10 Of the prettiest villages in Emilia Romagna

Planning a trip to Italy and wondering where to find those charming little towns that feel like they've jumped straight out of a fairy tale? Look no further.

Emilia Romagna is packed with beautiful, off-the-beaten-path villages that ooze history, culture, and incredible views.

Ready to explore? Let’s dive into ten of the prettiest towns in Emilia-Romagna with some real hidden gems to add to your list.

Emilia Romagna: the best towns and villages

Emilia Romagna is home to nine cities: Bologna, Parma, Modena, Reggio Emilia, Ravenna, Rimini, Ferrara, Forlì, and Piacenza. Each of these cities is worth a visit.

In addition to the cities, many small towns and villages are off the typical tourist radar, which can transform your trip into a dreamlike experience steeped in history.

Here are some of the best:

Verucchio is a history lover's dream.

Known as the birthplace of the Malatesta family, who pretty much ruled over much of the area, this village is packed with stories of the past.

The Malatesta Fortress sits on top of the village like a crown, offering stunning views of the Marecchia Valley.

Picture this: You’re standing at the top, looking out over rolling hills and ancient streets that seem untouched by time.

If you love history, architecture, and nature all rolled into one, Verucchio’s got you covered.

Fancy walking through a real-life medieval movie set?

Castell’Arquato feels like you’ve stepped into a medieval film.

The ancient Rocca Viscontea stands tall above the village, giving you panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

You can get lost wandering through the narrow, cobbled streets, passing by churches, towers, and homes that date back centuries. Whether you’re a history buff or just love exploring pretty places, this village will sweep you off your feet.

There are many nice towns near Parma to visit. Busseto, Soragna, Colorno and Soragna. Fontanellato is the best one, featuring the imposing Rocca Sanvitale, a castle surrounded by a serene moat.

This village offers a tranquil escape, with its beautifully preserved Renaissance buildings and charming town square.

Inside the castle, art lovers will go crazy for the Room of Diana and Actaeon, with frescoes by Parmigianino.

You are only 30 minutes by car from Parma, which makes Fontanellato the perfect match to walk off your lunch after our Parma food tour ;)

Ever walked along a road once used by donkeys?

Brisighella is one of those villages that feels hidden away from the world, tucked into the Apennine Mountains.

It’s famous for its unique Via degli Asini (yes, that translates to “Donkey’s Road”), a covered street that was originally used by donkeys carrying goods.

The village is a mix of medieval charm, with its fortress and Clock Tower, and stunning natural views.

Brisighella is also famous for the production of its extra virgin olive oil.
So if you're looking for a food souvenir, you already know what to look for.

Tucked away in the Trebbia Valley, Bobbio is famous for its unique Ponte Gobbo, also known as the Devil’s Bridge.

This ancient stone bridge, with its irregular arches, stretches over the Trebbia River and offers a breathtaking sight, particularly at sunset.

Bobbio is also home to the Abbey of San Colombano, an important spiritual center founded in the 7th century.

If you want to add the perfect finishing touch to your honeymoon in Bologna, make sure to add this to your list.

Dozza is the most beautiful village near Bologna.

It has a unique twist: its streets double as an open-air gallery.

The medieval town is famous for the Biennale del Muro Dipinto, a festival during which artists from around the world paint murals directly on the village’s buildings.

In addition to its artistic flair, Dozza boasts a medieval fortress, Rocca di Dozza, that houses a museum and the Enoteca Regionale, a must-visit for wine lovers eager to sample the region’s finest vintages.

If you’re still craving more of Bologna’s most romantic restaurants, Dozza is the perfect destination to explore next.

If you’re up for a little adventure, San Leo is perched dramatically on a massive rock, offering jaw-dropping views of the surrounding valleys.

The village’s fortress has seen some serious history, from medieval battles to the imprisonment of Count Cagliostro (a famous occultist, no less!).

Walking through its ancient streets and churches, you’ll feel like you’re in a time warp – and you won’t want to leave.

Want to sip wine with a view?
This must be the place.

Known as the “Balcony of Romagna”, Bertinoro is all about the views and the vino.

It’s perched on a hill, offering stunning panoramas of vineyards and valleys.

Sit back with a glass of the local Albana wine and soak up the atmosphere. The Fortress of Bertinoro is also worth a visit for its sweeping views of the surrounding countryside.

Longiano is where art lovers and history buffs meet.

The Castello Malatestiano houses a great art collection, while the village itself is a perfect place for a quiet getaway.

And if you fancy more food and art, why don't join us for a tour in Ravenna? It's less than one hour from here and you will see the most beautiful mosaics of your entire life. I promise.

Santarcangelo is a lively village, known for its artisan shops, local markets, and cultural festivals.

It’s also hiding a cool secret beneath its streets: a network of tunnels that have been there for centuries. Wander up to the Rocca Malatestiana for some great views and dive into the town’s rich cultural scene.

Is it cold out there?
Good news, then you can jump in a hot pool for a thermal bath to warm up your body and soul.

[Photo credits: Billy Wilson @Creative Commons, Giorgio Rodano @Creative Commons, Alberto Antoniazzi @Creative Commons, Lorenzo Gaudenzi @Creative Commons, Kirk K @Creative Commons, Comune di Bertinoro, Comune di Longiano, Comune di Santarcangelo di Romagna - Matteo e Gilberto Manzi, Pro loco Verucchio]