Perched on a hill between Bologna and Imola, Dozza is a bold little village that knows how to charm. Picture ancient stone streets wrapped in color, not from flowers or flags, but from murals splashed across every wall. This isn’t your average medieval town. It’s an open-air art gallery with a wine list. Famous for its Biennale del Muro Dipinto, Dozza invites street artists from around the world to turn the village into a living canvas. But it’s not just eye candy, it’s also a haven for wine lovers. At the Enoteca Regionale dell’Emilia-Romagna, tucked inside the town’s old fortress, you can taste your way through the region’s best bottles. It’s basically the heart of Emilia-Romagna wineries in this corner of the country. Come for the murals, stay for the reds.
Visit Dozza and the best things to do
Stroll through the painted streets
Wandering through Dozza feels like stepping into a dream where the walls talk, and they’ve got a lot to say. From mythic creatures to surreal splashes of color, the village’s iconic murals turn every corner into an unexpected masterpiece. With over 100 artworks covering homes, archways, and even the ancient Rocca di Dozza, this open-air museum isn’t curated, it’s lived in.
Visit the fortress at Rocca Sforzesca di Dozza
At the center of Dozza stands its proud fortress, the Rocca Sforzesca. This 15th-century castle, once ruled by the fierce Caterina Sforza, is part museum, part time machine. Wander through rooms dressed in antique furniture, peek into the old prison basement, and follow the scent of aging bottles down to the wine cellar tucked beneath the great hall. And don’t leave without heading up to the ramparts, the view over the rolling hills of Emilia-Romagna is pure magic, especially when the sun begins to dip.
Explore the Biennale Del Muro Dipinto Art Festival
Every two years in late September, Dozza bursts into color during the Biennale del Muro Dipinto. Artists from around the world take to the streets, turning blank walls into bold masterpieces, all in real time. It’s like watching the village breathe new life with every brushstroke. The whole town becomes a buzzing open-air studio, making it hands down the best time to visit Dozza if you love street art, creative energy, and unforgettable photo ops.
Admire the view from the south side ramparts
Make your way to the top of the Rocca di Dozza and let the view do the talking. From the fortress walls, gaze out over soft hills stitched with vineyards, olive trees, and the distant rise of the Apennines. It’s the kind of panorama that makes you pause, breathe, and maybe snap a hundred photos, especially as the sun dips low and bathes everything in golden light.
Visit Dozza and the best things to do around
Taste the good life in the hills
Set amid the rolling hills of Emilia-Romagna, Palazzo di Varignana is where luxury meets the vineyard lifestyle. This elegant wine estate offers curated tasting experiences, spa retreats, and strolls through ancient olive groves and terraced vines. Sip fine wines like Sangiovese Superiore or the estate’s own Metodo Classico while taking in panoramic countryside views. It’s the perfect spot to unwind, recharge, and treat your senses to the refined flavors of Italy wine tours, all in a setting that feels like a well-kept secret.
Head to the city of Imola
Just 15 minutes from Dozza, Imola keeps you on your toes, in the best way. One moment you’re wandering through the medieval halls of the Rocca Sforzesca, the next you’re sipping local wine at a buzzing enoteca. This 14th-century fortress once guarded the city under the fierce eye of Caterina Sforza, and today it’s all about sweeping tower views, ancient frescoes, and stories carved into stone. After your climb, settle into a nearby trattoria and raise a glass of Romagna Albana or a bold local red, because history tastes better with wine.
Wander through Castel San Pietro Terme
11 minutes from Dozza, Castel San Pietro mixes peaceful piazzas, Romanesque churches, and rolling vineyard views with a big dose of feel-good vibes. Whether you’re here for the thermal baths, a lazy lunch in the sun, or a seasonal wine tasting, it’s the kind of place that feeds your soul. From sweet straw wine to crusty local bread and aged cheese, Castel San Pietro serves up the flavors of Emilia-Romagna with heart, and a good glass of vino.
Drive to Faenza
35 minutes from Dozza, Faenza brings more than world-famous ceramics to the table, it’s a mix of artistic flair, graceful architecture, and that effortless Italian charm. Wander through Renaissance palaces, sip wine under sunlit archways, and discover local galleries tucked between piazzas and churches. The city is an open-air lounge for creatives, with cafés pouring crisp local whites and murals adding color to every corner.
Step into history in Bologna
Only about 40 minutes west by car, Bologna is a natural next stop on your itinerary, especially if you’re chasing bold flavors, striking architecture, and a lively street vibe. You are arriving from Dozza or setting off from Bologna Centrale, this city knows how to impress. Spend the day wandering under its endless porticoes, feasting on fresh tortellini, and browsing lively markets. Still dreaming about Dozza’s murals? Bologna’s buzzing street art scene picks up the brush right where you left off. Wrap up the day book a wine tasting in Bologna with a glass of local wine in a cozy enoteca and start planning your next bite.
