Modena on a Budget: 5 Days of Fun
Savor the flavors of Modena without breaking the bank.
21 June 2023
For those looking to visit Modena, Italy on a limited budget, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, consider staying in a budget-friendly hotel or even a hostel to save money. Next, focus on exploring the city's free attractions, such as the Piazza Grande and the Modena Cathedral. Finally, indulge in the local cuisine by trying affordable options like Lambrusco wine and the famous balsamic vinegar.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information
- Check in at Albergo Regina Hotel, a budget-friendly option centrally located in Modena.
- Start your day with a visit to the Piazza Grande, the heart of Modena's Old Town.
- Head over to the Modena Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the finest examples of Romanesque architecture.
- Grab lunch at Osteria Francescana, a 3 Michelin star restaurant run by Massimo Bottura, featuring modern Italian cuisine with an avant-garde twist.
- Take a stroll along the Parco Novi Sad and enjoy the scenic views of the Modena skyline.
- End your day with a walk around the Enzo Ferrari Museum, dedicated to the life and work of the legendary racing driver and carmaker.
- Start your day with a visit to the Civic Museums of Modena, featuring a vast collection of Italian art, including works by Correggio, Tintoretto, and El Greco.
- Grab a quick bite at Mercato Albinelli, a vibrant indoor market selling fresh produce, meats, and cheese.
- Head over to the San Carlo Theatre, one of the oldest and most prestigious opera houses in Italy.
- Take a walk around the Palazzo Ducale, a historic palace dating back to the 17th century, housing the Military Academy of Modena.
- End your day with a visit to the Museo Casa Enzo Ferrari, dedicated to the life and work of Enzo Ferrari, the founder of the eponymous car company.
- Start your day with a brioche and coffee at La Sorbetteria Castiglione, a local favorite for gelato.
- Take a food tour of Modena and visit local producers of Parmigiano Reggiano, balsamic vinegar, and cured meats.
- Head over to Eataly for lunch, a food emporium featuring artisanal Italian products and restaurants.
- Take a cooking class at La Vecchia Scuola Bolognese, a traditional cooking school in nearby Bologna, specializing in regional Italian cuisine.
- End your day with a visit to Sorsi e Morsi, a cozy wine bar serving local wines and a selection of small plates.
- Take a day trip to the nearby Parco Regionale dei Sassi di Roccamalatina, a nature reserve featuring rocky cliffs and breathtaking views.
- Go hiking along the trails and take in the natural beauty of the park.
- Visit the village of Roccamalatina, perched on a hilltop and featuring a medieval castle and church.
- Have a picnic lunch with local cheese, bread, and wine, enjoying the peace and tranquility of the park.
- End your day with a visit to the nearby Castle of Levizzano Rangone, a historic fortress dating back to the 12th century.
- Take a stroll around the Piazza Roma, a bustling square featuring cafes and shops.
- Visit the Galleria Estense, a museum featuring works of art from the Este dynasty, who ruled Modena for over 300 years.
- Grab a lunch of piadina, a local flatbread sandwich with various fillings, at La Piadina Romagnola.
- Take a tour of the Ferrari Factory and Museum in nearby Maranello, a must-visit for car enthusiasts.
- End your day with dinner at Trattoria La Buca, a rustic eatery serving traditional Modenese dishes such as tortellini in brodo and cotechino con lenticchie.
Length of stay
Type of trip
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.