A Gastronomic Adventure in Modena: The Ultimate Food Tour Experience

Modena, a city nestled in Italy’s prosperous Emilia-Romagna region, offers an unforgettable food tour experience that is steeped in rich culinary traditions and innovative gastronomy. This article invites you on an enticing journey through Modena’s food landscape, exploring its iconic dishes, local food experiences, and acclaimed culinary establishments.

Section 1: Modena – A Culinary Haven

Modena is a city renowned for its gastronomic treasures, including balsamic vinegar, Parmigiano Reggiano, and Prosciutto di Modena. This section will delve into the historical significance of these iconic products and why they are integral to Modena’s culinary identity.

Best Places to Try Balsamic Vinegar in Modena

Modena is famous worldwide for its Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Modena, or Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena. This deep, rich, and glossy syrup has been produced in Modena for centuries, following age-old traditions. Here are three top spots to experience the best balsamic vinegar tasting in Modena:

La Consorteria 1966 (Piazza Giuseppe Mazzini, 9)

With a 4.8 rating from over 163 reviews, La Consorteria 1966 is a must-visit destination for balsamic vinegar enthusiasts. Located near Tigellino – Tigelleria Ducale, this store offers an extensive selection of balsamic vinegars. One visitor lauded their “really great experience tasting different balsamic vinegars.” They open at 11 AM, so plan your visit accordingly.

Acetaia San Matteo (Str. Canaletto Nord, 786)

Acetaia San Matteo, a food seasoning manufacturer, boasts a perfect 5.0 rating from 143 reviews. This acetaia (vinegar production house) is renowned for its authentic balsamic vinegar, with one reviewer rhetorically asking, “How good could Balsamic Vinegar be.” They open their doors at 9 AM.

Acetaia di Giorgio (Via Sandro Cabassi, 67)

Rated 4.9 based on 69 reviews, Acetaia di Giorgio is a world-class manufacturer of balsamic vinegar. Located on Via Sandro Cabassi, this boutique bottler is lauded for its “Balsamic Vinegar extraordinaire.” Make sure to check their operating hours before your visit.

Remember to call ahead or check online for their current operating hours, tours, and tasting sessions. Each of these establishments offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and production process of Modena’s iconic balsamic vinegar.

Section 2: Guided Food Tours in Modena

Guided food tours are an ideal way to immerse yourself in Modena’s vibrant culinary scene. This section will highlight some of the best food tours in Modena, describing their itineraries, unique selling points, and the gastronomic delights they offer.

Best Food Tours in Modena: Spotlight on Emilia Delizia

When it comes to food tours in Modena, Emilia Delizia is a name that stands out. Their tours offer a unique and immersive way to explore the culinary wonders of this gastronomic city.

Emilia Delizia

Emilia Delizia is renowned for its gastronomic tours that take visitors on a journey through the rich culinary landscape of the Emilia-Romagna region. Their tours are not just about sampling food; they’re about experiencing the culture, history, and traditions that influence Modena’s cuisine.

Their Modena Gourmet Food Tour takes food lovers to the heart of Modena’s gastronomic scene. You’ll have the opportunity to visit traditional producers of local culinary treasures like balsamic vinegar, Parmigiano Reggiano, and Lambrusco wine. This comprehensive tour also includes a lunch featuring local specialties, ensuring an unforgettable food experience.

Emilia Delizia’s tours are led by local guides passionate about their region’s culinary heritage. They offer a personalized experience, accommodating dietary restrictions and personal preferences to ensure that everyone enjoys their food journey through Modena.

The Emilia Delizia food tour is more than just a tasting experience; it’s a deep dive into Modena’s food culture. It’s a must for any food lover visiting Modena.

Section 3: The Italian Dining Experience in Modena

Modena’s dining culture embraces the Italian tradition of ‘La Passeggiata’ (the evening stroll) and the Aperitivo culture. This section will explore these dining practices, providing insight into the city’s charming café culture and its local food markets.

