How to Get to Modena, Italy

A practical transport guide for first-time visitors arriving by plane, train, bus or car.

Modena is a compact and elegant city in Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region, internationally known for traditional balsamic vinegar, Parmigiano Reggiano, and legendary automotive brands such as Ferrari, Maserati and Pagani. Despite its relatively small size, Modena is extremely well connected and easy to reach from major Italian cities and international airports.

This guide explains all the main ways to reach Modena, starting from Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport — the closest and most convenient airport — and then covering trains, buses and driving. If you are planning a full itinerary, you may also want to consult our main planning guide: How to Plan Your Trip to Modena.

Once you arrive, you can explore attractions, food experiences and day trips in our dedicated guide: Things to Do in Modena.

From Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ) to Modena

Bologna Airport (BLQ) is located approximately 40 km from Modena and handles most international arrivals. Travel time typically ranges between 30 and 60 minutes depending on traffic and transport method.

By Bus or Shuttle

The most direct public option is the Aerbus shuttle operated by ATCM / SACA. The service runs daily with multiple departures throughout the day and stops at Modena’s main bus station and central urban points.

Travel time: approximately 50 minutes.
Typical cost: around €17 one way, discounts available online.
Frequency: every 1–2 hours.

BlaBlaCar Bus also operates on this route and can sometimes offer very low fares when booked early, although schedules are less frequent.

This option is ideal for travellers arriving with light luggage who want a simple and economical transfer without changing trains.

By Train (via Bologna Centrale)

There is no direct train from the airport. First take the Marconi Express monorail from the airport to Bologna Centrale railway station (7 minutes). From there, regional trains depart for Modena every 15–30 minutes, taking approximately 20–30 minutes.

Total journey time: around 60 minutes.
Total cost: typically €10–15 combined.

This option is reliable and frequent, particularly during daytime hours.

By Taxi or Private Transfer

Taxis and private transfers are available directly outside the arrivals terminal. The drive takes approximately 30–45 minutes depending on traffic.

Typical cost: €70–90 for a standard taxi; private transfers may be higher depending on vehicle type.

This option is best for families, late-night arrivals, or travellers carrying heavy luggage.

By Rental Car

All major car rental companies operate directly at Bologna Airport. The drive to Modena follows the A1 motorway and takes roughly 30–40 minutes.

While a car is useful for visiting countryside producers or Maranello, note that Modena’s historic centre has ZTL traffic restrictions and limited parking.

Reaching Modena from Other Airports

Other nearby airports can also be used depending on flight availability:

• Parma Airport: 20 km away, limited routes; taxi or local train connection.
• Verona Airport: approximately 1 hour by car or 1.5–2 hours by train.
• Milan Malpensa or Linate: high-speed trains connect Milan to Modena in around 1.5–2 hours.
• Florence or Pisa: reachable via Bologna by train in approximately 2–3 hours.

Arriving in Modena by Train

Modena Centrale railway station is located close to the historic centre and is well served by regional and high-speed trains.

Typical travel times:

• Bologna → Modena: 20–30 minutes
• Milan → Modena: 1–1.5 hours
• Florence → Modena: 1.5–2 hours (via Bologna)
• Rome → Modena: approximately 3–4 hours

High-speed services from Reggio Emilia AV station are connected to Modena by shuttle bus in approximately 20 minutes.

Arriving by Bus

Long-distance bus companies such as FlixBus and BlaBlaCar Bus connect Modena with many Italian and European cities. Travel times are longer than trains but prices can be significantly cheaper.

Modena’s bus station is located close to the city centre and provides easy onward connections.

Arriving by Car

Modena is served by the A1 motorway between Milan and Bologna, with exits at Modena Nord and Modena Sud. Driving offers flexibility for visiting nearby destinations such as Maranello and rural producers.

Visitors should familiarise themselves with ZTL restrictions and parking options before entering the historic centre.

Final Travel Tips

• Spring and autumn offer the best travel conditions.
• The historic centre is walkable once you arrive.
• Trains are generally faster and more reliable than buses.
• Parking inside the centre is restricted.
• Always check updated timetables during holidays.

To continue planning your stay, explore our complete guide: How to Plan Your Trip to Modena and discover attractions and experiences in Things to Do in Modena.