10 days, 9 nights · Best for Families seeking culture, coast, and hands-on discovery
The Adriatic Storybook, A Family Summer Adventure Marche Emilia Romagna San Marino (11 Days)
Embark on an 11-day family summer adventure through Italy’s hidden gems, where every day brings new discoveries in the heart of Marche and Emilia Romagna. Wander Renaissance hill towns like Urbino and Pesaro, explore majestic castles in San Leo and Gradara, and step into the world’s oldest republic, San Marino. Marvel at Ravenna’s dazzling mosaics and let history come alive for all ages, from Raphael’s birthplace to ancient fortresses perched above rolling hills. Enjoy hands-on culinary experiences with Emilia Romagna’s legendary cuisine, relax on Adriatic beaches, and dive into the excitement of Motor Valley. With lively Bologna as your grand finale, this itinerary blends culture, fun, and authentic Italian flavors, perfect for families seeking a unique, enriching, and memorable escape.
Your Adventure Starts Here
This is a starting point. Change the nights, choose the style of hotel, add the experiences you want. Your planner takes it from there.
Stop 1Pesaro, Marche
Pesaro
Renaissance hill towns meet the gentle Adriatic
Your first stop blends Adriatic ease with Renaissance grandeur. Based in Pesaro or Urbino, you explore cobbled Urbino where Raphael was born and the Ducal Palace rises in pale stone, then head into the hills for medieval castles and legends told through fortress walls. The Conero Natural Park delivers dramatic coastal trails and hidden coves where cliffs tumble to turquoise water, followed by lazy beach time on soft sand. It is a gentle start, mixing culture and coast, with enough space for the family to find its rhythm after the journey.
Arranged for you: We arrange your Bologna arrival transfer, hotel stays in Pesaro or Urbino, guided tour of Urbino including Palazzo Ducale and Raphael's house, and exploration of Conero Natural Park with beach access.
Your hotel
Styles, not names. We name the property once we know your dates and your party.
Interests in Pesaro
-
Private truffle hunting experience with a local forager and dog Day Trips · Half day
Walk oak woods with a trained truffle dog, learn to spot the signs, and taste your finds paired with local cheese and wine.
-
Sailing lesson or family boat excursion from Pesaro harbor Day Trips · Half day
Spend a morning on the Adriatic learning to handle a sailboat or simply cruising the coast with your own skipper.
-
Ceramic painting workshop in a Pesaro studio Day Trips · Half day
Decorate your own maiolica tile or dish under the guidance of a local artisan, then have it fired and shipped home.
Day by day in Pesaro
Today your family lands in Bologna, a city with a proud medieval soul and a reputation as one of Italy’s great culinary capitals. Bologna’s character is unmistakable, from its famous porticoes to its beautiful brick architecture and bustling piazzas. After landing, you will continue onward into the Marche, where you will settle in for your hotel stay in either Pesaro or Urbino.
Pesaro is a wonderful fit for families who want an Adriatic setting and a relaxed, open atmosphere that makes it easy to recharge after travel. Urbino offers a completely different kind of magic, a UNESCO recognized Renaissance hill town shaped by Duke Federico da Montefeltro’s fifteenth century court and its remarkable architecture. Whichever city landscape you choose, the evening settles into a comfortable rhythm, giving your family time to unpack, take a gentle stroll, and enjoy the first tastes of Italy.
Begin your day in Urbino, where cobbled streets and terracotta rooftops reveal a city shaped by Renaissance brilliance. A guided tour brings history to life for all ages: admire the majestic Palazzo Ducale, once home to Duke Federico da Montefeltro, and step into the very house where Raphael, one of the world’s most celebrated painters, was born. The artist’s childhood home is now a museum filled with stories and inspiration for budding artists in the family.
After soaking up Urbino’s culture and charm, set out for the hills and legends of San Leo. Perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop, San Leo Fortress is a real-life castle that sparks the imagination. Kids can picture knights, secret passages, and ancient sieges as they explore ramparts and towers. The panoramic views from the fortress stretch across rolling countryside, making for unforgettable family photos and a sense of adventure you’ll talk about long after your journey ends.
Begin your day in the breathtaking Conero Natural Park, where dramatic cliffs and lush forests meet the sparkling Adriatic Sea. Family-friendly trails and panoramic lookouts offer endless opportunities for photos, wildlife spotting, and spontaneous picnics, making it easy to enjoy nature at your own pace. Pause at hidden coves or charming villages perched above the coast, each offering a taste of Marche’s wild beauty. As the sun climbs higher, trade hiking shoes for sandals and unwind on one of the area’s inviting beaches. Splash in the gentle surf, build sandcastles, or simply relax as you soak in the classic Italian seaside vibe, a perfect balance of adventure and downtime for all ages.