Best Restaurants in Modena

Modena’s culinary scene is as diverse as it is delectable. Whether you’re seeking a Michelin-starred dining experience or a traditional, home-style Italian meal, Modena has it all. Here are three highly-rated restaurants you must visit when in Modena:

Osteria Francescana (Via Stella, 22)

Boasting a 4.6 rating from over 2,000 reviews, Osteria Francescana is not just a restaurant; it’s a destination. Led by renowned chef Massimo Bottura, this fine dining establishment has been named the “best restaurant in the world.” Visitors rave about the exceptional culinary experience and the creativity of the dishes. Remember, they open at 12:30 PM, and reservations are highly recommended given its popularity.

Piccola Osteria Zemian (Via Fonte d’Abisso, 23)

With an impressive 4.9 rating from 445 reviews, Piccola Osteria Zemian is a local favorite. Located near Via Taglio 12 Eat & Drink, it’s hailed as the “best restaurant in Modena and all of Italy” by one enthusiastic reviewer. They offer a blend of traditional and modern Italian cuisine, and they also open at 12:30 PM.

Trattoria Il Fantino (Via Donzi, 7)

Rated 4.5 from over 2.4k reviews, Trattoria Il Fantino is a classic spot that offers homemade fare and a selection of fine wines. Located near Tigellino – Tigelleria Ducale, this restaurant embodies the charm and warmth of traditional Italian trattorias. They open their doors at 12:30 PM, making it a perfect spot for lunch.

These restaurants highlight the variety and quality of Modena’s dining scene, offering everything from high-end gastronomic experiences to traditional Italian fare. Be sure to check their operating hours and consider making reservations to ensure you secure a table at these popular spots

Section 4: Local Food Experiences in Modena

Modena offers a plethora of unique food experiences, from cooking classes to wine and cheese tastings. In this section, we will delve into these experiences, demonstrating how they provide a deeper understanding of Modena’s rich food culture.

Section 5: Agriturismo: Modena’s Farm-to-Table Experience

Dining at an agriturismo is a must when visiting Modena. These establishments offer visitors the opportunity to enjoy meals made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. This section will spotlight some of the top agriturismos in and around Modena.

Best Agriturismo Stays in Modena

Agriturismo, a blend of agriculture and tourism, is a unique way to experience the authentic rural life of Italy. In Modena, these farm-stay accommodations often produce their own local products like wine, cheese, and balsamic vinegar. Here are the top three agriturismo stays in Modena, each offering an enriching and immersive experience:

Opera02 Resort

Ranked number one among 35 agriturismo accommodations in Modena for its excellent value, Opera02 Resort is a refined place to stay. With 288 reviews praising the resort’s quality, it’s clearly a popular choice among travelers. Check their website for specific prices and availability.

Agriturismo Acetaia Sereni

Coming in second place is Agriturismo Acetaia Sereni, an organic agriturismo with a pool located near Modena and Bologna. This beautiful stay has 116 reviews, with guests like Cristina raving about its appeal. To know more about the prices, enter your planned dates on their website.

Podere Prasiano

Podere Prasiano is another highly-rated agriturismo stay in Modena. With 340 reviews, it’s ranked number three out of 35 for offering the best value. Reviewer Fulvia C affectionately refers to it as “the place of pampering.” To check the prices, input your dates on their website.

These three agriturismo stays provide a peaceful retreat into the countryside of Modena, giving you a taste of the rural Italian lifestyle. They offer a unique perspective on the region’s culinary and agricultural heritage, making them an essential part of any food tour.

Section 6: What to Eat in Modena: The Must-Try Dishes

Every visitor to Modena must indulge in the city’s signature dishes. From fresh tortellini to succulent cotechino and the famous Aceto Balsamico di Modena, this section will provide a detailed list of what to eat in Modena.

