Things To Do
in Ferrara

Ferrara, Italy, is a beautiful Renaissance city located in the Emilia-Romagna region, renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture and rich history. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing stunning landmarks such as the Estense Castle and the city walls that date back to the 15th century. Ferrara is also famous for its vibrant cultural scene, hosting various festivals and events throughout the year.

Visitors can enjoy its rich culinary heritage, making it a delightful destination for travelers seeking a blend of history, culture, and gastronomy.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering the Heart of Ferrara
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Estense Castle, exploring its impressive architecture and museum. Afterwards, take a leisurely stroll through the historic center, stopping by the Cathedral of Ferrara.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a local trattoria, then visit the Palazzo dei Diamanti, famous for its diamond-shaped bricks and housing an art gallery. Spend the afternoon wandering the charming streets and boutiques.

evening
:

End your day with dinner at a restaurant offering local specialties, followed by a walk along the city walls for a beautiful sunset view.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the Museo Archeologico Nazionale, where you can delve into the ancient history of the region. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a café in the Piazza della Repubblica.

afternoon
:

After lunch, head to the Parco Massari, a beautiful park perfect for relaxation or a picnic. Visit the nearby Jewish Ghetto to explore its historical significance.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a renowned pizzeria, then experience Ferrara's nightlife at a local bar or café, enjoying live music or a quiet drink.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍕Pizza$8-12
Coffee$1-3
🍷Glass of Wine$4-6
🥗Salad$6-10
🍰Dessert$3-5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage.
  • Delicious local cuisine.
  • Charming and walkable city center.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
  • Public transportation may be less frequent.
  • "Buongiorno" - Good morning
  • "Grazie" - Thank you
  • "Dove si trova il bagno?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Per favore" - Please
  • "Mi scusi" - Excuse me

Places to Visit in Ferrara

Visit one of these nice places.

Estense Castle

This iconic castle surrounded by a moat offers stunning views and picturesque photo opportunities.

Piazza Trento e Trieste

A vibrant square that showcases the beauty of Ferrara's architecture and is perfect for capturing the city's essence.

The City Walls

Take photos from the city walls, providing a unique perspective of Ferrara's historic landscape.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ferrara

Ferrara boasts a rich culinary tradition, influenced by its historical ties and local ingredients. Visitors must indulge in local specialties that reflect the flavors of the Emilia-Romagna region.

Ferrara Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Salama da Sugo

A traditional Ferrara dish, this is a spiced sausage typically served with mashed potatoes.

Must-Try!

Cappellacci di zucca

Pumpkin-filled pasta that is a staple of Ferrara's cuisine, often served with butter and sage.

Pasticcio Ferrarese

A savory pastry filled with meat, typically served with a rich sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercato Coperto

A vibrant indoor market where you can find fresh produce, meats, and local delicacies.

Street Food at Via Garibaldi

This street is famous for its food stalls offering local snacks and quick bites.

Climate Guide

Weather

Ferrara experiences a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and cool winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 34°C (93°F), while winters can drop to around 0°C (32°F). Rain is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with occasional snowfall in winter. The best months to visit are April to June and September to October for mild weather.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A polite greeting is customary; a handshake is common when meeting someone.

Dining Etiquette

It's polite to wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat.

Dress Code

Dress neatly, especially when visiting religious sites; casual attire is acceptable in most places.

Safety Guide

Safety

Ferrara is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as being aware of pickpockets in crowded areas and keeping valuables secure. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Ferrara

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but carrying cash is advisable for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make spring an ideal time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Summer

Hot and lively, summer brings numerous festivals, but be prepared for crowds.

Autumn

The fall foliage provides a beautiful backdrop, and the weather is generally pleasant for exploring.

Winter

Chilly temperatures with occasional snow; a quieter time to enjoy the city's beauty and festive decorations.

Nightlife Guide

Ferrara at Night

Ferrara's nightlife is vibrant yet relaxed, with a variety of bars, pubs, and live music venues. The city comes alive in the evenings, especially in the summer months when outdoor seating becomes popular. Many locals enjoy socializing over aperitifs in the piazzas, while others can find jazz clubs and dance venues for a lively night out.

Hiking in Ferrara

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Parco del Delta del Po

A nature park located about 30 km from Ferrara, offering a variety of trails through wetlands and coastal areas, ideal for birdwatching.

Bosco della Mesola

A beautiful forested area about 20 km from Ferrara, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.

Airports

How to reach Ferrara by plane.

Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport

Located about 50 km from Ferrara, this international airport offers various flights to European destinations and is the most convenient option for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ferrara is highly walkable, with most major attractions located within a short distance of each other in the historic center. The flat terrain and pedestrian-friendly streets make it easy to explore on foot. Biking is also a popular option, with dedicated bike lanes throughout the city.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

Ferrara is home to a significant student population due to its universities, contributing to the city's vibrant atmosphere.

Local Artists

The city has a rich artistic community, with many local artists and craftsmen showcasing their work throughout Ferrara.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is a beloved sport in Ferrara, with local teams competing in various leagues.

Cycling

The region is popular for cycling, with many scenic routes available for both casual and serious cyclists.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Ferrara is manageable, with most streets being narrow and suitable for local traffic. Public transportation includes buses that connect various parts of the city and surrounding areas. Cycling is a popular mode of transportation due to the city's bike-friendly infrastructure.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ferrara.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's best to check with the staff for specific options.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are becoming more common, but it's advisable to inquire in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Ferrara has a good healthcare system with several hospitals and clinics available. Emergency services are accessible, and pharmacies are widely available for minor health needs. It is advisable to have travel insurance covering medical expenses.

Discover Italy

Read more in our Italy 2025 Travel Guide.

Italy Travel Guide