Trying to decide where to stay; either in Modena or Bologna the end of September. We need to decide on which town for a home base, but plan to visit both towns. Any recommendations for best town and lodging? We are well traveled throughout Italy, but these two will be new to us. We love to walk and explore and look forward to viewing historic centers and mingling with Italians, not just tourists. Just before our arrival, we will have been in Sicily, Sorrento, Amalfi coast, Rome and we will end this trip Milan.
Posted by
Sunriver
1321 posts
Modena s a small quiet town. I'd pick Bologna for sure. You can visit Modena for 1/2 day tour.
Posted by
11606 posts
We loved our stay in Bologna and recommend that you stay there, day trip to Modena.
Posted by
Tel Aviv
15794 posts
I very much enjoyed staying in Bologna. I stayed in a cheaper hotel about halfway between the train station and the center - 10 minutes' walk to each. My favorite things in Bologna were the university tour and walking through the old area around the ghetto. I was sorry I only spent 2 full days there, so I wasn't able to day trip more than once (Ravenna).
Posted by
29 posts
Hi! We have stayed in Modena and Bologna on separate trips. Bologna is a city. I worried about being pick-pocketed. There were crowds and traffic. Modena is a town. I LOVED Modena!!! We could easily walk the entire pedestrian only area. We got to know the amazing food market, and got to know the woman who made my daily cappuccino. The restaurants were DELICIOUS! the town was vibrant and clean, with many cafes and spots for apertivo. I want to live there.
Posted by
New England
701 posts
Princess Abby’s comments exactly mirror my experience of Modena (4 nights) and Bologna. Well put!!