If you’re planning a day trip to Modena, get ready for a culinary adventure. Start your morning at Mercato Albinelli, a charming market where you can buy aged Parmigiano Reggiano, authentic Balsamic Vinegar, and fresh tortellini. For lunch, skip the famous but pricey Osteria Francescana and head to Trattoria Aldina or La Chrescenta for delicious local dishes.
Trattoria Aldina.
Trattoria Aldina in Modena is a beloved traditional restaurant known for its authentic Emilian cuisine. Situated in the heart of Modena, near the Duomo and opposite the local market, this trattoria is somewhat hidden, located on the first floor of a building without a prominent sign. This makes it a bit tricky to find, but well worth the effort (Tripadvisor).
The restaurant offers a variety of classic dishes such as tortellini in broth, tagliatelle al ragù, and green lasagne. The menu is read out by the servers, adding to the authentic and homely atmosphere. Prices are quite reasonable, with pasta dishes ranging between 6€ and 8€ (Trattoria Aldina) . Trattoria Aldina is particularly praised for its no-frills, hearty meals that embody the culinary traditions of Modena (Giadzy).
The trattoria does not accept reservations for lunch, leading to potential waits, but the experience is frequently described as worth it due to the quality of the food and the charming, bustling atmosphere. It is open for lunch from Monday to Saturday, and for dinner only on Friday and Saturday with a reservation (Trattoria Aldina) (Tripadvisor).
Many reviewers highlight the excellent service and the communal, friendly environment, which makes it a favorite among locals and tourists alike (Tripadvisor) (Giadzy). Chef Massimo Bottura, a Michelin-starred chef, even recommends Trattoria Aldina as a place to enjoy traditional Modenese dishes (Giadzy).
La Chrescenta.
La Chersenta in Modena is a popular establishment known for its traditional Emilian cuisine, particularly its “chersenta” or crescentina, a type of bread from the Modena Apennines. This bread is the star of their menu, praised for its excellent texture—crispy on the outside and soft inside (Gambero Rosso International) (Gambero Rosso International).
Located at Via Albinelli 42/44/46, La Chersenta offers a range of dishes that showcase local flavors. The restaurant has received positive reviews for its hearty and authentic meals. It’s a casual, modest place, yet it’s recommended by many, including renowned chef Massimo Bottura. The ambiance is simple, making it a great spot for those looking to enjoy a genuine local dining experience (Gambero Rosso International) (Gambero Rosso International).
Gelato in Modena.
Gelateria Bloom in Modena is a highly regarded artisanal gelato shop known for its high-quality, creative flavors and commitment to using local, seasonal ingredients. Founded on April 12, 2014, Bloom started as a small gelateria on Via Farini and has since expanded to multiple locations, including Via Taglio 16/A and Piazza Mazzini 42. In 2024, a new branch opened on Strada Vignolese 864, offering a spacious venue for enjoying their products from early morning until late at night.
Bloom prides itself on creating the best and healthiest gelato possible, emphasizing attention to the entire production chain, from carefully selected raw materials to the finished product. The shop offers classic flavors as well as innovative creations, and it also features a chocolate and coffee section in its Piazza Mazzini location. Bloom has received numerous accolades, including being listed in the “Guida Gelaterie d’Italia” from 2017 to 2024.
Modena Ghirlandina and Cathedral.
The Modena Cathedral and Ghirlandina Tower are two of the most iconic landmarks in Modena, Italy, both recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Ghirlandina Tower: The Torre Ghirlandina is an 86-meter-high bell tower attached to the Modena Cathedral. Built in 1179, it offers breathtaking views of the city from its top. The tower’s name comes from the marble garlands (“ghirlande”) that decorate its spire. Inside, you can visit the “Sala della Secchia,” or Room of the Bucket, which features a legendary bucket tied to a historical conflict between Modena and Bologna in 1325 (Italy Review) (ITALY Magazine).
Modena Cathedral: This 12th-century cathedral, designed by Lanfranco with sculptures by Wiligelmus, is a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture. The Cathedral, along with the Ghirlandina Tower and Piazza Grande, form a UNESCO World Heritage site due to their historical and architectural significance. The cathedral is known for its exquisite sculptures and the beautiful Porta della Pescheria (ITALY Magazine).
Visitor Reviews: Visitors often praise the Modena Cathedral and Ghirlandina Tower for their stunning architecture and rich history. Many reviews highlight the impressive city views from the top of the tower and the detailed artwork in the cathedral. The combined visit to these sites offers a deep dive into Modena’s medieval past and architectural heritage.
For more information and visitor reviews, you can check out sources like TripAdvisor and Italy Magazine.
Casa Enzo Ferrari
The Casa Museo Enzo Ferrari in Modena, opened in 2012, features the restored house where Enzo Ferrari was born and a modern gallery designed by Jan Kaplický. The museum offers a permanent exhibition on Ferrari’s life and displays vintage cars, engines, and memorabilia. Visitors praise the engaging exhibits, educational value, and the combination of historical and futuristic architecture. However, some find the admission prices high and wish for a more extensive collection. The museum can get crowded during peak times. More details can be found on TripAdvisor and the Ferrari website.
Visiting Maserati.
Visiting the Maserati factory and showroom in Modena is a unique experience for car enthusiasts and those interested in Italian automotive heritage. The factory tour offers an in-depth look at the production processes and the craftsmanship behind Maserati cars. Here’s what you need to know:
Tour Details: The Maserati factory tour includes a welcome reception, a historical introduction, and a guided tour through the powertrain department, engine assembly, and the new paintshop. Visitors also get to explore the showroom, which features current Maserati models, a car configurator, and a historical diorama. The tour typically lasts about 90 minutes and concludes with a visit to the Maserati store, where you can purchase official merchandise (Maserati USA) (Modenatur) (Me With My Suitcase).
Booking and Availability: Tours are available from Monday to Friday between 9:00 AM and 3:30 PM, excluding public holidays and the month of August. Reservations are mandatory and can be made through the Modenatur website. The tour is offered in multiple languages, including English, Italian, German, French, and Spanish (Maserati USA) (Maserati USA).
Tickets and Pricing: The cost of the tour is €50 per adult, with reduced rates for groups, students, and minors aged 7-17. Children under 6 and journalists can visit for free, but minors must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is not recommended for very young children due to its content and duration (Modenatur) (VisitModena).
Additional Tips: After the Maserati tour, consider visiting the Panini Motor Museum, which houses a collection of historic Maserati cars. This museum is free to visit but requires a reservation (Me With My Suitcase).
For more information and to book your tour, you can visit the official Maserati website or the Modenatur booking page.