Things To Do
in Reggio Emilia
Reggio Emilia is a historic city in the Emilia-Romagna region known for its refined culture and culinary heritage. Its compact center revolves around Piazza Grande, the Duomo, and the Civic Tower, all linked by arcaded streets that invite easy wandering. The city blends traditional trattorie with modern design and family-friendly atmosphere.
It is also celebrated as the birthplace of emblematic regional foods and a gateway to the surrounding hills and valleys.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by wandering through the charming streets of Reggio Emilia's historic center, where you can admire the beautiful architecture of the Cathedral and the Baptistery. Don't miss a visit to the Piazza Prampolini, a lively square that serves as the heart of the city. Enjoy a traditional Italian breakfast at a local café, savoring a cornetto and an espresso while soaking in the morning ambiance.
After lunch, visit the Palazzo Masdoni, where you can explore its fascinating art collections and learn about the history of the region. Take a leisurely stroll down Via Emilia, lined with shops and cafes, and perhaps stop for gelato at one of the local parlors. As the sun begins to set, make your way to the Teatro Municipale for a guided tour of this stunning opera house.
Conclude your day with dinner at a traditional trattoria, where you can indulge in authentic dishes like tortelli d'erbetta and local wines. After dinner, enjoy a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets of the city, appreciating the vibrant atmosphere. Consider ending the night with a nightcap at a cozy bar, where you can chat with locals and reflect on your day's adventures.
Begin your day at the Mercato Albinelli, a bustling market where you can sample local cheeses, cured meats, and fresh produce. Interact with the friendly vendors as you try regional delicacies like Parmigiano-Reggiano and aceto balsamico. Grab a pastry and coffee from a nearby bakery to fuel your culinary exploration.
Join a cooking class where a local chef will guide you through the preparation of traditional dishes using fresh market ingredients. Enjoy the fruits of your labor as you sit down to a delicious lunch featuring the recipes you've just learned. Afterward, take some time to explore the surrounding streets filled with artisan shops and boutiques.
For dinner, head to a local osteria known for its rustic charm and hearty fare. Sample regional specialties while enjoying the warm ambiance and friendly service. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the canals, soaking in the picturesque views of the city under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $1.5-3 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two | $40-60 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
| 🏨Night in a mid-range hotel | $70-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable historic center
- Outstanding regional cuisine and cheese culture
- Good value for money in hotels and dining
- More limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Some attractions can feel quiet outside peak tourist seasons
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dove si trova…?" - Where is…?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Reggio Emilia
Visit one of these nice places.
The heart of Reggio Emilia, framed by historic buildings, the town hall, and the cathedral; a perfect location for wide-angle cityscapes.
The civic tower offers panoramic city views; capture the skyline as the light changes in the late afternoon.
Gothic architecture with graceful façades and a dramatic interior—great for architectural photography.
Baroque interiors and ornate details provide rich opportunities for interior shots.
Riverbank paths and green spaces ideal for nature and sunset photography.
Food in Reggio Emilia
Reggio Emilia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Long pasta ribbons with a slow-simmered meat ragù, a regional hallmark.
Must-Try!
Crispy fried dough and soft cheese served with cured meats; perfect for sharing.
Delicate stuffed pasta served in a light broth, especially popular in cooler months.
Breadcrumb-based dumplings in a savory broth or with butter and parmesan.
Aged cheese from the surrounding dairies; sample on a cheese board with local honey and balsamic.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic-center market offering fresh produce, cheeses, breads, and regional snacks—great for picking up ingredients for a picnic.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite greeting such as 'Buongiorno' or 'Buonasera' is customary; a handshake is common in formal settings.
Speak softly in restaurants, wait for everyone to be served before eating, and maintain relaxed but courteous conversation.
Dress neatly when visiting churches or formal venues; ask before taking photos of people or inside religious spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Reggio Emilia
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are often included; rounding up or leaving a small tip (5-10%) is appreciated but not mandatory.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; ATMs are readily available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and pleasant crowds make it ideal for walking tours and outdoor cafés.
Hot and sunny; plan outdoor activities early in the day and enjoy evenings in shaded squares with gelato or aperitivo.
Harvest season with comfortable weather; golden light enhances photography and hillside wine tastings are popular.
Cool and often damp with fog; museums and trattorie are cozy refuges, and Christmas markets bring festive charm.
Reggio Emilia at Night
Hiking in Reggio Emilia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic rock formation near Castelnovo ne' Monti offering scenic, accessible to challenging hiking routes with panoramic valley views.
Appennine peak providing moderate-to-strenuous hikes and alpine scenery within feasible day trips.
Airports
How to reach Reggio Emilia by plane.
Major international gateway located about 40-90 minutes from Reggio Emilia by train or car, depending on connections.
Smaller regional airport offering domestic and some international flights; about 1 hour by car or train.
Larger hubs with extensive international connections; typically a longer journey to Reggio Emilia but often worth it for international travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primarily native Italian, with a growing presence of international residents and families.
Several smaller educational institutions and a local university presence contribute to a vibrant student scene, especially in the center and university-adjacent neighborhoods.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local club matches and a strong regional football culture; a great way to experience Italian sports atmosphere.
A region with excellent cycling routes through hills and valleys; popular among locals and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Reggio Emilia.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in trattorie; ask for egg-based pastas, seasonal vegetables, and vegetarian antipasti.
Many restaurants can accommodate gluten-free requests; look for gluten-free pasta or bruschette, and confirm with staff.
Vegan options exist but may be more limited; seek salads, grilled vegetables, legumes, and fruit-based desserts.