Budget-Friendly Guide to Modena's Hidden Gems

Experience the Italian charm of Modena without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

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.

Day trip plan

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Modena on a Budget

  • Start the day with a coffee at Pasticceria San Biagio, a local favorite for their delicious pastries.
  • Take a walk through the city center and visit the stunning Modena Cathedral. Admire the stunning Romanesque architecture for free or pay a small fee to enter the crypt.
  • Explore the Modena Market, buying local produce at affordable prices to prepare a picnic lunch.
  • Take a walk through the beautiful Parco Enzo Ferrari, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. Enjoy your picnic lunch in the gardens.
  • Visit the Museo Casa Enzo Ferrari, dedicated to the life and work of the famous Italian car designer. Tickets are affordable and the museum offers interactive exhibits.
  • End the day at Ermes Aperitivo Bar, offering affordable cocktails and small bites for the perfect Italian happy hour experience.

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.

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