If you’re a car enthusiast or simply looking for a unique day trip from Bologna, visiting Maranello, the home of Ferrari, should be at the top of your list. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the best ways to travel from Bologna to Maranello, explore the fascinating Ferrari Museum, and highlight other interesting activities in the area.
Getting to Maranello from Bologna
By Train and Bus
One of the most convenient ways to travel from Bologna to Maranello is by a combination of train and bus:
- Train from Bologna to Modena:
- Trains from Bologna to Modena run frequently, with a journey time of approximately 30-45 minutes. You can purchase tickets at the station or online from Trenitalia. Prices typically range from €3.50 to €10, depending on the type of service.
- Bus from Modena to Maranello:
- Upon arrival in Modena, you can take the Museo Ferrari Shuttle which provides a direct connection to the Ferrari Museum in Maranello. The shuttle departs from Modena station at 10:40 AM and 3:20 PM, with return trips at 2:45 PM and 6:00 PM. Tickets can be purchased online or at the station (Rome2Rio) (Visitare).
By Car
If you prefer the flexibility of driving, renting a car is a great option. The drive from Bologna to Maranello takes about 45 minutes. Maranello offers several parking options, including a convenient municipal car park near the museum which charges €1 per hour (Visitare).
By Taxi or Rideshare
For a more direct route, you can take a taxi from Bologna to Maranello. The journey is about 41 minutes and costs between €80 and €100. Rideshare services like BlaBlaCar also operate between these cities, offering a cost-effective alternative (Rome2Rio).
Exploring the Ferrari Museum
Museo Ferrari Maranello
The Ferrari Museum in Maranello offers a captivating journey through the history and innovation of Ferrari. Here are some highlights:
- Exhibitions and Displays:
- The museum features a wide range of exhibits, from classic models to the latest innovations in Ferrari technology. Current exhibitions include the “Supercars” display, which showcases significant advances in Ferrari’s engineering and design (Official Ferrari website).
- Interactive Experiences:
- Visitors can experience the thrill of driving a Ferrari with the F1 simulator. For an additional fee of €25, you can test your driving skills in a virtual race (Official Ferrari website) (Checkoutsam).
- Factory and Track Tours:
- For a deeper dive into Ferrari’s world, consider the guided bus tour of the Ferrari factory and the Fiorano Circuit. These tours offer a behind-the-scenes look at Ferrari’s production processes and testing facilities. Note that photography is not allowed during these tours, and places are limited, so booking in advance is recommended (Mama Loves Italy) (Official Ferrari website).
Museo Enzo Ferrari Modena
If time permits, visit the Museo Enzo Ferrari in Modena. This museum, dedicated to the founder of Ferrari, Enzo Ferrari, provides insight into his life and the early days of the brand. The museum is housed in a striking modern building and features a collection of historic cars and memorabilia (Checkoutsam) (Visitare).
Other Interesting Activities in Maranello
Dining
Maranello offers several dining options, perfect for refueling after a day of exploring:
- Ristorante Cavallino:
- Located near the Ferrari factory, this restaurant serves traditional Italian cuisine with a modern twist. It’s a favorite among Ferrari enthusiasts and offers a cozy atmosphere (Visitare).
- Il Cavallino:
- Another excellent option near the museum, known for its local dishes and warm ambiance (Visitare).
Special Events
Maranello hosts several special events throughout the year, making any visit even more memorable. One such event is the Notte Rossa, held on June 29, 2024. This special night sees the Ferrari Museum open until midnight, featuring a spectacular dancing fountain show. Viale Enzo Ferrari will also be opened to the public, allowing visitors to stroll through the Ferrari factory grounds under the night sky (Official Ferrari website). Additionally, the Sagra dell’Assunta is another highlight, running from August 11-15, 2024. This festival celebrates the Assumption of Mary with local food, music, and cultural events, providing a great way to experience Italian traditions (Official Ferrari website).
New Developments
Ferrari is continuously evolving, and in 2024, they are making significant strides with a new €200 million facility known as the “E-building.” This state-of-the-art plant in Maranello will focus on producing hybrid and electric sports cars, showcasing Ferrari’s commitment to innovation and sustainability (Official Ferrari website).
Unique Experiences
For those looking for a truly unique experience, Airbnb is offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to spend a night in the Ferrari Museum. In May 2024, two lucky guests will get to sleep among the iconic cars, providing an unforgettable way to immerse themselves in Ferrari’s legacy (Official Ferrari website).
Shopping
No visit to Maranello would be complete without picking up some Ferrari memorabilia. The museum shop offers a wide range of products, from clothing and accessories to scale models and collectibles, allowing you to take a piece of Ferrari home with you.
Conclusion
A visit to Maranello from Bologna is a must for any car enthusiast or traveler looking to experience a piece of Italian automotive history. With convenient travel options, fascinating museum exhibits, and unique local attractions, Maranello offers a memorable day trip or overnight stay. Whether you’re driving a virtual Ferrari, exploring the history of the brand, or enjoying a meal at a Ferrari-themed restaurant, Maranello promises an unforgettable experience.
For more detailed information and bookings, be sure to visit the official Ferrari Museum website. Enjoy your trip to the home of Ferrari!