Modena is a gem in Italy's Emilia-Romagna region. It's a place for travelers who want real Italian charm. If you love food or art, Modena has something for you. This guide covers the top 27 ( and more!) things to do in Modena in 2026.
If you're planning a trip to Modena, be sure to also check out my travel guides to Parma and Bologna for even more food-focused, easy-to-pair stops nearby.
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Jump To
- Is Modena worth visiting?
- The 27 Best Things to Do in Modena Italy
- Where is Modena Italy
- Modena Italy Map
- How to Get to Modena, Italy
- The Best Tours in (and around) Modena, Italy
- Where to Stay: Modena Italy Hotels
- What to eat in Modena: Specialities
- Where to Eat: The Best Restaurants Modena Italy
- Frequently Asked Questions About Modena, Italy
Is Modena worth visiting?
Yes! Modena is definitely worth visiting. Modena-oh, where do I even begin? Nestled in the heart of northern Italy's Emilia-Romagna region, this city is an absolute treasure trove of history, food, and cars. You simply cannot talk about Modena without raving about its world-famous traditional balsamic vinegar. Trust me, you haven't truly tasted balsamic vinegar until you've sampled it in Modena.
The 27 Best Things to Do in Modena Italy
Whether you're navigating through bustling markets or venturing into lesser-known alleys, you're guaranteed a well-rounded-and I mean totally immersive-visit to Modena.
1. Visit Duomo di Modena
Explore the Romanesque architecture and sculptures.
2. Tour Museo Casa Enzo Ferrari
Dive into the life of Enzo Ferrari. See vintage cars.
3. Experience Acetaia Villa San Donnino
Tour the balsamic vinegar production. Taste their products.
4. Explore Piazza Grande
Stroll through the UNESCO World Heritage site. Admire architecture.
5. Discover Ghirlandina Tower
Climb for views of Modena. Learn its history.
6. Visit Casa Museo Luciano Pavarotti
Explore Pavarotti's life through his memorabilia.
7. Check out Acetaia Giusti
Learn the history of balsamic vinegar production.
8. Explore Galleria Estense
Discover art from the Este family collection.
9. Stroll along Via Farini
Walk this charming historical street.
10. Visit Museo Lapidario Estense
See fascinating Roman stone artifacts.
11. Walk through Corso Duomo
Immerse yourself in Modena's historical heart.
12. Admire Fontana Dei Due Fiumi
Enjoy the beautiful fountain from a café.
13. See La Statua della Bonissima
Check out this historic statue with an intriguing story.
14. Visit Chiesa Parrocchiale di San Barnaba
Find serenity in this hidden gem.
15. Tour Collegio San Carlo Modena
Explore this significant historical institution.
16. Explore Piazza Torre
See old buildings and the Tassoni statue.
17. Visit Galleria Civica di Modena
Enjoy contemporary art exhibitions.
18. Walk along Corso Canalchiaro
Experience this vibrant historic area.
19. Visit Via Taglio
Stroll and enjoy local cuisine.
20. Experience Teatro Storchi
Catch a performance in this historic theater.
21. Pay homage at Monumento a Luciano Pavarotti
Honor the opera singer at his statue.
22. Explore Mercato Albinelli
Immerse in local culture at Modena's central market.
23. Attend a Local Football Match
Cheer for Modena F.C. at Stadio Alberto Braglia.
24. Join a Cooking Class
Learn to make traditional Modenese dishes.
25. Cycle Through the Countryside
Explore scenic landscapes on a bike.
26. Visit Local Artisan Workshops
See traditional crafts and meet artisans.
27. Relax at Giardini Ducali
Spend an afternoon in this public garden.
Where is Modena Italy
As I just mentioned, Modena sits in the Emilia-Romagna region of northern Italy (see the map of Modena below). It lies south of the Po Valley, between the Secchia and Panaro rivers.
How far is Modena from Rome?
Modena is 405 kilometers (252 miles) north of Rome. The train ride takes about 3.5 to 4 hours.
How far is Modena from Bologna?
Modena is close to Bologna, only 40 kilometers (25 miles) northwest. The trip takes around 30 minutes by train or car.
Modena Italy Map
How to Get to Modena, Italy
Getting to Modena, Italy offers several options:
By Air:
Modena lacks a commercial airport. Bologna Airport, 40 kilometers away, is the closest. A shuttle bus from Bologna Airport to Modena costs about €15. The bus runs every two hours and takes around 50 minutes.
