Modena is a jewel in the heart of Emilia-Romagna, celebrated for its deep culinary heritage and world-famous automotive legacy. Whether you’re a food lover, a car enthusiast, or a cultural explorer, Modena offers a wide range of unforgettable experiences. This guide explores the best tours and attractions in and around the city, from traditional balsamic vinegar to the roaring engines of Ferrari.
1. Foodie’s Delight Tour – Emilia Delizia
The ultimate Modena experience for foodies begins with the Foodie’s Delight Tour by Emilia Delizia. This full-day guided journey showcases the best of the region’s gastronomy and includes hotel pickup in Modena.
The itinerary features:
- A Parmigiano-Reggiano dairy visit at dawn
- A family-run acetaia producing Traditional Balsamic Vinegar
- A Prosciutto di Parma workshop
- A multi-course countryside lunch with regional wine
With knowledgeable guides and hands-on tastings, this is the top choice for travelers looking to dive deep into Modena’s culinary roots.
👉 Click here to book the Foodie’s Delight Tour
2. Spilamberto and the Museum of Traditional Balsamic Vinegar
Just a short drive from Modena, the town of Spilamberto is home to the Museo del Balsamico Tradizionale, one of the best places to learn the secrets of aged vinegar.
Highlights:
- Guided tours of the museum and vinegar lofts
- Tastings of vinegars aged 12 to 25 years
- A charming medieval village to explore afterward
You can pair this experience with a nearby acetaia tour for a deeper understanding.
3. Ghirlandina Tower & Modena Cathedral (UNESCO)
Standing tall in the city center, the Ghirlandina Tower and Duomo di Modena are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and must-see landmarks.
Tour tips:
- Climb the Ghirlandina for panoramic views of the city
- Take a guided tour of the cathedral’s Romanesque architecture
- Visit the Modena tourist office for schedules and contact info: Visit Modena
These tours are short but rich in history and ideal for all ages.
4. Museo della Figurina (Sticker Museum)
A hidden gem in Modena, the Museo della Figurina is a nostalgic and quirky stop. It showcases the history of collectible stickers, cards, and images from the 1800s to the modern Panini era (which started in Modena!).
Perfect for families and collectors, the museum is free and located inside Palazzo Santa Margherita.
5. Casa Enzo Ferrari Museum
This sleek, modern museum near the train station celebrates the life and vision of Enzo Ferrari, founder of the Ferrari brand.
Tour experience:
- Futuristic exhibition halls
- Enzo’s childhood home preserved inside the complex
- Films, memorabilia, and classic cars on display
Many visitors combine this with the Maranello Ferrari Museum for the full experience.
6. Ferrari Museum Maranello
Located 25 minutes outside the city, the Ferrari Museum in Maranello is a must-see for anyone passionate about speed, design, or F1 history.
What’s included:
- Guided or self-paced museum tour
- Optional test drive experiences with real Ferraris
- Shuttle service from Modena available
This tour pairs well with a visit to nearby balsamic or cheese producers.
7. Stanguellini Car Museum
One of Italy’s most exclusive vintage car collections, the Stanguellini Museum showcases rare models that helped define Italian motorsport.
What to expect:
- Private tours by appointment
- Pre-Ferrari racing cars and prototypes
- Rich storytelling by the Stanguellini family members
It’s a great alternative for true car buffs who want something more intimate than Ferrari.
8. Maserati Showroom & Hombre Organic Farm
Modena is Maserati’s hometown. While the factory tour is currently limited to industry insiders, visitors can still explore the Maserati showroom by appointment.
Nearby, you can visit Hombre Farm, a certified organic dairy that produces Parmigiano-Reggiano and is home to the Panini Motor Museum.
Tour features:
- See Maserati classics and rare models
- Visit the farm’s cheese production area
- Tour the private Panini car collection
9. Walking Tour of Historic Modena
Join a local guide for a walking tour through Modena’s historic streets. Highlights include:
- Piazza Grande and the Town Hall
- The Albinelli Market (early morning is best)
- Artisanal food shops and hidden courtyards
Tours are offered in Italian and English and can be private or small group.
10. Luciano Pavarotti’s Home & Museum
Music lovers can’t miss a visit to Casa Museo Luciano Pavarotti, located in the countryside just outside Modena. The house has been preserved as the tenor left it.
What’s inside:
- His personal stage costumes
- Awards and memorabilia
- Insight into his love for Modena and its culture
Combine this with a visit to the nearby countryside or a winery.
Bonus: Cooking Classes and Market Tours
Many local chefs and guides offer hands-on cooking classes featuring Modena’s signature dishes like fresh tortellini, gnocco fritto, and tigelle. Pair it with a visit to the market for ingredients and a full culinary immersion.
Look for classes that include:
- Fresh pasta making
- Local wine pairings
- Recipes to take home
Final Thoughts
Modena is compact but rich in variety. From slow food to fast cars, UNESCO churches to sticker museums, this city offers experiences unlike anywhere else. Whether you’re here for a day or a week, start with a Foodie’s Delight Tour and build your journey around your passions.
👉 Book your place now and discover the best of Modena with expert guides and curated access.
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