Bologna is for foodies. It’s called “La Grassa” (the fat one) for a reason. Think tortellini, lasagna and ragu' alla bolognese.
Many great photographers call Bologna their favorite Italian city for its colorful architecture, miles of arcades covering bustling sidewalks. Perhaps also because it’s a place a photographer can escape mainstream tourism and and be immersed in a vibrant and metropolitan town.
You’ll eat at a variety of restaurants and taste wines of the region along with famous delights of the Emilia Romagna region: prosciutto, parmigiano and balsamico.
For the second part of the visit we move our headquarters into the countryside to explore the rustic side of Romagna and meet chefs you’d likely never find on your own.
Partners are welcomed on this tour, designed as a relaxed holiday where food meets photography. This is the Bologna and Romagna that tourists don't get to see.
See and photograph the secret locations that we've discovered in our 25 years photographing this region.
Inspiration is guaranteed.
Pre-Workshop:
We recommend you arrive a day or two early to acclimate to the time zone. You can fly directly into Bologna or choose nearby Florence airport for an easy entry. Venice is also just an hour or two away by train and makes a fun extension to your travel afterward. We’ll be happy to suggest hotels and travel tips for your pre and post workshop days.
This tour has a minimum group size of 6. If the minimum is not met at least 90 days before the departure date, the trip will be transformed in a private tour or canceled and refunds will be sent. You will receive a notification.
You can check the BOLOGNA & ROMAGNA TRIP to see if the minimum has been met and who's going. Or you can inquire here. You will receive notification.
Please consider waiting to book flights until the tour is confirmed. (Or book refundable tickets)
You can always check here to see who's going. Or you can inquire here.
Secure your booking with a $500 deposit. The balance payment is due 120 days prior to your trip departure.
Ground travel
Begin and end in Rome and travel by private car
Accommodations
7 nights stay in beautiful and charming hotels in Bologna and Faenza
Dining
Included are all breakfasts plus 3 dinners carefully chosen by Gabriele to represent authentic foods and wines from the Emila Romagna region.
Airfare to Bologna
Travel insurance
$100 off per person having attended a previous Italy Workshops event (6 days or longer)
Gabriele, Italian photographer and publisher from Imola, near Bologna, is known for his big smile, infectious passion for street photography, and deep knowledge of Italian photographic history.
Former photography instructor at the University of Bologna, he has worked for years as a photographer in Tuscany and knows the region intimately.
He enriches every journey with unique cultural insights, local connections, and a love for Italy’s traditions. Living in Emilia Romagna, the heart of classic Italian cuisine, he’s the perfect guide to pair unforgettable images with equally unforgettable food and wine.
Randy is an award-winning fine-art photographer and exceptional instructor, celebrated for his breathtaking landscapes and his patient, welcoming teaching style. He founded EarthLight Gallery in Park City, UT, and Master Your Workflow, a digital coaching program for photographers. Randy has played a key role in over a dozen Italy Workshops events across Italy and France, collaborating with Drake, his friend of over 30 years. His extensive career includes running a successful studio in Idaho, teaching college classes in photography and Photoshop, and mentoring hundreds of photography enthusiasts through his Meet Up group. Randy’s vast knowledge and gentle humor make his lessons engaging and enjoyable, helping every student feel comfortable and inspired as they learn.
4 stars Hotel centrally located
Meeting in the hotel for a short introduction to the workshop and a guided tour of the historical center of Bologna, where you will explore the rich culture and stunning architecture with a professional guide. Discover the fascinating history behind the iconic landmarks as you stroll through the charming streets. To conclude the day, enjoy a welcome dinner in a typical “bolognese” family restaurant, where you will savor authentic dishes of the Emilian cuisine, experiencing the true flavors of this remarkable region.
Join us for an engaging walk and street photography session around the vibrant town of Bologna with Gabriele, a knowledgeable guide who has published multiple acclaimed books on the city. Capture stunning images in the “old market,” nestled in the historic center, where you can feel the rich history and vibrant culture come to life.
Afterward, enjoy a delightful lunch at the oldest Osteria in the city, known for its authentic Bolognese cuisine and warm ambiance.
In the afternoon, take some free time to explore Bologna at your own pace, armed with Gabriele’s expert suggestions for must-see fascinating churches, impressive towers, and intriguing galleries that showcase the city's artistic heritage.
Conclude your day with a delicious dinner at a beloved local favorite Trattoria, where you can savor traditional dishes and immerse yourself in the authentic flavors of Bologna.
Sorbara is a village in the Modena province, central to Lambrusco di Sorbara production and the most famous "balsamico" of Modena.
In Sorbara, take a delightful journey to visit an ancient "acetaia," a traditional producer of the famous “balsamic” vinegar. Enjoy a leisurely lunch under the charming arcades, savoring a variety of delicious dishes that showcase the rich culinary traditions of the region.
In Modena, immerse yourself in the vibrant history of the city with a captivating walk through the historic center. Visit the Pavarotti Home Museum, a tribute to the legendary opera singer, where you can truly experience the unique atmosphere that surrounded this world-famous artist throughout his illustrious career.
In the enchanting land of Parmigiano Reggiano, embark on a delightful journey to visit a traditional warehouse and a picturesque livestock farm, where you will enjoy an engaging photo session and savor a delicious tasting of this world-renowned cheese.
Next, immerse yourself in the fascinating world of automotive excellence at Museo Enzo Ferrari. Discover the captivating story behind the legendary brand, explore the stunning collection of iconic cars, and learn about the remarkable pilots who have contributed to making Ferrari a name synonymous with speed and luxury across the globe.
