17 Best Things To Do In Modena, Italy

Modena might be small and underrated, but it’s a big deal when it comes to food, culture, and cars. As an Italian born and raised in Sardinia, I can tell you firsthand that this little gem shouldn’t be overlooked because there are so many great things to do in Modena.

Modena is truly a food-lovers paradise, with unique regional food and world-famous balsamic vinegar. But you need also to explore the historic center, where you’ll find the Duomo di Modena, one of the best Romanesque cathedrals in Italy.

Furthermore, Modena and the Emilia Romagna region (one of the 20 regions of Italy) are home to two famous luxury car companies. You can visit the Maserati production factory, a private collection that’s since been opened to the public, and the Ferrari Museum.

Italy doesn’t have a driving culture as big as the United States or Canada, but this region has a fascinating history with luxury race cars.

As you can see, there’s a little something for everyone, making this one of the best hidden gems in all of Italy. If you’re looking for something a little different, more low-key, and more authentic, Modena is one of the nicest cities to visit in Italy.

I recently visited Modena with a friend who’s mom’s from there – so of course I had my very personal guide and saw the city through the eyes of a local and it was a great experience.

In this article, I’ll share with you the best things to do and the top places to visit in Modena so you can plan the perfect off-the-beaten-path holiday in Italy.

All The Fun Things To Do In Modena

Duomo di Modena

One of the best places to visit in Modena is its Duomo. The Duomo di Modena, or the Modena Cathedral, is a Romanesque cathedral in the heart of Modena dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. It was built between the 11th and 12th centuries and is a true architectural gem renowned for its beautiful facade, intricate carvings, and impressive bell tower.

The cathedral was designed by Lanfranco and completed by sculptor Wiligelmo. Wiligelmo specifically created the four relief panels on the outside, illustrating the Stories of Genesis. Biblical stories and lessons through images were somewhat common back then because fewer people could read. There’s also an impressive row of columns sculpted by Wiligelmo.

The interior of the Duomo Cathedral is worth visiting. It features the crypt of Saint Geminiano and important pieces of work stored here for preservation.

When visiting the Duomo di Modena, set aside enough time to explore the entire cathedral, inside and out, and the bell tower. It’s an intricate cathedral and one of the purest forms of Romanesque architecture. Fortunately, the cathedral is in the town center near the museum, Piazza Grande, and other notable attractions in Modena.

A walking tour with a local guide is one of the best ways to explore the Duomo di Modena and the surrounding area. You’ll learn much more about the history and culture while discovering some of the best Modena attractions. I recommend this Modena: 2-Hour Private Walking Tour. You’ll visit Modena Cathedral, walk through the Albinelli Market, and find hidden gems. It’s private, so it’s also customizable.

For a cheaper option, you can consider this Modena Walking Tour however keep in mind you’ll see most places from the outside.

Duomo Museum

If you’re visiting the Duomo di Modena and want to learn more about its history and significance, you must also visit the Duomo Museum (or Musei del Duomo di Modena). The museum is located next to the cathedral and is housed in a historic building that complements the cathedral’s Romanesque style.

The museum features modern exhibition spaces thoughtfully integrated into ancient architecture. Its primary purpose is to share with the public various artifacts and pieces of art that reflect the cathedral’s construction and history. You’ll see the original cathedral doors, medieval artifacts, sculptures, manuscripts, and other fascinating exhibits.

Some specific pieces in the museum include the Ark of San Geminiano and the Metopes-eight sculptures of mythical creatures crafted by Wiligelmo. It also features a lion statue from the Porta dei Principi, which was damaged during World War II and replaced with a copy.

Overall, the Duomo Museum is one of the best cathedral museums in Italy and one of the unmissable places to visit in Modena. During restoration periods, the museum took in crumbled and forgotten art pieces and created a fantastic place for preservation and education. It’s worth visiting if you’re already going to the Modena Cathedral and want to see more.

Ghirlandina Tower

Right next to the Duomo Cathedral and Museum is the Ghirlandina Tower (Torre Civica), a historic bell tower designed by the cathedral’s architect, Lanfranco.

While the tower was initially built as part of the Duomo complex and to function as the cathedral bell tower, it became integral to daily life in Modena. Its bell rang to mark the start of a new day whenever the city gates opened, and it even functioned as an alarm system.

The name Ghirlandina roughly translates to “like graceful garlands,” referencing the garland-like ornament placed at the pinnacle that is no longer there.

The tower is around 90 meters (292 feet) high and can be seen everywhere in the city, making it one of the unmissable places to visit in Modena. You can also climb to the top of the bell tower for panoramic views. It’s only about 200 steps to the top, and the best time to go is around sunset or early in the morning when there are fewer tourists.

