Emilia Romagna’s “Motor Valley” comes alive when it hosts three major motorsport events: Motor Valley Fest and Formula 1 in May and MotoGP in September. The northern Italian region has been long regarded as the Motor Valley due to its significant contribution to Italy’s motor industry. In addition to being home of celebrated brands – including Ferrari, Maserati, Ducati, Pagani, Dallara, Energica and Lamborghini – Emilia Romagna has a wealth of events and attractions making it a must-visit destination for motoring fans, from international motor tracks and circuits, to a number of private collections of vintage cars and motorcycles.
Emilia Romagna has an action-packed sports events calendar in 2023. As well as motorsport, the Italian region will also host Giro d’Italia cycling and IRONMAN.
Motor Valley Fest, Modena
When: 11-14 May 2023
Since its inaugural edition in 2019, the Motor Valley Fest has become an exceptional open-air event celebrating the automotive industry. The Unesco-listed city of Modena will be the host of this four-day celebration of motor racing, with shows, exhibitions and activities to take place across the four days designed for all two and four-wheel enthusiasts. See motorvalley.it
F1 Emilia Romagna Grand Prix
When: 19-21 May 2023
The fourth edition of the Formula 1 Emilia Romagna Grand Prix will be held at the Autodromo Internazionale Enzo e Dino Ferrari in Imola. Red Bull’s Max Verstappen won the race in 2022. See formula1.com
MotoGP: Gran Premio di San Marino e della Riviera di Rimini Misano
When: 8-10 September 2023
The first Grand Prix event to take place at Misano was in 1980 and the venue has become a permanent fixture on the MotoGP calendar since 2007, after it was completely revised and remodelled. This area of Emilia Romagna has produced some great riders such as the late Marco Simoncelli, Valentino Rossi, Andrea Dovizioso and Marco Melandri who all grew up in the region as well. Additionally, the nearby Riviera Di Rimini in Emilia-Romagna region is a big draw for Italian holiday-makers, and those visiting from abroad, offering the option to spend time on the beach. See more at motogp.com
Cycling and MTB
When: March to September 2023
From spring onwards cycling and mountain bike events will return to Emilia Romagna. Events include:
- Granfondo del Po, Ferrara (12 March)
- Granfondo Riccione (26 March)
- Granfondo The Salt way – Cervia Cycling Festival (31 March-2 April)
- Granfondo Via del Sale, Cervia (2 April)
- Dieci Colli, Bologna (30 April)
- Giro d’Italia stage 10 – Scandiano to Viareggio (16 May)
- Gran Fondo Nove Colli (21 May)
- Rally di Romagna MTB (31 May-4 June)
- Appenninica MTB Stage Race (4-9 September)
- Italian Bike Festival, Misano World Circuit (15-17 September)
IRONMAN
When: 16 September 2023
IRONMAN Italy will be held in the town of Cervia on 16 September.
Play 25 golf courses
Emilia Romagna is not only a serene spot for holidaymakers looking to unwind, but also for avid golfers looking to refine their skills. Offering 25 golf courses, ranging from nine to 18 holes, the northern Italian region is the perfect place for both beginner and professional golfers. From Argenta’s Golf Club picturesque course located just an hour from Bologna to Golf Club Le Fonti situated in Sillaro Valley’s rolling hills, there is something for all levels. See emiliaromagnaturismo.it
The beaches of Rimini
Rimini is one of the most famous seaside resorts on the Adriatic Riviera, situated in the southern strip of Emilia Romagna. Apart from attracting travellers from all over the world for its history and culture, Rimini has some of the most stunning beaches in the region. From family friendly Bagno Egisto 38, to Bagno Libra offering a selection of coffee shops and restaurants, and Bagno 28 Otello, a beach loved by locals – you’ll be able to unwind, relax and enjoy a refreshing swim. See emiliaromagnaturismo.it