Plan your perfect day trips from Bologna with our tips!
Good to Know before visiting Dozza, Italy
Is Dozza worth visiting?
Absolutely. Dozza is one of Italy’s most charming and picturesque medieval villages, located in the Emilia-Romagna region. It’s best known for its open-air museum of mural art, where colorful paintings adorn nearly every building, giving the town a unique and artistic atmosphere. With its rich history, peaceful streets, and stunning views of the surrounding hills, Dozza offers an authentic Italian experience far from crowded tourist hotspots.
What can you do in Dozza?
There’s a surprising amount to do in this small village. Must-see attractions include the Rocca Sforzesca, a well-preserved 15th-century fortress that holds a museum and historic wine cellar operated by the Enoteca Regionale Emilia-Romagna. Art lovers will appreciate the Biennale del Muro Dipinto, a public art event where international muralists create works directly on the town’s walls. Walk around Dozza’s cobbled streets, enjoy wine tastings, join a cooking class, or simply take in the sweeping countryside views.
What is the meaning of “Dozza”?
The name “Dozza” derives from the Italian word “doccia,” meaning “shower.” Historically, a medieval aqueduct provided running water here, and locals called the water channel “la doccia.” Over time, the name evolved into Dozza. This reference reflects the town’s ancient role in supplying the region with water.
Is Faenza worth visiting as well?
Yes, Faenza is only about 15 minutes from Dozza by car and is renowned worldwide for its ceramics. The city is home to the International Museum of Ceramics, one of the most important museums of its kind. Faenza also boasts a beautiful historic center with Renaissance architecture, quaint cafes, and lively local markets, making it a great day trip or stopover in the Emilia-Romagna region.
What are the best hotels in Dozza?
Although Dozza is a small town, there are several charming accommodations nearby:
- B&B La Locanda della Fortuna – A cozy countryside bed & breakfast offering stunning views, rustic charm, and great hospitality
- Agriturismo La Rondinella – Offers a recently renovated farm stay with a beautiful garden, open-air bath, bar, and seasonal outdoor swimming pool
- Monte del Re – A 4-star boutique hotel housed in a converted monastery featuring elegant rooms, gardens, and a pool (located in nearby Dozzano)
What are the best restaurants in Dozza?
Dozza is a great place to experience authentic Emilian cuisine. Some highly recommended restaurants include:
- Ristorante La Scuderia – A fine dining experience offering creative dishes based on traditional Bolognese recipes with a seasonal twist.
- Trattoria dal Nonno – Known for home-style pasta and grilled meats with a warm, family-run ambiance.
- Antica Osteria di Dozza – Located on the main alleyway, this osteria serves fresh tagliatelle al ragù and excellent local wines.
- Cantina da Vittorio – A hidden gem ideal for tasting regional salumi, cheeses, and fine wines from the Enoteca Regionale just across the street.
When is the best time to visit Dozza?
The best time to visit Dozza is during spring (April–June) and early autumn (September–October) when the weather is mild and the crowds are fewer. If you’re interested in experiencing local culture, plan your visit around the Biennale del Muro Dipinto, held every two years in September. This festival transforms the village into a live painting gallery and offers music, food stalls, and a festive vibe.
How much time do you need to explore Dozza?
One full day is generally enough to explore Dozza, including visits to the Rocca Sforzesca, wandering through the mural-filled streets, enjoying a meal, and doing a wine tasting. If you want a slower pace or to explore the countryside and nearby towns, a weekend stay is ideal.
What local wines can you try in Dozza?
Dozza is home to the Enoteca Regionale Emilia-Romagna, located inside the Rocca Sforzesca. There, you can sample a diverse collection of regional wines. Some notable varieties include Sangiovese di Romagna, Pignoletto, and Albana. Many tastings are available, and you can learn about the local viticulture from trained sommeliers. It’s a must-visit for wine lovers!
How do I travel from Parma to Bologna, and how long does it take?
The high-speed train from Parma to Bologna Centrale takes about 55 to 60 minutes to cover the 54 miles distance. There are around 20 direct trains daily, with fares starting near €10–12 when booked in advance. Buses are also an option, slightly cheaper (from about €7), but slower, taking around 1h 15m to 1h 20m. This makes Bologna an easy and enjoyable stop when you day trip from Parma to Bologna, letting you taste Emilia-Romagna’s best of both cities in a single, flavor-packed adventure.
