Things To Do
in Nonantola
Nonantola is a charming medieval town in Emilia-Romagna, perched near Modena along the Secchia valley. It centers around the impressive Abbey of Nonantola, a centuries-old monastery with a serene cloister and living history. Walking its narrow lanes reveals ancient towers, frescoed churches, and inviting trattorias serving farm-to-table fare.
As a tranquil base for exploring the Modena area, Nonantola offers countryside scenery, culture, and easy access to great food.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the stunning Abbey of Nonantola, where you can admire its Romanesque architecture and learn about its fascinating history. After exploring the abbey, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Nonantola, stopping by local bakeries to sample fresh pastries and coffee. The morning air is filled with the aroma of baked goods, making it a perfect time to enjoy the local culture.
In the afternoon, visit the Museo della Civiltà Contadina, where you can delve into the agricultural history of the region. Engage with interactive exhibits that showcase traditional farming techniques and tools, providing a deeper understanding of rural life in Emilia-Romagna. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby trattoria, tasting local specialties like tortellini and lambrusco wine.
As the sun sets, head to the quaint Piazza della Repubblica, where you can enjoy the lively atmosphere filled with locals and visitors alike. Choose a cozy outdoor café to sip on aperitivo while people-watching and soaking in the ambiance of the square. Conclude your evening with a stroll under the stars, enjoying the illuminated historic buildings that line the streets.
Start your culinary journey with a cooking class at a local kitchen, where you will learn to make fresh pasta from scratch. Under the guidance of a skilled chef, you’ll create delicious dishes that reflect the rich culinary traditions of the region. Enjoy the fruits of your labor with a delightful breakfast featuring your homemade creations.
After your cooking class, visit a nearby vineyard for a guided tour and wine tasting session. Discover the unique characteristics of the local wines, including the famous Sangiovese and Lambrusco, while learning about the winemaking process. Pair your wine tasting with delectable local cheeses and meats for a true gastronomic experience.
In the evening, treat yourself to a dinner at one of Nonantola's acclaimed restaurants, where you can indulge in regional delicacies paired with exquisite wines. The ambiance is warm and inviting, making it the perfect setting for a relaxing meal. As you savor each course, take in the local flavors and culinary traditions that make Nonantola a hidden gem.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or café breakfast | $3-5 |
| 🧀Grocery item (local specialty) | $3-6 |
| 🍷Bottle of wine | $7-15 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel, 1 night | $70-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming, walkable town with authentic Renaissance and medieval character
- Excellent access to Modena, wine country, and nearby nature reserves
- Quiet nightlife and limited big-city attractions
- Some services and choices are smaller than in larger cities
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Dov'è la stazione?" - Where is the station?
- "Mi scusi" - Excuse me
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Potrei avere il menù?" - Could I have the menu?
- "Vorrei una bottiglia d'acqua" - I would like a bottle of water
- "Posso pagare con carta?" - Can I pay by card?
Places to Visit in Nonantola
Visit one of these nice places.
A grand example of medieval monastic architecture with serene cloister arches and subtle light—great for atmospheric photos.
Historic square framed by old façades and the town’s towers; ideal for late-afternoon light and people-watching.
Narrow lanes and stone buildings give texture-rich backdrops for street photography and candid portraits.
Ribbed hills and farmland edges provide wide landscape shots, especially at sunrise or golden hour.
Food in Nonantola
Nonantola Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Small meat-filled tortellini served in clear brodo (broth); a winter favorite found in many local trattorie.
Must-Try!
Puffy fried dough served with a selection of cured meats; perfect for sharing as an starter or snack in local osterie.
Flat ribbon pasta tossed with a slow-simmered meat sauce; classic regional comfort food.
Bean soup with crusty bread toppings; a hearty regional option especially in cooler months.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, cheeses, bread, pastries, and regional specialties; great for sampling local ingredients.
Light fried bread varieties and steamed bread circles served with salumi and spreads, commonly enjoyed at casual stops around town.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Buongiorno' or 'Buonasera' and say 'Per favore' and 'Grazie'; use polite forms with elders and in shops.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; speak softly and be mindful of quiet worshippers.
Ask permission when photographing people, especially in homes or intimate settings; avoid blocking traffic on narrow streets.
Safety
Tipping in Nonantola
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Italy; rounding up or leaving a small extra for good service is appreciated but not expected, especially where service is already included in the bill.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in towns; keep some cash for small shops or markets that may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming fields; great for walking tours and outdoor dining, with occasional showers.
Warm to hot days; carry water, seek shade, and enjoy alfresco meals and evening strolls; riverside walks are popular.
Harvest season brings vibrant colors, wine tastings, and festive markets in local towns.
Cool to cold with occasional fog; cozy trattorias shine, and strong hot dishes are comforting after a day of sightseeing.
Nonantola at Night
Hiking in Nonantola
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Distinctive volcanic mud cones and nature trails; excellent for wildlife watching and photography.
Rolling hills with vineyard and agro-tourism routes, ideal for moderate hikes and scenic overlooks.
More extensive hiking opportunities within a short drive to the east, offering longer treks and panoramic views.
Airports
How to reach Nonantola by plane.
Primary international gateway for the region, about 40-60 minutes by car or train to Nonantola; frequent connections to European cities.
Smaller regional airport with domestic and some international flights, within a comfortable drive from Nonantola.
Larger international hub in the broader northern Italy region; feasible for longer trips and connections, albeit farther from Nonantola.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents who value a quiet, historic town life with easy access to larger cities.
People traveling to Modena or Bologna for work, making the area well-connected by road and rail.
Visitors drawn by the abbey, nature reserves, and regional cuisine, often staying in nearby towns or the Modena area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Locally popular across teams and clubs; easy to catch a match in Modena or nearby towns.
A staple in Emilia-Romagna with scenic routes through the hills and countryside; great for day trips.
Common community sports with local clubs and gym facilities in surrounding towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nonantola.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many pasta dishes and vegetable-based antipasti are available; ask for ragù di verdure or a simple grilled vegetable plate; confirm stock of meat broths and choose vegetarian options when ordering.