What to see in Emilia-Romagna beyond Bologna: authentic places to discover

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.

👉 Don’t miss: a tasting of local DOP olive oil and a panoramic sunset walk.

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.

👉 Curiosity: each summer, the village hosts “Artisti in Piazza,” a street arts festival full of charm and creativity.

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.