A practical guide to moving around Modena efficiently once you arrive.

Colorful mural on a building with a smiling man's face, set against a backdrop of historic Modena architecture.

Modena is a compact and walkable city, especially within the historic centre, where most restaurants, museums and landmarks are concentrated. For longer distances — such as visiting Maranello, nearby towns, or residential districts — public transport is reliable, affordable and easy to use. Check this article about planning your trip to Modena.

This guide explains how to use local buses, regional trains, bikes and taxis, and how to plan your movements efficiently during your stay. If you are still organising your arrival, see our main transport guide: How to Get to Modena, Italy. For ideas on what to visit once you arrive, explore Things to Do in Modena.

Walking Around the Historic Centre

Most visitors will spend a large part of their time walking. Modena’s historic centre is flat, compact and pleasant, with wide pedestrian areas around Piazza Grande, Via Emilia and the central markets.

From the main railway station, the historic centre is reachable in approximately 10–15 minutes on foot. Comfortable shoes are recommended due to cobblestones.

Local Buses and Trolleybuses (SETA)

Local buses and trolleybuses are operated by SETA (Società Emiliana Trasporti Autofiloviari). The network covers the entire city and connects Modena with surrounding towns such as Maranello, Carpi, Sassuolo, Nonantola and Vignola.

Buses generally operate from early morning until evening, with limited night services. Main routes run every 10–15 minutes during peak hours.

Main Bus Hub

The main bus station (Autostazione) is located on Via Bacchini, about a 10-minute walk from the historic centre and close to the main railway station. This is the departure point for most extra-urban routes.

Tickets and Fares

Tickets can be purchased directly on board using contactless card payment, at ticket offices, kiosks, or via mobile apps.

Single urban ride: approximately €1.50 (valid for 75 minutes).
Daily cap automatically applies after multiple rides.
Integrated bus–train passes are available for regional travel.

Always validate your ticket or tap your card when boarding.

Trains and Regional Connections

Modena is well connected by regional and national rail services. Trains are ideal for visiting Bologna, Parma, Reggio Emilia and Mantua.

Stazione Grande (Main Station)

The main railway station (Stazione di Modena) is located north of the historic centre and handles regional, intercity and high-speed connections via Reggio Emilia AV. It offers ticket offices, taxi ranks and bus connections.

Stazione Piccola (Local Station)

Stazione Piccola mainly serves local and suburban lines, including the Modena–Sassuolo route. It is useful for commuters and local travel rather than long-distance journeys.

Typical travel times:

Modena → Bologna: 20–30 minutes
Modena → Parma: 40–50 minutes
Modena → Sassuolo: 30–45 minutes

Bikes and Cycling

Vintage blue bicycle with rusty frame and black seat parked on a sidewalk near a beige wall.

Modena is bicycle-friendly, with an extensive network of cycle paths. A local bike-sharing scheme allows short-term rentals, making it a pleasant way to explore the city in good weather.

Bikes are suitable mainly for urban exploration rather than countryside distances.

Taxis and Private Transport

Taxis operate 24/7 and can be booked by phone or found at designated ranks near the railway station and main squares. They are useful for early morning departures, luggage transfers and reaching destinations not well served by buses.

Fixed fares may apply for popular destinations such as Maranello and nearby industrial zones.

Driving, Parking and ZTL Considerations

While having a car is useful for countryside visits and producer tours, Modena’s historic centre is regulated by ZTL (limited traffic zones) and parking is restricted.

Before driving into the city, consult our dedicated guide: How to Park Your Car Safely in Modena.

Planning Your Movements in Modena

Street intersection with cars, crosswalk, and traffic barriers, set against a backdrop of buildings and trees.

For most visitors, a combination of walking, buses and occasional taxis is more than sufficient. Trains are ideal for day trips, while cars are best reserved for countryside exploration.

To plan your arrival logistics, see How to Get to Modena, Italy. To explore attractions, food experiences and museums, visit Things to Do in Modena.

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Getting Around Modena: Transport, Buses, Trains, Taxis and Local Mobility