Motor Valley: what to do in Bologna and surroundings if you’re passionate about cars and motorcycles

Emilia‑Romagna is known for its cuisine, art cities, and seaside resorts, but it is also the undisputed birthplace of speed. Here, among the hills and plains crossed by the Via Emilia, some of the world’s top automotive and motorcycle excellence were conceived. That’s why it’s called Motor Valley, a unique global district that combines passion, ingenuity and tradition.

Bologna is the perfect gateway to explore this territory: from here you can quickly reach museums, factories, racetracks, and legendary collections. And if you love two‑wheeled vehicles, head to Mugello in Tuscany to experience the thrill of one of the most famous motorcycle circuits.

What is the Motor Valley and which automotive and motorcycle manufacturers are part of it

Motor Valley is the industrial district of Emilia‑Romagna dedicated to engines. It includes companies, museums, racetracks, and collections around historic brands such as:

• Ducati, symbol of Bologna and passion for two‑wheelers
• Ferrari, Maranello’s red myth
• Maserati and Pagani, masters of luxury cars
• Lamborghini, synonymous with power and design
• Dallara, excellence in racing engineering

The term Motor Valley (in the local dialect “tera di mutur”) tells a story rooted in the last century, when in Modena, Bologna and Parma the first mechanic workshops emerged that revolutionized the world of engines.

Where the Motor Valley is located and what to see

The beating heart of the Motor Valley stretches between Bologna, Modena, Imola and Parma, but the rest of the region is also involved. Near Rimini, for example, is the Misano Circuit. But what are the must‑visit places for two‑ and four‑wheel enthusiasts? Let’s find out.

The Bologna motor district

The Bologna motor district is in the Borgo Panigale quarter, home of the Ducati Museum and the company’s historic headquarter. But from here you can easily reach the other stops of the Motor Valley. Indeed, the most prestigious automotive houses in the world are really close to each other, not to mention museums and collections (in a radius of 150 km you can admire more than 30).

The main museums and collections not to be missed if you’re passionate about cars and bikes

Here’s a selection of places you absolutely must visit if two‑ and four‑wheel vehicles are your passion:

• Ducati Museum (Bologna)
• Ferrari Museum (Maranello) + Enzo Ferrari Museum (Modena)
• Lamborghini Museum (Sant’Agata Bolognese)
• Horacio Pagani Museum (San Cesario sul Panaro)
• Panini Collection (Modena), housing rare Maserati models

The racetracks where you can witness engines in action

Want to feel the roar of engines live? In Emilia‑Romagna you can at four main circuits:

• Imola – Enzo and Dino Ferrari Autodrome
• Misano (province of Rimini) – Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli
• Modena Autodrome
• Varano de’ Melegari (province of Parma) – Riccardo Paletti Autodrome

Here international competitions, enthusiast events, driving courses and test‑drive days take place. Also nearby is the Mugello Autodrome, in the province of Florence, easily reachable by car or motorcycle from Bologna. Indeed, the two cities – Florence and Bologna – are linked by an ancient history, from the Etruscans to today (the Via degli Dei is an example).

Motor Valley Fest: the must‑attend event for motor enthusiasts

Motor Valley Fest is the major distributed event dedicated to motors and innovation. Exhibitions, track tests, test drives, conferences, labs and family events: it’s a must for those who love engines, challenges and technology.

Tips for those who want to visit the Motor Valley from Bologna

Bologna is the perfect starting point to discover the Motor Valley. It’s well linked, served by important train and highway networks, and less than an hour away from all the iconic engine landmarks. Leaving from here allows you to optimize time and travel, without forgoing the comfort of staying in a place away from city chaos, where you can park your car or motorcycle for free.
Here are some tips to help you plan your visit, whether it’s a day trip or a true multi‑stop tour.

Recommended itineraries to reach the Motor Valley from Bologna

In a day from Bologna, you can easily reach:

• Maranello, to visit the Ferrari Museum and maybe book a test drive (about 43 km from Bologna)
• Modena, home of the Enzo Ferrari Museum and the Panini Collection (about 44 km from Bologna)
• Sant’Agata Bolognese, where the Lamborghini Museum is located (about 30 km from Bologna)
• Imola, with the Enzo and Dino Ferrari autodrome and its track excitement (about 70 km from Bologna)

If instead you have more days, you can create a tailor‑made route that includes:

• Guided visits to museums
• Factory tours (often by reservation—check the official websites)
• Days at the racetracks during free testing or races
• Enogastronomic tasting in local trattorias to combine motors and typical flavors (we’ve collected some tips on where to eat in Bologna)

On the Motor Valley dedicated website you can find tips and itineraries.
If you plan to visit Bologna and also the Mugello, we recommend a longer stay, because the Tuscan racetrack is about 90 km from the city!

Some useful tips for organizing your visit

Planning a trip to Bologna and don’t want to miss the Motor Valley? Here are some tips to get the most out of your stay:

• Book museum tickets in advance, especially if you plan to visit on weekends, holiday bridges, and significant events like the Motor Valley Fest. Guided tours or factory visits almost always require mandatory booking.
• Choose the best seasons: spring and autumn are ideal to move around and visit more stops in a day – in Emilia‑Romagna summer is very hot and winter is cold and often rainy – you’ll avoid the summer heat and the typical crowd of high season.
• Check the racetracks’ calendars (Imola, Misano, Modena, Varano) to know when they are open to the public, if there are races, special events or test‑drive days. Some circuits also allow track driving experiences.
• Use a car or motorcycle to travel independently, especially if you want to explore multiple places in one day. Distances are not long, but some locations are not easily reachable by public transport.

Starting your trip from Bologna also allows you to return comfortably in the evening, or stay in a strategic but peaceful location, such as Antico Podere San Luca.

Where to sleep near the Motor Valley? Antico Podere San Luca!

Antico Podere San Luca is ideal for those who want to visit Bologna with their own vehicle, because it is surrounded by the green hills of Bologna, a short distance from the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin of San Luca (here’s where we are) and has a large free private parking where you can safely park your motorcycle or car. You can choose the stay you prefer: B&B formula or self-catering accommodation.

A great base to fully experience your adventure in the Motor Valley!

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