Driving Dreams and Pasta Delights: Modena Family Adventure

Discover Modena: Where family fun meets Italian charm.

19 July 2023

Modena, Italy offers a delightful family-friendly trip with a perfect blend of culture, history, and delicious cuisine. Explore the charming town center filled with beautiful cathedrals, ancient towers, and vibrant markets. Don't miss the chance to indulge in the famous Modenese balsamic vinegar and savory local delicacies, while engaging in interactive activities like pasta making workshops to make this trip an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Super Cars and Delizioso Pasta

  • Begin your Modena adventure with a stay at the family-friendly Hotel Estense, where the staff welcomes you with Italian warmth and a delightful breakfast spread.
  • Rev up your engines and head to the Ferrari Museum, where you can drool over legendary sports cars and feel the need for speed.
  • Get hands-on at the Museo Enzo Ferrari, where interactive exhibits allow you to dive into the world of the iconic car maker and his passion for automotive excellence.
  • It's time to refuel, and what better place than Osteria Francescana, a Michelin three-star restaurant where renowned chef Massimo Bottura creates culinary masterpieces.
  • Stroll through the Piazza Grande and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Modena's historic center, with its charming boutiques and gelato shops calling your name.
Day 2

Balsamic Bliss and Medieval Charm

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel, fueling up for another day of exploration.
  • Discover the art of crafting traditional balsamic vinegar at Acetaia Pedroni, where they patiently age it for over 25 years. A sweet, tangy adventure for your taste buds!
  • Dive into Modena's medieval past at the magnificent Modena Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site with its stunning Romanesque architecture and intricate rose window.
  • After a leisurely stroll through the city's narrow streets, indulge in a scrumptious lunch at Locanda del Feudo, savoring their divine tortellini or gnocco fritto.
  • Unleash your inner artist at the Palazzo dei Musei, where the Estense Gallery houses exquisite Renaissance masterpieces that will transport you to an enchanting world.
Day 3

Cheese, Opera, and Italian Flair

  • No trip to Modena is complete without a visit to a traditional Parmigiano-Reggiano producer. At Caseificio 4 Madonne, witness the birth of this velvety king of cheese!
  • Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Hosteria Giusti, one of Modena's oldest taverns, where you can relish in their delicious traditional Modenese cuisine.
  • Dive into the world of opera at the Teatro Comunale Luciano Pavarotti, where talented performers enchant with their outstanding voices and dramatic flair.
  • Take a break from sightseeing and embrace the dolce far niente (the sweetness of doing nothing) at Giardino Ducale Este, a serene oasis perfect for a family picnic.
  • End your Modena escapade on a high note at Pasticceria Gollini, indulging in heavenly pastries and gelato that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Modena, Italy by plane is to fly into Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport and then take a train from Bologna Centrale station to Modena station. The journey takes approximately 40 minutes and tickets can be purchased at the station or online in advance.

Car

The easiest way to reach Modena by car is via the A1 motorway, which connects Milan to Rome. The journey takes approximately 2 hours from Milan and 3 hours from Rome, depending on traffic. There are also several car hire companies available at Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport, providing easy access to Modena.

Train

Getting to Modena by train is simple, with regular services from cities such as Milan, Bologna and Florence. The main train station in Modena is Modena station, which is located in the city center and can be easily accessed by foot or by public transportation.

Boat

As a landlocked city, there are no direct boat services to Modena. However, several river cruises pass through nearby cities such as Bologna and Ferrara, providing stunning views of the Italian countryside. From there, it is easy to reach Modena by train or bus.

Bus

While there are no direct bus services to Modena from other cities, bus routes are available from nearby towns such as Bologna and Parma. The bus station in Modena is located in the city center, making it easy to reach local attractions and hotels.

More travel plans

4-Day Food and Culture Guide to Modena

A trip to Modena will be a gastronomical delight for the tourists who love Italian food. Modena is known for its rich balsamic vinegar and Parmesan cheese, which is a must-try for the foodies. The city is also home to stunning medieval architecture, such as the Modena Cathedral, making it a perfect destination for history lovers.

Escape for a Romantic Weekend in Modena

Embark on an amorous adventure in Modena, Italy. This charming city captivates enthusiasts of fancy cars, architecture, art and gastronomy. Stay in a cozy boutique hotel and indulge in romantic walks, wine tastings and dinners in Michelin-starred restaurants.

Romantic Five Days in Modena: Art, Food, and Love

Modena, Italy is an enchanting city that exudes romance and charm. Indulge in delectable local cuisine such as balsamic vinegar and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese while exploring picturesque cobblestone streets and piazzas. Relax with your partner and soak up the vibrant energy of this stunning city known for its art, architecture, and rich history.

Modena Delights: A 4-Day Family Adventure On a Budget

Modena, Italy is a charming city with plenty to offer for a family friendly trip. Known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine, there are numerous activities and attractions to keep everyone entertained. From exploring the stunning Modena Cathedral and its iconic Ghirlandina Tower to indulging in authentic balsamic vinegar tastings and visiting the interactive Ferrari Museum, Modena offers a perfect blend of education, fun, and unforgettable experiences for the whole family.