In Bologna, rose-red palaces glow, lavish churches shine and teetering towers strive for the skies – all looped together by miles of classical colonnades. Hidden amongst the shadows of its porticoes is a veritable treasure trove; from elaborately frescoed churches and Byzantine masterpieces to medieval and Renaissance palazzi. It’s not all about the past, though: Bologna is a vibrant town with a fine gastronomic tradition, thanks to the fertile lands of the surrounding Emilia-Romagna. Beautiful though Bologna is, there is more to this region than just the city: dotted amongst the gloriously verdant countryside are proud towns rich with Etruscan history and dynastic legacies, and the region yields wonderful produce (Parma’s cured ham, Modena’s rich vinegar and the vast truckles of aged parmesan cheese are its most famous exports). Diverse and understated, Bologna and Emilia-Romagna offer all the delights of Italy with far fewer tourists than its neighbouring provinces.
based on two sharing in a twin/double room, with a minimum of 30 passengers travelling in a specific month
April, May, June, September, October
The old centre of Bologna has a Roman core, is encircled by the remains of ancient walls, and exudes charm. The wonderful tapestry of architecture speaks of the formidable and prestigious past of the once-powerful Bolognesi citizens. Discover this city’s famous Fountain of Neptune, its two tilting towers, the grand Piazza Maggiore, and its array of beautiful basilicas and palazzos, before exploring the incredible collections of art that reside here. The National Picture Gallery of Bologna and its Zambeccari Collection display significant pieces from the 14th to 19th centuries, tracing the esteemed history of the region.
An early capital of the Western Roman Empire, this lovely but unassuming town is lifted from the everyday by its stunning collections of religious mosaics – indeed, Ravenna’s masterpieces are considered the world’s finest examples of Byzantine art. Explore these vivid artworks in the Basilica of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo; the Cathedral of San Vitale; the Neonian Baptistery, and the Basilica of Sant’Apollinare in Classe, all of which form part of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Today pretty and provincial, but once dynastic and imperial, Ferrara was a stronghold of the powerful Este family for 300 years. The town’s Renaissance, UNESCO-listed centre is strewn with palaces linked by arcades, a Gothic cathedral with Romanesque features, and dominated by the 14th century Castello Estense – former seat of the Este dynasty. Ferrara was a major centre for art in its glory days, and today the work of the highly regarded Ferrara School can be enjoyed at the Pinacoteca Nazionale which is found inside the grand, 15th century Palazzo dei Diamanti.
A former Roman outpost and one of Italy’s most underrated gems, charming Parma hems a tributary of the Po River and is the cultural epicentre of Emilia-Romagna. Brimming with stately monuments, piazzas, and food spots selling its celebrated cheese and ham, its strollable centre reveals jewel after jewel, from handsome Parma Duomo and Baptistery to the Teatro Regio di Parma opera house, a stage for many Giuseppe Verdi opera performances.
Overlooking the city’s majestic Duomo Square, Parma Duomo and Baptistery are visions of medieval beauty. Completed in the 12th century, the austere-looking cathedral reveals a cavernous Renaissance interior filled with ornate statues and paintings, and crowned by a stunning frescoed dome by Antonio da Careggio. Nearby is the Baptistery, an octagonal pink marble masterpiece whose doors open to magnificent baptismal fonts, swirling murals and a soaring fresco-covered ceiling.
Majestic Modena is dominated by the colossal Palazzo Ducale and the fine façades of its Romanesque cathedral. One of the finest Duomos in Italy, this graceful 12th century construction is a UNESCO World Heritage Site laced with Gothic features. The vast Palazzo Ducale speaks of Modena’s storied history, and indicates the wealth that the Este dynasty brought to the town. Modena is also the birthplace of Ferrari, and the Museo Ferrari is a must for motor enthusiasts.
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Take in the sweeping panoramic vistas of Umbria, and you’ll immediately see why it’s known as the green heart of Italy. The densely wooded hills of this rustic, landlocked region are studded with medieval hill towns which guard historic and artistic treasures.
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