GemmaIf Italy had a personality, Emilia-Romagna would be that charming, warm friend who insists you eat one more plate of pasta before leaving. Known for its culinary delights, stunning architecture, and medieval towns, this region is a treasure trove of streets that tell stories of history, culture, and everyday Italian life. From my own personal experience, walking through these streets isn’t just sightseeing—it’s a journey through centuries, filled with surprises around every corner.
Here, I’m sharing 14 streets in Emilia-Romagna that you truly need to see. These streets are not only photogenic; they are immersive experiences that give you a sense of the region’s soul. Some are perfect for a leisurely stroll, others for tasting local treats, and a few will leave you wondering how this beauty has existed without your knowledge all this time.
1. Via Emilia, Parma
Let’s start with a classic. Via Emilia is one of the oldest roads in Italy, stretching back to Roman times. In Parma, it’s the lifeline of the city, lined with elegant shops, cafes, and historic buildings.
Walking down Via Emilia, you can’t help but notice the mix of old and new. Medieval facades stand next to contemporary boutiques, and local residents chatting in piazzas give the street a lively, lived-in feel. Stop at a café, order a cappuccino, and just watch the world go by. The charm here is effortless; it’s as if the street has perfected the art of daily Italian life.
Things to do: Visit the Parma Cathedral, explore the Teatro Regio, and make sure to taste the local Parmigiano-Reggiano. Honestly, nothing prepares you for the real flavor explosion.
2. Via delle Oche, Bologna
Bologna is known for its porticoes, and Via delle Oche is the perfect spot to experience this. The street winds through the heart of the city, lined with artisan shops and cozy restaurants.
One of the best things about Via delle Oche is the atmosphere. Locals rush by on their scooters, students carry backpacks to the university, and you feel like you’re a part of the city’s daily rhythm. If you love photography, this street is a goldmine: the interplay of light and shadow under the arches is mesmerizing.
Things to do: Taste fresh tortellini at a local trattoria, enjoy gelato from one of the famous gelaterias, and wander until you stumble upon Piazza Maggiore, Bologna’s vibrant heart.
3. Via Mazzini, Modena
Ah, Modena! Famous for balsamic vinegar, Ferrari, and… its streets. Via Mazzini is where you’ll feel the city’s elegance. Cobbled pathways, charming boutiques, and historic palaces make this street perfect for a casual stroll.
From my overall experience, this is one of those streets where time seems to slow down. You can hear footsteps echoing off ancient walls and smell freshly baked pastries drifting from local bakeries. It’s sophisticated without trying too hard—classic Modena.
Things to do: Visit the Modena Cathedral, try some traditional gnocco fritto with cured meats, and don’t forget to look out for local artisan shops selling handmade ceramics and leather goods.
4. Via Santo Stefano, Bologna
Via Santo Stefano is a street where history practically hugs you. The street leads to the Basilica of Santo Stefano, a complex of religious buildings that is both fascinating and peaceful.
This street is ideal for those who enjoy a slower pace. You can stop at small bookstores, antique shops, and cafes tucked away in corners that feel like secret hideouts. Walking here, you might even imagine what life was like centuries ago.
Things to do: Explore the Seven Churches complex, sip coffee at a local café, and take a few quiet moments to just admire the ancient architecture. Sometimes, the best experiences are the simplest ones.
5. Via XX Settembre, Rimini
Rimini is famous for its beaches, but the real charm often hides in its streets. Via XX Settembre is the city’s main artery, bustling with shops, cafes, and vibrant energy.
Walking down this street, you’ll feel the city’s mix of modernity and tradition. From my own personal experience, stopping at local gelaterias and trying flavors you won’t find anywhere else is a must. The street comes alive at night, making it perfect for evening strolls when the temperature cools and the lights reflect off cobblestones.
Things to do: Check out the historic center, enjoy Rimini’s street food, and explore nearby piazzas for people-watching opportunities.
6. Via Emilia Levante, Reggio Emilia
Reggio Emilia is often underrated, but Via Emilia Levante shows the city’s charm in full display. The street stretches through the historic heart, with elegant buildings, open-air markets, and a welcoming atmosphere.
What I love about this street is how it balances activity with serenity. You can walk leisurely, shop for local products, or just find a bench and soak up the Italian rhythm. It’s one of those streets where every corner has a story waiting to be discovered.
Things to do: Explore the Reggio Emilia Cathedral, taste the city’s famous cheeses, and wander through small artisan shops for unique souvenirs.
7. Via Zamboni, Bologna
If you’re a fan of student life and cultural vibrancy, Via Zamboni is your street. Located in the university district, it’s lined with bookstores, bars, and cafes buzzing with energy.
