Maranello & Modena: Ferrari test drive with museums + lunch

Summary

Ferrari’s world up close: driving, museums, and Modena flavors

Step into Ferrari country with a real test drive in Maranello alongside an instructor, then explore both iconic Ferrari museums in Maranello and Modena. Savor a full local lunch and take a panoramic bus tour through factory roads and Fiorano circuit views—a day packed with stories and flavors you’ll remember long after leaving Emilia-Romagna.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, my hands were shaking a bit when I first slid into the Ferrari 458 Italia. The instructor—Marco, who had that calm Italian confidence—just grinned and told me to relax, “It’s not a race, but you’ll feel it.” He was right. The engine’s growl is something you don’t just hear; it sort of vibrates through your chest. Twenty minutes around Maranello went by in a blur of red paint, roundabouts, and the odd Vespa zipping past. I kept glancing at the speedometer (old habit), but honestly, it was more about the feeling than the numbers.

After that rush, we wandered into the Ferrari Museum—so many stories packed into those rooms. There was this older guy explaining to his grandson how Enzo started with nothing but stubbornness and dreams (I only caught half of it in Italian, but you get the gist). The cars are almost too perfect up close—polished curves under bright lights—and there’s this faint scent of oil and leather everywhere. Then we hopped over to Modena for the Enzo Ferrari Museum. It’s quieter there, more about Enzo himself than just the machines. I didn’t expect to be moved by old photos and handwritten notes behind glass.

Lunch was at this family-run spot nearby—no frills, just proper Emilia-Romagna food. Tagliatelle ragu that tasted like someone’s grandma made it (maybe she did?), second course I can’t pronounce, dessert that left me sticky-fingered and happy. Our guide chatted with us about growing up around here; apparently everyone has an uncle who once worked at Ferrari or claims they did.

The panoramic bus tour after lunch rolled us slowly along Enzo Ferrari Road and even inside parts of the factory grounds—not something you’d see on your own. There’s this moment where you catch a glimpse of test drivers heading out onto Fiorano circuit (not for us today), which made me weirdly jealous but also kind of satisfied with what I’d just done. It’s hard to explain why that day sticks with me—maybe it’s the mix of adrenaline, nostalgia, or just being somewhere people really care about what they build.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Ferrari Experience and Museums

• Ferrari test drive
• Visit Ferrari Museum
• Visit Enzo Ferrari Museum

Top questions

Can companions join the Ferrari test drive?

No, only participants booked for the test drive can drive; companions join all other activities except driving.

Is lunch included in this experience?

Yes, a full traditional lunch with drinks is included at a local restaurant.

Do I need an international driver’s license?

If you’re from outside the EU, yes—you’ll need an international license or official translation plus one year of driving experience.

Are museum tickets part of the package?

Yes, entry to both the Ferrari Museum in Maranello and Enzo Ferrari Museum in Modena is included.

Is hotel pickup provided?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; participants meet at the starting point in Maranello.

How long is the actual Ferrari test drive?

The test drive lasts approximately 20 minutes on public roads around Maranello with an instructor beside you.

Are children allowed on this tour?

Infants and small children can join most activities except for driving; infants must sit on an adult's lap during transport.

What’s included

Your day includes a 20-minute Ferrari test drive around Maranello with an instructor (for eligible drivers), entry tickets to both the Ferrari Museum in Maranello and Enzo Ferrari Museum in Modena, a full traditional lunch with drinks at a local restaurant, plus a panoramic bus tour through Fiorano circuit areas and along Enzo Ferrari Road—all taxes covered as well as car insurance for your drive.