What to Eat in Modena: 10 Typical Dishes

Modena, the city nestled in the heart of Italy’s gastronomic paradise, Emilia-Romagna, boasts a rich and diverse culinary tradition. Here are 10 local dishes you should not miss when in Modena:

Tigelle (or Crescentine): These small, round breads are a staple in Modena. Often filled with local cured meats, cheeses, or even sweet spreads, tigelle makes for a delightful snack or meal.
Gnocco Fritto: Gnocco fritto, or fried dough, is another Modenese classic. Typically served with cold cuts and cheeses, this golden, puffy bread is a must-try.
Tortellini and Tortelloni: These traditional stuffed pastas are local favorites. Tortellini is typically filled with a mix of meat and served in broth or with cream, while tortelloni is larger and usually filled with ricotta and herbs, served with butter and sage or tomato sauce.
Lasagna: This world-famous layered pasta dish has a special Modenese version, usually made with green pasta sheets, béchamel sauce, ragu, and plenty of Parmigiano Reggiano cheese.
Cotechino di Modena IGP: Cotechino is a traditional Italian sausage made from pork, fatback, and pork rind, and then slow-cooked. It’s typically served with lentils on New Year’s Eve.
Aceto Balsamico di Modena IGP: Modena’s balsamic vinegar is renowned worldwide. Use it to dress salads, as a dip for bread, or even as a drizzle on strawberries or Parmigiano Reggiano cheese.
Parmigiano Reggiano DOP: No visit to Modena would be complete without trying Parmigiano Reggiano. This hard, granular cheese is often grated over pasta dishes, incorporated into soups and risottos, or eaten on its own.
Bensone: This traditional Modenese cake, characterized by its yellow color and crunchy crust, is typically enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack. It’s made with simple ingredients: flour, sugar, eggs, butter, and lemon zest.
Lambrusco: Modena is famous for Lambrusco, a slightly sparkling, vibrant red wine that pairs perfectly with the local cuisine.
Zampone: Similar to cotechino, Zampone is a stuffed pig’s trotter that is a traditional dish around the holiday season.

These dishes represent the heart and soul of Modena’s culinary tradition. By experiencing these flavors, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the city’s food culture, enhancing your food tour in Modena.

Conclusion:

Embarking on a Modena food tour is more than just a culinary journey; it’s an exploration of the city’s culture, traditions, and the passion of its people. Prepare your palate for an unforgettable food experience in Modena, a true gem in Italy’s gastronomic crown.

Traditional Balsamic Vinegar Producers You Can Visit in Central Modena (Without a Car)

Embark on a culinary journey through the heart of Modena, Italy, where the rich tradition of balsamic vinegar production has been preserved for centuries. In this enchanting city, you’ll find family-owned Acetaias, where passion and dedication to quality balsamic vinegar are deeply rooted in their heritage. Without further ado, let us introduce you to four traditional balsamic vinegar producers that you can visit in central Modena without a car.

Acetaia Comunale

Located near the iconic Ghirlandina tower, Acetaia Comunale is a delightful museum that showcases the history and production of balsamic vinegar in Modena. The Piazza Grande address ensures that this Acetaia is easily accessible on foot. For more information, visit their website at https://www.visitmodena.it/it/scopri-modena/eccellenze-gastronomiche/le-acetaie/acetaia-comunale-di-modena.

Acetaia Marisa Barbieri

Nestled in the heart of Modena, Acetaia Marisa Barbieri offers a personal tasting and tour experience in a private home. Marisa’s passion and dedication to preserving traditional balsamic vinegar production have earned her rave reviews. Each little bottle of Marisa’s Traditional Balsamic Vinegar is a journey back through the centuries, reflecting the ancient tastes of Modena and its countryside. Visit their website for more information.

Acetaia di Giorgio

Situated at Via Sandro Cabassi, Acetaia di Giorgio offers an intimate and informative experience for balsamic vinegar enthusiasts. Visitors have praised the cozy family home setting, their friendly dog, and the warm, inviting atmosphere. To arrange a visit, call them at +39 059 333015.

