Reggio Emilia in a Day
A day to discover the soul of Reggio Emilia
Reggio Emilia is a welcoming, human-scale city that is wonderfully child-friendly, where history, art, and flavours seamlessly intertwine.
Strolling through its squares, porticoes, and picturesque alleys, you will discover an authentic destination that never fails to surprise with its rich historical heritage and one of the finest culinary traditions in Emilia.
Your journey starts in the very heart of the city in Piazza Prampolini, overlooked by the Town Hall and the Santa Maria Assunta Cathedral.
Just a few steps away lies Piazza San Prospero, home to the Basilica dedicated to the patron saint and one of Reggio’s most cherished symbols.
From here, continue towards one of Reggio Emilia’s most captivating landmarks: the Beata Vergine della Ghiara Basilica, a true masterpiece of Emilian Baroque.
Stepping inside reveals a treasure trove of art and spirituality, where extraordinary fresco cycles by Guercino, Ludovico Carracci, and Lionello Spada adorn the walls and vaulted ceilings with breathtaking decorative richness.
Leaving the historic centre behind, head to the Palazzo dei Musei, recently renovated to a design by architect Italo Rota.
The exhibition narrative creates a dialogue between archaeology, local history, and contemporary photography, offering a fresh perspective on the city and its identity.
Here you will find the collection dedicated to Luigi Ghirri, one of the most influential Italian photographers of the 20th century.
Outside, you will be welcomed by Curiosa Meravigliosa, the monumental installation by Joan Fontcuberta comprising over 12,000 photographs created through a participatory project involving thousands of local residents.
Now, it is time to treat yourself to a break and discover the local cuisine of Reggio Emilia.
In the delicatessens and restaurants throughout the town centre, you can indulge in traditional gnocco fritto served with local cured meats, cappelletti in broth, or green and pumpkin tortelli.
To top off your lunch, enjoy one of the area’s classic desserts, such as torta di riso (rice cake) or zuppa inglese.
Your afternoon continues with an absolute must-see: the Sala del Tricolore (Hall of the Tricolour Flag), where the Italian national flag was officially born on 7th January 1797.
Right next door, the Museo del Tricolore (Tricolour Flag Museum) - which is free to enter - brings this vital chapter of national history to life through historical documents, artworks, and interactive multimedia displays.
Before leaving the historic centre, treat yourself to a stroll through the squares that showcase the city’s most elegant side.
Piazza Martiri del 7 Luglio is dominated by the Romolo Valli Municipal Theatre, an elegant 19th-century opera house that hosted the debut performance of Luciano Pavarotti.
Crossing Via Emilia, you finally reach Piazza Fontanesi, with its 19th-century charm, centuries-old trees, and lively outdoor terraces.
It is the ideal spot to experience one of the locals' most beloved rituals: the aperitivo.
Pair a glass of Lambrusco DOC or Spergola with regional specialities such as erbazzone PGI, chizza De.C.O., and Parmigiano Reggiano PDO, perhaps drizzled with a few drops of Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Reggio Emilia PDO.
The day comes to a close with a glimpse into contemporary Reggio Emilia.
Whether you depart by car or train, you cannot fail to notice the spectacular works by Santiago Calatrava: the three bridges with their unmistakable white arches and the futuristic AV Mediopadana High-Speed Railway Station, today considered one of Europe’s most iconic pieces of railway architecture.
And if time permits, indulge in one final stop before you leave.
The Collezione Maramotti, one of Italy’s most important exhibition spaces dedicated to contemporary art, offers the perfect way to say goodbye to a city that knows how to preserve its history while constantly looking to the future.
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