Attractions and Places To See around Faenza - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Faenza, a city in Italy's Emilia-Romagna region, offers a blend of historical, cultural, and natural sites. Known for its ceramic heritage, the area is situated at the foot of the Apennines, providing access to diverse landscapes. Visitors can explore ancient landmarks, significant museums, and natural features, including connections to the Vena del Gesso Romagnola Regional Park. The region provides opportunities for both cultural exploration and outdoor activities.
Best attractions and places to see around Faenza
- The most popular attractions is Ca' Carnè Refuge, a hut and visitor center located within the Vena del Gesso Romagnola regional park. It offers opportunities for eating and staying amidst the greenery of the Tuscan-Romagnolo Apennines, with options for trekking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.
- Another must-see spot is Path of the Saint, a trail with spiritual interest leading to the Hermitage of Montepaolo. This path winds through natural landscapes and offers views, culminating at a destination where Saint Anthony of Padua once retired.
- Visitors also love Marino Tower, a man-made monument built in the late 15th century for defensive and sighting purposes. This medieval tower dominates the Senio Valley and a vast hilly area, offering views of the surrounding landscape.
- Faenza is known for its historical sites, cultural institutions, and natural trails. The area provides a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient towers to significant religious sites and natural parks.
- The attractions around Faenza are appreciated by the komoot community, with 38 highlights featuring photos and receiving 146 upvotes.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Ca' Carnè Refuge
Highlight • Mountain Hut
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Brisighella
Highlight • Settlement
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Montepaolo Hermitage and Sanctuary of Saint Anthony of Padua
Highlight • Religious Site
The Hermitage of Montepaolo is the most important Antonian sanctuary in Emilia-Romagna.The hermitage and sanctuary is located in an isolated position 7 km from the town, at a height of 425 meters on top of the homonymous hill. Immersed in nature (it is not uncommon, going up, to meet roe deer, squirrels, porcupines, hares and other animals) Montepaolo is the ideal place to restore the spirit, away from traffic and noise.
The sanctuary of S. Antonio preserves a famous relic and the Grotto where the Saint used to retire in prayer, reachable on foot through the "Path of Hope". Also noteworthy is the modern and contemporary artistic endowment with the church (entirely frescoed and rebuilt in neo-Gothic style in the first decades of the 1900s). In the year 2000, a path decorated with mosaics was created near the hermitage which commemorates the crucial phases of the life of the saint. Every Sunday in September there are celebrations in honor of Saint Anthony.
In addition to the sanctuary, a characteristic farmhouse has been restored and equipped for meditation, prayer and study with a chapel, a library, a meeting room, other rooms and services. The house can accommodate up to 25 people in two or three bed rooms with private bathrooms.
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Manfredian Fortress (Brisighella)
Highlight • Castle
From 1503 to 1509 it belonged to the Venetians who built the grandiose keep and two sides of the walls, then it was part of the Papal State. At the end of 1500 the two towers were covered with a roof.
The fortress still retains the characteristics of medieval fortresses: the holes for the chains of the drawbridges above the entrance door, the corbels and machicolations, the walkways on the surrounding walls, the loopholes.
(Source: brisighella.org)
Today restored to new splendor through continuous and qualified restorations, it is a valuable example of the military art of the Middle Ages.
(Source: terredifaenza.it)
The fortress is also known as Rocca Manfrediana
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Path of the Saint
Highlight • Trail
A path that in addition to the beauties of nature is also rich in spiritual interest as it has as its destination a destination with a religious background, the Hermitage of Montepaolo, where St. Anthony of Padua retired in penance for nine months.
The departure is in front of the entrance to the Baths, from here you reach Piazza Mazzini, continue along Via della Fratta and then the climb of about 4.500 km begins which leads to Monte Cerreto (316 m asl).
After 1.400 km, just after the Petrosa farm, on the right, 50 meters from the main road, you will find the Maestà di S. Antonio cell: continue on the municipal road along Mount Sina until you reach the Maestà Mater Consolationis di Bagnolo. Walk for a kilometer until you reach Monte Cerreto, after which the dirt road begins. After 500 meters, on the right side, it is possible to admire the Grotta delle Fate, Mount Castellaccio and Mount Sassone (or delle civette).
The route now winds along the ridge and then climbs up to the hermitage of Montepaolo.
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Tips from the Community
Brisighella is one of the most beautiful villages in Italy.
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nice roads, little traffic and an area that is worth it
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Dirt roads up to M. Paolo currently not passable due to too much mud, very clayey unfortunately.
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Beautiful views, but be careful after rain or during winter, it gets muddy in sections
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The Cà Carnè refuge and visitor center offers the opportunity to eat and stay in the greenery of the Tuscan-Romagnolo Apennines. Furthermore, it is an ideal place for those who want to spend their free time in contact with nature: there are many possibilities here, including trekking, mountain bike trails and horseback riding. The Cà Carnè refuge is surrounded by the greenery of the Vena del Gesso Romagnola regional park. Guided speleological visits are also organised: to find out more visit the website http://www.rifugiocacarne.altervista.org/visite-speleological.html.
