Modena is the home of fast cars and slow food. The historic city is located in the heart of northern Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region. This storybook destination is famous for its rich cuisine, especially barrel-aged balsamic vinegar and parmesan cheese. Liquid and edible gold! This lovely city is also the hometown of Luciano Pavarotti, Enzo Ferrari, and Massimo Bottura. Therefore, it’s a favorite destination for opera lovers, sports car fanatics and foodies alike.
The Small List
Best Places to Stay
Casa Maria Luigia – The lovingly restored 18th century property, acquired by Massimo Bottura and Lara Gilmore, is an intimate country home surrounded by the agricultural landscape of the Emilian countryside. Partners in life, Massimo and Lara have extended their warm hospitality beyond the kitchen of Osteria Francescana to the Country House. Opened in 2019, this special place is not a hotel, it is their home. The Country House features a contemporary art collection consisting of Italian and international artworks, photographs and sculptures. Casa Maria Luigia is the perfect setting to experience the Emilian landscape. Discover the ultimate treasures of the region of Emilia-Romagna right out your doorstep.
“Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy”
Hotel Rua Frati 48 – The Renaissance Hotel lies in the heart of the city of Modena. The staff is dedicated to serving their guests with the utmost hospitality in a rich and historical setting.
Best Restaurants
Osteria Francescana at Maria Luigia – Francescana at Maria Luigia is the globally acclaimed three-Michelin starred restaurant and dining experience curated by Chef Massimo Bottura. In the Modena countryside, the experience begins the moment you encounter the property. At the table, every dish tells a story of the Italian landscape. Each plate is a work of art, rich with flavor and passion. The once in a lifetime experience at one of the most renowned kitchens in the world is emotional, intimate, and unforgettable.
“Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy”
Ristorante Cavellino – Cavallino Restaurant reinterprets the spirit of Ferrari within the walls of the original restaurant, established by Enzo Ferrari in 1950. Additionally, the internationally acclaimed chef from Modena, Massimo Bottura, serves hearty Emilian cuisine in an atmosphere of tremendous nostalgia.
Franceschetta58 – The bistro of Osteria Francescana, Franceschetta58 has a contemporary way of reinterpreting long time Emilian cuisine traditions. Above all, the team behind the scenes is young, well traveled, and brilliant.
Best Cafes
Caffetteria Giusti – This traditional bar in the heart of beautiful Modena is perfectly located on Piazza Roma and Via Farini in front of Palazzo Ducale. Enjoy breakfast with fresh pastries, lunch and dinner with local products, and traditional Happy Hour with sparkling wines.
Mon Cafe – In the kitchen as well as in design, the chef prepares dishes every day with fresh and genuine ingredients. This hip cafe serves refined dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner. In addition, it is also popular for aperitivo drinks.
Things to Do
Enzo Ferrari Museum Modena – Museo Casa Enzo Ferrari in Modena is focused on the life and work of Enzo Ferrari, the founder of the Ferrari sports car marque. The exhilarating experience celebrates 75 years of the Maranello based company.
Ferrari Museum Maranello – Museo Ferrari Maranello is a major exhibition celebrating the most successful Formula 1 team ever. The cars featured in the exhibition tell the story of a glorious career spanning over 90 years. Moreover, immerse yourself in the Ferrari Story and the Prancing Horse.
Ferrari Factory Tour – The Ferrari Museum in Maranello also offers visitors exclusive shuttle bus tours to the Fiorano track and along the Viale Enzo Ferrari boulevard in the factory complex.
Ferrari Museums + Autodromo di Modena – The Ferrari Museums have joined forces with the Autodromo di Modena circuit to offer their visitors a truly special experience.
Mercato Albinelli – In the heart of the city center, this historical food market is located between via Albinelli and Piazza XX Settembre. For decades, the daily buzz remains unchanged. Inside of the historical building there are 65 stands. All are selling items, from cheese and fruit to vegetables, meat, bakery products, and, of course, fresh fish.