Emilia Romagna is often described as Italy’s heartland, a region where refined cities, rural traditions and extraordinary food come together with quiet confidence. On this 13-day small group journey, we explore Emilia Romagna at an unhurried pace, staying longer in fewer places and travelling with no more than 12 guests. From Parma’s elegant streets and Modena’s balsamic vinegar lofts to the mosaics of Ravenna and the vineyard-covered hills of Romagna, this tour reveals a side of Italy that is cultured, generous and deeply rewarding.
Tour Dates and Prices
29 September – 11 October 2026
AUD 9,870 per person (twin or double share)
AUD 11,970 per person (solo traveller)
Prices are in Australian dollars and include accommodation, most meals, transport within Italy and guided experiences as outlined below.
Tour Highlights
This thoughtfully paced journey includes a rich mix of cultural, artistic and culinary experiences, with time to truly enjoy each place.
– Exploring Parma, Bologna and Ferrara with expert local guides
– Visiting a Parmigiano Reggiano producer in the hills above Parma
– Discovering traditional balsamic vinegar at a family-run acetaia near Modena
– Staying at a wine estate in the Romagna hills, surrounded by vineyards
– Walking through mural-covered Dozza and the ceramic town of Faenza
– A guided visit to San Marino, one of the world’s oldest republics
– A lagoon boat trip and seafood lunch in Comacchio
– Immersing yourself in Ravenna’s extraordinary Byzantine mosaics
Enquire About Our Emilia Romagna Tour
If you would like more information about this tour, availability, or whether it’s the right fit for you, we’d be delighted to help. Click the link below to fill out our enquiry form. We’ll be happy to talk you through the details.
13-Day Emilia Romagna Itinerary
Days 1 – 3 Parma
We begin in the elegant city of Parma, where soft ochre facades, shady arcades and a strong musical heritage set a refined tone. Home to Verdi and Toscanini, the city also boasts a rich gastronomic legacy — from Parmigiano Reggiano to Prosciutto di Parma. During our stay, we explore the city’s Romanesque cathedral, the frescoed baptistery and graceful piazzas, with time to wander at your own pace. A day trip takes us south into the hills to meet a Parmigiano Reggiano producer and visit the romantic 15th-century castle of Torrechiara, built for love and still surrounded by vineyards. Evenings are relaxed, with plenty of time to enjoy Parma’s lively yet laid-back atmosphere.
Days 4 – 6 Bologna – via Modena and Ferrara
Travelling east, we stop in Modena for a walking tour of the historic centre and a visit to a family-run acetaia , where traditional balsamic vinegar is slowly aged in wooden barrels over decades. We then continue to Bologna, our base for the next three nights.
With its medieval towers, elegant porticoes and lively university culture, Bologna is one of Italy’s most vibrant and intellectually rich cities. We explore the grand Piazza Maggiore, the Basilica of San Petronio and the historic university quarter on foot with a local guide. A day trip to nearby Ferrara reveals a different side of the region — a Renaissance city shaped by the Este family, where moated castles and the extraordinary frescoes of Palazzo Schifanoia speak of a cultured and artistic past.
Days 7 – 9 The Romagna Hills
We leave the bustle of the city behind as we head into the quieter beauty of the Romagna hills. En route, we stop in the hilltown of Dozza, where colourful murals transform the streets into an open-air gallery. A visit to Faenza offers a look at one of Italy’s oldest ceramic traditions, with a tour of a working artisan studio.
For the next three nights, we stay at a peaceful wine estate nestled among the vineyards, olive groves and gentle hills of Romagna. From here, we explore the charming town of Santarcangelo, known for its underground caves and artisan workshops, and visit Stamperia Marchi, a family-run hand-printing studio dating back to 1633. A winery lunch and tasting bring us closer to local flavours, and a day trip to the Republic of San Marino — with its medieval towers and sweeping views — adds a unique chapter to the journey.
Days 10 – 13 Ravenna and surrounds
Our final base is Ravenna, but first we pause in Cesena to visit the remarkable Malatestiana Library — the first public library in Europe, still perfectly preserved with original benches, books and fittings. After a stop for lunch and a stroll in the hilltop town of Bertinoro, known for its hospitality and panoramic views, we continue to Ravenna, our home for the last three nights.
From Ravenna, we travel to the quiet lagoon town of Comacchio, where we take a boat trip through the Po Delta and learn about traditional eel fishing practices. We dedicate a full day to Ravenna itself, exploring its astonishing early Christian mosaics at San Vitale, Galla Placidia and Sant’Apollinare Nuovo — some of the most celebrated artworks in all of Italy. With free time to wander, visit Dante’s tomb or simply enjoy the peaceful pace of the city, it’s a fitting finale to our time in Emilia-Romagna.
Accommodation
We stay in carefully selected, well-located hotels throughout the tour, chosen for their comfort, character and close connection to the places we explore. With longer stays in fewer locations, our accommodation supports a relaxed pace of travel and allows time to settle in and enjoy each destination. As is typical of boutique-style properties, room layouts and features may vary slightly, but all rooms on this tour are private and include ensuite facilities.
Parma
In Parma, we stay at Sina Maria Luigia, an elegant, centrally located hotel set within walking distance of the historic centre. Its refined atmosphere and quiet position make it an excellent base for exploring Parma’s architecture, piazzas and cultural landmarks.
