A Romantic Long Weekend in Ferrara, Italy

Experience the ultimate romance in the beautiful Renaissance city of Ferrara, Italy.

22 April 2023

Take a romantic trip to Ferrara, Italy and explore the picturesque Renaissance town with a stunning medieval castle at its center. Visit the breathtaking Este family palace and climb the bell tower of the Duomo for a panoramic view of the city. Indulge in the local cuisine, including cappellacci pasta and fresh seafood, before strolling through the charming streets hand-in-hand with your loved one.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

First Impressions

  • Check into the charming Hotel Annunziata, a renovated 16th-century convent with peaceful gardens.
  • Begin exploring the city on foot, taking in the grandeur of the Este Castle and the beauty of the Cathedral.
  • Grab a light lunch at Al Convento, a former nunnery turned popular restaurant with delicious pasta dishes.
  • Stroll through the historic Jewish quarter, admiring the colorful buildings and learning about the city's Jewish heritage.
  • End the day with a relaxing aperitivo at the stylish Cafè del Corso, watching the locals go by.
Day 2

Art & Culture

  • Visit Palazzo dei Diamanti, home to a collection of Renaissance and contemporary art exhibitions.
  • Explore the National Archaeological Museum, showcasing the ancient history of Ferrara.
  • Have lunch at La Capinera, a cozy trattoria known for its creative seafood dishes.
  • Take a leisurely bike ride along the city walls, enjoying the views of the moat and greenery.
  • End the day at the Teatro Comunale, attending a performance of opera or theatre in one of Italy's most beautiful venues.
Day 3

Foodie Adventures

  • Start the day with a decadent breakfast of pastries and coffee at Pasticceria Santacroce.
  • Join a food tour of Ferrara's traditional markets, sampling the local cheese, meats, and wine.
  • Have lunch at Osteria Il Cammello, a rustic restaurant serving up hearty pasta dishes.
  • Visit the lively Palazzo Schifanoia, a Renaissance palace with stunning frescoes and decorative motifs.
  • End the night at Da Noemi, a cozy wine bar with a vast selection of Italian wines and an intimate atmosphere.
Day 4

Nature & Relaxation

  • Take a day trip to the stunning Po Delta National Park, enjoying boat rides and birdwatching.
  • Have a picnic lunch in the tranquil Benvignante Park, surrounded by trees and greenery.
  • Head back to Ferrara for a spa treatment at the luxurious Aquae Mundi Spa.
  • Take a romantic gondola ride through the city's canals, admiring the views of the historic buildings.
  • End the trip with a special dinner at Cusina e Butega, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving gourmet dishes highlighting local ingredients.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

Destination

Ferrara

Unlike its more colorful cousins Venice and Florence, Ferrara is often overlooked by tourists seeking a more vibrant experience. But if you're in the mood for a charming, peaceful retreat that doesn't involve dodging selfie sticks, then welcome to Ferrara!

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Five Days of Family Fun: Explore Ferrara on a Budget!

Ferrara, Italy is a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip, offering a combination of history, culture, and outdoor activities. Explore the magnificent Este Castle and the stunning Cathedral of St. George, or take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Renaissance-style streets of the city. With its numerous parks and gardens, including the famous Parco Massari, Ferrara provides ample opportunities for the children to enjoy outdoor activities and have fun.

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.

Ferrara Bound: A Budget-Friendly 3 Day Adventure

Explore the stunning Renaissance architecture of Ferrara's well-preserved historic center while on a budget trip to Italy. Take advantage of free or affordable outdoor activities, such as strolling through the Parco Massari or cycling along the fossilized banks of the Po River. Savor traditional Italian cuisine at budget-friendly trattorias or grab a slice of pizza from a local pizzeria.

Discover the Best of Ferrara: 2-Day Budget Guide

Ferrara, a small Italian city that is rich in Renaissance history and culture, is an ideal destination for budget-conscious travelers. Sightseeing on foot or by bike is the easiest way to explore the city's many architectural delights, including the stunning Palazzo dei Diamanti and Castello Estense. Inexpensive dining options include traditional pizza, pasta, and gelato from local street vendors and cafes.