What to Do in Modena for Food Lovers in 2025

Modena, a jewel in Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region, is renowned for its culinary heritage. The city offers a delightful mix of historical richness, iconic flavors, and hands-on food experiences that any food lover must explore in 2025. Whether you’re strolling through bustling markets, visiting family-owned balsamic vinegar shops, or indulging in Michelin-starred dining, Modena is a destination that will engage all your senses.

Here’s a curated guide to some of the best things to do in Modena for food lovers in 2025:

1. La Bonissima – October 17-19, 2025

One of the highlights for food enthusiasts in 2025 is La Bonissima, a culinary festival held in Modena’s main square, Piazza Grande. This free event celebrates Modena’s rich food culture with a series of cooking demonstrations, tastings, and competitions. Visitors can sample the best local delicacies, including gnocco fritto, tigelle, and of course, traditional balsamic vinegar.

The festival offers something for everyone, whether you’re interested in cooking techniques or just want to enjoy some of the region’s finest products. Don’t miss the chance to meet the artisans behind the region’s signature ingredients, from Parmesan to balsamic vinegar.

This vibrant festival is also a perfect opportunity to dive into Modena’s gastronomy, enjoy live cooking shows, and even participate in food competitions for a chance to win culinary prizes. The picturesque setting of Piazza Grande, a UNESCO World Heritage site, adds an extra layer of charm to this celebration of food.

2. Sciocolà – October 30-November 2, 2025

For chocolate lovers, Sciocolà is a must-visit festival held in Modena at the end of October. This sweet extravaganza gathers some of the best artisan chocolatiers from across Italy and the world. The city center transforms into a haven for chocolate enthusiasts, with stalls offering tastings, workshops, and a wide variety of chocolate-based products.

Whether you’re savoring a rich hot chocolate or learning to create your own chocolate masterpieces in a workshop, Sciocolà offers an immersive experience for anyone with a sweet tooth. Don’t forget to grab some artisanal chocolate bars to take home as souvenirs of your Modena culinary journey.

3. The Traditional Balsamic Vinegar Experience

Modena’s Traditional Balsamic Vinegar (Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale) is world-renowned, and visiting the acetaie (vinegar-producing estates) is a unique experience for food lovers in 2025. A visit to one of these family-run businesses will take you through the entire process of producing this prized product, from grape harvest to the long aging process in wooden barrels.

Visitors can witness the aging process that can take anywhere from 12 to 25 years, producing vinegar with a rich, complex flavor profile. Many balsamic vinegar producers offer guided tours and tastings where you can savor different types of balsamic vinegar, each offering its own nuanced flavors. Some tours even include a traditional pairing with local cheeses, meats, and even ice cream!

One of the most famous balsamic vinegar lofts is located right in the center of Modena. This is where some of the best-known balsamic vinegar producers showcase their craft, offering tasting experiences and a chance to see how this cherished condiment is made. It’s a must-see for anyone looking to understand the artistry behind this traditional product.

5. Visit the Modena Food Markets

Modena’s food markets are a perfect stop for anyone looking to experience the heart and soul of the city’s food scene. The Mercato Albinelli, one of the oldest covered markets in the region, is a hub of local produce, meats, cheeses, and seafood. Here, you can sample local delights and purchase fresh ingredients to take home.

For a truly authentic experience, spend time chatting with the vendors, many of whom have been serving the Modena community for generations. The market is also an ideal place to pick up the perfect gift: bottles of local wine, packets of rich Parmesan cheese, or jars of Modena’s famous traditional balsamic vinegar.

6. Strada dei Vini e dei Sapori della Pianura Modenese (Modena Food and Wine Route)

One of the best ways to explore Modena’s food culture in 2025 is by taking the Strada dei Vini e dei Sapori della Pianura Modenese, the Modena Food and Wine Route. This scenic drive connects vineyards, balsamic vinegar producers, and local eateries scattered across the rolling hills and plains of Modena’s countryside.

The route offers a fantastic opportunity to sample some of the best Lambrusco wines and Modena’s rich culinary traditions while enjoying beautiful landscapes. Stop by a traditional trattoria for a rustic lunch or enjoy a wine tasting at a local vineyard. The area is particularly well known for its Lambrusco wine, a sparkling red wine that pairs perfectly with local foods such as gnocco fritto and cured meats.

For food lovers in 2025, this route provides a leisurely way to indulge in Modena’s diverse offerings while immersing yourself in the region’s natural beauty.

7. Michelin-Starred Dining Experiences

Modena is home to some of the most celebrated Michelin-starred restaurants in Italy, making it a top destination for gourmet dining. Osteria Francescana, led by the world-renowned chef Massimo Bottura, is one of the most famous restaurants in the world. In 2025, it continues to offer an unparalleled dining experience with its innovative take on traditional Italian cuisine.

If you’re in the mood for something equally sophisticated, Franceschetta58 is another Bottura restaurant offering a more casual but equally delightful dining experience. Known for its modern interpretations of traditional dishes, it is a fantastic option for food lovers looking for exceptional quality in a relaxed setting.

A reservation at one of these Michelin-starred gems is a treat you won’t want to miss during your trip to Modena.

Final Thoughts

Modena is a food lover’s paradise, offering everything from authentic food tours and cooking classes to vibrant festivals and visits to local producers. Whether you’re sampling world-famous balsamic vinegar, savoring the city’s rich culinary traditions, or dining in Michelin-starred restaurants, Modena in 2025 promises an unforgettable gastronomic journey that will leave you craving more.