Ferrara on a Budget: 5 Days of Fun and Adventure!

Exploring Ferrara's history, art, and culture on a budget that won't break the bank.

21 June 2023

Ferrara is a charming and historic city in northern Italy that is perfect for budget travel. The city has many affordable accommodations, including budget hotels and hostels. Visitors can explore the city's landmarks, such as the beautiful Este Castle and the impressive Cathedral of San Giorgio, without breaking the bank.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Getting Acquainted with Ferrara

  • •Visit Castello Estense – explore the castle and its grounds.
  • •Stroll through the City Center – admire the architecture and learn about the city’s history.
  • •Visit Palazzo dei Diamanti – this palace features exhibitions of art and paintings.
  • •Try local cuisine at Osteria del Ghetto Vecchio – try cappellacci and other traditional dishes.
  • •Try aperitivo at Enoteca al Brindisi – enjoy a glass of wine with some Italian aperitivi.
  • Stay at Le Stanze di Torcicoda, which is budget-friendly and located near the city center.
Day 2

Art and Culture

  • •Visit the Church of St. Mary in Vado – this church has beautiful frescoes in the Gothic style.
  • •Explore the Museum of the Risorgimento and Resistance – learn about the history of the region during World War II.
  • •Visit Palazzo Schifanoia – a beautiful palace with frescoes and gardens.
  • •Discover the works of Ludovico Ariosto – visit his house-museum.
  • •Grab a pastry at Pasticceria Fantini – taste their delicious sfogliatelle and other pastries.
Day 3

Natural Wonders

  • •Visit the Po Delta Regional Park – enjoy the natural beauty of the wetlands and nearby beaches at Lidos.
  • •Take a boat tour of the canals – admire the scenery and learn about the history of the area.
  • •Learn about ancient fishing techniques – visit Abbazia di Pomposa, home to a 10th-century Benedictine monastery with an interesting past.
  • •Try seafood at Trattoria del Pescatore – taste the catch of the day and pair it with Prosecco.
Day 4

Bike Tour

  • •Rent a bike and tour the city – Ferrara is renowned for its cycle-friendly streets.
  • •Visit the botanical garden – explore the biodiversity of this historic garden.
  • •Explore the Jewish Ghetto – learn about the history of the Jewish community in Ferrara.
  • •Sample Italian beer at Ferrara Beer – enjoy a cold pint in a unique atmosphere.
  • •Try pizza at Il Cucco – a restaurant that’s known for its quality pizza, excellent service and great atmosphere.
Day 5

Back in Time

  • •Visit the archaeological museum – see artifacts and learn about the ancient history of Ferrara.
  • •Explore the Etruscan necropolis – see the remains of the Etruscan civilization and learn how the area was shaped by their culture.
  • •Take a tour of Montecuccoli Castle – learn about the history of one of the most important military figures of the Baroque period.
  • •Try sweets at Cioccolati Italiani – indulge in a truffle or cannoli while sipping on coffee or tea.
  • •Shop at Il Mercato delle Erbe– taste local products and discover artisanal foodstuffs.
  • Stay at Agriturismo La Rocchetta, a peaceful and comfortable farmhouse where you can relax and enjoy the countryside.

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.

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