Bordered by Lombardy and Veneto to the north, and Tuscany to the south, the central Italian region of Emilia-Romagna stretches from the Adriatic coast in the east almost to the Mediterranean in the west.
Principle towns include the capital of Bologna, Modena, Ravenna, Piacenza and Parma. Smaller gems include Rocca Viscontea and Brisighella. A varied landscape encompasses the foothills of the Apennine mountains to the south, the lush farmlands of the Pianura Padana in the north, little medieval villages and towns, castles and bustling beach resorts such as Rimini and Riccione.
The little principality of San Marino nestles on its south-eastern border. Unmissable highlights of Emilia-Romagna include the food (the richest in Italy and heavy on creams and sauces, with local specialities including Parma Ham and Parmesan Cheese (parmiggiano). Don't miss: the cathedral (Duomo) in Modena, one of Italy's best Romanesque buildings; the Rocca Viscontea (14th century castle); Bologna food market; the truffle, olive and polenta festival in Brisighella; the mosaics in Ravenna.
To the left you'll find a selection of hotels, just to whet your appetite,
as well as links to individual towns in Emilia-Romagna (top left);
See also Emilia-Romagna hotels (full listings) and our map of Emilia-Romagna.