Acetaia Giusti – Since 1605

As the world’s oldest balsamic vinegar producer, Acetaia Giusti has been crafting high-quality vinegars for over 400 years. Located at Str. delle Quattro Ville, this Acetaia boasts a heritage of centuries-old barrels and time-honored expertise. Visitors can indulge in a fabulous tasting experience while learning about the production process from the extremely helpful staff. For more information, visit their website or call them at +39 059 840135.
To reach this location you will need a short taxi ride. Catch them from the train station.

Visiting these traditional balsamic vinegar producers in central Modena will immerse you in the rich history, culture, and flavors of this remarkable region. Each Acetaia offers a unique, unforgettable experience that will satisfy both your culinary curiosity and your taste buds. Don’t miss the chance to explore the authentic taste of Modena and bring home a piece of its culinary heritage.

Foodie’s Delight Tour: Indulge in Balsamic, Ham & Parmesan on a Culinary Adventure from Modena or Bologna

Experience the culinary magic of Italy with our small-group food tour, taking you on an epicurean adventure from Modena to Bologna. This gastronomic expedition delves into the heart of Italy’s renowned food scene, showcasing the artisanal mastery of Parmesan cheese, balsamic vinegar, and delectable ham production. Join our expert guides as they lead you through the picturesque countryside and charming towns of Modena and Bologna, unveiling the secrets of these iconic Italian delights.

Embark on an Unforgettable Culinary Journey in Modena and Bologna

Indulge your senses as you savor the rich flavors of freshly made Parmesan cheese, aged to perfection by skilled artisans, and marvel at the intricate process of crafting the region’s legendary balsamic vinegar. As you explore the world of Italian ham, witness first-hand the passion and dedication of local producers who’ve honed their skills for generations.

Introducing the ultimate value-for-money small group food tour departing from Modena, showcasing the finest Parmesan cheese, balsamic vinegar, and ham this region has to offer.

Embark on this all-inclusive food experience, complete with transportation, tastings, and an English-speaking guide, setting off from Modena Central Station or your hotel at 8:30 am. Our culinary adventure is available 7 days a week on most days throughout the year, ensuring you can indulge in the delectable flavors of Modena whenever you choose. The tour concludes back in Modena at approximately 13:00 hours*, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Italy’s gastronomic treasures.

Discounts (cannot be combined)

Use coupon code MYCAR for a 20% off when you use your own car to get to each location.

Use coupon code EARLY2023 for a 15% off when book at least 60 days in advance.

Use coupon code skip2023 for a 20% off to skip the prosciutto part, the tour will be only parmesan and balsamic, it will be shorter and it will not include the ham part. If you apply this code the tour must end after the balsamic vinegar, you are not allowed to add any of the extras such as lunch at the farm and others.

Tours For The Year 2023

Experience the Artisan Craftsmanship Behind Parmesan, Balsamic, and Ham Production

Please take note of the following.

Monday, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays the tours are automatically upgraded to the prosciutto factory. Therefore on these days of the week the tour will be Parmesan production, balsamic vinegar and the prosciutto factory that also include a generous tasting “light lunch” at prosciutto place.

Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays the tour will be Parmesan, balsamic and MUSA, however it will be upgradeable to the prosciutto factory tour as a above, if you wish to upgrade you will need to add this options to your booking.

Please note that on certain dates, tours may be limited to featuring only Parmesan and Balsamic experiences. This limitation will be clearly indicated during the booking process. Prior to finalizing your reservation, ensure you are aware and understanding of this restriction. Tours falling under this category will automatically receive a discount.

Sundays the tour will be Parmesan, balsamic and MUSA only. There are no other options for this day of the week.

Tours are available in English only. Private tours are not possible, however our groups are small.

