Emilia-Romagna Classic Road Trip Itinerary
The Emilia-Romagna Classic Road Trip is a great way to explore the beautiful region of Italy. This 424 km route takes you through the cities of Bologna, Modena, Mantua, and Ravenna, and is best experienced in the summer months. Along the way you will see some of the most beautiful and historical sites, including several UNESCO Heritage Monuments. The road conditions in the region are excellent, so it’s suitable for every driver. This road trip can also be managed with a moderate budget, making it an ideal choice for the budget-conscious traveller.
The Emilia-Romagna Classic Road Trip provides a unique and unforgettable experience. From the stunning views of the countryside to the historical monuments, you’ll have plenty to explore and enjoy. You’ll have plenty of time to make memories and take in the sights, as it’s recommended to complete the trip in five days. This road trip is sure to give you an unforgettable experience and plenty of memories to cherish for years to come.
5
number of days
425 km
route length
fair
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
moderate
accident level
START
Bologna
Distance 425 km
Driving time 9.5 h
Pace: slow
97.9 kWh
Airports
BLQ
,
FRL
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Bologna, the capital of Emilia-Romagna, is the perfect starting point for the Emilia-Romagna Classic Road Trip. Located in the heart of the region, it offers visitors a unique mix of history, culture, and food.
The city is home to some of Italy’s most famous monuments such as the Two Towers, the Basilica of San Petronio, and the Archiginnasio. There is also the Church of San Domenico, the Palazzo Re Enzo, and the Palazzo Comunale. The city is also home to some of the best restaurants in the region.
For those arriving by air, the closest international airport is Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ). There are a number of car rental agencies available at the airport, making it easy to pick up a vehicle and begin the road trip.
Once on the road, visitors will find numerous attractions, from the medieval towns of Ferrara and Ravenna to the beautiful beaches of Rimini and Riccione. There are also plenty of wineries, thermal baths, and picturesque villages to explore.
Bologna is the perfect starting point for the Emilia-Romagna Classic Road Trip, with its mix of history, culture, and cuisine, it’s the perfect place to begin a journey through this beautiful region of Italy.
1
Bologna
- Modena
Distance 44 km
Driving time 0.9 h
Pace: modest
11.4 kWh
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Itinerary
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Take a road trip from Bologna to Modena for an exciting 44km journey! Get ready to explore some of Italy's most interesting historical gems, with a driving time of fewer than 1 hour. First, you'll find the ancient Roman ruins of the Arch of Augustus in Bologna. Then, you'll come across the Basilica di Santo Stefano, a complex of seven religious edifices in the city. As you drive on, you'll come across the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Castelvetro di Modena, a fortified castle full of stunning architecture. Keep driving and you'll eventually reach Modena, where you can explore the Torre della Ghirlandina, a historic bell tower, as well as the Duomo di Modena, an Italian Romanesque cathedral. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Modena - Italy - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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2
Modena
- Parma
Distance 51 km
Driving time 1.5 h
Pace: slow
11.8 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome to the beautiful and scenic road trip from Modena to Parma! This 51km journey takes less than two hours and will take you through some of the most interesting sites in Italy. Start your journey in Modena, where you can explore the Modena Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the nearby Torre della Ghirlandina, which is the symbol of Modena and was also declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. Then, drive to Parma, where you can explore the Parma Cathedral, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are many other attractions in Parma, including the Palazzo della Pilotta and the Teatro Regio di Parma. While you’re in the area, be sure to explore the Parma River, which is a great place for a leisurely stroll. As you drive along the route, you will also find many quaint villages to explore. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, consult the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Parma - Italy - Europe - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
Parma - Italy - Europe - Road Trip - www.pxfuel.com
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3
Parma
- Mantua
Distance 65 km
Driving time 1.3 h
Pace: modest
16.9 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an exciting 65 km road trip from Parma to Mantua! This journey is packed with interesting sights and will only take you less than 2 hours. Start off your journey by visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Parma Cathedral and the Baptistery. Admire the beautiful and intricate sculptures and frescoes. Move on to the Palazzo della Pilotta, the former court of the Farnese family. Explore the art collections and marvel at the intricate architecture. Afterwards, visit the Palazzo Ducale di Colorno, the former residence of the Farnese family. Don’t forget to stop by the Abbazia di Valserena, a former Benedictine monastery. As you continue your drive, take in the breathtaking views of the countryside surrounding Mantua. Once you arrive at Mantua, explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the city’s Palladian architecture. Visit the Palazzo Te, the Ducal Palace, and the Rotonda di San Lorenzo. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage.
Mantua - Italy - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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4
Mantua
- Ferrara
Distance 89 km
Driving time 1.6 h
Pace: modest
23.2 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on a magical road trip from Mantua to Ferrara! This journey of approximately 87 km will take you less than two hours to complete. With a plethora of historical sites along the way, you’ll be enchanted by the beauty of the Italian countryside. Be sure to visit Mantua’s Palazzo Te and the Cathedral of Ferrara, both of which are UNESCO heritage sites. As you drive, you’ll find plenty of places to explore and take in the breathtaking views. Make sure to take some time to take in the local culture, as well as some delicious Italian cuisine. When you reach Ferrara, you won’t want to miss the chance to visit the Castle Estense, one of the most impressive structures in the city. You can find more information about attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites along the route in the “Itinerary” of this stage. So, get your cameras ready and start your journey to Ferrara!
