When to visit Emilia-Romagna: the best season for every kind of trip

Discover the best time to visit Emilia-Romagna: from autumn food festivals to summer days, here's the perfect season for every experience.

Emilia-Romagna, All Year Round

There’s always a good reason to visit Emilia-Romagna.
From the Romagna coast to the hills of Emilia, passing through quaint villages, art cities, and cultivated countryside, the region changes with the seasons—and each one has something special to offer.
Here’s a guide to help you choose the best time for your trip, depending on what you want to see (and taste).

Spring: Villages, Blossoms, and Art Cities Without the Crowds

🌸 March, April, and May are ideal for those who want to explore cities without the summer heat. Bologna, Parma, Modena, and Ravenna offer art, culture, and cuisine—at a slower pace and with shorter lines.
In villages like Brisighella or Dozza, it’s the season of blooming flowers, food and wine events, and the first walks in the Apennine natural parks.

👉 Best for: cultural trips, romantic getaways, photography and hiking.

Summer: coast, mountains and open-air nights

☀️ From June to August, Emilia-Romagna splits in two: on one side, the Riviera Romagnola with its lively beaches, seaside parties and music-filled nights; on the other, the Apennine mountains, offering cooler air, lakes, and nature trails.
July and August are packed with music festivals, food fairs and village parties—great for experiencing the region among locals.

👉 Best for: families, travel groups, nature lovers and social experiences.

Autumn: foliage, food festivals and local delicacies

🍂 September, October, and November are paradise for food lovers.
It’s harvest time—think wine, truffle, chestnuts and porcini mushrooms. This is also when fresh Parmigiano Reggiano hits the market, along with perfectly aged cured meats.
It’s also one of the best times to explore the Apennines in full fall color and visit museums without the crowds.

👉 Best for: foodies, slow travel, couples, and photographers.

Winter: art cities, christmas markets and wellness escapes

❄️ From December to February, Emilia-Romagna dresses up for the holidays. Cities sparkle with festive lights, Christmas markets fill historic squares, and in the hilly countryside you’ll find cozy agriturismos with fireplaces, spas, and charming retreats.
In the mountains, the ski resorts of the Emilia Apennines offer fresh air and breathtaking views.

👉 Best for: couples’ trips, relax, art and Christmas traditions.



Bonus Tip: Follow the Festival Calendar!

Want to live like a local? Here’s the secret: follow the food festivals.
Every season has its own—and every village has something to celebrate. From pork to wine, onions to tortelli: where there’s a festival, there’s a story to discover (and a dish to enjoy).

Every Season Has Its Perfect Trip

Emilia-Romagna is never out of season. Whether you're after an active vacation or a relaxing weekend, whether you love food, nature, or culture—you’ll always find something worth experiencing here.
Already picked your travel dates?