Modena isn’t just about balsamic vinegar and Parmesan cheese; it’s also a fantastic place to explore local wines and culinary traditions. While the region is famous for its vinegar and cheese, the nearby vineyards and food producers offer authentic experiences that go beyond typical wine tastings. For example, the Traditional Home Cooking in Modena offers a chance to learn hands-on cooking techniques with a local chef, making it perfect for foodies who want more than just a sip of wine. If you’re interested in combining wine tasting with balsamic vinegar, the Local wines and traditional balsamic experience provides a comprehensive visit to both types of producers—highlighting the region’s culinary diversity. And for those who prefer immersive, private tours, the Private Emilian Food and Wine Tasting Tour in Modena lets you explore the process from farm to bottle with flexibility and personal guidance.
Quick Overview
Our top picks include a variety of tours, from private tastings and factory visits to hands-on cooking classes. We’ve selected experiences that stand out for their focus on authenticity, personalized attention, and value for money. Whether you want to learn how Parmigiano Reggiano is made, sample Lambrusco wines, or master homemade pasta, there’s something here for every type of traveler.
1. Emilia Flavors: Parmigiano, balsamic, cured meats & wines
At number 1 on our list, the Emilia Flavors tour offers a private, immersive journey into the best of Emilia-Romagna’s gastronomic treasures. For about $178, you’ll spend roughly 4 to 5 hours exploring local producers near Reggio Emilia, skipping the tourist crowds. Your private driver will take you to a Parmigiano Reggiano dairy, a vinegar factory, and vineyards, where you’ll taste Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, traditional balsamic vinegar, and regional wines. The highlight is witnessing the cheese’s entire production— from milk collection to aging—at the Latteria Sociale Paverazzi. The family-owned balsamic vinegar producer, Acetaia Picci, provides a fascinating look at the minimum twelve-year aging process—a real labor of love.
Guests consistently praise this tour for its authenticity, expert guide, and personalized experience. One reviewer loved that it “felt like visiting a friend’s home,” noting the relaxed atmosphere and in-depth storytelling. It’s ideal for those who want a comprehensive, yet intimate look at Emilia-Romagna’s culinary traditions. Bottom line: if you’re after a private, locally focused food tour with excellent tastings, this one’s hard to beat.
2. Private Emilian Food and Wine Tasting Tour in Modena
Next, the Private Emilian Food and Wine Tasting Tour offers a tailored, behind-the-scenes experience that focuses on both cheese and vinegar production, plus a vineyard visit. Priced at $622, and lasting about 5 to 6 hours, this tour is perfect for lovers of food and wine who want a personalized guide. You’ll visit a dairy to see how Parmigiano Reggiano is produced, sampling different ages of cheese and fresh ricotta, then move on to a traditional balsamic vinegar producer. The final stop is a scenic hilltop location where you can taste Lambrusco and Pignoletto wines, paired with local snacks.
A standout feature of this experience is the complete access to factories and vineyards, with the guide sharing detailed insights into the production processes. Many reviews highlight the friendly guide, Cecilia, who’s praised for her knowledge and enthusiasm. This tour is best suited for travelers who want an in-depth understanding of Emilia-Romagna’s culinary heritage and enjoy personalized attention. While it’s more expensive, the private nature and exclusive access justify the price for serious food lovers.
Bottom line: for a luxurious, fully customized experience that combines cheese, vinegar, and wine, this tour hits the mark.
3. Traditional Home Cooking in Modena, Tagliatelle, Tortelloni & Wine
At number 3, this hands-on cooking class offers a delightful way to connect with local culinary techniques. For around $129, you get about 3 hours of instruction at a chef’s home, where you’ll learn to make ricotta tortelloni, tagliatelle, and a traditional Italian dessert. The class also includes antipasto, local wine, and the chance to cook just like a home cook in Modena. This experience is ideal for those who want to actively participate in cooking and take home authentic recipes.
