Bologna's Long Weekend Adventures

A weekend escape in Italy does not need a car or a flight. Trains connect Bologna with many gems in Emilia-Romagna that can be reached in under an hour. This makes the city a perfect base for short and authentic trips. With both night and day trains bringing visitors straight into Bologna from Vienna, Munich and beyond, the city feels like a natural starting point for exploring.

Once in Bologna, the tracks spread out like branches. Each leads to a place with its own story, food, and mood. Ravenna has shining mosaics and a calm seaside rhythm. Ferrara charms with its moated castle and bike lanes. Reggio Emilia greets visitors with rich flavors and the history of the Italian tricolore. Parma, on the other hand, is heaven for food lovers, with Parmigiano Reggiano and Parma ham to taste between piazzas and music history.

All four cities can be reached quickly, so there is no stress or rush. Just hop on the train, read a book or enjoy the view, and arrive ready for a weekend that feels far from daily life. Here are four trips from Bologna that are simple, sustainable and full of character.

Ravenna

Ravenna - RudyBalasko

Ravenna is famous for its early Christian basilicas and mosaics that still sparkle after many centuries. The city once served as the capital of the Western Roman Empire and later the Byzantine Empire, leaving behind art that feels alive with color and detail. It has a slower pace than Bologna and its streets lead to quiet squares and churches decorated with gold and blue. Beyond the history, the seaside is close by, adding a relaxed holiday mood.

The train from Bologna to Ravenna takes just over one hour, about 1 hour and 3 minutes. Trains run frequently and the ride is smooth, making it possible to go for the day or stay the whole weekend.

Visitors often come for the mosaics, but the laid-back seaside vibe also makes Ravenna special. A morning could be spent admiring the UNESCO treasures and an afternoon relaxing by the water. The mix of deep history and beach escape is rare, and Ravenna combines both in a way that feels easy and balanced.

Ferrara

Ferrara - lorenzoantonucci

Ferrara is a Renaissance city with a moated castle right in the center. Once home to the Este family, the city grew with wide streets, strong walls, and many palaces. Today, it still feels like stepping into another time. The city is flat and full of bicycles, which adds to its charm and makes exploring light and fun.

The trip by train from Bologna to Ferrara is only 30 minutes. That short ride makes Ferrara one of the easiest day trips from Bologna, perfect for anyone looking to see a different side of Emilia-Romagna without much travel time.

Tourists love Ferrara for its Renaissance atmosphere and the Castello Estense with its towers and moat. Walking or cycling through the city feels natural because it is built on a human scale. Ferrara shows how history, beauty and simple pleasures can come together in one place, all within reach of Bologna.

Reggio Emilia

ReggioEmilia - OG Photography

Reggio Emilia is a proud city with a strong link to Italian identity. This is where the tricolore, the national flag of Italy, was born. It is also known for hearty Emilia cuisine that makes visitors feel welcome at every table. The streets are lined with cafes and squares where food is always part of the experience.

From Bologna, Reggio Emilia is just 49 minutes away by train. The ride is direct and gives enough time to enjoy the scenery before arriving in the city center.

Tourism in Reggio Emilia often revolves around its food culture and national history. The flag gives the city symbolic weight, while the cuisine offers a direct way to enjoy the region. A visit here can be built around tasting local dishes, learning about history, and enjoying the relaxed pace. For those who value authentic flavors and a meaningful connection to Italian culture, Reggio Emilia is a perfect choice.

Parma

Parma - OG Photography

Parma is one of Italy’s most celebrated food capitals. Parmigiano Reggiano and Parma ham both come from here, making the city a magnet for food lovers. Parma also carries a rich musical heritage linked to composer Giuseppe Verdi, along with graceful piazzas and elegant buildings. The city feels refined yet warm, a place that blends art, taste and history.

The train ride from Bologna to Parma takes about 58 minutes. It is a simple trip, long enough to relax and short enough to make the journey easy.

Tourism in Parma often starts with the famous foods. Visiting a local producer of Parmigiano Reggiano or tasting Parma ham is a highlight for many travelers. Add in Verdi’s musical legacy and the beauty of the piazzas, and the city offers a mix of culture and flavor that is hard to resist. For a weekend away, Parma is both a treat for the senses and a chance to enjoy Italy’s deeper traditions.

Happy Traivels! 🚅☺️🌿

15.09.2025