Nestled in the heart of Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region, Modena is a city steeped in history, culture, and culinary delights. From its magnificent architecture to its world-renowned cuisine, Modena offers visitors a wealth of experiences just waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re exploring ancient landmarks, sampling local delicacies, or immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the city, here are the top five things to do in Modena.
1. Explore Piazza Grande and the Modena Cathedral
Start your journey in the heart of the city at Piazza Grande, Modena’s main square and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire the stunning Romanesque architecture of the Modena Cathedral, a masterpiece of medieval art and one of Italy’s finest cathedrals. Marvel at the intricate carvings, sculpted reliefs, and soaring bell tower as you explore this architectural gem.
Afterwards, wander through the picturesque streets surrounding the square, where you’ll find charming cafes, historic buildings, and bustling markets selling local produce and artisanal goods. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Ghirlandina Tower, another iconic landmark of Modena, and climb to the top for panoramic views of the city and beyond.
Modena, Italy
2. Visit the Enzo Ferrari Museum
Discover the fascinating history of one of Italy’s most iconic brands at the Enzo Ferrari Museum. Located just a short walk from Piazza Grande, this sleek and modern museum pays tribute to the life and legacy of Enzo Ferrari, the legendary founder of the Ferrari automobile company.
Explore a collection of vintage and modern Ferrari cars, including rare prototypes, classic models, and Formula 1 racing cars, as well as interactive exhibits and multimedia displays that bring the history of Ferrari to life. Don’t miss the chance to take a guided tour of the nearby Ferrari Factory and see firsthand how these legendary cars are made.
Ferrari Museum, Modena
3. Sample Balsamic Vinegar at Acetaia di Giorgio
No visit to Modena would be complete without sampling the city’s most famous culinary export: traditional balsamic vinegar. Head to Acetaia di Giorgio, a family-run vinegar producer located just outside the city centre, where you can learn about the ancient art of vinegar-making and taste a variety of aged balsamic vinegar.
Take a guided tour of the vineyard and production facilities, where you’ll learn about the different grape varieties, fermentation processes, and ageing techniques used to create this prized condiment. Then, indulge in a tasting session, where you’ll sample a range of balsamic vinegars aged from 6 to 25 years, each with its unique flavour profile and complexity.
4. Indulge in Modenese Cuisine
Experience the culinary delights of Modena with a visit to one of the city’s many trattorias, osterias, and ristorantes, where you can sample traditional Modenese dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Start your meal with a plate of tortellini en brodo, delicate pasta parcels filled with meat and served in a rich broth, followed by a main course of cotechino con lenticchie, a hearty sausage served with lentils.
Be sure to save room for dessert, as Modena is also famous for its decadent sweets, including torta di riso, a creamy rice pudding flavoured with orange zest and cinnamon, and zuppa inglese, a rich trifle made with layers of sponge cake, custard, and chocolate. Pair your meal with a glass of Lambrusco, the region’s signature sparkling red wine, for the perfect accompaniment.
5. Take a Day Trip to Bologna
While Modena has plenty to offer in its own right, it’s also the perfect base for exploring the surrounding region. Just a short train ride away is the historic city of Bologna, renowned for its medieval architecture, vibrant markets, and rich culinary tradition.
Wander through the winding streets of the city centre, where you’ll find picturesque squares, elegant porticoes, and ancient landmarks like the Two Towers and the Basilica of San Petronio. Be sure to visit the Mercato di Mezzo, a bustling food market where you can sample a variety of local delicacies, including mortadella, parmigiano reggiano, and freshly made pasta.
