An Exciting Array of Day Trips in Italy. From Parma, Bologna, and Modena

Day trips in Italy through the Emilia-Romagna region are famous for their food, architecture, and spectacular scenery. This area of Italy boasts Medieval and Renaissance cities, picturesque countryside, and myriad cultural attractions that include the oldest university in the Western world. Because transportation between and around the cities of Parma, Bologna, and Modena is convenient, there are many day trips and cultural excursions to consider when visiting these Emilia-Romagna destinations.

Day Trips in Italy from Parma

Milan

The historic city of Milan is rich with sites to see and things to do. From its Santa Maria delle Grazie, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to its world-famous fashion boutiques, Milan is one of Europe’s most popular cities. Day trips to Milan might include such memorable attractions as the Milan Cathedral, Pinacoteca di Brera, Teatro alla Scala, and Castello Sforzesco.

Cinque Terre

One of Italy’s most picturesque areas, the villages that make up the Cinque Terre region are situated on the Italian Riviera and are known for their rugged beauty and historic charm. Aside from this area’s delicious cuisine, Cinque Terre beckons many visitors with its Senterio Azzuro, a walking trail that connects the five towns. The enchanting scenery has been captivating visitors for centuries.

Cremona

An ancient city, Cremona is located on the Po River and offers travelers many historical attractions. The city is, perhaps, most famous for its musical tradition that was begun in the Middle Ages. A day trip to this delightful city might include visits to the Cathedral and Baptistery of Cremona, the Museo Stradivariano, and the Church of San Michele.

Day Trips in Italy from Bologna and Modena

Verona

Due to its many important historical structures, Verona has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This lovely old city contains many cultural attractions such as its Roman amphitheatre, the Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore, and the Porta Borsari. The city’s historic architecture represents the ancient Roman era as well as the Middle Ages and Renaissance.

Lake Garda

This lake, the largest in Italy, is known for its extraordinary beauty. Lake Garda has been a holiday destination for centuries. Amidst its beautiful scenery are such places of interest as the ancient town of Sirmione, the thirteenth-century Scaliger Castle, and the Roman ruins of Gratti di Catullo.

Florence

As the capital city of the Tuscan region, Florence is a celebration of history, culture, and cuisine. Visitors to this marvelous city have many sightseeing options, but some of Florence’s most popular sites include its Duomo, its historic centre, Ponte Vecchio, the Church of San Lorenzo, and the Uffizi Gallery.

Mantua

From its lovely cathedral to its charming palazzos, Mantua is an historic city of northern Italy that contains many appealing attractions. Historically, Mantua was a center of music for this region of Italy; its Bibiena Theatre is a popular site. Other attractions include the Rotunda di San Lorenzo, the Palazzo Ducale, and the Palazzo Te.

Ferrara

A UNESCO World Heritage site, this historic town features beautiful fourteenth and fifteenth-century palaces. Travelers will delight in Ferrara’s many sites that include Castle Estense, its medieval walls, the cathedral, the Massari Gardens, and the Palazzo dei Diamanti.

Venice

One of the most famous cities in the world, Venice is a must-see destination. From its canals to its historic churches and squares, Venice is filled with popular attractions. Some of its favorite landmarks and sites include the Piazza San Marco, the Doge’s Palace, the Grand Canal, and the Bridge of Sighs. The city is also revered for its old churches, restaurants, cafes, and shops.

Padua

Situated on the Bacchiglione River, Padua is home to the historic University of Padua. It is also renowned for its art and historic architecture. When visiting Padua, travelers should be sure to see the Palazzo della Regione, the Prato della Valle, the Scrovegni Chapel, and the Basilica of St. Anthony of Padua.

Ravenna

An ancient city, Ravenna is an excellent day trip destination. Among its many treasures, Ravenna contains a remarkable sixth-century mosaic of Jesus as well as many important sites such as Dante’s Tomb and the Mausoleum of Theodoric.