Happy Weekend in Ferrara: 3-Day Travel Guide

Discover the Renaissance charm of Ferrara, Italy.

03 May 2023

Ferrara is a charming city in Northern Italy with a rich history and culture. It is known for its beautiful Renaissance architecture, stunning art and delicious culinary delights. Tourists can explore the many historic sites such as the Castello Estense or indulge in the local cuisine such as cappellacci di zucca and salama da sugo.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Discovering Ferrara

  • Check in at the charming Hotel Annunziata, conveniently located near all major attractions.
  • Start your day with a visit to the impressive Castello Estense and its iconic moat, a symbol of the city's wealth and power.
  • Explore the beautiful historic center with a guided walk, taking in the stunning architecture and charming narrow streets.
  • Stop at the Palazzo dei Diamanti to admire its intricate diamond-shaped facade and the remarkable collection of art inside.
  • End your day at Osteria degli Artisti, a cozy eatery serving traditional Ferrarese cuisine, including mouth-watering cappellacci di zucca (pumpkin-filled pasta).
Day 2

Art and Gardens

  • Start your day at the charming Giardino Botanico, a serene oasis of greenery and flowers, perfect for a morning stroll.
  • Visit the National Museum of Italian Judaism and the Shoah to learn about the Jewish history and the tragic events of the Holocaust.
  • Stop at the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art to admire the impressive collection of modern art and the stunning Palazzo Massari.
  • End your day at Al Meloncello, a cozy trattoria with a lovely garden, serving delicious homemade pasta dishes and regional specialties.
Day 3

Cycling in the Countryside

  • Rent a bike from the hotel and cycle through the idyllic countryside of Ferrara, dotted with picturesque canals, verdant fields, and charming villages.
  • Visit the Abbazia di Pomposa, a magnificent monastery founded in the 6th century, featuring stunning frescoes and impressive architecture.
  • Stop at the charming village of Comacchio to wander its charming streets and to sample the local seafood delicacies.
  • End your day at Cusina e Butega, a gourmet delicatessen and wine bar, serving the finest local cheeses, wines, and charcuterie.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Ferrara, Italy by plane is to fly into Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ) and then take a train from Bologna Centrale station to Ferrara.

Car

The best way to get to Ferrara, Italy by car is to take the A13 motorway from Bologna to Padua and then take the Ferrara Sud exit.

Train

The best way to get to Ferrara, Italy by train is to take a high-speed train from Rome Termini station to Bologna Centrale station, and then transfer to a regional train to Ferrara.

Boat

There is no direct way to get to Ferrara, Italy by boat as it is an inland city. The closest port is Venice, but it would require taking a bus or train from Venice to Ferrara.

Bus

The best way to get to Ferrara, Italy by bus is to take a coach from Milan Central Station to Ferrara bus station.

More travel plans

Ferrara: Renaissance Delights and Medieval Adventures

Ferrara, Italy offers a fantastic family-friendly vacation with its rich history and charming atmosphere. Explore the beautiful Este Castle where kids can feel like royalty as they wander through the grand halls and admire the ancient artifacts. The city's well-preserved medieval streets also provide a perfect setting for leisurely strolls and delightful gelato stops, ensuring an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

Discover Ferrara's Charm on a Romantic Getaway

Ferrara is a stunning Italian city full of historical beauty and charm. It is a perfect romantic getaway destination with its picturesque streets, delicious cuisine, and romantic atmosphere. Couples can explore the city's many museums, art galleries, and Gothic-style architecture, and relax with a glass of wine in one of its many piazzas.

Romantic Long Weekend in Ferrara, Italy

Experience the charm of Ferrara, Italy with your significant other on a romantic trip. Walk through picturesque streets lined with medieval architecture, admire grandiose palaces, and explore the Castle Estense, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Indulge in local cuisine and wine, and soak in the laid-back atmosphere of this hidden gem of northern Italy.

Experience Ferrara's Beauty in 5 Days

Ferrara offers a unique experience to its visitors with its rich history and artistic heritage. Tourists can marvel at the well-preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture while exploring the city's streets and canals. The city's art and music scene is also worth exploring, with various cultural events and festivals held throughout the year.