The Emilia-Romagna region invites travellers to discover its rich historical, spiritual, and natural heritage through 22 fully mapped walking routes, retracing ancient paths once travelled by pilgrims and wanderers.

Since 2017, the Emilia-Romagna Pilgrimage Routes and Paths Network has grown from 12 to 22 routes, with the latest addition being the historic Via Vandelli, a 172-kilometre trail commissioned by Duke Francesco III d'Este, connecting Modena to Massa Carrara across the Apennines, accessible on foot or by mountain bike.

The region's network includes renowned routes such as the Via Francigena, a Council of Europe-certified European Cultural Route that leads from the Po River to the Cisa Pass via Piacenza and Fidenza; the Via Romea Germanica, a 260-kilometre section of the ancient route from Germany to Rome passing through Ferrara, Ravenna, and the Casentinesi Forests; and the Via degli Dei, a 67-kilometre trail linking Bologna and Florence across the Apennines.

Slow tourism in Emilia-Romagna is more than a trend. It represents a shift towards mindful, sustainable, and culturally immersive travel. The region, which recorded a 15% increase in visits to authentic villages and a 20% rise in eco-friendly accommodations last year (according to the 2025 Sustainable Tourism in Emilia-Romagna report), is the ideal destination for travellers seeking meaningful, low-impact experiences on foot or by bike.

Exploring Emilia-Romagna at a slower pace allows visitors to uncover UNESCO World Heritage cities, medieval castles, ancient monasteries, and centuries-old forests. Along the routes, mapped with over 2,700 points of interest and 4,700 accommodations within five kilometres of each trail, travellers can stay in B&Bs, agriturismi, hotels, or religious guesthouses.

Food and wine are integral to the experience. Walkers can stop at local farms, wineries, and dairies or visit the region's Museums of Taste, which celebrate Emilia-Romagna's world-famous culinary heritage.

All route maps are available for free download at www.camminiemiliaromagna.it, including formats compatible with GPS navigation, and are accessible as open data for use by local tourism operators.

According to a recent ENIT and Touring Club study, Italy ranks as the top destination for slow and sustainable tourism among British (65%), French (51%), and German (49%) travellers. Visitors seek authentic, reflective journeys that celebrate art, history, and local traditions away from mass tourism.

Year-Round Events Celebrating Emilia-Romagna's Walking Routes

Over 400 events take place annually as part of the regional network's initiatives:

• I Love Cammini Emilia-Romagna (March–November) offers guided treks through medieval churches, countryside sanctuaries, natural springs, monumental trees, and historic villages.

• Cammini di Notte (June–September) invites participants to experience nature by moonlight, walking through ancient convents and historic castles.

• Monasteri Aperti (first two weekends of October) opens the doors of centuries-old monasteries, abbeys, and parish churches with sacred music concerts and encounters with religious communities.

• Emilia-Romagna Natura, Cultura e Spiritualità celebrates the region's heritage year-round through traditional festivals, processions, pilgrimages, and cultural events.

For more information, visit:
www.camminiemiliaromagna.it | www.monasteriemiliaromagna.it

Press Contact:
Emilia-Romagna Tourist Board
Email: info@aptservizi.com
Website: www.emiliaromagnaturismo.it