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Yet Emilia-Romagna is rarely the first region that people visit when they go to the boot.
The upper Ceno valley in Bardi, Emilia-Romagna, at sunrise.
Though its located just north ofTuscany, it remains blissfully uncrowded and under-the-radar.
Were a bit closed.
We protect our territory.
Detail of a bathroom in a bedroom at Casa Maria Luigia in Modena
And thats why its real.
This is the real Italy.
If youre visiting Bolognaand you definitely shouldthis is the best hotel in town.
Photo: Courtesy of Grand Hotel Majestic Già Baglioni
The hotel is centrally located just a couple of blocks from Piazza Maggiore.
What to Do
An outdoor area at the Acetaia Maria Luigia.
Meanwhile, in Modena, its a tradition for families to keep casks of balsamic vinegar in their attics.
Photo: Courtesy of Grand Hotel Rimini
Then, spend some time wandering around the Quadrilatero, Bolognas historic market district.
In Sismondo Castle, you might see immersive exhibits dedicated to his greatest films, includingLa Dolce Vitaand8 12.
Theres much more to the wines of this region than fizzy Lambrusco.
An outdoor area at the Acetaia Maria Luigia.
Nearby isPandolfa, a family-run winery on the grounds of an 18th-century estate that offers tours and tastings.
Decorating a series of eight early Christian monuments, they dazzle with scenes made from gold and multi-colored tiles.
This is where Bottura and his brigade continue to experiment with haute interpretations of Emilian cuisine.
Photo: Getty Images
According to Bottura, to get a table, you should plan to book six months in advance.
We send many young interns there to work on their ideas, he says.
It also features chic interior design by India Mahdavi that incorporates vintage Ferrari memorabilia.
Photo: Getty Images
One of Parmas most beloved restaurants, this traditional trattoria makes the most divine pumpkin-stuffed tortelli.
Start with the antipasto misto and the torta fritta, but be sure to save room for dessert.
This family-run restaurant attached to the Daniel Hotel in Parma is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Photo: Lorenzo Burlando / Courtesy of Fellini Museum Rimini
Stop by to try it for yourselfthey sell it in individual portions or whole cakes.
It doesnt get much more old school than this restaurant that opened in 1909 in the heart of Bologna.
White-jacketed waiters still serve lasagna and other traditional Emilian dishes.
Photo: Getty Images
Want to bring home some of Emilia-Romagnas gastronomic specialties?
This small gallery near Bolognas Two Towers specializes in antique prints and maps.
Items range in size and price from Ex Libris bookplates to original 18th-century maps.
Photo: Getty Images
Photo: Getty Images
Photo: Courtesy of Franceschetta58
The shopping district in Bologna.
Photo: Getty Images
