Things to do in  Modena

Modena sits at the heart of what’s known as Emilia-Romagna’s Food Valley and Motor Valley. It’s known specifically for its prestigious balsamic vinegar—aceto balsamico di Modena—and its rarified sports cars, including Ferrari and Lamborghini. Modena is also famous for its opera tradition; Luciano Pavarotti was born here.

Begin your day by exploring the old town on foot or by bike to take its portico-lined lanes and Romanesque cathedral, plus stop at the Enzo Ferrari Museum to marvel at Italy’s iconic sports cars. Carve out time for a leisurely lunch at one of Modena’s local restaurants, too.

Yes, Modena is small and you can visit the old town, automotive museums, gourmet shops, and restaurants in one day. You can also use the city as a base to explore what’s known as the Food Valley and Motor Valley nearby—in this case, plan to stay at least three days.

Yes, the Ferrari Museum is one of the top automotive museums in Italy. There are two Ferrari museums in the area: The Enzo Ferrari Museum is located in central Modena and includes the original machine shop. The Ferrari Museum is just outside Modena in Maranello, connected to the Ferrari factory.

Aged balsamic vinegar is Modena’s most famous local specialty, but the town marks the center of what’s known as Italy’s Food Valley, where some of the country’s most prestigious gourmet specialties are produced. Try Parmigiano-Reggiano and prosciutto di Parma from neighboring Parma plus Lambrusco wine from the surrounding vineyards.

Set in Italy’s northern region of Emilia-Romagna, Modena is located about halfway between Parma and Bologna. It sits in the Po River Valley, which is famous for its fertile farmland where many of the top Italian specialties are produced, as well as one of Italy’s most important manufacturing areas.