Modena on a Budget: 4 Days of Italian Fun!

Indulge in Modena's culinary treasures without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

If you're on a tight budget but still yearning for an Italian getaway, Modena is a great option. You can tour the stunning Piazza Grande, enjoy local wine and cheese, and visit the Ferrari Museum all without breaking the bank. Accommodation in the city is also affordable, so you can enjoy all that Modena has to offer without sacrificing comfort.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arriving in Modena

  • Check into Albergo Moderno, a budget-friendly hotel with comfortable rooms and friendly staff
  • Explore the city center on foot, taking in the stunning architecture of the Cathedral and Piazza Grande
  • Visit the Enzo Ferrari Museum to learn about the legendary Italian carmaker
  • Enjoy a traditional Italian meal at Trattoria Aldina, known for their hearty pasta dishes
Day 2

Market Day

  • Start the day with a cappuccino and pastry at Pasticceria Torino
  • Stroll through the bustling Mercato Albinelli, sampling local cheese, cured meats and produce
  • Tour the Acetaia di Giorgio, a 200-year-old balsamic vinegar factory
  • Take a guided tour of the Casa Museo Luciano Pavarotti, the iconic tenor's childhood home
  • Indulge in a gourmet dinner at Osteria Francescana, a Michelin-starred restaurant that's often ranked as one of the world's best
Day 3

Exploring the Countryside

  • Rent a bike from Cicli Bassoli and cycle through the scenic Emilia-Romagna countryside
  • Visit one of the region's top wineries, such as Cantina Della Volta or Fattoria Moretto, for a wine tasting and vineyard tour
  • Take a cooking class at CIBO Culinary Institute of Bologna, where you'll learn to make classic Italian dishes like fresh pasta and tiramisu
  • Enjoy a leisurely picnic lunch in the picturesque Parco Regionale dei Sassi di Roccamalatina
  • Head back to the hotel and relax with a glass of Lambrusco, a bubbly red wine that's unique to the region
Day 4

Culture and History

  • Visit the Palazzo dei Musei, a complex of museums that includes the Museo Civico, the Estense Library and the Galleria Estense
  • Take a guided tour of the stunning Palazzo Ducale, a Renaissance palace that once served as the seat of the Duchy of Modena
  • Wander through the picturesque Giardino Ducale, a sprawling garden with sculpted hedges and tranquil water features
  • End your day with dinner at Ristorante Da Enzo al 29, a cozy trattoria that serves up delicious traditional Modenese fare
  • Don't forget to pick up some souvenirs at the local markets before you depart from Modena!

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.

Driving Dreams and Pasta Delights: Modena Family Adventure

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.

Modena on a Budget: 4 Days of Italian Fun!

If you're on a tight budget but still yearning for an Italian getaway, Modena is a great option. You can tour the stunning Piazza Grande, enjoy local wine and cheese, and visit the Ferrari Museum all without breaking the bank. Accommodation in the city is also affordable, so you can enjoy all that Modena has to offer without sacrificing comfort.

Budget-Friendly Guide to Modena's Hidden Gems

Modena is a beautiful city in northern Italy well-known for its history, culture, and gastronomy. Despite being a popular destination, it's still possible to enjoy a trip on a limited budget by staying in affordable guesthouses or hostels, exploring the city on foot or by bike, and enjoying local cuisine at affordable trattorias and street markets. Don't miss visiting the Romanesque Cathedral, Piazza Grande, and the famous Ferrari Museum, which can be visited for free on certain days of the month.