Rome to Modena Road Trip Guide: Stops & Tips

Driving from Rome to Modena covers 400 km on the A1 (Autostrada del Sole), a route that traces ancient Roman roads. The highway runs parallel to the Via Flaminia and later the Via Aemilia, linking Rome to the Po Valley.

Your journey takes roughly 4 hours without stops, but to fully experience the best stops Rome to Modena, plan for at least a full day. Understanding how long to drive Rome to Modena is just the start; the real question is is it worth driving Rome to Modena? The answer is yes, because you'll pass through Tuscany's hills, Emilia-Romagna's culinary heartland, and several UNESCO sites.

Here's a quick overview of the route:

To discover hidden gems, use this guide on finding the best stops.

As you leave Rome, the landscape opens into the rolling hills of Lazio and Umbria. The Tiber Valley offers views of olive groves and vineyards. Around Orvieto, you'll see dramatic tufa cliffs.

Things to do between Rome and Modena include visiting the natural parks of Monte Rufeno and the Foreste Casentinesi. Local commerce thrives in hilltop towns like Chiusi and Arezzo, known for antiques and pottery.

In Tuscany, the scenery transforms into iconic cypress-lined hills. The Val di Chiana is dotted with farm shops selling pecorino cheese and olive oil. Just south of Florence, the landscape becomes more urbanized but still beautiful.

• Stop at the Autogrill Chianti for a panoramic view of vineyards.
• Visit the Mercato Orvietano for handmade ceramics.
• Sample balsamic vinegar in Modena's acetaie.

Autovelox (speed cameras) are common on the A1, particularly near tunnels. Keep to the limit. For rest, take breaks every 2 hours at designated service areas. Most have playgrounds and clean bathrooms.

• Best rest stops: Autogrill Fabro (Lazio), Autogrill Chianti (Tuscany), and Autogrill Bologna.
• Family-friendly features: Playgrounds, high chairs, children's menus.
• Pet-friendly framework: Many stops have designated pet areas and water bowls. Always keep dogs on leash.

Fatigue management: The drive is monotonous in parts, especially the long straight stretches through Umbria. Use cruise control and take a nap break at a motel if needed. Hidden off-route spots include the village of Civita di Bagnoregio (near Orvieto) and the salt pans of Cervia (near Ravenna, a small detour).

• For a quiet meal, exit at Valdichiana and visit a local trattoria.
• Consider overnighting in Florence to break the drive.

The A1 toll road is well-maintained with multiple service areas (autogrill) roughly every 30 km. Toll costs for a standard car total around €20-25. Fuel prices vary: expect €1.70-1.90/liter for gasoline. Trucks are banned during certain hours on weekends, so check ahead.

• Entrance toll booths accept cash, card, and Telepass.
• Exit numbers: Rome (exit 1), Florence (exit 23), Bologna (exit 12), Modena (exit 15).
• Speed limits: 130 km/h on A1, 110 km/h in rain.