Travel Writer Crowns Emilia-Romagna as Italy's Premier Destination
In a surprising revelation that bypasses iconic cities like Rome and Milan, a seasoned travel journalist has declared Emilia-Romagna her favourite region in Italy after extensive exploration of all 20 regions. Kaitlyn Rosati, who has journeyed extensively across the country in her professional capacity, made this determination based on a comprehensive assessment of cultural, culinary, and sporting offerings.
Culinary Excellence Takes Centre Stage
While Emilia-Romagna boasts global attractions such as the historic Imola racing circuit, Rosati emphasised that it was the region's food scene that truly captivated her. In a feature for Business Insider, she highlighted Emilia-Romagna as the birthplace of some of Italy's most cherished exports.
From Parmigiano-Reggiano and balsamic vinegar of Modena to Prosciutto di Parma and mortadella from Bologna, the area is a gastronomic powerhouse. Rosati noted that visitors can indulge in world-class dining at establishments like Osteria Francescana and Al Gatto Verde in Modena, alongside Trattoria da Amerigo in Savigno.
She further explained that the region produces exceptional versions of Italy's finest foods, including premium cheeses and truffles, making it a paradise for food enthusiasts seeking authentic Italian flavours.
Sporting Heritage and Olympic Connections
Beyond its culinary treasures, Emilia-Romagna holds significant sporting prestige. The region hosted a stop for the Olympic flame en route to Milan during the recent Winter Olympics, underscoring its role in international sports events.
Moreover, the Autodromo Internazionale Enzo e Dino Ferrari, commonly known as Imola, has long been a magnet for racing aficionados, attracting top-tier motorsport competitions for decades. Although Formula 1 recently removed Imola from its calendar in favour of a new circuit in Madrid, Spain, the track's legacy remains deeply ingrained in the region's identity.
Following the release of the provisional 2026 Formula 1 calendar, Imola's mayor expressed disappointment, stating in an official release that the territory had demonstrated an extraordinary ability to host events with record attendance, blending racing excitement with the charm of the local landscape.
Tourism Challenges Amidst Regional Appeal
This acclaim comes at a time when Emilia-Romagna faces tourism headwinds. Provisional data from the Italian Beach Operators Union indicated an average attendance drop of 15 to 20 percent in areas like Calabria and Emilia-Romagna last year, as reported by the Express.
Simone Battistoni, president of the Beach Operators of Emilia-Romagna, commented to Corriere della Serra that while June performed reasonably well, July saw a definite decline, with the impact varying across cities. Rimini experienced a less pronounced drop, whereas Ferrara and Ravenna suffered more significantly, highlighting a patchy tourism landscape.
Despite these challenges, Rosati's endorsement underscores Emilia-Romagna's enduring allure, positioning it as a standout destination that combines rich culinary traditions with a vibrant sporting history, offering something for every traveller's taste.