Palazzo Ducale

Palazzo Ducale (Ducal Palace) is another important monument in Modena and a must-visit site. It was built in the 17th century as the official residence of the Este family, the ruling dynasty of Modena. Nowadays, the palace and its property grounds offer an excellent glimpse into Modena’s aristocratic past.

One of the most impressive things about Palazzo Ducale is its facade. The exterior of the palace is a fantastic display of Renaissance architecture. It features a blend of classical elements with a distinct elegance. Outside the palace, you can admire the decorative columns and arches that give a sense of grandeur.

The palace gardens are also worth exploring. They are meticulously landscaped and feature symmetrical layouts, neatly trimmed hedges, and ornamental statues that enhance the palace’s ambiance.

The palace is home to Modena’s Military Academy, so most days, the interior isn’t open to the public. But you can (and should) still explore the exterior, the gardens, and the courtyard.

Piazza Grande

Piazza Grande is the main central square in Modena. You’ll probably walk through this central square if you visit the Modena Cathedral and the Bell Tower. However, I recommend setting aside a little time to take some photos, watch life around you, grab a coffee, and admire the beautiful architecture on all sides.

Historic buildings surround the square, featuring a blend of Romanesque medieval architecture and cobblestone pavement that adds charm.

Piazza Grande, the Cathedral, and Ghirlandina Tower have been UNESCO World Heritage sites since 1997. They are truly Modena’s historic center and have long been there. This is where important events happen, like the burial of Saint Geminiano and other major civic activities.

So, enjoy a piece of Modena history and bask in the beauty and lively atmosphere around Piazza Grande—it’s arguably one of the best things to do in Modena.

Palazzo dei Musei

Palazzo dei Musei is another significant cultural hub in Modena. It houses several important institutions under one roof: Galleria Estense, the Civic Museum, and the Library.

The palazzo was originally a Jesuit monastery but was repurposed in the 18th century to host Modena’s cultural and educational institutions. Today, it’s still a cultural center for art and history in the city.

Before exploring the many exhibits and institutions inside, take a moment to appreciate the building’s architecture and history. It boasts a neoclassical design with a massive facade featuring a central portico supported by columns. It might not be one of the most beautiful landmarks in Italy, but it’s something else.

Keep in mind that the exhibits inside the building might have different operating hours, tickets, and closures, so be sure to check each one individually if you are looking forward to something in particular.

Galleria Estense

Galleria Estense is one of the best art galleries in Italy and a must-see for art lovers. The gallery is located inside Palazzo dei Musei and has an extensive collection built by the Este family, the same ruling family that ordered the construction of Ducale Palace.

Galleria Estense showcases a remarkable array of art, including masterpieces from the Baroque and Renaissance periods. Some highlights include work by renowned artists Guido Reni, Ludovico Carracci, Correggio, Velásquez, and El Greco.

One of the most famous works is “Madonna and Child,” an oil on canvas painting by Correggio, but there are many more worth seeing.

The gallery’s magnificent paintings, sculptures, and other decorative arts are open to the public. The well-organized gallery displays the values that drove the Este dynasty and even pieces of Modena history. It’s unquestionably full of some of the best artistic treasures in Emilia Romagna.

Pavarotti Museum

Pavarotti Museum (Casa Museo Luciano Pavarotti) is a museum dedicated to Luciano Pavarotti, one of history’s most famous Italian opera singers. He was incredibly talented, had endless charm and charisma, and was one of the kindest people.

The museum is actually inside Pavarotti’s former residence – he was born in Modena, and that’s also where he died. It was created to honor his remarkable contribution to Italian opera and everything he accomplished worldwide. The museum preserves his legacy and allows his fans to connect to his work.

There’s a collection of personal memorabilia, including costumes, photographs, and recordings throughout his career.

However, you don’t have to be a big Pavarotti follower to visit his museum. Just understand that opera is a big part of European culture and tradition, and it has shaped society today in ways you might not even realize. Pavarotti was a key figure. So, visit the museum and enjoy this small slice of opera.

If you want to maximize your time, I recommend this Skip the Line: Pavarotti Museum – Official Ticket + Audioguide. You can explore the museum at your pace, listen to the audio guide when you’d like, and not worry about long entry lines. It doesn’t include a live guide, but it is still very educational and convenient.

Albinelli Market

Albinelli Market (Mercato Albinelli) is a must-visit in Modena for those who want to experience an authentic Italian market with some of the best regional food and local produce. Don’t forget that Modena is in Emilia Romagna, an Italian region renowned for its food.

