I’ve summarized this list of the best things to do in Modena and created a plan for what to do in Modena in a day, based entirely on my own experience—no fluff included. I don’t rely on media hype, reviews, or TripAdvisor.
First, I’ll focus on describing each spot and giving you my insider tips, and at the end of this article, you will find my comprehensive one-day itinerary for Modena.
So, why come to Modena in the first place? To experience the Ferrari Museum in Maranello and the Enzo Ferrari Museum first and foremost, but also the historic old town (Duomo di Modena and Ghirlandina), and the incredible stories and food museums that surround it, all conveniently located near Modena’s city center.
Modena’s restaurants are second to none
Heads up: Modena is part of Emilia-Romagna, often considered the food capital of Italy. Even though I’m sure many other regions in Italy would strongly disagree, from the perspective of a foreigner who has explored most of Italy—Moden really feels like they have the upper hand.)
After six months of traveling in Italy and over 20 visits, I feel confident about what’s worth seeing and what’s not. I can tell you right now: Modena ranks very high on my list of Italian destinations, and for entirely different reasons than I originally expected. If you want to compare and contrast, find out more about Italy.
The Ferrari Museum is a must for all luxury car enthusiasts
There’s nothing else meaningful to do in Modena if you’re a well-traveled soul. This list will comfortably fill up your day. Trust me—I've scoured every corner, and you don’t need to do another search. I’ve done the hard work for you.
As you can see, you’ll need to travel a bit to hit all the best things to do in Modena. Because of this, the RMH Modena Des Arts Hotel is a very convenient base—a superb hotel in my opinion
Checking out the nature outside Modena
Tucked just outside Modena, the RMH Modena Des Arts is one of those rare gems that checks all the boxes without breaking a sweat. It's modern ranks way up there among my favorite hotels in all of Italy.
It’s convenient: It’s conveniently close to the highway (but not too close), making it the perfect base for exploring Modena without the hassle of city-center congestion. It has a massive, free parking lot.
The beds are ridiculously comfortable. My favorite bonus is the pillow menu. I had one of the best sleeps of my life here—no exaggeration.
Breakfast was very good. Even in the off-season, the spread is top-notch, with a fantastic selection of hams, cheeses, and other Italian treats.
So, remember, the hotel in Modena you’re looking for is: RMH Modena Des Arts 41100 Modena Italy
Madonne Cheese Factory is the best!
From my personal view this is absolutely the best thing to do in Modena.
Why this tour is worth it
The 4 Madonne Caseificio dell'Emilia, a prestigious producer of Parmigiano Reggiano, offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of cheese-making. This isn’t just a quaint operation—it’s an impressive production powerhouse. Inside, you’ll find 36,000 wheels of Parmigiano, each weighing 40 kg. With each wheel priced at around EUR 800, the scale is mind-boggling—over EUR 18 million worth of cheese aging in their storage at any given time!
The tour combines tradition, science, and some serious muscle. Workers, who are impressively strong from handling massive wheels of cheese, process the cheese daily (cows don’t take days off). They even clean the equipment using leftover whey instead of chemicals. On-site, they produce not only Parmigiano but also ricotta (locally known as "Richtrs"), adding to the experience.
At the Madonna Cheese Factory, you'll be surrounded by these giant, high-quality parmigiano reggiano wheels
At the end of the tour, you’ll enjoy a guided tasting of local ricotta and 12-, 18-, 24-, and 36-month Parmigiano. Experiencing the flavor evolution is a treat, offering insight into why this cheese is so revered.
If you’re a fan of cheese or traditional craftsmanship, this tour is a must-see. It’s informative, entertaining, and utterly delicious.
Parmigiano Reggiano must be locally sourced from Parma, Modena or Reggio Emilia
It was interesting to see the stages of making parmigiano reggiano
Acetaia Giusti
Acetaia Giusti isn’t just a vinegar factory—it’s a time machine that takes you back to 1605, when the Giusti family decided vinegar could be more than just an afterthought.