The street has a youthful charm, full of discussions, laughter, and the occasional street performance. From my own personal experience, this is where you can truly feel Bologna’s intellectual and creative heartbeat. Even if you’re not a student, the atmosphere is infectious.
Things to do: Visit the University of Bologna, explore the nearby museums, and enjoy a casual dinner at a student-friendly trattoria.
8. Via Farini, Parma
Parma’s Via Farini is a blend of shopping, culture, and casual elegance. It’s the perfect place to stroll without a plan, letting the city surprise you.
Here, you’ll find a mix of high-end boutiques and local artisan stores, along with cafes where the locals meet for espresso. From my overall experience, this street gives a real sense of Parma’s lifestyle—cultured yet approachable.
Things to do: Visit the Teatro Farnese, explore Piazza Garibaldi, and try local pastries at a traditional pasticceria.
9. Via Emilia, Bologna
Another stretch of the historic Via Emilia runs through Bologna, and it’s equally captivating. Wide sidewalks, elegant porticoes, and bustling shops make this street ideal for both shopping and sightseeing.
Walking here, you can’t miss the city’s mix of old and new architecture. Medieval buildings stand proudly alongside modern structures, creating a visual story of Bologna’s evolution.
Things to do: Explore local markets, enjoy a plate of tagliatelle al ragù, and check out nearby landmarks like the Two Towers.
10. Via Rizzoli, Bologna
Via Rizzoli is vibrant, full of life, and lined with shops that cater to every taste. The street is wide, making it perfect for a leisurely walk or for stopping at cafes to watch the city’s rhythm.
From my overall experience, Via Rizzoli is one of those streets where you feel the pulse of the city. Students, tourists, and locals mingle, creating a lively atmosphere that’s hard to resist.
Things to do: Visit Piazza Maggiore, shop for unique Italian fashion, and explore hidden courtyards that hold surprises at every turn.
11. Via Garibaldi, Modena
Modena’s Via Garibaldi is a historic gem. Walking along this street feels like stepping back in time, with its narrow alleys, charming facades, and cobblestones underfoot.
This street is particularly enchanting in the evening when the lights highlight the architecture and the city slows down. From my own personal experience, this is a perfect spot for photography or just an intimate walk, soaking in the city’s ambiance.
Things to do: Visit the Ducal Palace, explore local artisan shops, and enjoy a slow dinner at a traditional osteria.
12. Via Matteotti, Piacenza
Piacenza is often overlooked, but Via Matteotti is a street that demands attention. Elegant buildings, cafes, and quiet corners make this street ideal for wandering without a rush.
From my overall experience, it’s a street that gives you the feeling of discovery. The locals are welcoming, and every turn has something visually or culturally interesting. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy exploring off-the-beaten-path locations.
Things to do: Visit the Palazzo Farnese, stroll through Piazza Cavalli, and enjoy Piacenza’s local culinary specialties.
13. Via Marconi, Ravenna
Ravenna is famous for mosaics, and Via Marconi is a street that combines history with everyday life. Lined with charming shops and cafes, it’s the perfect starting point for exploring the city’s artistic heritage.
Walking here, you can enjoy the balance of culture and casual life. From my own personal experience, it’s one of those streets where you might stop multiple times just to admire small details in architecture or window displays.
Things to do: Explore Basilica di San Vitale, visit local art galleries, and sample traditional desserts like ciambella.
14. Via del Pratello, Bologna
Finally, Via del Pratello is the street that embodies Bologna’s nightlife and social culture. Lined with bars, cafes, and music venues, it’s the perfect place to end your exploration of Emilia-Romagna streets.
This street has energy, history, and charm all rolled into one. From my overall experience, the mix of locals and visitors creates a vibrant and friendly atmosphere. It’s ideal for an evening stroll, casual drinks, or simply soaking in the lively spirit of Bologna.
Things to do: Enjoy live music, try street food, and explore the small side alleys that hide quirky shops and cafes.
Final Thoughts
Emilia-Romagna is full of streets that tell stories, and these 14 are just the beginning. Each street offers a unique perspective of the region, whether it’s culinary delights, historic architecture, or everyday Italian life. From my own personal experience, the best way to explore these streets is without a strict itinerary—let curiosity lead the way, stop often, and let the charm of the region unfold naturally.
Italy’s magic isn’t only in its famous landmarks; it’s in the streets you stroll, the cafes you linger at, and the conversations you overhear. Emilia-Romagna delivers all this in abundance, and I promise, once you explore these streets, you’ll leave with memories that linger far longer than your photos.
I’m Gemma, a passionate lifestyle blogger sharing my creative world with you. Gemitaliano.com is my little corner of the internet, glad you’re here.