The perfect weekend in Modena? Strolling through the historic center, among works of art and trattorias where you can sample tortellini and gnocco fritto … for breakfast too.
- A stroll under the porticoes: what to visit in Modena
- Paintings and aristocratic furnishings – a visit to the Estense Gallery
- What to eat in Modena: homemade pasta
- What to do in Modena: a journey through tradition
- Weekend in Modena – A Complete Itinerary
- To Modena with Italo
Does the mention of Modena immediately make your mouth water? You are not alone: this is the home of the culinary arts, but the city’s allure certainly does not end there. Indeed, the city has a dual soul: it attracts not only foodies, but also connoisseurs of art and culture. Here is how to organize the perfect weekend in Modena to discover them both.
A stroll under the porticoes: what to visit in Modena
Let’s start from the city center. Located in the heart of the historic center, Piazza Grande is the site of a splendid Romanesque-style cathedral, flanked by the bell tower known as the Ghirlandina because of its marble decorations. The Duomo and Torre Civica are so beautiful and of such historical and artistic interest that Ferrara’s Piazza Grande has been named a UNESCO heritage site.
Paintings and aristocratic furnishings – a visit to the Estense Gallery
Having explored the city’s iconic monuments, let’s stay on the subject of masterpieces and focus on the paintings on display at the Estense Gallery, a few minutes’ walk from Piazza Grande.
Stroll between the canvases and admire the collection of the Dukes of Este as well as numerous later acquisitions. Some examples? The Pietà di Cima da Conegliano and the Triptych by El Greco just to mention some of the most prestigious works.
What to eat in Modena: homemade pasta
Modena’s food and trattorias are undoubtedly among the great prides of the city. There are numerous places to eat in Modena without spending a lot, including bars where you can taste gnocco fritto (yes, Modena’s locals call it “the” gnocco fritto!). In fact, this beloved typical specialty is also eaten for breakfast dipped in cappuccino. For an energy boost, here’s the perfect excuse!
What if you’re still hungry? Modena is famous for the bounty of its tortellini and for its rivalry with those of Bologna in terms of dough and stuffing. Some time ago, we recommended the best places to eat tortellini in Bologna. Taste them, try those of Modena, too and vote for the winner!
What to do in Modena: a journey through tradition
Also starring in Modena’s cuisine are artisanal cured meats and a prized condiment: balsamic vinegar, to which even a museum has been dedicated just outside the city, in Spilamberto, also famous for its nocino liqueur.
Traditional cuisine in Modena is a serious thing, so much so that one of the unmissable restaurants where you can try Emilian cuisine is also the best restaurant in the world. We are talking about Massimo Bottura’s Three Michelin Stared Osteria Francescana, an ode to tradition in a revisited and exclusive style. The perfect reason to organize a weekend in Modena.
Weekend in Modena – A Complete Itinerary
Day 1 – Culture, History & Local Flavors
Morning
- Start your day at Piazza Grande, the heart of Modena’s historic center. Admire the Modena Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Ghirlandina Tower, which you can climb for panoramic views.
- Grab an espresso at a local café with views of the square to kick off your trip Italian-style.
Late Morning
- Explore the Palazzo dei Musei, home to the Estense Gallery and other cultural gems. Here you’ll find Renaissance artworks and traces of the city’s noble past.
Lunch
- Head to Mercato Albinelli, Modena’s traditional indoor market. You’ll find local specialties like tigelle, gnocco fritto, and Parmigiano Reggiano. Many stalls offer quick eats made with fresh ingredients.
Afternoon
- Ferrari Museum in Modena – A must-see for car lovers. Explore the history of Enzo Ferrari and admire iconic racing cars. (Optional: If you’re a real motorhead, book ahead to visit the Ferrari Museum in Maranello, a short train ride away.)
Evening
- Aperitivo in Via Taglio or Piazza Roma – The Modenese take their pre-dinner drinks seriously. Try a Lambrusco wine, the local pride.
- Dinner at a traditional trattoria – Taste tortellini in brodo, zampone, or bollito misto, iconic dishes of Modenese cuisine.
- Enjoy a night walk through the lit-up alleys of the historic center.
Day 2 – Flavors, Balsamic & Hidden Gems
Morning
- Visit an acetaia (balsamic vinegar producer) – Modena is the world capital of Traditional Balsamic Vinegar, aged for at least 12 years. Many family-run acetaias offer guided tastings and fascinating tours.
Late Morning
- Stroll around the Modena Synagogue, a lesser-known yet beautiful building, or relax at Giardini Ducali, the city’s elegant public gardens.
Lunch
- Book a table at Osteria Francescana (if you planned months in advance!) or try the more accessible Franceschetta58, also by chef Massimo Bottura, for a refined yet casual dining experience.
Afternoon
- Explore boutiques and artisan shops around Via Emilia. Perfect for grabbing some local delicacies or souvenirs.
- Don’t miss a stop at Palazzo Ducale, now home to the Italian Military Academy, for one last photo in front of its majestic baroque façade.
Evening
Wrap up your weekend with gelato at Bloom or Emilia Cremeria, then catch your train back home with your heart full of flavor and beauty.
To Modena with Italo
After you’ve compiled all your ideas for your weekend in the city, all that’s left to do is plan the trip. Take advantage of high-speed rail and combined train + Italobus solutions to reach Modena: from Reggio Emilia, for example, you can count on four daily connections and also travel swiftly from Florence, Rome, and Naples. There are many reasons to visit this enchanting city, including tortellini, art, and the Ferrari Museum. Ready for your weekend in Modena? 
