If you’re looking for a beautiful and historic city to explore in northern Italy, look no further than Modena. This charming city is home to many beautiful sights and attractions, as well as being a great base for exploring the surrounding areas. Here are some of the best places to go on day trips from Modena.
1. Parma
Just a short train ride from Modena, the charming town of Parma awaits. With its quaint streets and lively piazzas, Parma is the perfect place to spend a day exploring. Begin your day with a stroll through the historic center, where you can admire the beautiful architecture and stop for a coffee in one of the many cafes.
Then, head to one of the town’s museums or art galleries to learn about the local culture and history. In the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of Parma’s famed restaurants.
Be sure to try the traditional dish of Pan Tostato, a delicious grilled bread topped with ham and cheese. After lunch, take some time to wander through the shops in the city center before catching your train back to Modena. With its food, culture, and history, Parma is a must-visit for any traveler to Northern Italy.
How to Get There: The best way to get from Modena to Parma is by car. The drive takes about 45 minutes and is relatively easy. There are a few things to see along the way, including the Ferrari Museum and the Palazzo Ducale, but the route is mostly straight and there is not much traffic.
2. Bologna
Bologna is a city rich in history and culture, making it the perfect day trip from Modena, Italy. The city is home to a number of significant monuments and museums, including the Basilica di San Petronio and the Palazzo Comunale.
Visitors can also explore the medieval streets of the Quadrilatero, or enjoy a leisurely stroll through one of the many parks and gardens. And of course, no visit to Bologna would be complete without enjoying a delicious meal of traditional dishes such as tortellini, tagliatelle, and ragù.
How to Get There: The best way to get to Bologna from Modena, Italy is by car. The journey takes approximately one hour and fifteen minutes via the A1 motorway. There are also regular trains and buses that run between the two cities, with a journey time of around two hours.
3. Ferrara
A visit to the city of Ferrara is the perfect way to spend a day if you find yourself in Modena, Italy. Just a short drive from Modena, Ferrara is home to a wealth of historical and cultural attractions. The city’s medieval center is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site, and its grandiose palaces and churches are truly breathtaking.
Visitors can also explore the old Jewish ghetto, or take a leisurely stroll through one of Ferrara’s many parks and gardens. Of course, no visit to Ferrara would be complete without indulging in some of the city’s famous food.
The region is renowned for its Prosciutto di Parma, and you can also find delicious handmade pasta and freshly-baked bread at every turn. With so much to see and do, Ferrara makes for the perfect day trip from Modena.
How to Get There: The quickest way to get to Ferrara from Modena, Italy, is by taking the A22 highway. The drive will take approximately 45 minutes. The A22 highway is a scenic route that takes you through the picturesque countryside of Italy. You’ll pass by vineyards, olive groves, and fields of sunflowers.
4. Mantova
Mantova is a beautiful city located in the Lombardy region of Italy, just a short drive from the city of Modena. Visitors to Mantova will find a wealth of things to see and do, from exploring the city’s medieval streets and palaces to visiting its many museums and art galleries.
The city is also home to a number of excellent restaurants, which serve up traditional Italian cuisine using locally sourced ingredients. There are also plenty of opportunities for shopping in Mantova, with its many boutique shops selling everything from clothes and accessories to homewares and food.
How to Get There: The best way to get from Modena to Mantova is by car. The drive takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, and there is a direct route that takes you through the scenic countryside. You’ll pass by vineyards, fields of sunflowers, and medieval villages.
5. Ravenna
Just a short drive from Modena, the city of Ravenna is packed with history, art, and culture. The former capital of the Western Roman Empire, Ravenna was later conquered by the Ostrogoths and served as their capital.
As a result, the city is home to a wonderful mix of Roman, Gothic, and Byzantine architecture. Highlights include the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, the Neonian Baptistery, and the Basilica of Sant’Apollinare in Classe.
In addition to its architectural treasures, Ravenna is also known for its beautiful mosaics. These can be seen in many of the city’s churches, including San Vitale and Sant’Apollinare in Classe. With so much to see and do, Ravenna makes an excellent day trip from Modena.
How to Get There: The best way to get to Ravenna from Modena, Italy is by car. The drive takes about an hour and is a great way to see the beautiful Italian countryside. There are also several trains that run between the two cities, and the journey takes about two hours.
6. Rimini
If you’re looking for a day trip from Modena, Italy, look no further than Rimini. This picturesque town is located on the Adriatic Sea and is known for its beautiful beaches.
In addition to sunbathing and swimming, you can also rent boats and go fishing. Or, if you prefer to stay on land, there are plenty of shops and restaurants to explore.
