Po River Delta

Why visit Po River Delta the first time?

Review by Baldassarri Giuseppe

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The Po River Delta, located in northern Italy, is a fascinating region known for its beautiful landscapes, diverse wildlife, and delicious cuisine. To fully explore the area and enjoy its attractions, local food, and wine specialties, I would recommend spending at least 4 to 5 days on your itinerary. 

Here's a suggested itinerary for a tour of the Po River Delta:

Day 1: Arrival and Ferrara

- Arrive at the Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport, which is the closest major airport to the Po River Delta.

- From the airport, you can take a train or rent a car to reach Ferrara, a charming city renowned for its well-preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture.

- Spend the day exploring Ferrara's historic center, including the Estense Castle, the Ferrara Cathedral, and the Palazzo dei Diamanti.

- In the evening, indulge in some local specialties like cappellacci (a type of stuffed pasta) and salama da sugo (a cured pork sausage) paired with a glass of Lambrusco, a sparkling red wine from the region.

Day 2: Comacchio and Delta del Po Regional Park

- Head to Comacchio, a picturesque town known as "Little Venice" due to its network of canals and bridges.

- Take a boat tour of the Comacchio Valleys, a series of lagoons and wetlands that are part of the Delta del Po Regional Park. Enjoy the rich biodiversity and birdwatching opportunities in this protected area.

- Taste local seafood delicacies like eel, clams, and mussels in one of the traditional trattorias in Comacchio.

- Consider visiting the Museo Delta Antico, which showcases the history and culture of the Po River Delta.

Day 3: Ravenna

- Travel to Ravenna, renowned for its stunning Byzantine mosaics and UNESCO World Heritage sites.

- Explore the city's famous monuments, including the Basilica di San Vitale, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, and the Baptistry of Neon.

- Enjoy a traditional Romagna-style lunch, featuring piadina (a thin Italian flatbread), cured meats, and regional cheeses.

- In the afternoon, you can visit the Dante's Tomb, as Ravenna is the final resting place of the famous Italian poet Dante Alighieri.

Day 4: Wine Tasting in the Hills and Delta Exploration

- Venture into the hills surrounding the Po River Delta, where you'll find vineyards and wineries producing excellent wines.

- Visit wineries in the Colli di Faenza or Colli di Imola regions and indulge in wine tastings of Sangiovese, Albana, or Trebbiano wines.

- In the afternoon, return to the Delta del Po Regional Park and explore more of its natural beauty. Consider taking a bike ride or a guided tour to discover the diverse flora and fauna of the wetlands.

Day 5: Departure or Extended Stay

- If you have a morning departure, you can spend some time exploring the city of Bologna, known for its vibrant food scene and historic architecture, before heading to the airport.

- Alternatively, if you have more time, you can extend your stay and explore other nearby destinations like Venice or Verona.

Regarding accommodation, there are several options available depending on your preferences and budget. In Ferrara, Ravenna, and the surrounding areas, you can find a range of hotels, bed and breakfasts, and agriturismi (farm stays) that offer comfortable accommodations and a chance to experience the local hospitality.

To get to the Po River Delta, Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport is the most convenient airport to fly into. From there, you can rent a car to explore the region independently or use public transportation, including trains and buses, to reach the different cities and towns in the area.

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2023  

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