A guide to Modena's traffic system for getting around by car
A city where the scent of balsamic vinegar blends with the roar of engines, a sacred place for lovers of speed and the good life with its Cathedral and Ghirlandina Tower guarding UNESCO secrets Modena is a unique mix where medieval streets and futuristic museums coexist seamlessly. In this essential guide, we’ll give you a few tips to help you navigate its urban network without stress.
How Modena’s ZTL works: hours, restrictions, and other key info
Modena’s historic center Limited Traffic Zone (ZTL) is extensive and clearly marked. It usually operates continuously (often 24 hours a day) or during wide time slots (for example, from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.) on weekdays and the day before holidays. The area covers almost the entire inner quadrilateral, with access points monitored by cameras that automatically detect license plates.
Particular attention should be paid to “Controlled Access Zones,” such as the one around the Albinelli Market area, where restrictions may differ. Access is allowed only to residents, public transport, loading/unloading vehicles during specific hours, and those holding temporary permits for example, hotel guests.
Where to park in Modena
In the areas surrounding the city center, you’ll find large paid parking zones marked by blue lines, with rates decreasing as you move farther from the historic walls.
The area around the Enzo Ferrari Museum (MEF) and the Ferrari Museum in Maranello sees heavy visitor and vehicle traffic, especially on weekends, making paid parking almost unavoidable.
Finding free parking near Modena’s historic center is, in fact, quite a challenge. Most central parking spaces are paid, both on the surface and in underground facilities. If you plan to reach the city center, we strongly recommend using the park-and-ride lots located just outside the busiest perimeter, well connected to the old town by shuttle buses or a short walk. The most convenient though paid options are underground and multi-story car parks such as Parcheggio del Centro or Parcheggio R-Nord, offering plenty of hourly-rate spaces.
For those seeking free options, you’ll need to move further away from the center, looking for spots in the first suburban areas or near the University
(outside peak hours). From there, the center can be reached on foot or by public transport. Given the city’s strong cycling culture, leaving your car in a park-and-ride lot and continuing by bike (rented or your own) is a very popular and practical solution.
Per muoverti da Modena verso i colli o le altre città emiliane, puoi invece considerare di rivolgerti a un autonoleggio a Modena.
