Modena

Modena is famous for local products: Maserati, Ferrari, and opera star Luciano Pavarotti, who was born near here and was buried in his family plot in Montale Rangone in September 2007. However, it's Modena's heavenly scented balsamic vinegar, aged up to 40 years, that's probably its greatest achievement. The town has become another Emilian food mecca, with terrific restaurants and salumerie (delicatessens) at every turn. Though extensive modern industrial sprawl surrounds the center, the small historic center is filled with narrow medieval streets, pleasant piazzas, and typical Emilian architecture.