In the afternoon, head to Pesaro, a city where history and culture blend with the relaxed rhythm of coastal life. Stroll the vibrant piazzas and pedestrian streets, browse artisan shops, or join locals on the lively waterfront promenade. Pesaro is also the birthplace of Gioachino Rossini, the famed composer behind “The Barber of Seville” and other operatic masterpieces. Visit his childhood home or spot playful musical motifs around town, making your family’s day in Marche both culturally rich and full of fun discoveries.
Stop 2Ravenna, Emilia Romagna
Ravenna
Mosaics, legends, and a touch of medieval magic
Ravenna offers a treasure hunt through time. You arrive via Gradara, where fortress walls and towers tell the story of Paolo and Francesca, then cross into San Marino to explore the cliffside republic's medieval streets and panoramic ramparts. In Ravenna itself, eight UNESCO sites sparkle with mosaics that turn every basilica into a jewel box: gold-backed emperors, peacocks, and stars that have glowed for fifteen centuries. Children spot hidden symbols, while adults admire the artistry and ambition of Byzantine craftsmen. The city is compact, walkable, and endlessly visual, a place where history feels vivid rather than remote.
Arranged for you: We arrange your transfer from Marche to Ravenna with stops in Gradara and San Marino, hotel stay in Ravenna, and guided tour of the city's UNESCO mosaic sites.
Your hotel
Styles, not names. We name the property once we know your dates and your party.
Interests in Ravenna
-
Private mosaic-making workshop with a Ravenna artisan Day Trips · Half day
Learn centuries-old tessellation techniques, design your own small panel, and take home a handmade souvenir of your time in the mosaic capital.
-
Bicycle tour through Ravenna and the pine forests to the Adriatic Day Trips · Half day
Pedal quiet paths lined with umbrella pines, visit Dante's tomb, and reach the beach for a seaside break before cycling back.
-
Guided visit to Dante's tomb and evening poetry reading Day Trips · Half day
Pay respects at the poet's final resting place, then hear excerpts from the Divine Comedy read aloud in a historic setting.
-
Ravenna and Faenza Tour Shore Excursions · Tour in a DayUNESCO mosaics in Ravenna, artisan ceramics in Faenza, an 8-hour deep dive into Emilia-Romagna’s most dazzling arts cities.
-
Ravenna City Tour Shore Excursions · Tour in a DayStep into a living mosaic, discover Ravenna’s UNESCO masterpieces and the dazzling Mausoleum of Galla Placidia in just four unforgettable hours.
Day by day in Ravenna
Today’s journey to Ravenna is filled with adventure and discovery, starting with a visit to Gradara, a perfectly preserved medieval village crowned by its legendary castle. Walk through stone archways and along fortress walls that once inspired tales of knights and star-crossed lovers, including the famous story of Paolo and Francesca immortalized by Dante in “The Divine Comedy.” Kids can imagine life in the Middle Ages as you wander cobbled streets, explore towers, and take in panoramic views of the surrounding hills.
Next, cross into the Republic of San Marino, a tiny nation with a big sense of pride and history. Founded in 301 AD, San Marino is considered the world’s oldest surviving republic. Climb to the top of Monte Titano’s ancient towers for sweeping vistas across Italy and beyond, and discover the unique traditions, stamps, and coins that set this independent enclave apart.
Arriving in Ravenna by late afternoon, settle into your hotel and soak up the city’s tranquil atmosphere. As evening falls, gather for a family dinner featuring Ravenna’s local flavors, think handmade pasta, piadina flatbread, and sweet pastries setting the stage for the mosaic wonders and cultural treasures you’ll explore tomorrow.
Step into Ravenna, a city where every wall tells a story and sparkling mosaics turn sightseeing into a real-life treasure hunt. Kids and adults alike will be amazed by the city’s eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, each filled with brilliant colors, shimmering gold, and scenes of emperors, animals, and ancient legends. Imagine stepping back in time as you walk through the Basilica of San Vitale, where mosaics shine like jewels, and spot hidden symbols or try to find the famous portraits of Emperor Justinian and Empress Theodora.
Peek inside the tiny Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, where deep blue ceilings twinkle with stars, and let imaginations run wild as you search for birds, flowers, and secret patterns in the stone. At the Basilica of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, the long mosaic processions along the walls become a moving story; see how many different figures and animals your family can count!
With plenty of time for breaks, gelato stops, and playful photo ops, Ravenna’s mosaic wonders become the backdrop for a day of shared discovery, creativity, and fun, making art and history come alive for travelers of all ages.
