Hotels in Modena

Modena: Ferrari, Balsamic, and a UNESCO Cathedral Square

Modena sits in the Po Valley of Emilia-Romagna, 38 km northwest of Bologna and roughly equidistant between Milan and Florence. The city's Piazza Grande and Romanesque Cathedral (built from 1099) have held UNESCO World Heritage status since 1997. Two other names define Modena globally: Ferrari, whose factory and Museo Ferrari operate 17 km south in Maranello, and traditional balsamic vinegar — the genuine Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Modena requires 12 to 25 years of ageing in wooden barrels and carries DOP certification.

Where to Stay in Modena

Most hotels cluster around Via Emilia, the Roman-era highway that still bisects the historic centre, or within walking distance of Piazza Roma and the Palazzo Ducale (now home to Italy's Military Academy). Visitors attending the Motor Valley Fest or Maranello factory tours book early, as spring and autumn events fill capacity quickly. A handful of independent agriturismi offer rooms just outside the city walls near the Parco Ferrari area.

Practical Tips

• Getting there: Modena station sits on the Milan–Bologna high-speed rail corridor; journey time from Bologna is under 20 minutes.
• Balsamic visits: Acetaie (vinegar producers) in the surrounding hills accept visits by appointment.
• Driving: The A1 motorway connects Modena directly to Bologna (30 min) and Milan (1 hr 45 min).