By Train:
Modena's main station is Stazione di Modena.
- From Bologna: Trains take 20-25 minutes and cost €4-6.
- From Milan: Trenitalia Frecce trains take 1 hour and 14 minutes. Tickets cost $17 to $65.
- From Florence: Trains take about 1 hour and 6 minutes, priced between $14 and $55.
- From Rome: Travel via Bologna, taking about 2 hours and 30 minutes in total.
By Bus:
FlixBus and others serve Modena. From Florence, buses take about 1 hour and 45 minutes, costing $12 to $18.
By Car:
Driving is an option, especially for exploring the countryside. Rent a car via Discovercars.com to explore Modena and the stunning Italian countryside at your own pace. Modena is on the A1 motorway. Watch out for Limited Traffic Zones in the city center. Check with your hotel about parking and access.
Getting Around Modena:
Modena is small and walkable. Bikes are popular. SETA runs local buses frequently. Taxis are available too.
The Best Tours in (and around) Modena, Italy
Here are the best tours in and around Modena, Italy:
Maranello: Ferrari Museum and Fiorano Track Combo Eco Tour
Tour the Ferrari Museum. Visit the Fiorano Track. Immerse yourself in Ferrari's world.
Modena: Balsamic Lunch with Vinegar Cellar Tour and Tasting
Have a traditional lunch. Tour a vinegar cellar. Learn how they make Balsamic Vinegar.
Parma: Cheese, Ham, & Balsamic Vinegar Tour with Tastings
Explore Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese origins. Taste Parma ham and balsamic vinegar.
Modena: Guided Balsamic Vinegar Cellar Tour & Optional Meal
Discover balsamic vinegar secrets. Tour a cellar. Enjoy an optional meal.
Modena: Enzo Ferrari Museum Entrance Ticket
Visit the Enzo Ferrari Museum. Learn about Enzo Ferrari's life and work.
Casa Museo Luciano Pavarotti
Tour Pavarotti's home. See his life and career showcased.
From Bologna: Balsamic Vinegar, Pavarotti and Ferrari Tour
Tour from Bologna. Visit a balsamic producer. See the Pavarotti House and Ferrari Museum.
Where to Stay: Modena Italy Hotels
Here's a list of the best hotels in Modena, Italy, by budget, family, mid-range, and luxury options:
Budget Hotels
- Hotel San Geminiano - Near Modena Cathedral. Free parking and Wi-Fi. Welcoming staff and hot showers.
- Hotel Europa - Short walk from the train station and historic center. Free parking. Friendly staff.
- Tiby Hotel - 15-minute walk to the city center. Classic-style rooms, free Wi-Fi. Polite staff, clean rooms.
Family Hotels
- Hotel Estense - Near the city center. Comfortable stay with free Wi-Fi and spacious rooms.
- Best Western Plus Hotel Modena Resort - Near Formigine. Two pools, hot tub, Turkish bath. Great for families.
- Hotel Le Ville - Countryside setting with a large garden and pool. Spacious rooms, family-friendly amenities.
Mid-Range Hotels
- PHI Hotel Canalgrande - Centrally located. Air-conditioned rooms with flat-screen TVs and minibars. Clean and well-decorated rooms, excellent breakfast.
- CDH Hotel Modena - Modern facilities, near motorway junctions. Convenient for travelers.
- Central Park Hotel Modena - 10-minute walk from the cathedral. Free parking, well-appointed rooms, delightful breakfast.
Luxury Hotels
- RMH Modena Raffaello - Superb amenities, modern design. Luxurious rooms, high level of comfort.
- Hotel Rua Frati 48 in San Francesco - 5-star hotel with a spa, wellness center, and fine dining restaurant. Luxurious experience in the heart of Modena.
- Villa Porpora Luxury Design - Perfect score, exceptional property. Unique and opulent stay for those seeking luxury.
What to eat in Modena: Specialities
Here are some of the must-try specialties in Modena, and let me tell you-they are absolutely to die for!
Pasta Dishes
Tortellini: This iconic pasta is stuffed with a delightful mixture of meats and cheese. You'll often find it served in a rich broth (tortellini en brodo) or smothered in a creamy Parmigiano Reggiano sauce. It's a must-have-trust me!