Bologna
In Bologna, we stay at Hotel Orologio, located in the heart of the historic centre overlooking Piazza Maggiore. From here, Bologna’s porticoed streets, markets, museums and cafés are all easily explored on foot.
Romagna hills
Our stay in the Romagna hills is at Borgo Condé, a wine estate surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. This peaceful rural setting offers expansive views across the countryside and a welcome contrast to the cities, with time to relax and enjoy the slower rhythm of life in this part of Emilia Romagna.
Ravenna
In Ravenna, we stay at Palazzo Galletti Abbiosi, a beautifully restored historic residence within walking distance of the city’s renowned mosaics. Its central location provides easy access to Ravenna’s major sites and free time to explore at your own pace.
On rare occasions, if one of the listed hotels is unavailable, a similar hotel of equal standard and location may be substituted.
What’s included?
– 12 nights accommodation on a twin-share basis
– Daily breakfast
– Ten meals (lunches or dinners) with wine included
– All transport in Italy by private, air-conditioned mini-coach
– Admission to all museums, galleries and sites listed in the itinerary
– Expert local guides in key locations
– Experienced, bilingual Italian Tours tour leader throughout
What’s not included?
– International flights
– Travel insurance
– Local city taxes (payable directly to hotels)
– Pre-tour accommodation in Parma
– Private transfers to Parma at the start of the tour (available on request)
Why travel to Emilia Romagna with Italian Tours?
Every Italian Tours itinerary is developed through first-hand research. Philippa and Luca personally research each tour on the ground, refining routes, pacing and experiences before a journey is ever offered to guests. This ensures our tours feel well considered, unhurried and genuinely connected to the regions we visit.
For our Emilia Romagna tour, we are fortunate to draw on the knowledge of Marco, who is native to the region, was raised in Imola and still lives there today. His insight into local towns, producers and traditions has helped shape an itinerary that reflects the everyday richness of Emilia Romagna, not just its headline sights.
Travelling with Italian Tours means small groups of no more than 12 guests, thoughtful planning and a style of travel that values depth, balance and authenticity.
Ideal for travellers who appreciate …
This tour is ideal for travellers who are keen to explore a part of Italy that feels less busy and less overtly touristy, while still offering an extraordinary depth of culture, art and food. Emilia Romagna rewards curiosity, with elegant cities, small towns and rural landscapes that are deeply Italian in character and refreshingly unspoilt.
It will particularly appeal to those who enjoy travelling in the shoulder season, when crowds are lighter and the weather is generally milder. With a relaxed pace, longer stays in each location and thoughtfully planned days, this journey suits travellers who value balance, comfort and the pleasure of taking time to really absorb the places they visit.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
How many people are in the group?
We travel in small groups of up to 12 guests. This keeps the experience relaxed and personal, and allows us to stay in centrally located hotels and enjoy a flexible, unhurried pace throughout the tour.
Are flights included?
No, international flights are not included. Guests make their own way to Parma at the start of the tour. We’re very happy to offer advice on the easiest routes, whether by train or private transfer, and on onward travel at the end of the tour.
Is this tour suitable for solo travellers?
Yes. We welcome solo travellers on all our tours, and most departures include several solo guests. A single supplement applies and provides a private room for the duration of the tour.
What does the single supplement include?
The single supplement covers the cost of a private room throughout the tour. Solo travellers are accommodated in a double room for sole use. As we stay in boutique-style hotels, room sizes and layouts may vary slightly.
Where does the tour begin and end?
The tour begins in Parma on Day 1. On the final day, a group transfer is provided to Bologna Centrale train station and Bologna Airport.
What level of fitness is required?
A moderate level of fitness is required. You should be comfortable walking for up to three hours at a steady pace, with breaks, including on cobblestones, uneven surfaces and through historic town centres.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance is required for all guests travelling with Italian Tours.
Other small group tours in 2026
If you’re considering Emilia Romagna, you may also be interested in these other small group journeys with Italian Tours, all departing in the second half of 2026:
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October 2026
Turin, the Langhe, Aosta & Lake Maggiore
An autumn journey through vineyard landscapes, historic towns and Alpine valleys, ideal for travellers drawn to food, wine and layered history.
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May & September 2026
Lake Maggiore & Lake Como
A relaxed exploration of Lake Maggiore and Lake Como, combining elegant towns, gardens and lakeside scenery in northern Italy.
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April, May, September & October 2026
Lecce, Valle d’Itria, Vieste & Polignano a Mare
A slower-paced journey through southern Italy, with whitewashed towns, ancient olive groves and a strong focus on regional food and traditions.
What our clients say about travelling with Italian Tours
“The tour was absolutely fantastic, and all that it is cracked up to be on your website. We were amazed at the beauty of Puglia and were stunned by the local food. The accommodation was first-rate. The group size is perfect for the sort of tour that you offer.
Our guide, Marco, …was greatly appreciated for his care and sense of humour. He introduced us to many Pugliese dishes and especially to Café Leccese, which became a great hit with the whole group. We are now making it at home!!
Paul and Sue, Puglia, The Road Less Travelled Tour September 2023