It’s also the oldest balsamic producer in the world, so yeah, they know what they’re doing. Their shop in Modena has been open for over 400 years, which is older than most countries. If that doesn’t impress you, we need to talk.
For me, this tour was like discovering that balsamic vinegar has a secret life as a rockstar. The museum walks you through the Giusti family’s legacy, revealing how they became "Royal Suppliers of Balsamic" in 1929. Apparently, their 90-year-old balsamic was so good, even royalty couldn’t resist. (Honestly, I wouldn’t be surprised if they bribed a few kings with it.)
You’ll get to know everything about the Giusti family and their balsamic production legacy
Fun fact: The real mic-drop moment? Learning they crushed it at the 1889 World Fair in Paris. Back then, balsamic vinegar wasn’t even a thing internationally, but they walked away with top awards—competing against all foods, not just condiments. Basically, they made balsamic the Beyoncé of the culinary world.
And then, there’s the tasting. Oh, the tasting. Picture me standing there, sampling spoonfuls of liquid gold and mentally redesigning my kitchen to showcase my future vinegar collection. I ended up buying two bottles: one with four medallions (like Michelin stars but for vinegar) and a truffle-infused balsamic that might actually make me cry when it runs out. The staff explained which balsamic pairs with what (spoiler: pretty much everything), and the beautiful packaging had me feeling like a gift-giving genius.
This tour isn’t just about vinegar—it’s about experiencing a piece of Italian culture that’s been simmering (literally) for centuries. Visiting the oldest vinegar producer in the world felt like I’d unlocked a secret level of food appreciation. And did I mention it’s free? Seriously, you’ll leave wondering if you should tip someone.
Tasting, history, making fun of my girlfriend, nothing was missing!
If you’re a foodie, a history buff, or just someone who likes free stuff, this is an absolute must-do. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you, and so will anyone lucky enough to get a bottle as a gift—if you can part with it. Oh, and my girlfriend absolutely hates balsamico so I scored two wins that day as she had to taste it.
Luciano Pavarotti’s house
Luciano Pavarotti’s home (Casa Museo Luciano Pavarotti) is a mix of charm, modernity, and deeply personal storytelling. Built in the late '90s, the house reflects his passions, from his love of Puccini to the personal significance behind every single item in his collection. You’ll walk through 12 sections spread across four floors, each telling a piece of his story—personal and professional.
What really struck me was how the museum paints him as not just a legend, but as an incredibly positive and compassionate person. The guy won six Grammys and two Emmys, but his biggest achievement? Raising more money for refugees than any other private individual in history. That’s a mic drop moment right there.
The highlight for me was the top floor, where you’ll find personal letters from celebrities and dignitaries that reveal the depth of his personality. These letters are pure gold—they give you a glimpse of the friendships and respect he earned. It’s like reading a who's-who of global admiration.
The top floor was the most interesting one
The house itself is so thoughtfully curated, it reminded me a bit of Pablo Neruda’s house (check the resemblance in my Chile itinerary). Every detail feels meaningful, showing Pavarotti’s warmth, joy, and endless curiosity. If you’re a fan of music, philanthropy, or just fascinating lives, this museum is a no-brainer.
Plus, you’re not just visiting a museum—you’re stepping into the life of someone who made the world a better place. That’s worth every cent.
The jaw-dropping Duomo di Modena
Look, I’m just going to say it: in a country full of jaw-dropping Duomos, this one is… fine. Founded in 1099, it’s old, sure and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a respectable example of Romanesque architecture and had enough clout to influence the Renaissance. So, you know, good for it.
But if we’re ranking Duomos, Modena Cathedral is not making the highlight reel. It’s more like the dependable background character in Italy’s architectural drama. That said, there are still some cool bits. The tunnel connecting the cathedral to the Ghirlandina Tower? Now that’s interesting. It’s an actual passageway linking two squares, and you don’t see that every day—bonus points for creativity.
