Top Things to do in Modena, Italy
- Amberly McKee
- Mar 24, 2019
- 4 min read
Updated: Apr 30, 2024
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What comes to mind when you think of Italy? The historic ruins in Rome? The villages of Cinque Terre? Perhaps you're more drawn to the beaches on the Amalfi Coast? Regardless, your answer probably isn't Modena. And you likely won't find it on many commercialized itineraries.
Located in Northern Italy about 90 miles from Florence, Modena is best known for its reputation in the luxury car industry. The city is associated with the likes of Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Maserati. Other claims to fame are balsamic vinegar, and its cathedral, built in 1319. If any of this interests you, keep reading to decide if this city deserves a spot on your Italian itinerary. And if it does, learn about the top things to do in Modena, Italy.
Traditional Balsamic Vinegar
Balsamic vinegar was invented in Modena, and if its not from that region, it can't be considered traditional. Unlike knock-off versions, traditional balsamic vinegar must be aged at least 12 years and made with grape must. The type at your local grocery store likely only contains vinegar and sweeteners. Furthermore, Modena's traditional balsamic vinegar is only sold in round, 100-ml bottles.
Throughout Modena, you'll see many factories and tours that offer a free tasting of the city's balsamic vinegar. A popular choice is the two-hour-long Cavedoni tour, which includes a look at the vineyards used to grow grapes, an explanation of how it's made, and a taste test accompanied with food and wine.
The city takes it's balsamic vinegar very seriously - some locals even use it as a gelato topping. Sometimes, parents give it as a wedding gift, beginning the aging process at their child's birth and handing it over when vows are exchanged.
World Famous Cuisine
Perhaps one of the most famous restaurants in the world, Massimo Bottura's Osteria Francescana boasts three Michelin stars and requires months of advanced booking. You can choose from a tasting menu or an a la carte menu and add wine pairings for an additional cost.
Fans of liqueur need not panic either. While much of Italy is known for it's wine, Modena is famous for Nocino - a liqueur made from walnuts that is smooth, sweet, and sticky. When we visited Modena, a restaurant waiter gave us an entire bottle at the end of our meal and invited us to drink as much as we'd like. Because it goes down so easily, I admit that we quickly overdid it.
Exotic Car Rentals
About 14 miles away from Modena is Maranello, home to a reputable short-term rental company called Pushstart Maranello. Here, you're able to choose a Ferrari or Lamborghini and jump behind the wheel from 10-60 minutes. One notable option, the Lamborghini Huracan Performante, reaches speeds of 200 and can be booked through Viator. If you'd prefer a Ferrari, the Ferrari 458 Italia costs slightly less than the Lamborghini and reaches similar speeds (via Viator). For more information, check out our article on driving an exotic car in Italy.
Ferrari Museums
There are two Ferrari-centric museums in the area. One that's actually in Modena and one right beside our recommended car rental company. In Modena, the Enzo Ferrari Museum introduces you to the man behind the brand. It operates out of Enzo's birth home and his father's workshop for an authentic experience.
On the other hand, Museo Ferrari Maranello is dedicated to the brand itself. It showcases past Ferrari models and Ferrari race cars, as well as trophies and relevant information.
Mercato Storcio Albinelli
Mercato Albinelli is a popular place for locals to pick up high-quality goods. The nearly 100-year-old marketplace has fresh fish, numerous cheeses, pre-made sandwiches, and various meats, fruits, and vegetables. You can learn more about the market as well as regional delicacies by taking a Modena food tour.
Modena Cathedral
Located in the Piazza Grande, Modena Cathedral serves as the seat of the archbishop. The Romanesque structure is built using ancient stones with lions perched at the bottom of its columns. Inside, you'll find a crypt housing Saint Geminiano, a 13th-century rose window, and three naves. Next to the cathedral is its historic belltower, Torre della Ghirlandina. The 293-foot-tall structure ascends over the city and serves as a main focal point.
Palazzo dei Musei
Visiting one of the many museums is one of the top things to do in Modena, Italy. Palazzo dei Musei, or Museum Palace, is an 18th century building hosting Modena's most impressive works. Here, you'll find The Estense Gallery and Lapidary Museum - a collection of sarcophagi, Roman sculptures, and pieces once owned by the Este family, as well as the Estense Library, which bears historical books from the same bloodline. The palace is also the site of The Archeology and Ethnology Museum, housing Roman and Celtic relics, and the magnificent Art Gallery.
Where to Stay
B&B Hotel is a no-frills accommodation just outside the city center, but not quite in walking distance to the cathedral. If you'd prefer something closer, Phi Hotel Canalgrande is just a 5-minute walk from the cathedral and a mile from the train station.
Modena is a great escape from busy tourist traps with tons to enjoy nonetheless. If you like to merge off the beaten path, this city is for you.
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