Tucked between the better-known cities of Parma and Modena, Reggio Emilia surprised me in the best way. I spent three nights here, using it as my home base to explore the region—and I’m so glad I did.

If you’re looking for things to do in Reggio Emilia, this charming town offers a slower, more local experience that’s easy to enjoy on foot. I’ll share the highlights from my stay, from pretty piazzas and regional cuisine to day trips that are just a short train ride away.

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Best Things to Do in Reggio Emilia

Reggio Emilia is a place where wandering is part of the experience. You won’t find top attractions here, but that’s the beauty of it—everything feels local and authentic.

Here are the things I enjoyed most during my stay.

People Watch on the Piazzas

large piazza with lion from the cathedral and other buildings around the square in reggio emilia

These two central squares are the heart of the city. Piazza Prampolini is home to the cathedral and the town hall, while Piazza San Prospero feels cozier, edged by cafes and anchored by the Basilica di San Prospero with its beautiful lion statues.

a piazza in reggio emilia with tables and chairs under trees with yellow building and gray shutters

A little more tucked away and surrounded by leafy trees, Piazza Antonio Fontanesi has a quiet charm. It’s a great place to pause with a coffee and watch daily life unfold.

Stroll the Streets of the Historic Center

tall buildings in pastel colours on street in reggio emilia

One of my favourite things was simply wandering the narrow cobbled lanes—lined with faded shutters, bikes propped against walls, long porticoes and shop windows full of character. I loved the tall colourful buildings just begging to be photographed.

My recommendation is to start from either of the two central squares, Piazza Prampolini or Piazza San Prospero, and zigzag through the small city. It’s impossible to get lost.

Admire the Churches

elegant church and tower in reggio emilia italy

The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, located on Piazza Prampolini, has a mix of Romanesque and Baroque elements. Inside, it’s beautiful and calm.

A short walk away, the Basilica di San Prospero sits on its namesake square, with six stone lions guarding the entrance and beautifully detailed frescoes inside. Nearby, the Baptistery Tower, though it was closed during my visit, adds a touch of medieval character to the skyline, and it reminded me of the one found in Parma.

The Temple of the Blessed Virgin of Ghiara is a beautiful Baroque church worth stepping inside. Its ceiling frescoes are beautiful.

Visit Some Cultural Sites

tall elegant church and pink building with gray shutters in Reggio Emilia

Reggio Emilia is the birthplace of the Italian flag, and I visited the small museum called Museo del Tricolore, which sits inside the town hall, that tells the story. It’s free to enter and gives great historical context.

Located right next to the cathedral, this impressive building, Palazzo del Comune, houses both the city’s administration and historical displays. It’s also where you’ll find the Museo del Tricolore.

town hall in orange with gray shutters with stone statue in reggio emilia italy

Galleria Parmeggiani is an eclectic and unexpected museum with everything from Renaissance art to antique armour. It’s small enough that it won’t take long for you to pop in and look around, but it adds a nice cultural stop to your walk.

Even if you don’t see a performance, pop by Teatro Municipale Valli to admire the elegant exterior or check if tours are offered (they weren’t when I was visiting).

Relax in a Park

orange building with trees along it with locals sitting at park bench in reggio emilia italy

Just behind the theatre is where you’ll find Parco del Popolo, the city’s main green space. It was a popular place for locals to go for a slow stroll, sit under the trees or bring their children for a play.

Easy Day Trips from Reggio Emilia

stone archway with view to colourful buildings in reggio emilia in italy

One of the best parts about staying in Reggio Emilia was how simple it was to take day trips to nearby cities. With the train station just a short walk from the center, I could hop on a regional train in the morning, spend several hours exploring, and be back by dinner. No stress, no long travel days—just a smooth way to see more of Emilia-Romagna.

Go to Parma
Known for its food culture and refined atmosphere, Parma is worth visiting. I wandered through elegant streets, visited the stunning cathedral and baptistery, and couldn’t leave without tasting the local Parmigiano Reggiano cheese. Spending a full day here gives you a good feel for the city and enough time to see the top landmarks.

Getting there: The train from Reggio Emilia to Parma takes about 20 to 25 minutes with frequent departures throughout the day.

Go to Modena
Modena has a completely different feel—compact and lively. I visited the covered market, admired the UNESCO-listed cathedral, and walked past the Ferrari museum (even if cars aren’t your thing, it’s iconic here). I think a day is enough time to see and experience the city.

Getting there: Reggio Emilia to Modena by train is even quicker—about 15 minutes—making it ideal for a spontaneous visit.

Both cities are easy to reach, and trains run often, so there’s no need to book in advance; simply buy your ticket at the kiosk.

Tips for Visiting Reggio Emilia

pale coloured buildings with church tower is one of the things to do in Reggio Emilia

Reggio Emilia might not be the first place that comes to mind when planning a trip to Italy—but that’s exactly why I went. It offers a slower pace, fewer tourists, and a chance to experience daily life in a mid-sized Italian town.

I visited in early October and found it quiet—no crowds, just locals going about their day. The weather was still pleasant, and it felt like I had the town to myself. Reggio Emilia likely sees more visitors in the summer months, but I get the sense it never draws the same kind of crowds as more well-known Italian destinations. For a slower, more local experience, shoulder seasons like spring or early fall are ideal.

Here are a few more tips to make the most of your visit:

  • Shops and restaurants often close in the afternoon (usually from 1:00–4:00 p.m.).
  • Sundays are very quiet, with many places closed—use it as a rest day or for slow wandering.
  • English is not widely spoken, especially in smaller shops and cafes. A few Italian phrases go a long way.
  • Regional trains are inexpensive and reliable, making day trips easy and affordable.
  • Don’t expect big attractions—come for the ambiance, the architecture, and the authenticity.
  • Stay near the historic center so you can walk everywhere. I recommend where I stayed, Locanda La Concia, a boutique hotel that offers breakfast and dinner.

If you’re looking for a place that lets you slow down, observe local life, and explore at your own pace, Reggio Emilia is absolutely worth a few days. I’m glad I gave it that time—it quietly grew on me.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a place that lets you slow down, observe local life, and explore at your own pace, Reggio Emilia is absolutely worth a few days. I’m glad I gave it that time—it quietly grew on me.

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collection of three photos of reggio emilia of church, piazza and town square with text that reads Reggio Emilia Things to Do
Main square of reggio Emilia with colourful architecture and text that reads reggio emilia italy

Founder, Creator of Dream Plan Experience

Renee Hannes is a Slow Travel Expert, writer, and the founder of Dream Plan Experience — a website that helps travellers explore Europe at a slower, more meaningful pace.

For more than 35 years, Renee has travelled through France, Germany, Italy, Portugal, and Spain, returning again and again to understand each place more deeply. She has also lived abroad twice in Germany, which shaped her love of everyday culture, local neighbourhoods, and the simple joys of slow travel.

Renee writes practical guides and personal stories that help travellers experience Europe without rushing. She also creates custom trip itineraries and digital travel guides designed for people who want authentic experiences.