May 11–14, bask in the Italian sunshine at one of Europe’s most prestigious automotive festivals — plus enjoy related milestones including the 60^th anniversary of Lamborghini, Enzo Ferrari’s 125^th birthday and the 75^thanniversary of the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari in Imola.

© Fabio Casari

The setting is the fascinating city of Modena, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Attendees can park themselves for a selection of car lover-friendly conferences and roundtables, as well as check out car exhibitions showcasing Motor Valley brands including Ducati, Dallara, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati and more.

Parades and tastings are also part of the festivities. Take a side trip to National Motorcycle Museum in Rimini. Here, you can learn the story of this popular form of transport and peruse an exhibition featuring more than 250 motorcycles from 55 beloved brands, including the French Werner, Italian Frera and Stucchi. Displays also include posters, photos, accessories, sidecars and two-wheeled “grandmothers” dating to the late 19^th century. The museum is open weekdays by appointment.

© Musei Ferrari

To help you brush up on your motoring facts: Lamborghini, founded by Italian entrepreneur Ferruccio Lamborghini, had its foundation in tractor manufacturing. A bull was chosen as the symbol, which would provide a direct distinction to the Prancing Horse selected to adorn the Ferrari brand.

At Automobili Lamborghini Museum in Sant’Agata, Bologna, themed exhibits explore production, technology, innovation and car racing competitions. Also in Bologna, Ferruccio Lamborghini Museum in Argelato provides an insightful look into the life of the founder. More of a Ferrari fan? A movie detailing Ferrari’s history — filmed in Modena — is headed for release, and stars Penelope Cruz, Adam Driver, Shailene Woodley and Patrick Dempsey.