Tagliatelle al Ragù: This classic dish features wide, flat noodles served with a rich, hearty meat sauce. It's simply divine and utterly comforting.
Passatelli: A unique pasta made from breadcrumbs, eggs, Parmesan cheese, and nutmeg. It's often served in broth or, for a luxurious twist, with black truffles.
Meats and Salumi
Prosciutto di Modena: A delicate, aged ham that pairs beautifully with local cheeses and bread.
Culatello: Known as the "little ass of Parma," this is one of the finest cuts of ham. The flavor is so intense-it's pure bliss!
Zampone and Cotechino: Traditional pork sausages typically served with lentils or mashed potatoes, especially popular during the winter months. They are hearty and delicious!
Local Specialties
Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Modena: This traditional balsamic vinegar is aged for years in wooden barrels, resulting in a rich, complex flavor. It's a culinary gem, perfect as a condiment for salads, meats, and even desserts.
Gnocco Fritto: Fried dough squares that are typically served with cured meats like prosciutto and salami. They are crispy, warm, and oh-so-satisfying.
Tigelle: Small, round bread often filled with meats, cheeses, or spreads. They're perfect for a tasty snack or a light meal.
Desserts
Zuppa Inglese: A rich and creamy custard layered with sponge cake and soaked in liquor. It's the ultimate indulgence.
Torta di Riso: A rice pudding cake flavored with lemon and vanilla. It's light, sweet, and simply wonderful.
Drinks
Lambrusco: A sparkling red wine from the region, known for its fruity and slightly sweet taste. It pairs perfectly with the rich local cuisine, making every meal even more delightful.
Where to Eat: The Best Restaurants Modena Italy
These recommendations provide a range of dining options in Modena, from casual and family-friendly eateries to mid-range and fine dining establishments
Casual Dining
Pizzeria Rosticceria Peccati Di Gola
Small pizzeria. Cozy atmosphere. Delicious pizzas. Traditional Italian dishes. Perfect for a quick, cheap meal.
Known for perfect burgers. Mix of Italian and American food. Casual but delightful. Modern twist on classic dishes.
Family-Style Dining
Traditional trattoria. Warm, family-friendly atmosphere. Classic dishes like tagliatelle al ragù and ribs in Lambrusco. Great for families wanting local flavors.
Located in the countryside. Rustic, welcoming environment. Perfect for families. Hearty, traditional dishes with locally sourced ingredients.
Mid-Range Dining
Lively restaurant. Mix of traditional and creative regional cuisine. Relaxed atmosphere. Signature dishes like the "Slider" appetizer. Quality and affordability balanced.
In the heart of Modena. Diverse menu focused on seafood and Mediterranean dishes. Pleasant dining experience. Attentive service.
Fine Dining
Elegant setting. Exquisite menu. Fine dining with sophisticated Italian and seafood dishes. Recommended for special occasions and gourmet indulgence.
Upscale restaurant. Focus on Emilian cuisine. Exceptional food and service. Top choice for fine dining in Modena.
Frequently Asked Questions About Modena, Italy
Here are few answers to some of the most common questions we get asked about Modena, Italy:
Is Modena Italy safe?
Modena is safe for travelers. Crime levels are moderate, mostly pickpocketing and minor theft. Daytime safety is high. At night, be cautious, especially in quiet areas. Keep an eye on your belongings and don't display valuables. The city's safety index is decent. Stay informed about local conditions and advisories during your visit.
When is the best time to visit Modena, Italy?
Visit Modena in spring or fall. The weather is mild, between 59°F to 77°F. Avoid the summer heat and tourist crowds. Spring has cherry blossoms. Fall is perfect for truffle hunting. Enjoy exploring and eating.
How many days do you need to spend in Modena, Italy?
Spending two to three days in Modena is absolutely perfect to fully soak in the city's attractions and delectable cuisine! On the first day, you must visit the iconic Modena Cathedral, climb the Ghirlandina Tower (the views are stunning!), and immerse yourself in the Enzo Ferrari Museum - it's a must for any car enthusiast.
The second day is all about food - explore the vibrant food market, indulge in local specialties (the balsamic vinegar is to die for!), and maybe even take a trip to the Maranello Ferrari Museum.
If you have a third day, you can luxuriate in the local cuisine at renowned restaurants like Osteria Francescana (make sure to book well in advance!) or simply wander through the charming streets, discovering hidden gems and additional museums.