This covered market opened back in 1931 during a push from the local government to modernize Modena’s public markets. It quickly became one of the most visited markets in the city, selling everything, including fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and local specialties.

Nowadays, it’s still a popular choice for both locals and tourists. I recommend strolling through various stalls, sampling local specialties, and admiring the distinctive facade. You can shop for groceries there too – that’s why I visited in the first place, because I wanted to stock on goodies to bring back to Sardinia!

This 2-Hour Private Walking Tour in Modena I recommended earlier includes a brief walkthrough of Albinelli Market. This is the best option in Modena if you want to find the best stalls and experience the market with a local for the first time – much like I did!

Walk around the historic center

The historic center of Modena is around a road that crosses the city from west to east. This is where many of the main Modena tourist attractions are located, including the Civic Tower, Piazza Grande, Duomo di Modena, and the Ghirlandina. So, you’ll likely be around the historic center a lot, walking under the beautiful porticoes that are so typical of Emilia Romagna.

However, try to veer off the beaten path (though mind you: Modena isn’t exactly touristy) and just walk around the center. Walk down a road from the main attractions and see what things are like outside the main square and hustle-and-bustle. It’s a beautiful area with great architecture, so it’s a nice place to explore.

If you do not like walking that much or just want to take a break, grab a cup of coffee at a cafe with outdoor seating if the weather is nice and watch life go on around you. It makes for a really lovely afternoon traveling in Italy.

Basically, every historical center in Italy is filled with incredible architectural and historical beauty, and Modena is no exception. If you’re interested in learning more great tidbits about Italy, make sure to read my article, Best Reasons To Visit Italy.

Enzo Ferrari Museum

Almost everyone knows Ferrari—that sleek, sporty, expensive car. But did you know Ferrari’s founder was born in Modena, Italy?

In honor of the great Enzo Ferrari, the man who paved the way for luxurious, sporty cars, there’s a fascinating museum dedicated to him in Modena. The Enzo Ferrari Museum celebrates his life and legacy, offering lots of insight into one of the most iconic automotive brands in the world.

There’s a collection of Ferrari cars, from vintage models to modern race cars, and even some interactive exhibits about Ferrari’s development. The museum’s architecture is also exciting and does not disappoint. It combines modern, sleek design with the 19th-century house that Ferrari was born in.

There’s no question that the Enzo Ferrari Museum is one of the best things to do in Modena for car enthusiasts. Still, it’s a fun experience for anyone, and it’s different from the typical attractions in most places around Italy.

If you’re a big car enthusiast, you should consider spending a full day exploring the best car museums in the region. This Ferrari, Enzo Ferrari, Lamborghini, Pagani Museums Day Tour is the best way to spend an entire day immersed in car culture. You visit four different museums, with an English-speaking guide in each, and have lunch at a gourmet restaurant. You can even book a test drive of one of the cars in advance through the tour.

Ferrari Museum in Maranello

The Ferrari Museum in Maranello is another must-see site for car enthusiasts, and it’s very different from the Enzo Ferrari Museum.

The Enzo Ferrari Museum focuses on Ferrari’s beginnings and the legacy left behind by Enzo Ferrari. However, the Ferrari Museum is more about the history of the car company, with a focus on Ferrari’s racing history.

The museum is located in Maranello, near the Ferrari factory. It also has a really large collection of cars, from modern to historic racing cars. The focus is more on the brand’s technical side and racing aspect rather than the creator’s long-term legacy.

Both are fascinating places. I recommend first going to the Enzo Ferrari Museum and then the Ferrari Museum in Maranello to learn the history and development from start to finish.

You can purchase your Ferrari Museum Entrance Ticket in case it gets booked at the last minute. If you’re planning on visiting both the Enzo Ferrari and Ferrari Museum, you can get the Maranello and Modena: Ferrari Museums Combo Tickets, which include entry to both.

Umberto Panini Museum

There’s much more for car enthusiasts to see and do in Modena. Maserati, another world-renowned luxury racing car, was founded in Bologna, Italy, in 1914 by Alfieri Maserati as a car repair shop, and it quickly grew.

The Umberto Panini Museum started as a private collection of the best Maserati styles throughout history but has since been opened to the public.

The museum aims to showcase the brand’s historical evolution and technological advancements. It houses dozens of cars, including the Maserati 250F, known for its success in Formula 1, and even some rare models from the 1950s and 1960s.

The museum is located in an old, converted barn. Not much has been changed on the exterior, but the interior has been perfectly redesigned to accommodate the dozens of rare Maserati models. It’s in a more rural area, so it’s also a wonderful place to visit in Italy.

Tour the Maserati Factory

After admiring the impressive collection of Maseratis at the Umberto Panini Museum, you can head to the Maserati Factory. This is the current factory, so it’s still actively building legendary cars, and you can take a tour and learn all about the process.

