Motor Valley in Italy: Supercars, Museums & Automotive Heritage in Modena and Bologna

Our company is not only about gourmet food experiences. If you are travelling in this part of Italy, you will often hear the region referred to as “Terra dei Motori” — the Land of Engines. Many of the world’s most iconic car and motorcycle manufacturers are based between Modena and Bologna, including Ferrari, Lamborghini, Pagani, Maserati, and Ducati.

Historically, many of these factories were open to visitors, allowing guests to explore production lines, museums, and private collections. While organised factory tours are no longer available through us, the Motor Valley remains an essential part of the region’s cultural identity and can still be explored independently alongside other attractions.

If you are planning your itinerary, you may also enjoy browsing our guides to things to do in Modena and things to do in Bologna to build a balanced travel plan that combines food, culture, and local experiences.

Lamborghini Factory Tours from Bologna or Modena

Lamborghini traditionally offered guided factory visits with English-speaking guides, showcasing the brand’s history from legendary models such as the Miura, Countach, and Diablo, through to modern production lines assembling the Gallardo and Aventador. The tour typically concluded in the museum, where concept models such as the Reventón were displayed.

Availability and access policies change frequently and are now managed directly by the manufacturer. Visitors interested in Lamborghini are advised to consult official sources for the most up-to-date visiting options.

Pagani Factory Tours

Pagani produces super cars just outside Modena. Each vehicle is a handcrafted work of art built from carbon fibre and titanium composites. Many components are carved from single blocks of aluminium, and the cars are assembled by hand in small workshops.

Founder Horacio Pagani, originally from Argentina, dreamed of building his own supercar in Modena — a vision realised through models such as the Pagani Zonda and the Huayra, inspired by aerodynamics and flight. Visitors may still be able to admire the showroom and production areas subject to manufacturer policies.

Ferrari Galleria and Shuttle Factory Ground Tours

Ferrari needs little introduction. Visitors travelling to Maranello can explore the Galleria Ferrari, which displays an extraordinary collection of Formula One cars and historic models that shaped the brand’s racing legacy.

For some visitors, it may also be possible to take a shuttle tour around the factory grounds, including views of the Fiorano test track. Please note that full factory access is typically restricted to Ferrari owners, and policies may vary seasonally.

Ducati Museum and Factory Tour in Bologna

The famous motorcycle manufacturer Ducati has its headquarters in Bologna. Enthusiasts can visit the Ducati Museum and, when available, guided factory tours. For more detailed information please visit this page: Ducati Museum in Bologna.

Vintage Car Museums: Panini and Stanguellini

In and around Modena there are several excellent vintage car museums worth exploring independently. We recommend the Stanguellini Car Museum for lovers of handcrafted racing cars, as well as the popular Panini Museum, which hosts one of the world’s most impressive collections of historic Maserati vehicles.

Ferrari Driving Experiences

Driving experiences in Ferrari or Lamborghini vehicles are offered independently by specialist operators in the Maranello area. Requirements typically include being over 21 years old, holding a driving licence for at least two years, and in some cases an international driving permit.

For more information about driving a Ferrari or a Lamborghini in Italy, please consult the dedicated page.

Panini Museum and Hombre Organic Parmesan Farm

This combination appeals to families and corporate groups alike. The experience typically includes a visit to an organic Parmesan cheese producer followed by the Panini Museum, which tells the remarkable story of Mr Panini — an engineer who worked for Maserati and went on to build one of the world’s greatest historic car collections, including racing models driven by legends such as Stirling Moss.

Casa Natale Enzo Ferrari

Casa Natale Enzo Ferrari offers a more historical and educational perspective compared to the main Ferrari museums. Designed by architect Jan Kaplický, the modern structure stands on the site of Enzo Ferrari’s birthplace and early workshop. The museum showcases early vehicles built under the Auto Avio Costruzioni name, before Ferrari became a global legend.

Supercars and Gourmet Food

Although we no longer organise factory tours, the region still offers exceptional opportunities to combine automotive heritage with food culture. Many travellers enjoy pairing museum visits with Parmesan production, balsamic vinegar tastings, and Parma ham experiences to create a well-rounded itinerary.