Speaking of the Ghirlandina Tower, it’s 90 m (295 ft) tall and built in the same era as Modena Cathedral. Together, the tower and Duomo are like an old married couple: one’s holding it down architecturally while the other occasionally steals the spotlight.
I loved the vibe of Duomo di Modena during our evening walk through the city
For me, the real charm is in the atmosphere. By day, it’s a pleasant slice of history. By night, the lighting adds a mysterious, moody vibe that almost distracts you from its average-ness. Sure, it’s not going to compete with Florence or Milan, but it’s still worth a visit if you’re already in Modena. And hey, it’s free—so even if it doesn’t blow your mind, at least it won’t empty your wallet.
Another great car museum—Panini
If you’re expecting a high-tech, glitzy car museum, you’re in for a curveball. The Panini Motor Museum has a quirky “car-meets-farm” vibe, but don’t let the setting fool you—it’s a hidden gem for gearheads. In fact, I’d argue it has a better car-to-ticket-price ratio than the Ferrari Museum. (Yes, I said it.)
The stars of the show are the Maserati race cars, including some incredible single-seaters from the 1930s that could hit 260 km/h. Just imagine hurtling along at that speed back then—it’s both impressive and mildly terrifying. Maserati, being ahead of the curve, was also making limousines back in the day. Clearly, they figured out early that dads don’t just want practical family cars—they want sportscars with room for the kids’ soccer gear.
One of the coolest things here is the collection of one-off models, like the Maserati Chubasco. Sure, it looks suspiciously like a Honda XSR, but it’s still a rare beauty. If you’re a fan of car design or automotive history, this is a great chance to get up close to some truly unique machines.
You can find a collection of one-off models of Maserati
While it may not have the sleek polish of Ferrari’s flashy showrooms, the Panini Motor Museum has its own charm. It’s compact, packed with history, and entirely free. So, if you’re into cars—or just want to pretend you know about them for your Instagram feed—this spot is absolutely worth a quick detour. Plus, let’s be honest, free is always a good look.
Let’s start with the vibe: the museum's slogan, “The Best Ferrari Ever Made Is The Next One”, perfectly sums up the experience. It’s not just a car brand—it’s a religion. Walking in feels like stepping onto hallowed ground, with beautifully curated displays showcasing Ferrari’s history and design brilliance.
The cars are the real stars here, of course, and they look absolutely spectacular. Standouts for me? The SF90 Stradale and the legendary F40—both had me drooling. Each car gets its own well-lit stage with plenty of space to shine. It’s like a showroom, but fancier, with a timeline setup that’s borderline perfection for anyone with OCD tendencies.
Now, let’s talk Victories Room—this is where Ferrari flaunts its racing triumphs, and it’s straight-up intoxicating. Every championship-winning car is there, and it’s like the Hall of Fame for speed junkies. If you’re a motorsport fan, this room alone is worth the trip.
A showcase full of trophies in the Victories Room
The museum also does an excellent job of telling the Ferrari story. Using QR codes, you can access interviews with engineers and mechanics, plus fun facts about the cars. All the info is in English, and it’s so well curated, other museums should take notes. Seriously, I left wishing all exhibits were this engaging.
That said, the museum lacks interactivity. No simulators, no hands-on experiences—just a lot of looking and admiring. But honestly, when the cars look this good, who needs gimmicks?
Of course, I had to stop for a photo—Italian hand gestures fully activated—next to a Ferrari because, well, “It’s a Ferrari!” The most Italian thing ever.
One surprise? Despite the off-season visit, the place still felt busy, so I can’t even imagine what it’s like in peak season. And while paying for parking annoyed me, the Ferrari 315 and its insane design totally made up for it. At the end of the visit, there’s even a chance to test-drive a Ferrari, though I skipped it because I’m already dangerous enough in a hatchback.
“It’s a Ferrari!”
