Maranello​

Latest page update: 26 May 2025
By: Dion Protani
The town of Maranello is located within the Province of Modena and has a population of 17,680 inhabitants.

Standing at an elevation of 137 metres above sea level, it lies 44 kilometres west of Bologna, the capital of Emilia Romagna. The main sight of Maranallo is the Ferrari Museum (Museo Ferrari Maranello). 

What People Ask About Maranello

Is Maranello worth visiting?
Yes, Maranello is home to Ferrari and attracts car enthusiasts from around the world. The town offers a mix of automotive history, modern museums, and access to the Emilian countryside.
What can you do in Maranello?
You can visit the Ferrari Museum, see the Ferrari factory from outside, and take a test drive with local companies. There are also food tours and scenic drives in the hills surrounding the town.
How do you get to Maranello?
Maranello is about 20 km from Modena and is easiest to reach by car or taxi. The nearest train station is in Modena, with local buses connecting to Maranello in around 40 minutes.
What is Maranello known for?
Maranello is globally known as the home of Ferrari. It houses the company’s headquarters, the Ferrari Museum, and test track, making it a major destination for automotive tourism.
When is the best time to visit Maranello?
April to October is ideal for visiting Maranello, with warmer weather and better conditions for car tours and outdoor activities. Summer months are the busiest for tourism and Ferrari-related events.
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Discover

Discover Maranello
Maranello, located in the Emilia-Romagna region, is a vibrant town renowned for its strong connection to the world of motorsport, particularly as the home of Ferrari. Set in the heart of the Modena province, Maranello offers visitors a blend of history, culture, and stunning landscapes. The town is surrounded by the beautiful hills of the Apennines, providing a scenic backdrop that complements its rich industrial and sporting heritage.
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Maranello is famous for being the headquarters of Ferrari, and the Museo Ferrari is a must-see for motorsport enthusiasts, showcasing the history and legacy of the brand. The town is also home to the Chiesa di San Biagio, a quaint church with historical significance. For outdoor enthusiasts, Maranello offers several hiking and cycling trails through the surrounding hills and countryside, providing panoramic views of the area. The combination of motorsport history, natural beauty, and cultural landmarks makes Maranello a unique destination for those exploring the Emilia-Romagna region.
History
The history of Maranello dates back to ancient times, with evidence of human settlements in the area since Roman eras. However, the town's modern fame and significance stem from the founding of Ferrari in 1939 by Enzo Ferrari. Ferrari quickly gained recognition for its exceptional sports cars, and Maranello became synonymous with the brand.

​Over the decades, Ferrari has become an iconic symbol of Italian craftsmanship and automotive excellence, attracting motorsport enthusiasts and luxury car collectors from around the world.

Things to Do

Things to Do in Maranello
  • Museo Ferrari: The main attraction in Maranello, this museum celebrates the history, innovation, and legacy of Ferrari. Exhibits include vintage and modern race cars, engines, trophies, and multimedia displays. Visitors can also explore the brand’s development from its racing origins to its global status in automotive design.
  • Ferrari Factory and Fiorano Test Track: While the factory itself is not open to the public, guided bus tours from the museum provide an external view of the Ferrari facilities and the Fiorano Circuit, where new models and race cars are tested. It’s an essential stop for fans of motorsport and engineering.
  • Piazza Libertà and Civic Buildings: Maranello’s central square is a hub of local life, with modern architecture, cafés, and public buildings. While more contemporary than neighbouring hill towns, the square offers a lively setting and is often used for events, displays, and gatherings linked to the town’s automotive culture.
  • Countryside Cycling and Food Trails: The surrounding area is part of the Modena Food Valley, with scenic cycling routes passing through vineyards, farms, and balsamic vinegar producers. Visitors can explore the countryside while sampling traditional dishes such as gnocco fritto, tigelle, and local cured meats.
  • Day Trip to Modena: Just 20 minutes away, Modena offers major cultural attractions such as the Duomo, Piazza Grande, and traditional markets. It’s also home to other culinary institutions and the Enzo Ferrari Museum, providing a wider perspective on the region’s history and identity.
Maranello Tours and Activities
Comune di Maranello
Province: Modena

Region: Emilia Romagna

Population: 17,301​​ (in 2024 - source)

Size: 32 km²

Elevation: 137 metres

Highlights: Ferrari Museum

Close by: ​Vignola, Modena, Reggio Emilia, Carpi, Bologna

Where to Stay

Where to Stay in Maranello
  • Hotel Maranello Palace Located directly opposite the Ferrari factory and museum, this four-star hotel offers spacious, modern rooms and suites, some with views of the factory grounds. Guests appreciate the generous breakfast, free parking, and ideal location for Ferrari enthusiasts. €€€ (high-end)
  • Locanda del Mulino Housed in a restored 17th-century mill just outside the town centre, this hotel features warmly decorated rooms with wooden beams and an on-site restaurant serving Emilian cuisine. Visitors enjoy the authentic atmosphere, friendly service, and proximity to Maranello and the surrounding countryside. €€ (mid-range)
  • Hotel Villa Maranello Set in a quiet residential area a short walk from the Ferrari Museum, this small hotel offers stylish rooms in a converted villa and an on-site restaurant. Guests value the peaceful location, attentive staff, and themed décor inspired by Ferrari. €€ (mid-range)
  • Planet Hotel Located just across from the Ferrari factory’s main entrance, this hotel offers modern rooms, some with balconies overlooking the iconic site. Visitors enjoy the Ferrari-themed interiors, private parking, and walking access to museums, shops, and cafés. €€€ (high-end)
  • Maranello Village Situated a few minutes’ drive from the centre, this large, Ferrari-themed hotel complex features comfortable rooms and apartments, multiple dining options, and a gym. Guests appreciate the unique design, spacious layout, and convenient location for exploring both Maranello and Modena. €€ (mid-range)

