If you’re planning a day trip to Modena, get ready for a culinary adventure. Start your morning at Mercato Albinelli, a historic market where you can buy aged Parmigiano Reggiano, traditional balsamic vinegar, and fresh tortellini. For lunch, skip the famous but pricey Osteria Francescana and head to local favourites such as Trattoria Aldina or La Chrescenta for authentic Modenese dishes.
Trattoria Aldina
Trattoria Aldina in Modena is a traditional restaurant known for its authentic Emilian cuisine. Located near the Duomo and opposite Mercato Albinelli, it sits discreetly on the first floor of a historic building.
The menu focuses on classic dishes such as tortellini in broth, tagliatelle al ragù, and green lasagne. The menu is read aloud by the staff, reinforcing the informal and traditional atmosphere. Prices remain accessible, making it popular with both locals and visitors.
Lunch reservations are not accepted and queues are common, but many diners find the experience rewarding thanks to the quality of the food and the lively, communal setting.
La Chrescenta
La Chrescenta is a popular Modena eatery specialising in crescentina (also known as tigelle), a traditional bread from the Modena Apennines. Served warm and paired with cured meats, cheeses, and spreads, it is a cornerstone of local food culture.
Located close to Mercato Albinelli, La Chrescenta offers a casual, no-frills environment focused on flavour and tradition, making it a reliable choice for an authentic meal in the city centre.
Gelato in Modena
Gelateria Bloom in Modena is an artisanal gelato shop known for creative flavours and a strong focus on high-quality ingredients. Founded in 2014, it has expanded to several locations across the city.
Bloom combines classic gelato flavours with seasonal creations and has become a reference point for gelato lovers visiting Modena.
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Foodie’s Delight Tour – Parmigiano Reggiano, balsamic vinegar & cured meats in one unforgettable day.
Modena Cathedral and Ghirlandina Tower
The Modena Cathedral and Ghirlandina Tower are two of the city’s most important landmarks and are recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Ghirlandina Tower rises 86 metres above the city and offers panoramic views over Modena. Its name comes from the decorative marble garlands that crown the spire, while inside visitors can explore historic rooms linked to medieval city life.
Modena Cathedral, built in the 12th century, is a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture, celebrated for its sculptural decoration and historical importance within Piazza Grande.
Casa Enzo Ferrari
The Casa Museo Enzo Ferrari in Modena combines the restored birthplace of Enzo Ferrari with a modern exhibition gallery. The museum explores Ferrari’s life, engineering vision, and legacy through cars, engines, and multimedia displays.
Visiting Maserati
Visiting the Maserati factory and showroom in Modena offers insight into Italian automotive craftsmanship. Guided tours cover production areas, engine assembly, and the showroom displaying current and historic models.
Tours typically last around 90 minutes and require advance booking. Practical details are covered in our complete guide to visiting Maserati in Modena.
To experience Modena’s food culture beyond individual restaurants, many visitors choose to join a guided Modena food tour, combining markets, traditional eateries, and storytelling into a single walk through the historic centre.
Visit the Emilia Delizia food tour homepage to explore food tours and regional experiences across Italy.
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