Things To Do
in Novi di Modena
Novi di Modena is a tranquil town in Emilia-Romagna, Italy, perched near Modena and surrounded by rolling countryside. It preserves a rural charm with historic churches, arcaded streets, and a relaxed pace of life. The surrounding farmland is studded with vineyards and olive groves, inviting easy day trips and slow evenings in traditional trattorie.
It’s a convenient base for exploring Modena, Maranello’s motorsport heritage, and the foothills of the Apennines.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the charming town of Novi di Modena, where the scent of fresh bread and coffee welcomes you. Check into a cozy local accommodation before starting your day with a leisurely stroll through the quaint streets. Take a moment to enjoy the beautiful architecture and warm ambiance of this classic Italian village.
Indulge in a delicious lunch at a traditional trattoria, sampling local specialties like tortellini and gnocchi. Afterward, visit the nearby historic sites, exploring the town's rich history and artistic heritage. Spend some time at the local artisan shops, discovering unique crafts and souvenirs created by skilled hands.
As the sun sets, enjoy a delightful dinner at an outdoor pizzeria, savoring a signature pizza paired with regional wine. Experience the warmth of Italian hospitality as you chat with locals, sharing stories and laughter. End the night with a leisurely walk, soaking in the serene atmosphere under the starlit sky.
Start your day with a visit to a nearby organic farm, where you can learn about the cultivation of fresh produce. Engage with the farmers, who are eager to share their passion for sustainable agriculture and local traditions. Participate in a tour that may include fruit picking or livestock feeding.
Enjoy a farm-to-table lunch at the farm, relishing dishes made from fresh ingredients harvested that very day. Post-lunch, participate in a cooking class that focuses on traditional Modenese recipes, allowing you to bring a taste of Italy back home. This hands-on experience offers invaluable culinary skills and delicious outcomes.
Return to Novi di Modena for a relaxed evening at a gelateria, treating yourself to authentic Italian gelato. Share your culinary experiences with fellow travelers or locals, as you reflect on the day’s adventure. Wind down your evening with a quaint walk through the town’s illuminated streets.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or pastry | $2-5 |
| 🥗Lunch at a mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🧀Local cheese or antipasto plate | $6-12 |
| 🏨Budget hotel/guesthouse per night | $60-110 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming small-town atmosphere with easy access to Modena and Maranello
- Excellent regional cuisine and wines, with authentic dining experiences
- Beautiful countryside and relaxed pace, great for outdoor activities
- Good base for day trips to the Apennines and nearby cities
- Limited nightlife and fewer big-city amenities within Novi itself
- Public transport can be modest; a car is helpful for longer excursions
- Some services and English-language options may be limited in the smallest shops
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Mi scusi" - Excuse me
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Vorrei un tavolo per due" - I would like a table for two
- "Potrebbe consigliare un buon ristorante?" - Could you recommend a good restaurant?
- "Non capisco" - I don't understand
Places to Visit in Novi di Modena
Visit one of these nice places.
Covered walkways along the main street offer classic Italian light and lines for architectural photography.
A traditional local church with a warm-toned façade perfect for capturing rural-urban contrasts.
Long, straight lanes framed by tall cypress trees—ideal for golden-hour composition.
Water reflections and wetlands provide peaceful landscape shots and wildlife opportunities.
Food in Novi di Modena
Novi di Modena Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Handmade egg pasta served with a rich meat ragù, a regional staple.
Must-Try!
Delicate tortellini simmered in a clear broth, a comforting classic.
Light fried dough served with an assortment of cured meats and cheeses.
Pasta pockets filled with pumpkin, typically dressed with butter and sage.
Frizzante red wine that pairs beautifully with local pasta and cured meats.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market offering fresh produce, cheese, and baked goods on market days.
Typical bites include tigelle with prosciutto and gnocco fritto, often enjoyed at nearby stalls or farm cafés.
Broader regional markets (e.g., Mercato Albinelli) where you can sample and buy regional specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly buongiorno or buon pomeriggio; use formality with strangers (Lei) until invited to use informal 'tu'.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; speak softly and follow local customs.
Italians often dine communally; wait for hosts to start and try the house specialties.
Learning a few Italian phrases goes a long way; many locals in Novi appreciate basic Italian even if English is spoken in tourist areas.
Safety
Tipping in Novi di Modena
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Italy; rounding up the bill or leaving a few euros for good service is common in casual venues. In nicer restaurants, a 5–10% tip is appreciated but not required.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; some small spots may prefer cash. ATMs are common, and many places accept contactless payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days and warm evenings; carry water, wear sun protection, and seek shade in the historic center or by the countryside.
Harvest season brings pumpkins, grapes, and chestnuts; pleasant temperatures for outdoor exploration and photography.
Cool to cold with possible fog; enjoy cozy trattorie and indoor cultural sights, plus festive markets around the holidays.
Mild days with blooming landscapes and gentle light—great for walks, cycling, and outdoor meals.
Novi di Modena at Night
Hiking in Novi di Modena
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate trails with vineyard views and panoramic outlooks suitable for a half-day hike.
More extensive hiking options within a short drive, offering forested paths and rural scenery.
Flat-to-rolling routes along the riverbank with opportunities for birdwatching and easy walks.
Airports
How to reach Novi di Modena by plane.
Primary international gateway for the region, about a 40–60 minute drive to Novi di Modena depending on traffic.
Smaller airport serving regional flights; accessible within about an hour by road.
Alternative international gateway in Tuscany; roughly a 1.5–2 hour drive, useful for longer trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are families and long-time locals, contributing to a safe, community-focused atmosphere.
A significant portion of the population tends to be older, shaping a tranquil town ambiance.
Visitors and seasonal residents come for food, wine, and weekend getaways from nearby cities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed in Modena and surrounding communities; local clubs and matches provide a social focal point.
Popular for road cycling through rolling Emilia-Romagna countryside and hills.
Nearby Maranello is known for Ferrari; motorsport heritage influences local events and tours.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Novi di Modena.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many pasta dishes and vegetables are naturally vegetarian; inform the waiter about dairy or egg preferences and ask for simple preparations.