Visiting the heart of balsamic vinegar production for just one day? Here’s the perfect itinerary to make the most of all the experiences Modena has to offer.
Did you know the best way to explore Modena is on foot?
Morning: a taste of Modena
Start your day early at Mercato Albinelli, a vibrant market filled with fresh pasta, truffles, cheeses, and crescentine—Modena’s delicious fried bread served with cold cuts.
For breakfast, head to Bar Schiavoni, a tiny espresso bar known for its savory sandwiches. Prefer something sweet? Pass through the bar, back inside to the market, and try one of the pastries at the corner stall. I couldn’t resist ordering a lobster tail at 8 am—not the seafood, but a flaky Italian pastry with a fun name!
At the market, stop by the “Latteria Collina” stall, where a giant wheel of Parmigiano Reggiano proudly displays a World Cheese Award sign. Sample this iconic cheese, and of course, no visit to Modena is complete without tasting balsamic vinegar. Continue your tasting at the same stall, where you can try balsamic vinegar aged 2, 6, 10, 12, and even 25 years. My personal favorites were the 10- and 12-year varieties, while the 25-year version, traditionally reserved for special occasions: it is strong, flavorful, and absolutely delicious.
If you’re visiting in March, keep an eye out for agretti at the market—a rare, seasonal green that disappears by the end of May. As the Italian saying goes, “If you spot agretti at the market, buy it and eat it before spring is over!”
What makes Aceto Balsamico di Modena so unique?
It’s all about the region’s fertile land, the humid climate for the grapes, and the centuries-old aging process in wooden barrels, creating the rich, complex flavor that makes Modena the heart of balsamic vinegar production.
Midday: exploring the Old Town
Take a stroll through Modena’s charming historic center:
Piazza Grande & The Whispering Walls – A UNESCO-listed square where you can stand at opposite corners of the archway in front of the Duomo di Modena and hear your whisper travel.
Duomo di Modena – A stunning 12th-century Romanesque cathedral with stunning carvings and a rose window from the 1400s.
Via dei Servi – A quiet, picturesque alley lined with pastel-colored buildings.
Vicolo Camillo Coccapani – Another picture-perfect street with Ghirlandina Tower in the backdrop.
For lunch, grab an outdoor table at Uva d’Oro, a cozy, rustic eatery serving handmade pasta, seasonal dishes, and delicious cakes.
Afternoon: shopping and sunset views
In the afternoon, shop at local designer boutiques and pick up souvenirs from Modena’s old town.
Stop by Palazzo Ducale di Modena, an elegant 17th-century baroque palace now home to a military academy.
Take a tour at Acetaia Comunale di Modena—a historic balsamic vinegar attic with ancient wooden barrels dating back to the 17th century.
Climb the 200 spiral steps of Ghirlandina Tower, an 87-meter-tall bell tower that was started in the early 12th century and completed in 1319 by the Campionesi family. It once served as a lookout and housed municipal archives. Now, it’s one of the best spots to enjoy a sunset over Modena.
Evening: A perfect Italian dinner
End your day at Trattoria Pomposa, where you can enjoy authentic Emilian cuisine. Don’t forget to try Lambrusco, a naturally sparkling red or rosé wine that pairs beautifully with local dishes. Fun fact: Lambrusco dates back to Roman times!
For an authentic overnight stay, book a room at Mazzini Rooms, right in the heart of Modena’s old town.
A day in Modena is a day well spent—full of history, flavors, and unforgettable experiences!
