Modena , Italy

Private Modena old town walking tour

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(6 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

A tour with a local guide, that will enable you to discover and appreciate the most significant sites to visit in Modena old city center in 2 hours.

Available options

Private Modena old town walking tour

What's included

Experienced guide

Detailed itinerary

Modena cathedral is a Unesco Heritage of humanity since 1997. In Romanesque art, architecture and sculpture reached their highest expression in religious buildings, standing out for their powerful architectural structures and stone decorations that translated the complex spirituality of medieval man into images. The guide will explain both the exterior and the interior of the Cathedral.

From its vantage point looking out onto Piazza Grande, the Palazzo Comunale is actually a series of annexed medieval buildings cloistered within an arcade in the early 1600s. Its unusual attractions depict key points in Modena’s history. First there is a bucket of local lore, plundered by the City of Bologna during the 1325 Battle of Zappolino. As a symbol of civic heroism, the bucket inspired Alessandro Tassoni’s celebrated mock-heroic epic poem, ‘La Secchia Rapita’ (‘The Stolen Bucket’). Inside the palace you'll visit some historical rooms.

Stop 3

Rome architect Bartolomeo Avanzini designed the Palazzo Ducale, which was built from 1634 onwards. The home of the Este Court for more than two centuries, today it is the headquarters of the Italian Military Academy. This will be an external visit.

Stop 4

A UNESCO-heritage site, along with the Cathedral it adjoins and the Piazza Grande it overlooks, the Ghirlandina (or Garland) Tower is so named because of the double twist of balustrades crowning it like a garland. Standing 87 metres (or 285 feet) high this symbol of Modena was completed by the Campionese Masters, who also worked on the later medieval modifications of the Cathedral itself. This will be an external visit.

The Liberty-style market hall in Via Albinelli was created in 1931, to house the stalls that had always been set up around Piazza Grande. The traders of the Mercato Albinelli offer many typical products of Modena region, as well as certified goods.

What's not included

The tour doesn't include food & wine tasting

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

3 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

3 reviews

5★

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

In front of Modena tourist office

Important notes

Please be aware that the meeting point is in a traffic restricted area. If you are coming by car we suggest to pay attention to the street signs (or you may get a fine). You have to park outside Modena old city center.

About Modena

Modena is a charming city in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, renowned for its rich history, exquisite cuisine, and world-famous balsamic vinegar and sports cars. The city is a blend of medieval and modern architecture, offering a unique cultural experience.

Top Attractions

Duomo di Modena

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this stunning cathedral is a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture.

Historical/Religious 1-2 hours Free

Palazzo Ducale

A former ducal palace, now a museum showcasing the history and art of Modena.

Historical 1-2 hours €8

Enzo Ferrari Museum

A tribute to the legendary car designer Enzo Ferrari, featuring a collection of Ferrari cars and memorabilia.

Museum 1-2 hours €15

Mercato Albinelli

A historic covered market offering a variety of local produce, meats, and cheeses.

Market 30 minutes to 1 hour Free to enter

Must-Try Local Dishes

Tortellini in brodo

Handmade pasta rings filled with a mix of meats, served in a rich broth.

Main course Contains meat

Prosciutto di Modena

Cured ham from Modena, known for its delicate flavor and tender texture.

Appetizer Contains pork

Tigelle

Small, round flatbreads traditionally filled with cured meats and cheeses.

Snack Can be vegetarian or contain meat

Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Modena

Aged balsamic vinegar, a sweet and tangy condiment used to enhance the flavor of dishes.

Condiment Vegan, gluten-free

Popular Activities

Factory tours (Ferrari, Lamborghini) Cycling in the countryside Visiting parks and gardens Wine and balsamic vinegar tastings Museum visits Historical tours Winter markets Christmas events

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

These months offer pleasant weather with fewer tourists, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, French
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Modena is generally safe, with low crime rates. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services

Getting there

By air

Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport • 40 km from Modena

By train

Modena Centrale

By bus

Modena Autostazione

Getting around

Public transport

The bus network covers the entire city and is efficient and affordable.

Taxis

Available • Apps:

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Cattedrale San Cataldo Buon Pastore

Day trips

Maranello

20 km from Modena • Half day

Home of the Ferrari factory and museum, offering a glimpse into the world of luxury sports cars.

Bologna

45 km from Modena • Full day

A vibrant city known for its medieval architecture, rich history, and delicious cuisine.

Reggio Emilia

30 km from Modena • Half day to Full day

A charming city with a rich history, known for its beautiful architecture and cultural attractions.

Festivals

Modena Terracotta Festival • September Modena Motor Gallery • November

Pro tips

Visit the Mercato Albinelli for an authentic local experience and to try traditional delicacies
Take a balsamic vinegar tour to learn about the production process and taste different varieties
Explore the city on foot or by bike to discover hidden gems and charming streets
Try the local specialty, tortellini in brodo, at a traditional osteria or trattoria
Visit the Enzo Ferrari Museum to learn about the history of the legendary car designer and see a collection of Ferrari cars