Emilia Romagna Self-Drive Tour

Journey Through Emilia Romagna: A 7-Night Self-Drive Expedition of Culinary Discoveries and Historical Wonders.

Embark on a captivating 7-night self-drive adventure through the enchanting Emilia Romagna region, exploring the cultural gems of Parma, Reggio Emilia, Piacenza, Modena, Bologna, Ravenna, and Ferrara. Immerse yourself in the artistry of these historic cities, savouring a unique balsamic vinegar experience in Modena. Revel in the rich history, culinary delights, and UNESCO-listed treasures that await you on this unforgettable journey through the heart of Emilia Romagna. Your self-drive tour promises a perfect blend of cultural exploration and gastronomic indulgence, creating lasting memories in one of Italy's most captivating regions.

Day 1 - Arrival
Upon arrival at Bologna Airport, collect your car rental and head to your hotel close to Reggio Emilia. Enjoy some leisure time and stay overnight.

Day 2 - Parma & Reggio Emilia
Following breakfast at the hotel, indulge in a day of leisure to discover the enchanting cities of Parma and Reggio Emilia. Parma, recognized as the City of the Tricolour for being the birthplace of the Italian flag, boasts a sophisticated historic centre featuring Romanesque structures such as the fresco-adorned Parma Cathedral and the pink marble Baptistery. Take a leisurely stroll through the heart of Reggio Emilia, exploring landmarks like the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and the city theatre.

Day 3 - Castles of Parma & Piacenza
On Day 3, relish a delightful breakfast at the hotel, and then take the entire day to explore the exceptionally charming castles of Fontanellato and Vigoleno. Transport yourself back in time as you wander through the splendour of castles, fortresses, palaces, and manors, immersing yourself in the rich history of a time when the stretch of Via Emilia was untouched by motor vehicles. It's a journey that allows your imagination to roam freely through the ancient past.

Day 4 - Modena & Balsamic vinegar experience
Following breakfast at the hotel, embark on a captivating exploration of the city of Modena. Roam through the city centre, navigating a labyrinth of alleys adorned with elegant Romanesque monuments and refined structures. Take a detour to a renowned balsamic vinegar farm, where you can savour their ‘black gold’ alongside a selection of Parmigiano Reggiano, cold cuts, and Lambrusco wine.

If time permits, seize the opportunity to visit the Enzo Ferrari Museum, housed in his childhood home, showcasing exhibits on the life and work of the legendary car designer, along with iconic models in a futuristic setting. For opera enthusiasts and devotees of Italian culture, a visit to the Pavarotti House Museum is a must. Nestled in the Modena countryside on a vast estate, this was the home Luciano Pavarotti built, where he spent the final years of his life. The museum preserves the objects he cherished and showcases memories of days spent with family, friends, and students to whom he imparted singing lessons.

Day 5 - Bologna
Following breakfast at the hotel, complete your check-out and savour a leisurely day in the capital town of Emilia Romagna, Bologna. Renowned for housing Europe's oldest university since 1088 A.D., the city boasts Piazza Maggiore, an expansive square adorned with arched colonnades, charming cafes, and medieval and Renaissance structures like City Hall, the Fountain of Neptune, and the Basilica di San Petronio. Delight in the sight of the city's medieval towers, including the iconic Two Towers - Asinelli and Garisenda - each with its distinctive lean. Take advantage of the opportunity to relish authentic tortellini during lunchtime, and then proceed to your next hotel for check-in.

Day 6 - Ravenna
Following breakfast at the hotel, check out and immerse yourself in a leisurely day exploring the charming city of Ravenna. As you wander through the unassuming town centre today, it's hard to imagine that for a three-century span, beginning in AD 402, Ravenna held the prestigious titles of the capital of the Western Roman Empire, chief city of the Ostrogoth Kingdom of Italy, and the nexus of a powerful Byzantine exarchate.

For enthusiasts of mosaic art, Ravenna stands as an earthly paradise. Scattered across several churches and baptisteries throughout the town is one of the world's most dazzling collections of early Christian mosaic artwork, a treasure officially recognized since 1996 on UNESCO's World Heritage list.

Day 7 - Ferrara
After breakfast at the hotel, delve into the exquisite city of Ferrara. This Renaissance gem, adorned with colossal palaces and encircled by well-preserved medieval walls, captures attention like an unexpected encounter with a vanished Casanova along the route from Bologna to Venice. Despite its UNESCO World Heritage status, Ferrara often finds itself overshadowed, much like any city in the vicinity of the latter.

Day 8 - Departure
Following breakfast at the hotel, embark on a drive back to Bologna Airport to catch your return flight.

Your Self-Drive holiday includes:

- Four nights in a Standard Double Room at the Hotel Dei Medaglioni (or similar) in the area of Reggio Emilia, including breakfast
- Three nights in a Standard Room at the Hotel Emilia (or similar) in the area of Ozzano dell’ Emilia, including breakfast.
- A guided visit to a renowned balsamic vinegar farm followed by the tasting of typical products.
- Car rental for the duration.
- Return direct flights are included from London Heathrow to Bologna, Italy.
- One small cabin bag (Max size 56 cm x 45 cm x 25 cm)  allowance per person

*Hold luggage between 15kg and 23kg can be added at a supplement