When it comes to Italy, cities like Rome, Venice, and Florence often dominate travel itineraries. Yet beyond these classics lie places that reveal a deeper, more authentic side of the country. Bologna and Modena, in the heart of Emilia-Romagna, offer a rare combination of world-class gastronomy and industrial creativity — where iconic foods meet the culture of Italy’s Motor Valley.
Bologna: Italy’s Culinary Capital
Bologna, the capital of Emilia-Romagna, is widely regarded as the culinary heart of Italy. Its medieval centre, elegant porticoes, and historic towers provide the perfect backdrop for a day dedicated to food, culture, and slow exploration.
Most visits begin in Piazza Maggiore, the city’s main square, followed by a walk past the Fountain of Neptune and the Basilica of San Petronio. For those willing to climb, the Asinelli Tower rewards visitors with sweeping views over terracotta rooftops and rolling countryside.
No visit to Bologna is complete without discovering the region’s most celebrated product: Parmigiano Reggiano. Known worldwide as Parmesan cheese, it is produced using centuries-old methods and aged patiently to develop its unmistakable flavour. Visiting a local dairy allows travellers to see the production process first-hand — from fresh milk to towering wheels resting in ageing rooms. Explore Lamborghini near Bologna. Our Parmigiano Reggiano dairy factory tour near Bologna and Modena allows travellers to see the production process first-hand — from fresh milk to towering wheels resting in ageing rooms.
Modena: Tradition, Taste, and Motor Valley Heritage
From Bologna, Modena is less than an hour away and offers a very different, yet complementary, atmosphere. While the city is famous for its traditional cuisine and historic centre, it also forms part of Italy’s legendary Motor Valley — a region known for its automotive heritage, design culture, and engineering excellence.
Among these is Pagani Automobili, a boutique manufacturer known for extreme craftsmanship and advanced materials. For many visitors, the Pagani museum represents a cultural stop rather than a driving experience — a chance to appreciate design, engineering, and Italian innovation at their highest level.
After exploring this side of Modena, the city invites a slower pace. A walk through its narrow streets leads naturally to Piazza Grande, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, surrounded by Romanesque architecture and lively cafés.
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Visitors with limited time may find it useful to explore our guide on what to do in Modena in three hours, which brings together the city’s main cultural and culinary highlights.
Food remains central here. Modena is home to some of Italy’s most refined culinary traditions, making it an ideal place to enjoy a relaxed meal rooted in local ingredients and recipes.
Those interested in music and culture can end the day at the Teatro Comunale Luciano Pavarotti, named after Modena’s most famous son and one of the greatest opera singers of all time.
A Perfect Emilia-Romagna Day
Together, Bologna and Modena offer an experience that goes far beyond sightseeing. Whether your interests lean toward artisanal food, historic cities, or the cultural heritage of Italy’s Motor Valley, this part of Emilia-Romagna delivers depth, balance, and authenticity.
For travellers seeking meaningful experiences rather than rushed highlights, pairing Bologna’s culinary richness with Modena’s traditions creates an Italian journey that feels both grounded and unforgettable.
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