Bologna sits at the centre of a useful rail network, with Modena, Parma, Ferrara and Ravenna offering different day or overnight trips. The region’s food is tied to place, so one market or producer visit can add more than a long restaurant checklist.
A car is not needed for the main cities. Rural producers and hill areas require more planning, and visits should be booked directly when access is limited.
Use Bologna as a base
The city has the strongest transport links and enough sights for at least two full days.
Pick one food city
Modena and Parma are easy rail additions, but each has its own centre and local context.
Add Ravenna for mosaics
Ravenna lies off the fastest corridor and deserves a full day rather than a short stop.
A practical itinerary
- Days 1 to 3: explore Bologna.
- Day 4: visit Modena or Parma.
- Days 5 to 6: add Ferrara or an overnight in Ravenna.
Book specialist visits
Producer tours and some museum visits may require advance arrangements.
Summer heat
Porticoes help in cities, but outdoor days still need a slower pace in hot weather.
Places to add to your map
- Bologna: Central regional rail hub.
- Modena: Compact city west of Bologna.
- Ravenna: Eastern city known for early Christian mosaics.
Open the route planner to place these stops in a wider Italy trip.
Continue planning
Questions about Emilia-Romagna
How long should I spend in Emilia-Romagna?
Four days cover Bologna and one nearby city. A week allows a slower route through two or three regional centres.
Can I explore Emilia-Romagna without a car?
The main cities are easy by rail. A car is useful for rural producers and hill areas, not for central Bologna.
Sources and updates
This guide was last reviewed on 28 August 2026. Transport, access and opening arrangements can change, so check the official source before travel.
- Official Italian tourism information, Italian Ministry of Tourism
- Italian rail timetables and travel information, Trenitalia
- Official Bologna visitor information, Bologna Welcome