The tour highlights Maserati’s commitment to quality and innovation, making it a must-see for automotive enthusiasts and those interested in luxury craftsmanship. Throughout the tour, you’ll witness parts of the manufacturing process, including assembly and finishing touches, and learn about the company’s engineering and design processes.

If you want the whole experience, double-check that the production line runs on your tour’s day. It isn’t always running, so it’s worth asking if you’d like to witness that piece.

You need to book your Maserati Factory Tour well in advance. The easiest way to do so is directly through the Maserati Factory website.

Go on a Modena Food Tour

One of my best tips for Italy is to eat local food. Modena is renowned for its rich culinary heritage, which focuses on traditional Emilian cuisine. A food tour provides an immersive experience of the local food culture, offering a taste of dishes that define the region.

One of the best things about joining an official food tour in Modena with a local guide is that you’ll learn a lot more about the intricacies and complexities of local food. I had my own personal guide (AKA my friend), so I truly enjoyed all the best local flavors.

Among the specialties you need to try there are tigelle (a local kind of freshly baked bread) and gnocchi fritti (fried dough served piping hot). Tigelle are typically eaten with a spread of lard (ok, it’s not exactly healthy but once in a while…) and grated parmigiano cheese. Gnocchi fritti go with anything!

Italy’s food is so much more than pizza and pasta, and it is deeply connected to our history. A food tour can teach you more about this and maybe even help you step out of your comfort zone and try something new.

As one of the best foodie regions in the world, Modena offers many options for food tours. However, I recommend this Modena Food Walking Tour. It’s a really good way to explore the city with a local guide and try some of the best regional specialties. The tour includes all food tastings, water, beer, and a local guide.

Go on a Balsamic Vinegar-tasting tour

Modena is globally famous for its traditional balsamic vinegar, a product of meticulous aging and craftsmanship. A tasting tour offers insights into local balsamic vinegar’s intricate process and distinct flavors.

It tastes much better, possibly stronger but also much sweeter, than the balsamic vinegar you’re probably used to. So, sampling a small handful of varieties and learning more about the process is one of the best things to do in Modena.

And it’s unique. There are olive oil and wine vineyards all over Italy, but there are few spots in Europe where you can go on a balsamic vinegar-tasting tour. Even if you aren’t a fan of it, you should try.

There are only a handful of authentic balsamic tastings and tours because there are fewer and fewer locally owned balsamic production factories. However, this Balsamic Lunch with Vinegar Cellar Tour and Tasting is hands-down the best. It is a highly-rated tour with a local family, a delicious local lunch, and a tour of a genuine balsamic factory.

Enjoy local cuisine

As previously mentioned, Modena’s cuisine is celebrated for its hearty, flavorful dishes that highlight the region’s agricultural abundance and culinary traditions. Like other places in Italy, the city’s culinary scene reflects its rich history and commitment to locally sourced ingredients. Needless to say, one of the best things to do in Modena is trying local food!

There are a handful of local specialties that are must-try while in Modena. For example, you can get good tortellini all over Italy, but it comes from the Emilia Romagna region, so it tastes even better here. The traditional way to serve tortellini is in a rich broth made from chicken or beef.

Gnocco fritto is another must-try local specialty. It’s basically tiny, fried dough pieces that are light and crispy and served with a slice of prosciutto or mortadella.

Then, there’s tagliatelle – you may have already tried tagliatelle al ragù in Bologna, but the ones in Modena are slightly different. The cause is a bit more tomatoey here.

If you’re a big fan of the local food, you can also take a cooking class. There are a few options, but I recommend this Private 4-Course Meal and Demo at a Local’s Home. You’ll bring home some of your favorite local recipes and learn more about the cuisine you’re eating. It’s a really unique, educational, and engaging experience.

If you’re interested in Italian food, make sure to read my article, Common Misconceptions About Italian Food (From A Local), if you aren’t already familiar with authentic Italian cuisine.

Conclusions On The Best Things To Do In Modena, Italy

In summary, Modena offers a delightful blend of experiences. You can easily spend days indulging in all the best local dishes and learning more about their origins. You can top that off with a morning of shopping at Albinelli Market for locally grown ingredients and some popular street food.

If you’re looking for something different, visit the Enzo Ferrari Museum and the nearby Ferrari Museum. For more luxury car fixes, explore the Umberto Panini Museum and the Maserati Factory.

Many people visit Modena on a day trip from Bologna, as it’s only about an hour away, and even on a day trip from Milan, but it’s worth spending at least a few days here to soak in all the history, culture, and beauty.

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