Suggestion: We strongly suggest to come to Modena by train from Bologna, as it is only a 20 minute train ride that costs only 4/7 euros per person, it is quicker than using a car. Coming by car it can take up to one hour due to intense traffic. Check https://www.thetrainline.com/ for details.

It includes 3 stops.

(Parmesan, balsamic and ham and salami) and gourmet tasting with possible additions:

You Can upgrade the prosciutto visit to a full production tour if you choose this upgrade we will visit Prosciuttificio Leonardi or Guerzoni instead of MUSA* . The upgrade is available on Thursday, Friday, Saturday.
Tour begins in Modena at 8.30 am, or 7.30 am in Bologna (extra pick up). The foodie’s delight tour ends at about 13.00* hours in Modena. If you add the winery brunch the tour will finish at 15.30, if you add the cooking class expect to finish at about 16.00.
Full Parmesan cheese production visits with generous tasting.
Visit Balsamic vinegar producer with tasting and possibility to buy at bargain prices.
Visit to Villani’s Salami world famous Parma ham, mortadella and prosciutto San Daniele with guided tour and tasting directly at the Salami Factory in Modena. See Musa for info.
Cured meat tasting at the end of the tour included in the price*.
Additional extra available during booking.
Pay by credit card, Paypal.
Prices: Please use the booking calendar below to price your tour, and do not forget to push the “continue button” to display all the options of the tour.

Optional Extra Add On.

NEW: Now you can upgrade the prosciutto ham visit, with a little extra you can visit a full prosciutto facility at prosciuttificio, instead of the MUSA. Just start the booking and on the second page you can choose this upgrade. In this the tour will include Parmesan, balsamic and a full prosciutto ham producer with a generous tasing.

Additional extra Brunch & cooking class at the organic winery can be added to this tour*
Bologna one way pick up. We will pick you up from your hotel at these location and after the tour we drop off in Modena where you can explore the town, visit the Ferrari Museum or just continue your journey from the well connected station*.

Don't forget to add our great farmer's brunch to your tour — Don’t forget to add our great farmer’s brunch to your tour

BONUS OPTIONS

If you want to drive your own car add “mycar” as coupon at the check out for some money off.
Add the Maranello free drop off if you want to see the Ferrari Museum at no additional charge from us. You will be able to continue your journey with the shuttles buses running from the museum to Modena train station (and Casa Enzo Ferrari).

About this tour.

In summary, our value-packed small group food tour from Modena offers a unique and memorable opportunity to explore the captivating world of Italian cuisine. Unveiling the secrets of Parmesan cheese, balsamic vinegar, and ham production, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the region’s rich culinary heritage. Don’t miss the chance to savor the authentic tastes of Italy and create cherished memories as you journey through the enchanting landscapes of Modena and Bologna. Book your unforgettable food tour today and indulge in the unparalleled flavors that have made these regions famous around the world.

To address some frequently asked questions, we’d like to clarify the following:

Our food tours are conducted EXCLUSIVELY IN ENGLISH, offering an accessible and enjoyable experience for our international guests. Departure points for our tours include Modena train station, central Modena hotels, Bologna train station, and Bologna hotels, ensuring convenience for all participants.

With morning tour pick-ups scheduled at approximately 8:30 am in Modena and 7:30 am in Bologna, our tours are carefully timed to provide an immersive experience. Should the morning tour timings not suit your schedule, consider joining our delightful afternoon aperitivo tours.

Our Foodie’s Delight tours are designed for small groups, providing a personalized experience. During the low season, you may even find yourself on a semi-private tour. Please note that we do not offer fully private tours for this package.

For pricing information, kindly use the calendar available on our website to generate a self-quote. Email inquiries for quotes will be redirected to this page for self-quotation.

With these clarifications in mind, we invite you to embark on an unforgettable culinary journey through the enchanting landscapes of Modena and Bologna, experiencing the authentic tastes of Italy’s gastronomic treasures

Some small print.

*ending times are estimates, guests should not have imminent travel arrangements right after the tour.