First off, for EUR 27, I expected more—more cars, more interactivity, more… something. There’s no hands-on fun here, no simulators, no thrills beyond ogling the shiny vehicles. Honestly, it feels like Ferrari is banking on its name alone to carry the experience. Even the Victories Room, which is supposed to be the grand finale, left me feeling a bit meh.
Add to that the parking fee (yes, I’m still salty about it) and the crowded space—even in the off-season—and it all just feels a little too much like they’re squeezing every last euro out of you. And maybe I’m a bit of a cheapskate, but I couldn’t stop comparing it to free museums with way more personality, like the Panini Motor Museum, but it’s still better than the Enzo Ferrari Museum.
It was all just “walk and look”. I missed more interactivity
This is the cool modern building of The Enzo Ferrari Museum. More information at Ferrari.com
The Enzo Ferrari Museum is housed in a gorgeous, modern building that makes a great first impression. Inside, though? It’s more of a slow burn. The Enzo Ferrari museum tells the story of Enzo Ferrari’s life, from his childhood in Modena to the creation of one of the most iconic brands in the world. If you’re a history buff, there’s some charm in seeing how a local kid became a global legend.
But here’s the thing: it’s not really about the cars. Sure, there are a few Ferraris on display, but they’re spaced out like VIPs at a private party. The focus is on multimedia exhibits and timelines, which are well-done but not exactly thrilling. It’s interesting, sure, but it’s also a little… slow.
I walked out feeling like it was fine, but not much more. The museum captures the spirit of Enzo Ferrari’s ambition, but without enough cars to back it up, it feels like something’s missing. If you’re a die-hard Ferrari or Enzo fan, you’ll probably appreciate it. For everyone else? It’s a decent way to spend an hour, but don’t expect it to leave you revved up.
Ferrari here, Ferrari there...
Ghirlandina Tower—almost didn't fit in my photo
Torre Ghirlandina, Modena’s iconic 90-meter-tall bell tower, is part of the Duomo di Modena and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s Modena’s pride and joy, offering sweeping views of the city and its surroundings such as Piazza Grande. While the climb isn’t for the faint of heart, it’s a fun way to get a different perspective on this beautiful city.
Fun fact: Inside the tower, you’ll find Modena’s infamous stolen bucket, a trophy from their medieval war with Bologna. That’s right—a bucket. It’s a hilariously random artifact, but it’s celebrated like a championship prize.
Even if you skip the climb, the tower is a stunning landmark that’s worth admiring from the ground. For EUR 3, it’s a fun, quirky, and historic addition to your Modena itinerary.
Details about the Museo Archeologico @ Museocivicomodena.it
The Museo Archeologico is a small but fascinating peek into Modena’s ancient history. From Bronze Age artifacts to Roman relics, it’s a treasure chest of items that showcase the area’s evolution through millennia.
Highlights include beautifully preserved Terramare tools, pottery, and even burial artifacts that give you a glimpse into life (and death) thousands of years ago.
The museum is compact, but it’s perfect if you want to see something different from Modena’s food and car scene. Bonus: it’s indoors and air-conditioned, so it’s also a great escape from the weather.
Practical information
Palazzo Ducale di Modena
The Palazzo Ducale is pure grandeur. Built in the 17th century as the seat of the Este Dukes, this Baroque beauty now houses the Italian Military Academy.
While the interiors are rarely open to the public, you can still marvel at the ornate façade, the sprawling piazza, and the sheer scale of the place.
Pro tip: Pair your visit with a stroll around Piazza Roma, where you’ll get stunning views of the palace from every angle. Even if you can’t go inside, it’s a must-see for its historical significance and photogenic charm.
Museo Civico di Modena
The Museo Civico is where Modena’s personality shines. This museum covers everything from medieval weaponry to intricate ceramics, ancient manuscripts, and a collection of quirky local treasures. One standout section is dedicated to Modena’s guild history, showcasing the craftsmanship that put the city on the map.
The museum’s layout is easy to follow, and it offers a little bit of everything—art, history, and even a few unexpected surprises. It’s a perfect stop for anyone wanting a deeper connection to Modena’s roots without committing to a massive museum marathon.
