The city of Modena is fast becoming a new tourist hub with its Michelin-starred restaurants, history and luxury offerings.
A Michelin star for the ALTO Restaurant close to Modena
In November to mark the occasion of the presentation of the Michelin Guide 2025 Italy held in the Pavarotti Freni Theatre in Modena, the ALTO restaurant, housed on the rooftop of the 4-star Superior Executive Spa Hotel in Fiorano Modenese, in the province of Modena, received its first Michelin Star. This milestone marks an important recognition for the entire hotel team, and in particular for Mattia Trabetti, executive chef of ALTO. “Thus is a special day, one that we will never forget and will carry in our hearts. Our commitment has been rewarded, but we will continue to dedicate ourselves with the same passion and dedication that got us here. This star is just one step on our journey.”
History and a unique UNESCO site
The ALTO food and wine experience is the perfect break on a tour of Modena and its surroundings. In the Emilia-Romagna region, just an hour's drive from Bologna, Modena is a thousand-year-old city known for its gastronomic excellence. It also has a rich historical and cultural heritage. Not to be missed is the city's UNESCO site, which includes the Cathedral, the Civic Tower and Piazza Grande. The ancient capital of the Duchy of Este, Modena has always been linked to music and it is the birthplace of the legendary tenor Luciano Pavarotti and numerous other artists. 
balsamic vinegar
The Modena area offers a wealth of opportunities for food lovers
The city is world-famous for its balsamic vinegar, its “black gold” which comes from processing the must of local grapes in traditional vinegar cellars, many of which are open to the public for guided tours. Speaking of grapes, numerous wine cellars can also be visited, to complete the experience with a tasting of the famous Lambrusco DOP wine. Parmigiano Reggiano DOP is another excellent product typical of the area, and visitors should also schedule in a visit to a cheese factory. 
The home of luxury and sports cars
Modena is the heart of the Motor Valley, an area renowned for the production of luxury and sports cars, such as Ferrari, Maserati, Lamborghini and Ducati. Visitors should not miss exclusive experiences such as visits to museums, factories and collections that tell the story of these brands of excellence. Even more exclusive experiences include track driving at the wheel of high-speed engines, or a slow tour in vintage cars, which is also ideal for incentive trips. From 22 to 25 May 2025 the Land of Motors will host the 7th edition of the Motor Valley Fest which will feature a rich programme of conventions, round tables, exhibitions of cars from the Motor Valley brands, themed meetings, parades and tastings.
There are numerous places to visit around Modena
ALTO overlooks the Modena hills and the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin of the Castle, symbol of the town of Fiorano and guardian of the miraculous fresco of the Madonna and Child. Fiorano Modenese is also known for being the home of ceramics. The Palazzo Ducale in Sassuolo, the summer residence of the Dukes of Este, is one of the most important Baroque buildings in northern Italy. In nearby Formigine, the castle is an example of the architectural evolution of a Medieval fortification into a Renaissance stately residence. It can now be visited and hosts numerous cultural events.
