Things To Do
in Novellara
Novellara is a small medieval town in Emilia-Romagna known for its well-preserved historic center and its ties to the Gonzaga dynasty. The town sits on fertile plains near Reggio nell'Emilia, offering a calm pace and scenic river landscapes. Its architecture blends medieval fortifications with Renaissance churches and narrow winding lanes.
Visitors are drawn by traditional cuisine, local markets, and easy access to the broader Po Valley region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the cobblestone streets of Novellara's historic center. Visit the stunning Palazzo Ducale, where you can marvel at the architecture and learn about the city's rich history. Don't forget to stop by a local café for a traditional Italian breakfast of cappuccino and cornetto.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the local artisans' workshops. Explore the quaint shops filled with handmade goods and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby trattoria, trying regional delicacies like tortelli di zucca. Later, take a walk in one of the beautiful parks, soaking in the serene atmosphere and picturesque landscapes.
As the sun sets, head to a cozy restaurant to indulge in a delicious dinner featuring authentic Emilian cuisine. After your meal, wander through the illuminated streets, enjoying the quiet charm of Novellara at night. Finish your day with a gelato from a local shop, savoring the flavors as you reflect on the day's adventures.
Begin your day with a visit to one of the nearby vineyards, where you can learn about the wine-making process. Join a guided tour to explore the vineyards and take in the stunning countryside views. Savor a delightful breakfast made with local produce before the wine tasting begins.
Spend the afternoon sampling a variety of wines during a guided tasting experience, paired with local cheeses and meats. Engage with the winemakers to understand their craft and the unique characteristics of the region's varietals. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at the vineyard's restaurant, where farm-to-table dishes showcase the flavors of the area.
Return to Novellara for a relaxed evening at a local enoteca, where you can sip on your favorite wine from the day's tasting. Engage with locals and fellow travelers as you discuss everything from wine to travel stories. Conclude your evening with a nightcap as you enjoy the warm hospitality of the region.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-60 |
| 🏨Hotel night (mid-range) | $90-150 |
| ☕Cappuccino | $1.5-3 |
| 🚌24h public transit pass | $4-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich regional cuisine and easy day trips to the surrounding Emilia-Romagna towns
- Well-preserved historic center with a calm, safe environment
- Limited nightlife compared with larger cities
- Some services, restaurants, or information may be limited outside peak tourist season
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning / Hello
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Novellara
Visit one of these nice places.
Medieval streets and pastel façades radiating from the central square, ideal for daytime street photography.
Imposing fortress remains offering dramatic angles, especially during blue hour.
Footbridge and riverside paths provide reflective water scenes at sunrise or sunset.
Food in Novellara
Novellara Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh tortellini served in a light capon broth, a classic starter in Emilia-Romagna.
Must-Try!
Home-made tagliatelle tossed with a slow-simmered meat ragù.
Light fried dough served with local cured meats and cheeses.
Pumpkin-filled pasta ribbons finished with butter and sage.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in the historic center offering fresh produce, cheese, bread, and regional specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with buongiorno or buonasera; a brief handshake is common in formal settings.
Be punctual for reservations; dining is relaxed but meals can last longer than in some countries.
Respectful attire when visiting churches; remove hats and speak softly.
Safety
Tipping in Novellara
Ensure a smooth experience
In Italy, service is often included in the bill. If not, rounding up or a tip of 5-10% is appreciated but not mandatory. Cash and card payments are widely accepted; small shops may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry days with highs often in the 30s°C; plan early-morning activities and shaded outdoor dining; occasional thunderstorms.
Mild days with cooler evenings; harvest season brings markets and aldeleda flavors; colorful countryside.
Cool to cold with possible fog; short days; cafés and trattorie offer warm comfort foods; rainfall varies.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes; ideal for walking tours and outdoor markets.
Novellara at Night
Hiking in Novellara
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle riverside path suitable for easy hikes and sunset photography.
Forest trails and rolling hills within 20-40 km offering varied terrain and scenic viewpoints.
Flat farmland tracks through the Emilia-Romagna countryside with open landscapes.
Airports
How to reach Novellara by plane.
Major international hub about 90-110 km away; good rail and road connections to Reggio Emilia and nearby towns.
Regional airport about 60-90 km away; services several domestic and European destinations.
Major airport about 120-150 km away; frequent international and domestic flights; rail connections to northern Italy.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of local families and retirees; community life centers around schools, markets, and churches.
Nearby towns and Reggio Emilia provide education opportunities; a portion of the population includes university-aged students.
The fertile Po Valley supports farming communities nearby; local markets reflect this heritage.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The region loves football, with local teams and recreational leagues for all ages.
Flat plains and gentle hills make cycling a popular pastime and a way to reach nearby towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Novellara.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many pasta dishes can be prepared without meat; ask for tomato or cheese-based options, and enjoy seasonal vegetables, risotto ai funghi, or caprese-style plates. Look for vegetarian-friendly antipasti and hearty vegetable mains.