Stop 3Bologna, Emilia Romagna
Bologna
Porticoes, towers, and the heart of Italy's kitchen
Bologna becomes your home base for deep dives into culture and craft. The city itself delivers medieval towers you can climb, porticoed streets that shelter you from sun and rain, and Piazza Maggiore where life unfolds in real time. Day trips fan out into Motor Valley, where you tour the Ferrari Museum in Maranello and feel the pull of speed and design, then into the countryside around Parma to watch Parmigiano Reggiano wheels turned by hand and prosciutto aged in hillside cellars. A hands-on pasta class brings you into a Bologna kitchen to roll tagliatelle and hear family stories, followed by the meal you made together. The rhythm is active but comfortable, with enough city time to wander, taste, and let the children set the pace. Bologna rewards curiosity without demanding it.
Arranged for you: We arrange your transfer from Ravenna to Bologna, hotel stay in Bologna, day trip to Parma region with visits to Parmigiano Reggiano dairy and prosciutto producer, day trip to Motor Valley including Ferrari Museum in Maranello, and hands-on pasta-making class with a local chef.
Your hotel
Styles, not names. We name the property once we know your dates and your party.
Interests in Bologna
-
Private tour of Bologna's university and anatomical theater Day Trips · Half day
Walk Europe's oldest university halls, then step into the carved wooden theater where medical students once watched dissections in tiered seating.
-
Lamborghini or Ducati museum visit and factory tour Day Trips · Half day
Expand your Motor Valley adventure with a stop at Lamborghini's sleek museum or Ducati's motorcycle heritage collection and production line.
-
Gelato-making class in a Bologna gelateria Day Trips · Half day
Learn to balance sugar, milk, and fruit or chocolate under the guidance of a master gelatiere, then taste your own creations.
-
Climb the Asinelli Tower for rooftop views over Bologna Day Trips · Half day
Ascend nearly five hundred wooden steps inside the city's tallest medieval tower and take in red-roofed panoramas in every direction.
-
Bologna and Ducati Museum Shore Excursions · Tour in a Day
From medieval Bologna to Ducati horsepower, an 8-hour day of history, local lunch, and Italian engineering legend.
-
Bologna and Maranello with Ferrari’s Museum Tour Shore Excursions · Tour in a Day
This tour of Bologna and Maranello with Ferrari’s Museum tour offers history, culture and racing history, it’s an ideal excursion for auto fans, as well as those who want to experience past and current Italian culture
Day by day in Bologna
Arrive in Bologna and feel the city’s pulse, a place where history, learning, and everyday life blend in a vibrant mix. As you settle in, take to the streets on foot: Bologna’s famous porticoes offer shade and shelter, making every wander comfortable, no matter the weather. Piazza Maggiore, the beating heart of the city, welcomes families with its grand medieval palaces, ancient Basilica di San Petronio, and lively outdoor cafés perfect for people-watching and gelato breaks.
Don’t miss the legendary leaning towers, Asinelli and Garisenda, which have watched over Bologna’s skyline since the twelfth century. For a true sense of the city’s spirit, visit the University of Bologna, the oldest in the Western world, where students from around the globe fill the streets with energy and creativity. In summer, Bologna buzzes with open-air cinema, concerts, and colorful markets, turning every evening into a celebration. Whether you join a local festival, browse artisan stalls, or simply soak up the atmosphere in a piazza, Bologna’s blend of history, culture, and youthful excitement makes it a highlight for families and a city you’ll want to return to again and again.
Today is a feast for the senses and a journey into the heart of Italy’s most celebrated food traditions. Start your adventure near Parma, where you’ll step behind the scenes at a Parmigiano Reggiano dairy. Discover how this “King of Cheeses” is crafted by hand, following strict rules that have earned it the prized DOP (Denominazione di Origine Protetta) label. Kids will love watching the giant wheels being turned and tasting cheese that’s aged to perfection, each bite full of flavor and history.
Next, visit a family-run prosciuttificio to see how Prosciutto di Parma is made, from the careful salting to the long aging process. Learn why these hams are so treasured, and what makes them different from imitations found elsewhere in the world. Lunch is a true highlight: gather at a local trattoria or right at one of the producers’ tables for a meal featuring the region’s specialties, fresh cheeses, cured meats, rustic breads, and maybe even homemade pasta. It’s a delicious way to experience the warmth of Emilia Romagna’s hospitality.
In the afternoon, head to Modena for a visit to a traditional acetaia, where the famous Balsamic Vinegar of Modena is aged in wooden barrels for years, even decades! Taste the difference between young and aged vinegars, and discover how patience and passion create a flavor that’s both sweet and complex.
