Melih Kağan Özel Modena is a city located in the Emilia-Romagna region of northern Italy. It can be reached from Bologna by train in about 30 minutes, with frequent departures throughout the day. Despite being a relatively small city, Modena enjoys global recognition. It is the birthplace of Enzo Ferrari, the founder of Ferrari. The city is also home to Osteria Francescana, which has been named the world’s best restaurant twice. — Modena Travel Guide
Local Cuisine
Balsamic Vinegar
Modena is known as the birthplace of balsamic vinegar, and some of the highest-quality balsamic vinegar in the world is produced here. By visiting local production facilities, you can observe the production process up close. There are also various tasting tours where you can sample different types of balsamic vinegar.
Balsamic vinegars sold in supermarkets with an IGP certification are usually aged for at least one year, while DOP-certified vinegars are aged for 10 years or more, which significantly enhances their quality. I’ll share specific recommendations on where to buy authentic balsamic vinegar later in the article.
Parmesan Cheese
High-quality versions of Parmigiano Reggiano, which is generally produced across the Emilia-Romagna region, are easily accessible in Modena. Thanks to its proximity to production areas, the city is a great place to taste and purchase authentic, well-aged Parmesan directly from local sources.
Lambrusco
Lambrusco is a sparkling wine native to Modena, named after the grape variety it is made from. It is a light, fruity, and acidic wine that is extremely versatile and pairs well with many dishes. Following the idea of “what grows together, goes together,” Lambrusco is commonly enjoyed with prosciutto, mortadella, and Parmesan cheese.
One of the best places to find local products is Mercato Albinelli, which has been operating since 1931. You can find a wide variety of regional specialties here, but keep in mind that the market closes early.
Restaurants
Trattoria Aldina
This is one of the restaurants preferred by locals. It stands out for both the quality of regional dishes and its warm, family-style atmosphere. Compared to the other restaurants listed below, prices are more affordable. The menu changes daily and also includes tasting menus. Its budget-friendly nature makes it a popular choice.
Osteria Francescana
Selected as the world’s best restaurant in 2016 and 2018, this restaurant combines art and gastronomy at the highest level. It holds three Michelin stars, and its chef, Massimo Bottura, appeared on Netflix’s Chef’s Table.
To be honest, I have never eaten here and probably never will—the prices are far beyond my budget. Still, it would be impossible to talk about Modena without mentioning this iconic restaurant.
Osteria di Rubbiara
This restaurant is located outside the city, so it’s not very practical to reach on foot. It has been run by the Pedroni family since 1862. You can also purchase traditional balsamic vinegar here. Prices are higher than Trattoria Aldina but more affordable than Osteria Francescana.
Bars
The Moreover
This pub is neither too big nor too small. On Mondays, it’s usually quiet, but its selection of aromatic draft beers makes the experience enjoyable. One interesting option is the vanilla-flavored beer. There are also alternatives for those who prefer sweet beers with high alcohol content (around 8%). The pub offers around 10 different draft beers and serves complimentary potato chips. A good spot for anyone interested in exploring unique beer flavors.
Savage Love Dance Drink
I discovered this place by chance while browsing the map. Calling it a bar might be generous—it’s a tiny spot with only two chairs, mostly designed for standing, chatting, and socializing. The most distinctive feature is its student-only concept: you must show a student ID at the entrance.
While beers in Italy usually cost 5–6 euros, here you can get one for around 3 euros. I went on a Monday during university holidays to watch an Italy match, and we were the only people there. I’d recommend visiting on Friday or Saturday for a livelier atmosphere.
Things to See
Ferrari Museums
The Enzo Ferrari Museum is located in the city center and can be reached on foot. The museum displays Enzo Ferrari’s personal memorabilia as well as a car exhibition showcasing models from past to present.
You can also visit the Ferrari Museum Maranello, located outside the city in Maranello. Both museums offer a 10-minute semi-professional driving simulator experience.
There are many other automotive museums around Modena. Enthusiasts may also want to visit the Lamborghini, Ducati, and Maserati museums.
Modena Cathedral
The cathedral is a 12th-century Romanesque masterpiece and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It houses the relics of Saint Geminianus, the patron saint of Modena.
The cathedral’s famous façade is decorated with sculptures by Wiligelmo, depicting scenes from the Bible, and is considered one of the finest examples of Romanesque sculpture in Europe.
Entrance Information
Entrance to the Modena Cathedral is free, but visiting the museum inside the cathedral costs 6 euros.
Torre della Ghirlandina
Located right next to Modena Cathedral, this 86-meter-tall bell tower is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The tower takes its name from the “ghirlanda” (garland) decoration made of stone near its upper section.
You can check tickets and opening hours here (the entrance fee was 3 euros at the time of my visit).
Piazza Grande
Piazza Grande is a medieval square that once served as the political and administrative heart of the city. Today, it hosts various festivals, carnivals, and public events throughout the year. The square is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
After covering the city’s three main historical landmarks, you can explore a more detailed walking route through the Visit a City app, which I actively used during my trip.
If you know a better free travel app, feel free to share it in the comments.