*lunch and cooking classes, pick ups and other extra are options and not included in the default price of the foodie’s delight tour. These options are displayed as you progress in the booking. Lunch must booked at least 48 hours in advance. Cooking class & lunch not available on Sundays.

*When we say small and semi private tour the mean that: we use small people carrier vans to take our guests around, our tour will be always in small groups, and personable and we will always make best effort to maintain it this way, however during busy periods on and around Italian national holidays the ham location might have company events and other larger group of guests visiting at the same time, this happens only very occasionally. Time of tour are estimates delays might occur. When booking this tour you also agree to these terms and conditions we strongly suggest to avoid making booking if this factors are an issue for you.

*during Italian national holidays and the covid emergency till further notice the tasting might not be available and a high quality cured meat gourmet take away gift will be given to the participants.

*Monday to Thursday is Leonardi and Friday and Saturday is Guerzoni. This also depends on our planning and producer availability, when you book the upgrade you acknlowdge this. Clients cannot choose the prosciuttificio, it will be either or.

What Food Factories can I visit in Italy?

Everyone loves Italian food! Wherever you go in the world, even in unlikely places such as Thailand and Malaysia, both of which have their own wonderful regional cuisine, you will find Italian restaurants, and most people cook at least one Italian staple, pasta, on a regular basis at home. It follows that if you are visiting Italy, you will want to explore the origins of some of your favourite Italian dishes and ingredients.

Food factories in Emilia Romagna.

A visit to the Emilia-Romagna region of north-eastern Italy will give you the opportunity to visit the production houses of some of Italy’s best-loved and most famous foods. The region is easily accessed from Bologna or Florence and the prized foods are made in and around the towns of Parma and Modena.
The three main foods you can see being manufactured from scratch are Prosciutto di Parma (Parma Ham), Parmigiano Reggiano (Parmesan Cheese) and Aceto Balsamico (Balsamic vinegar). These three products are the most famous of Italy’s food exports and are known far and wide. Visitors to the region will be pleased to know that Parma and Modena are quite close to each other which makes it really easy to visit these 3 factories in one day, and still have time to sip some local Lambrusco (sparkling red wine from the region) before the sun sets.

Food Experiences tours around Bologna and Parma.

The best way to visit all these factories is to go on an organised Culinary Tour, either using your own transport or, better yet, being collected at your hotel and driven around – this way you get to see more of the beautiful countryside.

The town of Parma is the home of Parmesan Cheese and Parma Ham (only Prosciutto from this little part of Italy may be called Parma Ham – likewise with the cheese – their region of origin is protected and similar products from other regions may not use the names.) A typical culinary tour to see the production of these products will start with a visit to one of the many Parmesan Cheese manufacturers in and around the town of Parma. The Parmesan production starts anew every single day, and you can watch the entire process from the arrival of the milk, to the storage in the cellars. You will also be taught how to differentiate between real Parmesan and copies, which is very helpful when you get back home.

After the cheese, you will go to Modena to see how the Balsamic vinegar, Italian “Black Gold” is made. This is a laborious artisanal procedure and you will leave with a better understanding of why the real thing is so expensive. You will also get to taste, and learn some of the correct uses of this delicious condiment.

The cherry on the top of your tour will be when you visit the little town of Langhirano, just south of Parma, which is the original home of Parma Ham. At the factory you will be guided through all the stages of producing a fine Parma Ham, which differs in some respects from ordinary Prosciutto Cotto (Dried Ham). The proof of the pudding is in the eating, they say, and you will end your tour with a tasting session and then go on to enjoy a fabulous lunch.

Winery tours in the Emilia Region

If you have a little more time, consider visiting some of the vineyards where the lovely regional Lambrusco is produced. A leisurely day driving through the peaceful Italian countryside and visiting some of the wineries will round-off your culinary adventure perfectly. Culinary tours can be tailor-made to suit your needs – just speak to your tour company.