Rimini is also home to a number of historical sites, including the Arch of Augustus, the House of Fellini, and the Tiberius Bridge. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day at the beach or an opportunity to explore some of Italy’s history, Rimini is the perfect place for a day trip.
How to Get There: The best way to get to Rimini from Modena, Italy is by car. It is a beautiful drive and takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. The route goes through some stunning countryside and the views are amazing.
7. Riccione
Just a short train ride from Modena, the charming town of Riccione is the perfect place for a day trip. From its sandy beaches to its lively cafes and shops, Riccione has something for everyone.
The town’s pedestrian-friendly streets are lined with colorful buildings, and the beach is just a short walk away. Visitors can enjoy plenty of activities on the beach, including sunbathing, swimming, and windsurfing. In the evening, Riccione comes alive with its many bars and restaurants.
There’s no better way to experience the town’s relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere than by enjoying a delicious meal with a glass of local wine. Whether you’re looking for a fun-filled day by the sea or a romantic evening in an Italian beach town, Riccione is sure to delight you.
How to Get There: The quickest way to get from Modena to Riccione is by car. The drive takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. There are also buses that run between the two cities, but they take considerably longer.
8. San Marino
San Marino is a beautiful country located in the heart of Italy. It is surrounded by the picturesque Apennine Mountains and is home to some of the most fascinating historical landmarks in the world. A day trip from Modena to San Marino is a great way to explore this fascinating country.
The first stop on your trip should be the city of San Marino, which is home to the world-famous San Marino Castle. This imposing fortress dates back to the 11th century and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Next, head to the picturesque town of Montegiardino, where you can explore its medieval streets and winding staircases.
Make sure to visit the Church of Saint Francis, which is one of the most beautiful churches in Italy. Finally, end your trip with a visit to the small village of Borgo Maggiore, where you can enjoy some traditional Italian cuisine. A day trip from Modena to San Marino is a great way to explore this beautiful country and its many historical landmarks.
How to Get There: By car, the quickest way to get to San Marino from Modena, Italy is to take the A14 Bologna-Taranto motorway and exit at Rimini Sud. The journey should take around 45 minutes.
9. Sirmione
Sirmione is a beautiful town located on the shores of Lake Garda in Italy. Its picturesque streets and medieval castle make it a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. Although it is just a short drive from the city of Modena, Sirmione feels like a world away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The town is home to a number of restaurants and cafes, as well as numerous boutiques and shops selling locally-made products. There is also a lively nightlife scene, with a number of bars and clubs open until late. Whether you’re looking to relax by the water or explore the town’s vibrant streets, Sirmione is the perfect place for a day trip from Modena.
How to Get There: The quickest way to get from Modena to Sirmione is by car. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes by car. The best route to take is the A22 motorway. This route will take you directly to Sirmione.
10. Verona
Just a short train ride from Modena, the picturesque city of Verona awaits. Though best known as the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, Verona has much more to offer. From its Roman amphitheater to its medieval palaces, the city is rich in history and culture.
Visitors can explore the ancient streets, wander through the lush gardens, or simply enjoy a glass of wine in one of the many outdoor cafes. No matter how you spend your time in Verona, it’s sure to be a highlight of your trip to Italy.
How to Get There: The quickest way to get from Modena to Verona is by car. The drive takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a train from Modena to Verona, which takes 2 hours and 10 minutes.
11. Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre, or “The Five Lands,” is a stunning stretch of coastline in northwestern Italy. The five villages that makeup Cinque Terre are connected by a network of hiking trails, making it the perfect destination for a day trip from Modena.
The villages each have their own unique charm, and visitors can enjoy everything from fresh seafood to breathtaking views. Best of all, Cinque Terre is easily accessible by train from Modena. So if you’re looking for a beautiful place to explore, be sure to add Cinque Terre to your list!
How to Get There: The quickest way to get to Cinque Terre from Modena, Italy is by plane. The flight time is just over an hour, and there are plenty of direct flights available from both Modena and Bologna airports.
12. Lake Garda
Lake Garda is a beautiful and popular day trip destination from Modena, Italy. The largest lake in Italy, it covers an area of over 370 square kilometers and is surrounded by stunning mountains. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, from hiking and biking in the summer to skiing in the winter.
There are also many charming towns and villages to explore, as well as a variety of restaurants offering delicious regional cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day by the water or an adventure-filled excursion, Lake Garda is sure to disappoint.
How to Get There: The quickest way to get to Lake Garda from Modena, Italy is to take the A22 motorway. The journey should take around 1 hour and 15 minutes. For those looking to soak up the scenery, the best route is probably via the SS12 provincial road.
In Conclusion
There are many wonderful places to visit on a day trip from Modena, Italy. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach getaway or an adventure-filled excursion, there’s something for everyone. So don’t wait any longer, start planning your trip today!
