Italy is synonymous with style, speed, and engineering excellence—and no brand embodies these qualities quite like Ferrari. For motorsport fans, car enthusiasts, and curious travelers alike, a visit to the Ferrari Museum in Maranello offers a thrilling immersion into the world of Formula One, supercars, and Italian automotive artistry. But with two official Ferrari museums in Italy—one in Maranello and one in Modena—you might ask: Which one is the best?
In this article, we’ll explore why the Ferrari Museum Maranello is widely regarded as the ultimate Ferrari destination, what you can expect during your visit, and how to make the most of your trip.
Ferrari Museum Maranello vs. Museo Enzo Ferrari Modena
Before diving into the Maranello experience, let’s clarify the difference between the two museums:
- Ferrari Museum Maranello focuses on the racing history, Formula 1 legacy, and factory environment of Ferrari. It’s located next to the company’s global headquarters and testing facility.
- Museo Enzo Ferrari Modena is more about Ferrari’s origins and the life of founder Enzo Ferrari, set in a stunning architectural space in his hometown.
Both are excellent, and tickets can be bundled for a combined visit. However, if you’re looking for speed, sound, and spectacle, Maranello is the best Ferrari museum to visit.
Why Maranello?
1. It’s the Heart of Ferrari
Maranello is not just the home of a museum—it’s the epicenter of Ferrari’s world. This small town in Emilia-Romagna has hosted the company’s headquarters since 1943. When you visit the museum here, you’re walking the same streets where Ferrari prototypes are tested and F1 legends are born. The Fiorano test track is nearby, and it’s not uncommon to hear the roar of an engine as you stroll through town.
2. Full Immersion into Racing
If your interest leans toward Ferrari’s racing heritage, this is where you’ll find it. From Niki Lauda and Michael Schumacher to Charles Leclerc, the museum captures over 75 years of racing history. There are multiple halls dedicated to Formula 1, complete with original cars, engines, suits, trophies, and interactive simulators.
3. Factory Connection
While the factory itself is off-limits to the general public, the museum offers a Panoramic Shuttle Tour that takes you past key parts of the Ferrari compound, including the wind tunnel, assembly lines, and employee training center. Seeing where the cars are designed, tested, and built is a rare treat—even if only from the outside.
What You’ll See Inside
The museum is designed for both the casual visitor and the hardcore fan. Exhibitions change every year, but here are some highlights you can typically expect:
🔴 Formula One Hall
This dramatic section features a rotating display of F1 cars from different eras. Each car is accompanied by stories, videos, and data. You’ll learn about famous races, championships, and drivers. Seeing these machines up close is awe-inspiring.
🔴 Supercar Gallery
From the 288 GTO and F40 to the LaFerrari and SF90 Stradale, this area showcases Ferrari’s limited-edition and road-legal supercars. The design, innovation, and raw power of these vehicles are on full display.
🔴 Ferrari Classiche
Sometimes, the museum will host beautifully restored vintage models through its Ferrari Classiche department. These classic vehicles represent the craftsmanship and timeless appeal of older Ferraris.
🔴 Interactive Simulators
For an extra fee, you can try one of the museum’s F1 racing simulators. They’re the closest you can get to feeling like a professional driver, and the realism is impressive—complete with cockpit seats and steering feedback.
🔴 Trophies & Memorabilia
The walls are lined with iconic Ferrari memorabilia: helmets from famous drivers, team uniforms, championship trophies, and vintage photographs that span decades of innovation and glory.
Visitor Information
📍 Location
- Via Alfredo Dino Ferrari, 43, Maranello (MO), Italy
- Easily reachable from Modena or Bologna.
🕘 Opening Hours
- Open 365 days a year
- Hours: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM (longer in summer)
💶 Ticket Prices
- Adults: €22
- Children (6–18): €10
- Family bundles and Modena + Maranello combo tickets available.
Tickets can be booked online through the official Ferrari Museum website to avoid queues.
Guided Tours and Experiences
If you want a deeper dive, consider one of these:
🚐 Factory Panoramic Shuttle Tour
- A guided bus tour around the Ferrari factory grounds, available only to museum ticket holders.
- Duration: 45 minutes
- Languages: Italian and English
- No photography allowed during the ride, but the experience is memorable.
🏁 Test Drive Experiences (Near Museum)
While Ferrari itself does not offer test drives, several third-party providers just outside the museum do. With a valid driver’s license and a little courage, you can take a Ferrari California, Portofino, or 488 Spider for a spin on local roads.
Test drive prices vary from €80 for short rides to €600+ for extended sessions including highways and hills.
Best Time to Visit
The Ferrari Museum Maranello is open year-round, but spring and autumn are ideal due to mild weather and fewer crowds. Try to visit in the morning for the quietest experience, or late afternoon to avoid school groups and large tours.
Tips for a Perfect Visit
- Book tickets online to skip the line and secure your time slot.
- Pair it with a food tour—Maranello is close to Modena’s culinary heartland. Think balsamic vinegar, Parmigiano Reggiano, and Lambrusco wine.
- Visit both museums if you can. The Enzo Ferrari Museum in Modena is just 25–30 minutes away and focuses on Ferrari’s early years and legacy.
- Don’t miss the gift shop—it has everything from high-end Ferrari merchandise to affordable souvenirs for kids and collectors alike.
Getting There
From Bologna:
- By car: ~50 minutes
- By train + bus: Take a train to Modena, then SETA Bus #800 or #820 to Maranello (~90 mins total)
- By tour: Many agencies offer Ferrari-themed day trips including museum entry, food tastings, and guides.
From Modena:
- Direct bus to Maranello, or drive (~25 minutes)
Final Thoughts
The Ferrari Museum in Maranello is more than just a collection of cars—it’s a celebration of design, speed, and human achievement. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Formula One or someone who simply appreciates beautiful machines, the museum delivers an unforgettable experience.
With its connection to Ferrari’s racing roots, real factory proximity, and immersive exhibits, Maranello is hands down the best Ferrari museum in Italy. If you’re planning a trip to northern Italy, make sure this red-hot destination is on your itinerary.