Guests rave about the warm, welcoming atmosphere and the expert guidance from local instructors Luisa and Ilaria. Many mention the fun of rolling pasta dough and the delicious meal they created together. Because it’s a small-group experience, you get plenty of personal attention and tips you can use back home. Plus, the fact that you get to eat what you make makes it especially satisfying.
Bottom line: if you’re after an interactive, memorable cooking experience with a personal touch, this class offers great value and fun.
4. Local wines and traditional balsamic experience
Number 4 on our list is the Local wines and traditional balsamic experience. For about $107, in roughly 4 hours, you’ll visit two local producers—an Acetaia and a wine cellar—to explore balsamic vinegar and handmade wines. The Acetaia is set in an authentic farmstead, where you’ll learn about traditional balsamic production, with tastings included. Then, you’ll move to a hilltop cellar for a wine tasting featuring regional Lambrusco and other wines, paired with local snacks.
This tour’s strength lies in its authenticity and informative approach. Several reviewers appreciate the storytelling and passion shared by the hosts, making it clear that these are family-run operations dedicated to preserving tradition. It’s a good choice for travelers interested in both wine and vinegar, especially if you want to avoid large, commercial tours.
Bottom line: a straightforward, well-paced experience for those eager to understand how regional products like balsamic and wine are made, with a relaxed atmosphere.
5. Modena Walking Tour & Traditional Cooking Class with Wine
Number 5 combines city exploration with hands-on cooking. For $114, you’ll start with a walk through Modena’s streets, discovering local sights and markets. Then, you’ll head to a private home to develop your own recipe using 3–5 local ingredients, under the guidance of a local host. After preparing your dish, you’ll enjoy it paired with local wines and receive a souvenir apron and shopping bag.
This tour is perfect for those who want to combine sightseeing with culinary creation. Reviewers comment on the warm atmosphere and the fun of developing a custom recipe. It’s ideal for travelers who are curious about local ingredients and want a interactive experience that combines culture and cuisine.
Bottom line: a fun, social way to explore Modena’s culinary scene, especially suited for small groups or families.
6. 5-Hour Food and Wine Tasting in Modena
Finally, the 5-Hour Food and Wine Tasting offers a comprehensive tasting experience for around $93. Located in a family-run balsamic factory in Castelvetro di Modena, it emphasizes the production process of balsamic vinegar, with tastings of local foods and handcrafted balsamic. The focus here is on educational tasting and understanding the passion behind Emilia-Romagna’s culinary staples.
This experience is ideal for those seeking a deep dive into balsamic production and regional food pairing. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable hosts and the ability to sample multiple products in one sitting. It’s a cost-effective option for travelers wanting a delicious, informative afternoon.
Bottom line: excellent for foodies who want to understand balsamic vinegar in context, paired with regional food.
$93.09 per person
How to Choose the Right Wine and Food Tour in Modena
Choosing between these experiences depends on your interests, budget, and time available. If you prefer a private, comprehensive day exploring multiple producers, the Emilia Flavors tour provides a well-rounded option. For those wanting a luxury experience with personalized attention, the Private Food and Wine Tasting is unbeatable.
If you’re eager to learn cooking and bring home authentic recipes, the Home Cooking class offers a fun, interactive option. For travelers interested primarily in balsamic vinegar, the Balsamic and Wine experience is compact and insightful.
Finally, for a more relaxed, educational tasting focused on regional products, the Food and Wine Tasting** is perfect. Consider your budget, interest level, and whether you want a guided factory visit or a hands-on culinary adventure.
Final Thoughts
Modena offers a fantastic variety of wine and food experiences that showcase its rich culinary culture. From private tastings and factory visits to interactive cooking classes, there’s something suited for every taste and budget. The Emilia Flavors tour is ideal for those seeking a structured yet authentic day, while the Private Food and Wine Tasting caters to travelers who want a personalized, luxurious experience.
If you enjoy cooking and want to learn from locals, the Home Cooking class promises a memorable hands-on lesson. No matter which tour you choose, booking early ensures you get the date and experience that best fits your travel plans.