That concludes my list of the best things to do in Modena. But how do you actually combine it all into one day? Here’s my itinerary suggestion:
Don't forget to enjoy delicious Modenian delicacies
I have put together a 1-day itinerary for Modena and it comprises all the best things to do in Modena, so here we go:
This is a quick stop anyway and it will be much less crowded in the early morning with a high chance of available parking spots. You will spend a maximum of 1 hour here and then drive a few minutes to Casa Museo Luciano Pavarotti.
Again, this will be quite a quick stop, 1 hour max. Remember, free parking is in front of the building. After enjoying the whim of the life of Luciano you can drive 10 minutes to Panini Motorsport Museum.
This is another quick stop—expect 30 minutes max. Parking is right there in the front and everything is free. From here it is best to drive north to the 4 Madonne Factory. The drive will take 20 minutes.
Umberto Panini Motor Museum (better than the Ferrari museum...)
This tour will take you 1 hour. Free parking is in front of the factory. (Aim for the 11:30 am tour in English) From here you can drive 10 minutes to Acetaia Giusti.
Though this stop is very interesting it will take you at most 20 minutes and then about the same time for shopping and free tasting.
From Acetaia you can finally head to actually see Modena. Drive to the Modena city center—the most useful of the parking lots I found is Parcheggio city center or, if you are lucky enough, you can snag a spot in the streets and pay via using the EasyPark app.
You can make a quick stop in Palazzo Ducale and then walk to the city center, where you will see Modena Cathedral and the legendary Bell Tower.
Palazzo Ducale Modena
I would spend a maximum of 1 hour in both attractions and Piazza Grande. It is absolutely majestic from the square and the tower is worth visiting to get a different perspective of Modena. From here i tis just a quick walk to Museo Civico.
It is getting late in the afternoon by now, so you can spend the rest of day in this museum. Timing here is up to you, you have nowhere else to be, so take as much time as you like.
If you have any time left over, wander the amazing streets of Modena.
I recommend dinner at one of these 2 restaurants: Al Duomo, or Franceschetta58 for a fine dining experience from the owner Massimo Botturo (one of the best chefs in the world who won 3 Michelin stars in Osteria Franceschana).
Franceschetta58 serves delicious food!
Modena is absolutely worth a visit—at least for a day. It is one of the most unique cities in Italy, mainly because of its unique combination of Italian Motor Valley museums (Ferrari, Panini Motorsport Museum and Enzo Ferrari Museum) and food tours, where you can learn a lot about local delicacies getting the world class. It's one of the oldest cities in Italy which was established back in the Roman times.
Most people visit Modena in the summer, which has disadvantages such as big crowds and high prices. I suggest you visit in early fall pr late spring because you will have much milder weather and a lot less people around with friendlier prices.
Most visitors spend 1 day in Modena as a day trip, but I recommend spending a night in Modena to enjoy less crowded streets and witness the city at night. I would even argue spending 2 days in Modena so you can really see everything it has to offer.
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Hi, I’m Jan. I travel fast and intensely, whether I’m exploring the buzz of Tokyo in 3 days or road-tripping through mountains and beaches on a 3-week Thailand adventure. And no matter where I am, you’ll always find me in a comfortable hotel at night and eating the best food.
If that sounds like your kind of journey, hop on board, and let’s explore the world together!
I started this blog after realizing how tough it can be to find reliable, authentic travel info. You wouldn’t believe how many “travel bloggers” never even visit the places they write about! On Next Level of Travel, you can count on my full honesty and insights drawn from my firsthand experiences.
Here’s the deal: not every destination is all superlatives and unicorns. I’ll let you know if a tourist attraction isn’t worth your time, like skipping overrated stops in my 2-week Spain itinerary. And when I find something truly special—like the perfect mix of culture and nature in Cape Town—you can trust that it’s worth adding to your itinerary.
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