Destination Guides > Italy > Emilia-Romagna

Emilia-Romagna

Thousands of backpackers pass through this region of central Italy travelling between Venice and Florence, yet very few travellers take the time to stop off. Emilia-Romagna is regarded by many as the home of some of the best Italian cuisine with classic Italian dishes such as Spaghetti Bolognese and Parmesan Cheese originating in cities such as Bologna and Parma.

Bologna

This elegant university city is known for its unusual mix of good food, extreme left-wing politics and the good life. Attractions include beautiful architecture including the Basilica di San Petronio and the city's piazzi including Piazza Maggiore and Piazza del Nettuno.

Practical Information

Bologna Tourist Information Centre

Piazza Maggiore, Bologna

Tel (051) 239 660

Coming & Going

Bologna is situated on the main train line connecting Venice and Florence and has a busy train station. The airport has expensive regional flights although the smaller airport in nearby Rimini has the odd cheap charter flight to the UK.

Accommodation

Centro Europa Uno

Via Emilia 297, 40068 San Lazzaro di Savena (Bologna)

Bus 90, 94, 101, 918, 916

Tel (051) 6258352

Ostello Due Torri - San Sisto 2

Via Viadagola 5, 40057 Granarolo dell'Emilia (Bologna)

Bus 21b, 93, 301

Tel (051) 501810

Ostello San Sisto

Via Viadagola 14, 40127 Bologna

Bus 21b, 93, 301

Tel (051) 501810

Parma

Like Bologna, this city in the Emilia-Romagna region has a reputation for good food. Parma is home to Parma ham (proscuitto) and Parmasan cheese. Parma's attractions include elegant palaces, museums and piazzas and even a youth hostel within the walls of an ancient citadel.

Practical Information

Parma Tourist Information Centre

Camera di San Paolo, Via Melloni, Parma

Tel (0521) 234 735