Unique Things To Do In Modena, Italy: Is Modena Worth It?

Modena is gearing up for the Jazzopen Festival 2026. The greatest European festival will take place from 13th to 18th July in 2026.

Thus, Modena is going to be the second city to host this gala festival after Stuttgart. With the entire city turning into an open-air stage during this festival, it will have more tourists and music lovers flocking to the city, and boost a tourism boom.

However, Modena has always been a popular tourist destination, especially for food lovers.

Hidden in the middle of Emilia-Romagna, Modena feels like one of those places you stumble upon and wonder why more people don’t talk about it. Sure, Bologna and Parma get all the attention, but Modena?

It’s quieter, more personal! And you can still get all the good stuff Italy’s famous for without elbowing your way through crowds.

Nevertheless, from enjoying the most delightful food tour to exploring the historic city center, here are the most unique things to do in Modena, Italy.

Unique Things To Do In Modena, Italy: The Home Of Ferrari

Very few talk about the fact that Modena is home to Ferrari, which has been dominating the Formula One scene for the longest time.

Enzo Ferrari founded Ferrari in 1929 in Modena, Italy. Today, two museums dedicated to these iconic cars tell some really fascinating stories.

So, definitely, you can start your exploration of Moderna, Italy by visiting the Ferrai Museums here.

1. Visit the Enzo Ferrari Museum

Modena’s the hometown of Enzo Ferrari, so of course there’s a whole museum dedicated to the legend.

Even if you’re not a car buff, the place is fascinating with sleek vintage Ferraris, interactive displays, and enough horsepower history to make you appreciate the brand even more.

If you are into cars, well, you might never want to leave.

2. Indulge In A Foodie’s Delight Food Tour

If you’ve come to Modena and don’t eat your way through it, honestly, what are you even doing here? The Foodie’s Delight Food Tour is kind of like getting a backstage pass to the city’s kitchen.

You’ll meet the people making Parmigiano Reggiano the old-school way, taste balsamic vinegar that’s been aged longer than some marriages, and try cured meats that basically melt in your mouth. Oh, and lunch? Of course it’s included. Bring an appetite.

3. Explore Modena’s Historic City Center

The old town is pure storybook Italy — no exaggeration. It’s a UNESCO site, so the cobblestones, piazzas, and medieval buildings aren’t going anywhere anytime soon.

Start at Piazza Grande, where the Modena Cathedral stands in all its Romanesque glory.

Then there’s the Ghirlandina Tower. Climb it if you’re feeling energetic (and yes, the views are worth it). After that, find a café, order a coffee, and just watch life roll by.

4. Try A Pasta-Making Class With A Local Chef

You haven’t really visited Modena until you’ve made tortellini with someone who’s been doing it since they could barely reach the counter.

These pasta-making classes are relaxed, flour-covered fun. And yes, you’ll get to eat everything you make. A lot of food tours here bundle the class with tastings of Parmigiano and balsamic, which is basically a dream afternoon.

5. Enjoy A Traditional Aperitivo Tour

As the day winds down, Modena’s aperitivo scene kicks in. You can join a guide for an evening stroll between cafés and wine bars, sipping Lambrusco and snacking on things like prosciutto, aged cheese, and little bites you didn’t even know existed.

It’s less of a formal dinner, more of a “let’s wander and graze” kind of thing — and somehow that makes it even better.

6. Take the Family On A Tasty Treasure Hunt

Traveling with kids? Modena has you covered. The Family Food Adventure is basically a sightseeing walk with snacks, but for kids, it’s a treasure hunt with clues, activities, and prizes. While the little ones play detective, the adults get to taste regional specialties. Win-win.

7. Sample Local Delicacies At The Mercato Albinelli

This covered market has been around since the 1930s, and it’s still where locals shop for fresh everything — produce, meats, cheeses, pasta!

You name it. It’s easy to lose track of time here. My advice? Grab a few slices of mortadella, maybe something with truffle, and just wander the aisles until you can’t carry anything else.

8. Stroll Through Modena’s Parks And Gardens

Need a break from eating and sightseeing? (Hard to imagine, but it happens.) Head to Parco Giardino Ducale Estense.

It’s a peaceful green space near the Ducal Palace, perfect for strolling or sitting under the trees with a picnic from the market. Sometimes the simplest moments end up being the most memorable.

Free Things To Do In Modena, Italy: Traveling On A Budget

How do I spend a day in Modena on a budget? If this has been on your mind, here are some free things to do in Medona, Italy.

1. Visit Duomo di Modena: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

I have already mentioned the name of Modena Cathedral, or Duomo di Modena, while talking about the historical city center of Modena.

It has a unique Romanesque architecture and sculptures by Wiligelmo. Moreover, the Altar of the Statuettes, the Modena Archivolt, and many other artworks in the cathedral are a telltale of the early Arthurian period.

2. Visit Acetaia Villa San Donnino

The sign of the Emilia Romagna “liberty,” Acetaia Villa San Donnino is famous for the production of the traditional Balsamic vinegar and condiment.

It is located inside the Art Nouveau Villa, which was constructed in 1910. You can join a tour of the vinegar production here and can even taste some of the unique products.

Even today, the production setup follows traditional methods and the methods involve boiling grapes and aging them in various barrels.

Modena Is All About Flavor, History, And Little Things We Love

Modena isn’t flashy, but that’s the charm — it’s all about flavor, history, and the little things. Whether you’re here for food tours, vintage cars, or just to wander cobblestone streets, it’s the kind of place that sticks with you.