End your day with a relaxed stroll in Modena’s city center, where the pride of Emilia Romagna’s food culture is on display in every shop window and lively piazza.
Get ready for a day of speed, style, and hands-on fun in Italy’s legendary Motor Valley. This region around Modena is home to some of the world’s most famous automotive brands, making it a dream destination for car lovers of all ages. Start with the Ferrari Museum in Maranello, where families can marvel at classic and modern race cars, explore interactive displays, and even try a high-tech F1 simulator (minimum age applies) for a taste of what it feels like to be a Formula 1 driver.
Expand your adventure with visits to other icons of Italian engineering: tour the Lamborghini Museum to see dramatic supercars and learn about the brand’s bold design legacy; step inside the Maserati showroom for a glimpse of Italian elegance and innovation; or head to the Ducati Museum, where the world of high-performance motorcycles comes alive with stories of racing glory and technical mastery.
Throughout the day, discover what makes these brands so special, from the artistry of hand-built engines to the passion for pushing limits. Many museums offer kid-friendly activities, multimedia exhibits, and even factory tours where you can watch skilled craftsmen at work.
After a day packed with excitement, return to Bologna to enjoy the city’s vibrant evening atmosphere. Stroll under the glowing porticoes, dine at a lively trattoria, or join locals in the piazzas for gelato and people-watching, an energetic close to a day of unforgettable Italian innovation.
Immerse your family in Bologna’s world-famous food culture with a hands-on pasta class guided by a local chef. Learn how to transform simple ingredients into fresh tagliatelle and other regional favorites, picking up time-honored techniques and family stories along the way. As you mix, knead, and shape the dough, everyone gets involved making this a delicious and memorable experience for all ages. Afterward, sit down together to savor the dishes you’ve created, enjoying a meal that feels both authentic and rewarding.
The afternoon is yours to explore Bologna’s dynamic city life. Shop for Italian fashion and unique finds in elegant boutiques and artisan food stores, or wander through bustling markets for local specialties and souvenirs. Take a break in one of Bologna’s historic cafés, indulge in classic pastries like torta di riso or sip a refreshing granita as you watch the world go by. Discover beautiful churches, relax in leafy city gardens, or simply soak up the lively atmosphere in the city’s iconic squares. Whether you’re shopping, tasting, or just strolling under the famous porticoes, Bologna offers endless ways to enjoy family time and create lasting memories.
Day 10
Bologna, Arrivederci
As your family prepares to say arrivederci to Italy, take a final moment to reflect on the adventure you’ve shared. From Renaissance towns and castle climbs to the sparkling Adriatic, hands-on cooking, and the vibrant life of Bologna, every day has woven together culture, discovery, and joyful family time. The stories, flavors, and friendships found along the way become part of your own family’s story, reminders of Italy’s power to inspire and connect across generations. With hearts full and memories made, your journey ends for now, but the invitation to return and explore more of Italy’s wonders will always remain.
Why plan with Trips 2 Italy?
Designed around you by Italian-born planners
Guides, drivers and boats for your party alone
Hand-selected hotels in every destination
Local English-speaking guides who know their city
Met at the airport, private transfers throughout
Testimonials
Hear from travelers who have planned Italy with us
They took the time to understand our preferences and designed an itinerary that was comfortable, personalized, and enjoyable. They offered thoughtful recommendations while never being pushy.
We missed our connecting flight in Munich. I had just got through customs and was looking up the number to call when Trips 2 Italy called me. They told me exactly what to do and they already knew what flight we had been rebooked on.
Ready to make it yours?
Send us this adventure with your changes. An Italian-born planner builds the first full draft and calls you to walk through it.
Or call 1-866-464-8259
Questions travelers ask
Where will we travel on this itinerary?
Over 11 days this journey brings you to Bologna, Maranello, Modena, Parma, Ravenna, Reggio Emilia, and Vernazza. Each stop is woven into the itinerary with time for the landmarks, the views, and the local flavor that make it special.
How will we get around during the vacation?
Transportation is arranged as part of the itinerary, with comfortable train segments between the cities and vehicle transfers where they serve you best. Every connection is planned for you, so you can focus on the scenery instead of the logistics.
What kind of traveler is this package for?
It works beautifully for families, with a pace and a mix of experiences that every generation can enjoy together.
Can we customize this itinerary?
Absolutely. Every Trips 2 Italy itinerary is designed to inspire and can be tailored end to end, from the number of nights and hotel categories to the experiences along the way. A minimum of 2 travelers applies.
What is the best season for this itinerary?
The package is available all year around on request. Late spring through early fall is prime time on the coast, with warm seas and long evenings, while April, May, September, and October pair gentle weather with quieter towns.