and Rustic Snacks
In the Modena Apennines, the Sassi di Roccamalatina Regional Park is a hidden treasure with hiking trails through rock spires and forested hills.
👉 Reward your hike with traditional crescentine (local flatbreads) and cured meats at a local mountain hut.
The Authentic Emilia-Romagna Is Waiting for You
Forget the crowds and take the scenic route: in Emilia-Romagna, true beauty often lies just around the bend or at the end of a dirt road.
Whether you’re into art, food or nature, there’s always a hidden corner to explore.
Want to experience these hidden gems with local insight?
Let us design your tailor-made journey through Emilia-Romagna — think charming villages, rolling hills and stories that don’t appear in guidebooks.
