Things To Do
in Ferrara
Ferrara is a compact Renaissance city in Emilia-Romagna, enclosed by intact medieval walls that give a distinctive skyline. Its center is a grid of elegant palazzi, sunlit squares, and long arcades that invite strolls along canals. The city blends grand architecture with a relaxed, bike-friendly pace and a thriving food culture anchored by pumpkin-filled cappellacci and Salama da sugo.
With a UNESCO-listed historic core and easy access from Bologna and Venice, Ferrara feels timeless yet welcoming.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a stroll through the cobbled streets of Ferrara's historic center, taking in the stunning Renaissance architecture. Visit the majestic Castello Estense, where you can explore its moats and towers, imagining the lives of the Este family who once ruled here. Don’t forget to enjoy a traditional Italian breakfast at a local café, sipping on espresso while nibbling a cornetto.
After lunch at a trattoria, head to the Ferrara Cathedral, a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture, where you can admire its intricate façade and stunning interiors. Spend some time wandering through the surrounding Piazza della Repubblica, where local artisans and vendors offer crafts and fresh produce. End your afternoon with a visit to the Palazzo dei Diamanti, known for its diamond-shaped façade and impressive art exhibitions.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot in a local osteria for dinner, savoring traditional dishes such as cappellacci di zucca, a delicious pumpkin-filled pasta. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the city walls, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside. Conclude your evening with a gelato from one of the many gelaterias, perfect for a sweet end to your day.
Start your day by visiting the Museo Nazionale dell’Basilica di San Francesco, where you can appreciate sacred art and artifacts that tell stories of Ferrara's rich religious history. Next, take a guided tour of the Teatro Comunale, a stunning opera house with opulent interiors, listening to tales of famous performances that have graced its stage. Enjoy a light snack at a nearby café, reflecting on the cultural significance of the sites you’ve explored.
Head to the Palazzo della Racchetta, a lesser-known gem where you can immerse yourself in local art and attend workshops led by local artisans. Afterward, stroll through the picturesque streets lined with boutiques selling handcrafted goods, perfect for picking up unique souvenirs. Visit a local wine shop to sample regional wines, learning about Ferrara's rich viticultural heritage.
For dinner, choose a restaurant that specializes in local cuisine, pairing your meal with a fine bottle of Estense wine. Experience the vibrant nightlife by attending a concert or theatrical performance at one of the city's venues. Finish the night with a visit to a wine bar, enjoying a glass of local wine while chatting with friendly locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍕Meal at mid-range restaurant | $18-30 |
| 🍷Three-course dinner for two | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $3-6 |
| 🚌Public transport day pass | $4-7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Renaissance architecture and UNESCO-listed historic center
- Bike-friendly streets and compact, walkable layout
- Delicious regional cuisine and welcoming dining culture
- Good access to Bologna and Venice for day trips
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Some smaller venues may have limited English-speaking staff
- Can get crowded around popular sights in peak season
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Dov'è il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Quanto costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Ferrara
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic fortress with a moat and graceful towers; ideal for dramatic exterior shots and reflections in the water at dawn or dusk.
A Renaissance palace famous for its diamond-patterned façade; excellent for architectural photography and street views.
A striking example of medieval architecture with ornate doors and a tall façade—best shot in soft morning light.
The well-preserved city walls provide expansive vantage points over the city and surrounding countryside.
Food in Ferrara
Ferrara Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Pumpkin-filled pasta typically served with butter, sage, and sometimes a light drizzle of cheese or nutmeg.
Must-Try!
A slow-cured pork sausage flavored with spices, usually served in ragù or alongside polenta.
Fried flatbread served with an assortment of local cured meats and cheeses.
Polenta topped with mushrooms or a savory ragù, a comforting staple in Ferrara.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A covered market offering fresh produce, cheeses, breads, and regional specialties—great for a quick snack or ingredients for a picnic.
A traditional outdoor market in a historic square where locals shop for seasonal fruits, vegetables, and prepared foods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Begin with a friendly Buongiorno or Buonasera; a handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; voice levels should be kept respectful inside sacred spaces.
Italians typically eat slowly and savor meals; avoid rushing the course and use polite phrases like grazie and prego.
Safety
Tipping in Ferrara
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Italy; rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip for good service is common, especially in cafes and casual eateries.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common in shops and restaurants. Some smaller establishments may prefer cash, and service charges are not always included, so check the bill.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and sometimes humid with long days; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon and enjoy gelato in shaded squares.
Mild temperatures with colorful foliage; great for strolls along the walls and al fresco dining.
Cool to cold, with occasional fog; museums and cafés make for cozy indoor experiences.
Pleasant, with blooming trees and lively pedestrian areas; ideal for walking tours and bike rides.
Ferrara at Night
Hiking in Ferrara
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Wetlands and birdwatching routes along the Po river; excellent for nature lovers and easy hikes.
Forest trails near the Mesola area offering shaded paths and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Ferrara by plane.
Main international airport with regular trains and buses to Ferrara; roughly a 60–90 minute journey depending on connections.
Major international gateway to the Veneto region; connections to Ferrara via rail or road transport.
Smaller airport serving several European routes; viable for some low-cost carriers, with onward connections to Ferrara by train or bus.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A sizable student population from the University of Ferrara contributes to a lively, youthful feel in the city center.
A stable, family-oriented community with a strong emphasis on cultural heritage.
A growing number of travelers drawn to Ferrara’s history, cuisine, and relaxed pace.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Ferrerra community leagues and local clubs emphasize football culture, as in much of Italy.
A common recreational sport with local teams and community courts.
A popular pastime given the flat terrain and extensive bike lanes; ideal for city exploration and day trips.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ferrara.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in Ferrara. Seek pasta dishes with mushroom or cheese fillings, risotto, and vegetable-based antipasti; ask for butter or olive oil rather than animal-based broths when needed.