Things To Do
in Reggio Emilia

Reggio Emilia, Italy, is a charming city known for its rich cultural heritage, delicious cuisine, and vibrant arts scene. Nestled in the heart of the Emilia-Romagna region, it boasts beautiful Renaissance architecture and stunning piazzas. The city is famous for being the birthplace of Parmigiano Reggiano cheese and is a hub for traditional balsamic vinegar production.

Visitors can enjoy a blend of historical sites, modern cafes, and picturesque landscapes.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the majestic Piazza Prampolini, where you can admire the Cathedral of Reggio Emilia and the Town Hall. Enjoy a traditional Italian breakfast at a nearby cafe.

afternoon
:

Explore the Palazzo Masdoni and the nearby Museo del Tricolor, dedicated to the Italian flag. Take a leisurely stroll through the historic streets and visit local shops.

evening
:

Dine at a local trattoria and savor authentic dishes such as tortelli d'erbetta. Conclude your evening with a walk through the illuminated streets.

day 2
Day 2: Art and Nature
morning
:

Visit the Palazzo Magnani, which often features contemporary art exhibitions. Spend some time at the Giardini Pubblici, a beautiful public park.

afternoon
:

Take a short trip to the nearby hills for a wine tasting tour at a local vineyard, where you can learn about the wine-making process.

evening
:

Return to Reggio Emilia for dinner at a restaurant specializing in local cuisine. Enjoy a glass of Lambrusco wine as you soak in the atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍕Pizza$10
🍷Glass of wine$5
Coffee$2
🍝Pasta dish$12
🚌Public transport ticket$1.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich culinary traditions and local specialties.
  • Beautiful historical architecture and vibrant culture.
  • Walkable city with friendly locals.
  • Limited English-speaking services compared to major tourist cities.
  • Some attractions may have reduced hours in winter.
  • Traffic congestion can occur during peak hours.
  • "Buongiorno" - Good morning
  • "Grazie" - Thank you
  • "Per favore" - Please
  • "Dove si trova...?" - Where is...?
  • "Mi scusi" - Excuse me

Places to Visit in Reggio Emilia

Visit one of these nice places.

Piazza Prampolini

This central square is surrounded by stunning architecture, making it a perfect spot for capturing the essence of Reggio Emilia.

Palazzo Masdoni

An architectural gem that showcases Renaissance styles, ideal for detailed shots.

Giardini Pubblici

Beautiful gardens with fountains and sculptures, perfect for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Reggio Emilia

Reggio Emilia is a culinary paradise, renowned for its rich gastronomic traditions and local delicacies that reflect its agricultural heritage.

Reggio Emilia Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tortelli d'erbetta

Pasta filled with a mix of herbs and ricotta cheese, typically served with a sauce.

Must-Try!

Parmigiano Reggiano

World-famous cheese produced in the region, known for its nutty flavor and granular texture.

Balsamic vinegar

A sweet and tangy vinegar that is a staple in local cuisine, often used in dressings and marinades.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercato Coperto

A vibrant indoor market offering fresh produce, local cheeses, meats, and street food options.

Street food stalls

Commonly found during local festivals, offering treats like piadina and arancini.

Climate Guide

Weather

Reggio Emilia has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and cool winters. Average summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winters can drop to around 0°C (32°F). Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with slightly wetter conditions in the spring and autumn.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A polite handshake is common; it’s also customary to greet people with 'Buongiorno' (Good morning) or 'Buonasera' (Good evening).

Dining etiquette

Wait to be seated in restaurants and avoid talking loudly; it's considered impolite.

Dress code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting churches or formal establishments.

Safety Guide

Safety

Reggio Emilia is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, as with any travel destination, it's important to stay vigilant in crowded areas to avoid pickpocketing. Emergency numbers are the same as in the rest of Italy, with 112 being the emergency services number.

Tipping in Reggio Emilia

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping customs

It is customary to leave a small tip (around 5-10%) in restaurants, though service is often included.

Payment methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for markets and smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a great time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Warm weather can lead to crowded tourist spots; however, summer evenings are perfect for al fresco dining.

Autumn

The fall foliage provides a picturesque backdrop, and local harvest festivals celebrate seasonal produce.

Winter

Cold temperatures might deter some tourists, but holiday decorations and markets add charm to the city.

Nightlife Guide

Reggio Emilia at Night

Reggio Emilia offers a lively nightlife scene with a variety of bars, pubs, and clubs. The city comes alive after dark, particularly in the historic center where locals enjoy aperitivo, a pre-dinner drink accompanied by snacks. Popular areas include the bars along Via Emilia, where you can experience local wines and cocktails. Additionally, there are often live music events and cultural performances in the town squares.

Hiking in Reggio Emilia

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Monte Ventasso

A popular hiking destination offering various trails with spectacular views of the Apennines.

Parco Nazionale dell'Appennino Tosco-Emiliano

A national park with diverse hiking paths, rich wildlife, and stunning landscapes.

Airports

How to reach Reggio Emilia by plane.

Giuseppe Verdi Airport

Located about 35 km from Reggio Emilia, this airport serves domestic and international flights and offers easy access to the city via train and car.

Getting Around

Walkability

Reggio Emilia is a highly walkable city, with most attractions located within a compact area. The flat terrain makes it easy to explore on foot, and the well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian zones enhance the experience. Public squares and parks add to the pleasant walking atmosphere.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

A significant population of university students, particularly in the fields of arts and social sciences.

Local families

Residents often value traditional family life, contributing to a strong sense of community and local culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

A popular sport in the region, with local teams and matches drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Cycling

Cycling is a favored pastime, with beautiful routes throughout the countryside and active cycling clubs.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Reggio Emilia is manageable, especially compared to larger cities in Italy. Public transportation includes buses and trains, with regular services connecting the city to nearby areas. Parking can be limited in the city center, so using public transportation or walking is often recommended.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Reggio Emilia.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, particularly pasta and vegetable-based plates.

Gluten-free options

Some eateries are beginning to provide gluten-free pasta and bread, but it's advisable to inquire in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Reggio Emilia is generally good, with several hospitals and clinics available for both residents and visitors. The public healthcare system provides services to EU citizens, while travelers from outside the EU are advised to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. Pharmacies are also widely available for over-the-counter medications.

Discover Italy

Read more in our Italy 2025 Travel Guide.

Italy Travel Guide