Ferrara - Italy - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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5
Ferrara
- Ravenna
Distance 73 km
Driving time 1.4 h
Pace: modest
19.0 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Ferrara to Ravenna! This 74km journey will take you less than 2 hours of driving and you will be able to experience some of the most iconic sites of Italy. Starting in Ferrara, you will be able to visit the Este Castle, home to the Este family and one of the most important Italian Renaissance buildings. The Cathedral of San Giorgio is also a must-see, a Romanesque-style church that dates back to the 12th century. After a short drive you will arrive in Ravenna, known for its rich cultural heritage and 8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Make sure to take a stroll in the old town and admire the Basilica of San Vitale, a mausoleum of the Western Roman Empire, and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, one of the most important monuments of early Christian art. For more attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Ravenna - Italy - Europe - Road Trip - Pikist
Ravenna - Italy - Europe - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
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6
Ravenna
- Bologna
Distance 103 km
Driving time 2.8 h
Pace: slow
23.8 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome to the road-trippers' paradise! We invite you to explore the captivating 103 km journey from Ravenna to Bologna, via Forlí. The entire drive takes less than 3 hours, so it's perfect for a day trip. Along the way, you will discover some of the most important historical sites of the region.
In Ravenna, don't miss the breathtaking Byzantine mosaics of the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia and the tomb of Dante Alighieri. As you continue to Forlí, be sure to admire the ruins of the Rocca di Ravaldino fortress. Last but not least, don't forget to visit the world-famous Basilica of San Petronio in Bologna, which is part of the UNESCO Heritage Sites.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
Bologna
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At the end of the Emilia-Romagna Classic Road Trip lies the beautiful city of Bologna. This city is a great way to end your journey, as it is full of culture, history, and delicious food.
The city is known for its towers, which are a symbol of its medieval past. The most famous one is the Two Towers, which was built in the 12th century. Climb to the top of the towers for a breathtaking view of the city. As you explore the city, you’ll come across the many churches and cathedrals that are scattered across the city. The Basilica of San Domenico is one of the most impressive, and it is worth a visit.
You can also explore the city's historic centre, which is full of cobbled streets and colourful buildings. Take a stroll through the Piazza Maggiore, the main square of the city, and be sure to visit the Palazzo Comunale.
When it comes to food, Bologna is famous for its local cuisine. Enjoy a variety of dishes, such as tortellini, lasagne, and ragù bolognese. Be sure to try some of the local wines as well.
For those travelling by air, the closest international airport to Bologna is Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (IATA: BLQ).
The city of Bologna is the perfect way to end your Emilia-Romagna Classic Road Trip, as it is full of culture, history, and delicious food.
Emilia-Romagna Classic Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Bologna
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End:
Bologna
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Distance:
425 km
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Stay:
5 days
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Getting there:
Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ),
Forlì Airport (FRL)
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When to drive:
April, May, June, July, August, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on the Emilia-Romagna Classic Road Trip to discover the heart of Italy's culinary, historical, and artistic heritage. Stretching over 424 km, this captivating route traverses the enchanting cities of Bologna, Modena, Mantua, and Ravenna, each offering unique insights into the region's storied past and breathtaking landscapes.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Bologna: Step into a medieval time capsule and explore the University of Bologna, the world's oldest university in continuous operation since 1088. Stroll through Piazza Maggiore and take in the historic ambiance of the city's main square.
- Modena: Indulge in the gastronomic excellence of Modena, known for its traditional aged balsamic vinegar. Admire the Romanesque architecture of the Cathedral of Modena, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and celebrate Italian automotive history at the Enzo Ferrari Museum.
- Mantua: Discover Mantua's artistic legacy at the Palazzo Ducale di Mantova, home to a remarkable collection of frescoes. Visit the Basilica of Sant'Andrea, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture designed by Leon Battista Alberti.
- Ravenna: Immerse yourself in the splendor of Ravenna's Byzantine mosaics, a testament to the city's historical significance. Explore its eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Basilica of San Vitale and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia.
Best Time to Go:
Experience the Emilia-Romagna Road Trip at its finest during the late spring to early autumn months, when the climate is mild and the countryside is in full bloom.
Potential Risks:
Renowned for its well-maintained roads, the region is welcoming to drivers of all levels. Yet, remain vigilant for traffic congestion in the peak of summer and acquaint yourself with Italian road etiquette.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- The gastronomy of Emilia-Romagna is legendary, with the region being the birthplace of Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, Prosciutto di Parma, and Tagliatelle al Ragù (Bolognese sauce).
- A recommended five-day itinerary allows you to savor the journey, with ample time to indulge in regional cuisine and appreciate the local culture.
- The route is dotted with numerous UNESCO Heritage Sites, including the Cathedral, Torre Civica and Piazza Grande in Modena, and the early Christian monuments of Ravenna.
A good choice for:
The Emilia-Romagna Classic Road Trip is a journey that weaves through the tapestry of Italian culture, offering a blend of gastronomic delights, historical exploration, and stunning architecture. It is an ideal sojourn for those eager to experience the depth and diversity of Italy's rich regional tapestry.
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