Emilia-Romagna Food Road
Italy
Along the Via Emilia, the Roman road built in 187 BC that still runs ruler-straight through Italy's gastronomic heartland from Parma to Ravenna. The route takes in Parma ham, Parmigiano-Reggiano, Modena's balsamic vinegar and tortellini, and Bologna's ragù, the most food-dense drive in the world.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Parma
Capital of ham and cheese. Prosciutto di Parma and Parmigiano-Reggiano are both produced within 30 km. The Battistero is the finest Romanesque baptistery in Italy.
- Reggio Emilia
Co-holder of the Parmigiano-Reggiano appellation and birthplace of the Italian tricolore flag. The Piazza del Duomo rewards a short stop on the Via Emilia.
- Modena
Traditional balsamic vinegar ages 12 to 25 years in barrel series here and cannot legally be made elsewhere. The UNESCO Duomo and Ferrari Museum are 17 km south.
- Bologna
La Grassa, La Dotta, La Rossa. Italy's food capital has 38 km of porticoes, Europe's oldest university (1088), and ragù served only with tagliatelle, never spaghetti.
- Ferrara
UNESCO-listed Renaissance city of the Este dynasty. The Castello Estense moat and Palazzo dei Diamanti's 8,500 diamond-cut stones are unmissable.
- Ravenna
Eight UNESCO buildings hold the finest early-Christian mosaics in the West. The Mausoleum of Galla Placidia glows with 5th-century tesserae, all walkable from the centre.
Where to Eat
- Osteria FrancescanaModernist
A three-Michelin-starred restaurant in Modena, renowned for its innovative Italian cuisine crafted by Chef Massimo Bottura.
- Trattoria Anna MariaTraditional Bolognese
A beloved eatery in Bologna, famous for its authentic tagliatelle al ragù and other classic local dishes.
- Al BrindisiWine Bar
Located in Ferrara, this historic wine bar dates back to 1435 and offers a vast selection of regional wines and traditional snacks.
Things to Do
- Balsamic Vinegar MuseumMuseum
Explore the history and production of traditional balsamic vinegar in Modena, with guided tours and tastings.
- Gelato Museum CarpigianiMuseum
Located near Bologna, this museum offers an interactive journey through the history of gelato, including workshops and tastings.
- Castello EstenseHistoric Site
A moated medieval castle in Ferrara, offering insights into the city's Renaissance history and panoramic views from its towers.