We leave Emilia to drive to the enchanting city of Ravenna, the main hub of Romagna, renowned for being one of Italy’s most significant historic and artistic treasures. Here, we will embark on a guided tour of the stunning basilica of San Vitale, an architectural marvel, as well as explore the remarkable Byzantine monuments that showcase the city’s rich cultural heritage.
After our exploration, we will depart to Faenza, the charming ceramic city, where we will enjoy a delightful dinner featuring a first taste of authentic Romagna dishes, allowing us to savor the flavors that this beautiful region has to offer.
4 Stars hotel centrally located in Faenza
Faenza, known for its vibrant Saturday local market, is a colorful and lively location that attracts people eager to capture the essence of the town through their photography. The market buzzes with activity, offering a delightful array of local produce, crafts, and delicious street food, making it a perfect spot for both locals and visitors alike.
Afterward, we will transfer to Dozza, an enchanting old "borgo" adorned with stunning murals and a historic castle. Here, you can explore the picturesque streets and immerse yourself in its artistic charm. Don’t miss the chance to visit the regional Enoteca of Emilia Romagna, where you can sample exquisite local wines. The day concludes with a delightful dinner at the well-loved Restaurant La Scuderia, renowned for its traditional dishes that celebrate the rich culinary heritage of the region.
Drive to Brisighella through the picturesque Romagna hills, where the rolling landscapes and charming scenery will captivate you. Explore the enchanting village known for its unique "donkey's street," a fascinating feature where the houses are adorned with this quirky touch.
Afterward, we will head to Faenza for some well-deserved relaxation and to pack for our journey home. We’ll conclude our adventure with a memorable farewell dinner under the stars in the historic round square of Bagnacavallo, dating back to the 700s, where the ambiance and history create a perfect backdrop for our final evening together.
Participants will be comfortably accompanied directly to the airport, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free departure experience. Alternatively, if they are stopping in Bologna, they will be guided to the central train station, where they can easily catch their next journey. This thoughtful arrangement makes the transition seamless and enjoyable for all travelers involved.
Participants who'll join the Le Marche Extension will have an informative briefing and a short lunch, allowing them to fuel up and prepare for the exciting journey ahead, before leaving for the extension adventure.
Extension: 5 Days / 4 nights
$2250 per guest double occupancy.
Single supplement just $400
Le Marche is a central Italian region known as "All of Italy in one" for its blend of stunning Adriatic beaches, rolling hills, and Apennine mountains. This region offers a delightful mix of art cities like Urbino and Ascoli Piceno, medieval towns, rich history, unique cuisine (such as Verdicchio wine), and authentic, less-crowded experiences. Highlights include the vast Frasassi Caves and Raphael's birthplace, making it a perfect destination for those seeking both beauty and culture.
by van or private car from Bologna Central Station or Airport
1 night in Urbino
3 nights in Ascoli Piceno
Gabriele Angelini - Italian Pro Photographer and licensed guide
Urbino is a historic hilltop town in the Marche region of Italy, famous for being a thriving cultural center of the Renaissance and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its steep, well-preserved streets, it is renowned for its Renaissance architecture, particularly the Ducal Palace, and as the birthplace of Raphael.
The town maintains a rich atmosphere of history, art, and culture, further enhanced by its ancient university.
Three stars Hotel centrally located in Urbino
Monte Conero is a majestic limestone promontory on Italy's Adriatic coast in the Marche region, south of Ancona.
It is renowned for its dramatic cliffs, white-pebble beaches with turquoise waters, and the surrounding Conero Regional Park, which offers stunning hiking trails and rich biodiversity, including strawberry trees.
Charming seaside towns like Sirolo and Numana beautifully blend mountain scenery with the sea.
Three stars Residence centrally located in Ascoli Piceno
Ascoli Piceno is an elegant historic city renowned as the "City of a Hundred Towers." This charming destination is built almost entirely from beautiful golden-hued travertine stone, giving it a unique and warm appearance. Visitors can explore stunning squares such as the magnificent Piazza del Popolo, where the vibrant atmosphere invites leisurely strolls, and discover fascinating Roman ruins that whisper tales of the past, alongside impressive medieval towers that punctuate the skyline.
The city is also famous for its mouthwatering fried stuffed olives, known as Olive all'Ascolana, which are a must-try delicacy for any food lover. Ascoli Piceno offers a rich and captivating blend of history, art, architecture, and authentic local life, making it an unforgettable destination.
The Castelluccio Plain is a vast and stunning karst plateau nestled in the beautiful Umbria-Marche Apennines, renowned for its spectacular and vibrant flowering between the months of May and July.
During this enchanting period, fields are painted with the vivid colors of poppies, cornflowers, and lentils, which are a cherished local specialty. This breathtaking display creates a unique, almost Tibetan-like landscape, surrounded by the majestic Sibillini Mountains. At the heart of this picturesque scenery lies the charming small village of Castelluccio, which not only dominates the landscape with its quaint architecture but also offers a delightful array of typical local products and breathtaking views that leave visitors in awe.
Participants will be comfortably accompanied directly to the Airport, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free departure experience.
Alternatively, if they are stopping in Bologna, they will be guided to the central train station, where they can easily catch their next journey.
This thoughtful arrangement makes the transition seamless and enjoyable for all travelers involved.
In Italy, eating well, or "mangiare bene," is essential to the travel experience.
Each region boasts its own specialties, so we take the extra time to discover the best little trattorias where you can enjoy authentic local cuisine.
Dining family-style and asking for a variety of the chef's recommendations is a favorite way to share meals with our groups. Everyone gets to taste everything and enjoy as much as they like. Of course, wine and soda are included with our meals. Immersing yourself in a local region's culinary traditions enhances your photography, making it more informed and authentic.
