Top 9 Best Things To Do in Modena: Cars, Cuisine, and Culture

Discover the nine best things to do in Modena, one of Italy’s ultimate foodie hotspots. Whether you’re tasting the most luscious balsamic vinegar, test-driving a Ferrari, or uncovering the roots of opera, this guide’s got plenty of fun ideas to fill your itinerary.

Welcome to Modena—the land of fast cars and even faster food comas! Nestled in the Emilia-Romagna region of northern Italy, Modena’s list of must-try activities and experiences lets you experience a tradition of pure Italian flair. 

How can you not fall for a place that gifted us the legendary Luciano Pavarotti, aged balsamic vinegar that's basically liquid gold, and Ferrari, the ultimate symbol of speed and style?

If you’re planning to explore Emilia-Romagna, Modena makes a fantastic base. Pick from the best places to stay in Modena and map out your itinerary with this guide. Add a sprinkle of day trips from Modena to nearby destinations like the Apennines. 

For your Modena adventure, this guide covers all exciting Modena attractions—from drool-worthy restaurants to unique museums that’ll make your trip unforgettable. Ready to dive into all the amazing things Modena has to offer? Let’s go!

9. Discover the Roots of Opera at the Casa Museo Luciano Pavarotti

Photo by Emanuele Debenedetti from Flickr. No edits made.

Born in Modena, Luciano Pavarotti is arguably the most famous opera singer in the world. He initially wanted to become a football star, but realizing he could sing, he started taking vocal training. This led to a promising opera career, filling thousands of seats in iconic venues and captivating audiences with each heartfelt performance.

Today, the Casa Museo Luciano Pavarotti is one of the most famous Modena attractions. Pavarotti’s wife opened his house to the public, reasoning that Luciano built it to entertain friends and teach students the art of singing. Even with Luciano gone, the house still plays the same purpose. 

Visiting this house-turned-museum is among the best things to do in Modena. Make sure to secure skip-the-line tickets to Casa Museo Luciano Pavarotti to enjoy a hassle-free experience because you will be joined by a crowd when you visit. 

8. Be Wowed at the Enzo Ferrari Museum

Photo bu Darko Markovic from Flickr. No edits made.

Another Modena pride and legend is Enzo Ferrari, a race car driver and the founder of the successful supercar manufacturer. At the young age of 10, he knew he wanted to be a race car driver. But what he didn’t know at that time was that he would build a business out of making race cars. 

With a ticket to the Enzo Ferrari Museum, you'll enter a world of Ferraris’s artistic legacy. Needless to say, this is one of the best things to do in Modena if you’re a car enthusiast. Even if you’re not, though, you'll find the exhibits entertaining and educational.

Discover cars and inventions that shaped Ferrari’s history, which also make for a good photo opportunity. Make sure to snap some shots of these masterpieces. 

Ferrari is not the only famous auto company in the Emilia-Romagna region. In fact, the Motor Valley is one of its most famous attractions—a stretch of road dotted with the most famous Italian car and motor manufacturers. You have Lamborghini, Ducati, and Pagani here. You can hit two birds with one stone if you book a Motor Valley tour combining cars and local culinary delights.of the region. 

7. Savor Lambrusco at Tenuta Cialdini

Photo by Tenuta Cialdini from Flickr. No edits made.

If you’re wondering what to do in Modena, make sure tasting Lambrusco is on your list! This bold, sparkling red wine is a true Modenese treasure, and its story is deeply rooted in the history of the Chiarli family, pioneers in Emilia-Romagna’s wine-making scene. 

Cleto Chiarli, a visionary winemaker, founded the first wine-producing company in Emilia-Romagna and started a legacy that has spanned over five generations. Today, the Chiarli family continues to craft Lambrusco wines that are celebrated worldwide for their exceptional quality.

Fun fact: the name Lambrusco comes from the Latin word “labrusca,” meaning “wild.” These grapes are thought to have evolved from ancient wild vines in Italy, giving them a bold character that’s perfect for pairing with food.

Want to experience this sparkling masterpiece for yourself? Joining a guided tour at Cleto Chiarli with Lambrusco tasting must be on your list of things to do in Modena. It’s your chance to sip, savor, and immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Modena’s most iconic wine. 

6. Join a Cooking Class in Modena

If you're a food lover, Modena is the perfect place to dive into Italy's rich culinary culture. One of the best things to do in Modena is join a traditional cooking class by a local chef. Modena is famous for its pasta, and these classes let you learn to make authentic dishes like tagliatelle and tortelloni from scratch, giving you a true taste of local flavors.

Looking for something extra special? Join a pasta-making class at a cesarina’s home in Modena! But wait, what’s a cesarina, you ask? A cesarina is a local culinary expert—one of over 800 people across Italy who open their kitchens to share the secrets of Italian recipes. These intimate, hands-on classes let you cook with the best, all while experiencing the warmth of an authentic Italian kitchen.

Taking a cooking class in Modena is one of the most delicious ways to connect with the city’s food culture. Not only will you get to eat the amazing dishes you’ve learned to prepare, but you'll also gain a deeper understanding of the city's food heritage.

5. Shop for Goodies and Souvenirs at Albinelli Market

Phoyo by Steve Silverman from Flickr. No edits made.

When it comes to Modena attractions, Mercato Albinelli is a must-visit for food lovers. This charming market, housed in a beautiful Liberty-style building, is packed with family-owned stalls selling local specialties like aged Parmigiano Reggiano, authentic balsamic vinegar, and fresh tortellini.