Where to Eat

Where to Eat in Maranello
  • Ristorante Cavallino: Located opposite the Ferrari factory, this iconic restaurant blends automotive history with refined Emilian cuisine. The interior was redesigned with nods to Ferrari’s heritage, while the menu features traditional dishes such as tortellini in broth, tagliatelle al ragù, and locally sourced meats. It’s a popular choice for visitors and ideal for a special occasion. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
  • Ristorante Drake: Situated near the town centre, Ristorante Drake offers a menu rooted in Modenese culinary traditions. Dishes include gnocco fritto with cured meats, balsamic-glazed pork, and handmade pasta. The dining room is elegant but relaxed, making it a good option for both lunch and dinner. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
  • Osteria Emilia: A cosy and informal spot in the heart of Maranello, Osteria Emilia serves generous portions of regional favourites in a homely setting. Highlights include lasagne, tortelloni with ricotta and spinach, and traditional meat dishes. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
  • Trattoria Rosa Blu: Found just outside the centre, this family-run trattoria focuses on comfort food and seasonal ingredients. The menu changes regularly and includes slow-cooked dishes, mushroom-based sauces, and rustic desserts, served in a simple but welcoming space. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
  • Pizzeria La Smorfia: A casual option in Maranello, La Smorfia is known for its crisp, wood-fired pizzas and fast, friendly service. It also offers pasta and salads, making it a flexible choice for families or groups. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)

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Places Close to [Place Name]

Places Close to Maranello
  • Modena (approx. 20 km north of Maranello): A city renowned for its rich history, Modena is home to the Modena Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Museo Enzo Ferrari, celebrating the iconic car manufacturer. Modena is also famous for its traditional balsamic vinegar, and visitors can enjoy exploring the city’s beautiful piazzas, local markets, and fine dining establishments.
  • Carpi (approx. 25 km northeast of Maranello): A charming town with a rich Renaissance heritage, Carpi is known for the Piazza dei Martiri, a large square surrounded by impressive historical buildings. Key attractions include the Castello dei Pio, a beautiful castle that now houses museums and exhibitions. Carpi also offers a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for a leisurely stroll through its historic centre.
  • Sassuolo (approx. 10 km west of Maranello): Known for its ceramic industry, Sassuolo is home to the Palazzo Ducale, a beautiful ducal palace surrounded by well-kept gardens. The town also offers excellent shopping opportunities, particularly in ceramics and home furnishings, reflecting its rich industrial past. The nearby hills provide scenic views and hiking opportunities.
  • Fiorano Modenese (approx. 5 km south of Maranello): A neighbouring town famous for the Fiorano Circuit, a private test track used by Ferrari, Fiorano Modenese is a small town with a peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy the local parks, historical churches, and scenic views of the surrounding countryside. The town is also home to a number of vineyards producing quality wines.
  • Bologna (approx. 60 km northeast of Maranello): Known for its medieval architecture, vibrant atmosphere, and rich food culture, Bologna is a must-visit. Key highlights include the Two Towers (Asinelli and Garisenda), the Piazza Maggiore, and the Basilica di San Petronio. Bologna is also famous for its food scene, especially dishes such as tagliatelle al ragù (Bolognese sauce).
Emilia-Romagna Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations

1. Bologna
2. Ravenna
3. Ferrara
4. Cesena
5. Parma
6. Cesenatico
7. Modena
8. Rimini​
9. Brisighella
10. Comacchio

​👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Emilia-Romagna

How to Get to [Place Name]

How to Get to Maranello
By Rail: Maranello does not have its own train station. The nearest station is in Modena, approximately 20 kilometres to the north, which is served by frequent Trenitalia regional and high-speed services. Trains from Bologna to Modena run regularly and take around 30 minutes. From Modena station, Maranello can be reached by local bus in about 40 minutes, or by taxi in approximately 25 minutes.

By Road: Maranello is located in the province of Modena, in the heart of Emilia-Romagna's Motor Valley. It is about 60 kilometres west of Bologna and 20 kilometres south-west of Modena. The drive from Bologna takes around 1 hour via the A1 motorway and SP3 provincial road. From Modena, the journey takes approximately 30 minutes. Public parking is widely available in and around the town, particularly near the Ferrari Museum and key attractions.

Nearest International Airports:
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  • Bologna Airport (Aeroporto di Bologna Guglielmo Marconi): Located about 45 kilometres east of Maranello, the drive takes approximately 50 minutes. Travellers can also take a train to Modena and continue by bus or taxi.
  • Florence Airport (Aeroporto di Firenze-Peretola): Situated approximately 120 kilometres south of Maranello, the drive takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes. Public transport options include a train to Bologna or Modena and onward road travel.
  • Parma Airport (Aeroporto di Parma Giuseppe Verdi): Roughly 70 kilometres north-west of Maranello, the drive takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes. Train and bus travel is possible via Modena.

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