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A very attractive castle overlooking Brisighella. Its watch tower which stands apart on another pinnacle can also be visited.
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The Hermitage of Montepaolo is the most important Antonian sanctuary in Emilia-Romagna due to the preserved memory of St. Anthony of Padua who had his first Italian residence here between 1221 and 1222. The hermitage and sanctuary is located in an isolated position 7 km from the town, at a height of 425 meters on top of the hill of the same name. Immersed in nature (it is not uncommon, going up it, to meet roe deer, squirrels, porcupines, hares and other animals) Montepaolo is the ideal place to restore the spirit, away from traffic and noise. The sanctuary of S. Antonio preserves an important relic and the Grotto where the Saint used to retire in prayer, reachable on foot through the "Path of hope". Also noteworthy is the modern and contemporary artistic endowment with the church (entirely frescoed and rebuilt in neo-Gothic style in the early decades of the 20th century). In the year 2000, a path decorated with mosaics was created near the Hermitage which recalls the crucial phases in the life of the Saint. (Source: http://www.turismoforlivese.it/servizi/menu/dinamica.aspx?ID=4503)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical landmarks can I explore in Faenza?
Faenza's historic center is rich with landmarks. You can visit the impressive 15th-century Faenza Cathedral, designed by Giuliano da Maiano, and the meticulously rebuilt 17th-century Clock Tower in Piazza della Libertà. The grand 17th-century baroque Fontana Monumentale is also a notable historical feature.
Where can I experience Faenza's renowned ceramic heritage?
Faenza is globally celebrated for its ceramics. The premier destination is the International Museum of Ceramics (MIC), one of the world's largest, showcasing extensive collections from various periods and artists like Chagall and Picasso. Beyond the museum, you can explore numerous artistic workshops around town to see artisans at work and purchase local ceramics.
Are there any significant cultural sites besides the ceramics museum?
Yes, Faenza offers several other cultural sites. The magnificent 18th-century Palazzo Milzetti stands as a leading example of Neoclassical architecture in Romagna, offering insight into aristocratic life. You can also visit the Pinacoteca Comunale (Municipal Art Gallery) for paintings from the Renaissance to the 20th century, or the elegant 18th-century Masini Theatre.
What outdoor activities are available near Faenza?
Faenza, situated at the foot of the Apennines, offers diverse outdoor opportunities. You can find various cycling itineraries, including road cycling routes like 'From Faenza along the route of the Granfondo Davide Cassani'. For more options, explore the Road Cycling Routes around Faenza guide.
Where can I go hiking or walking around Faenza?
The region offers several hiking and walking trails. The Path of the Saint is a trail with spiritual interest leading to the Hermitage of Montepaolo, winding through natural landscapes. For more hiking options, check out the Hiking around Faenza guide, which includes trails like 'Monte Riccio e Monte Brullo'.
Are there any family-friendly attractions in the Faenza area?
Yes, the area provides family-friendly options. The Ca' Carnè Refuge, located within the Vena del Gesso Romagnola regional park, is an ideal place for families to spend time in nature, offering trekking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The charming village of Brisighella, with its historical sites, is also suitable for family visits.
What natural features or parks can I visit near Faenza?
Faenza is close to significant natural areas. The Ca' Carnè Refuge is nestled within the Vena del Gesso Romagnola regional park, offering opportunities to explore the greenery of the Tuscan-Romagnolo Apennines. A cycle-nature trail also connects Faenza's foothills to the Vena del Gesso Park and the Po Delta Park, both UNESCO World Heritage sites.
What is the best time to visit Faenza for cultural events?
If you are interested in cultural events, consider visiting in June when the city celebrates its past with the 'Palio del Niballo'. This is one of the oldest jousting events known, featuring challenges between flag-wavers and drummers, offering a unique historical experience.
Are there any hidden gems or unique places to discover near Faenza?
For a unique discovery, consider visiting Oriolo dei Fichi, a small, hidden gem nearby. It boasts a famous tower and offers picturesque countryside panoramas, along with opportunities for local food tasting. The Marino Tower, a medieval defensive structure offering views of the Senio Valley, is another less-known but impressive site.
Where can I find local markets in Faenza?
You can experience the local atmosphere at the bustling open market that takes place in Faenza's main plaza. This market is held on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, offering a variety of goods and a chance to immerse yourself in local life.
What kind of running trails are available around Faenza?
Faenza offers various running trails for different skill levels. You can find routes like 'Resti della Rocca di Faenza loop' which is moderate, or shorter, easy loops like 'Running loop from Istituto Superiore per le Industrie Artistiche'. For a comprehensive list, refer to the Running Trails around Faenza guide.
Most popular attractions around Faenza
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