If you’re taking a cooking class in Modena, you’re likely to visit the market as part of the experience. It's the perfect place to shop for local ingredients and unique souvenirs, but be sure to go in the morning as the market closes early and is closed on Sundays and holidays. 

A small-group market tour combined with a cooking class in Modena lets you hit two birds with one stone—shopping for fresh ingredients and learning to cook with them! Plus, you get to take home the best souvenir: good memories and an Italian recipe. 

4. Stop by the Modena Cathedral

One of the top things to do in Modena is to visit the Modena Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that stands as a proud symbol of the city. This stunning cathedral is more than just a place of worship—it's like a storybook written in stone. 

Admire the intricate details of the cathedral’s facade, especially the Porta della Pescheria (Fish Market Gate) on the east side, which dates back to the Middle Ages. As you explore the doorframe’s reliefs, you’ll encounter a mix of real and mythical animals. 

Keep an eye out for lions, manticores, and more—each telling a moral tale. Inside, the cycle of months illustrated on the doorjamb is a fascinating glimpse into past agricultural life, with scenes like pig butchering in January and grape picking in September.

If you want a deeper understanding of this architectural gem, a private walking tour of Modena's historical landmarks is perfect. Uncover the hidden stories behind the cathedral and other key sites throughout the city. 

3. Take Snaps of the Ghirlandina Tower

Photo bu Alessandro Fiocchi from Flickr. No edits made.

This stunning bell tower, part of the cathedral complex, is Modena's most recognizable landmark. Its graceful marble balustrades (columns), which crown the spire-like garlands (“ghirlande” in Italian), give the tower its affectionate nickname.

But the Ghirlandina Tower isn’t just an architectural wonder. Its bells played an important role in Modena’s daily life, signaling everything from the opening of the city gates to emergency alarms.

While it’s lovely to admire from below, the real reward comes from climbing the 186 steps to the top. Getting panoramic views of the city from the tower is among the best things to do in Modena. You’ll also get a view of the Cemetery of Modena by Aldo Rossi in the distance—another masterpiece worth checking out on your Modena attractions list.

To enhance your experience, join a Modena walking tour with audio and digital guide. You’ll gain insights into the tower’s history and significance, among other landmarks, while also enjoying the city at your own pace.

2. Spend an Afternoon at Piazza Grande

Photo by cristina colombini from Flickr. No edits made.

One of the best things to do in Modena is to spend an afternoon at Piazza Grande, the heart of the city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This spacious square is framed by some of Modena's most iconic landmarks, including the white Modena Cathedral, the Ghirlandina Tower, and the historic Palazzo Comunale. 

It's not just a beautiful spot but also a place rich in history, where events like the burial of the city's patron saint, Geminiano, and the birth of the free city-republic took place. Piazza Grande has witnessed centuries of history—from executions and revolutions to high masses and bustling markets.

Today, several cafes line the square, making it an ideal spot to enjoy a morning coffee or an aperitivo before dinner. If you join walking tours in Modena, this charming square is sure to be one of your stops.

Piazza Grande is also the site of many of the city's festivals and events, such as the Modena Food Festival in October and the annual Christmas market, so there’s always something happening here.

1. Uncover the Secrets of Balsamic Vinegar and Parmigiano Reggiano

When it comes to the best things to do in Modena, discovering the secrets behind two of the region’s culinary treasures—balsamic vinegar and Parmigiano Reggiano—is a must. Both products are deeply tied to Modena's heritage and provide a glimpse into the traditions and craftsmanship that have defined the region for centuries.

Balsamic vinegar in Modena is aged for at least 12 years in wooden barrels, developing a deep, complex flavor. For an authentic experience, book the Cavedoni balsamic vinegar tour. You'll visit family-run acetaie (balsamic vinegar houses) and learn about the meticulous process behind this liquid gold.

No visit to Modena would be complete without sampling Parmigiano Reggiano, the world-renowned cheese. Made from raw cow’s milk and aged between 12 and 36 months, its nutty, savory flavor makes it a staple in Italian cuisine.

To dive deeper into these two culinary delights, join this Reggio food tour to meet local producersor the secrets of Parmigiano Reggiano and balsamic vinegar tour. These tours will take you through the picturesque hills of Emilia-Romagna, offering you the chance to sample both of these world-famous products in their authentic settings.

Is Modena close to Bologna?

Yes, Modena is just 23 miles (37 kilometers) away from Bologna, making it a perfect side trip! You can easily rent a car in Modena and drive to Bologna for the day, or take a train, which will get you there in under an hour. Whether you're looking to explore Bologna's medieval charm or taste its famous Bolognese cuisine, it's a quick and convenient journey from Modena.

Is 2-3 days enough for Modena?

Yes, two to three days are perfect for discovering the best things to do in Modena. A long weekend (Friday to Sunday) allows you to explore the city's art, culture, and culinary delights at a relaxed pace. You can visit landmarks like the Modena Cathedral, the Ghirlandina Tower, and Piazza Grande. You can also sample local specialties such as balsamic vinegar and Parmigiano Reggiano. 

To help you make the most of your time, you can book weekend getaways in Modena. With a weekend getaway, you can include guided tours and culinary experiences to make sure you don’t miss any of the city’s best attractions.

When is the best time to visit Modena?

The best time to visit Modena is in summer. With an average July high of 85 F (29 C) and a low of 64 F (18 C), the summer months are an inviting time to explore the city and enjoy the best things to do in Modena. 

The warm days are perfect for wandering through Modena's historic streets and savoring local delicacies, while the cooler evenings make for a comfortable dining experience. If you prefer milder weather, spring and early autumn are also great options, offering pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.