Uncovering Ferrara's Renaissance Charm in A Day

Discover the Renaissance charm of Ferrara, Italy.

22 April 2023

Ferrara, just an hour away from Venice, is a must-see location for any art and history enthusiast. Its Renaissance architecture and grand palaces are a marvel to explore, while its well-preserved streets are perfect for strolling and soaking in the unique atmosphere. Don't miss out on visiting its iconic castles and churches, and indulge in traditional Italian cuisine at one of its many restaurants.

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Day trip plan

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Day

Discovering Ferrara's Renaissance Beauty

  • Start the day with a visit to the imposing Castello Estense, a fairytale-like castle in the heart of the city, home to a museum and impressive frescoes.
  • Stroll down via Volto del Cavallo and admire the grand palaces and noble homes of Ferrara's 15th-century heyday. Stop to take photos of the grand façade of Palazzo dei Diamanti, decorated with diamond-shaped marble blocks.
  • Enjoy some shopping and coffee in Piazza Trento e Trieste, the vibrant heart of Ferrara, surrounded by elegant arcades and buzzing with local life.
  • Explore Ferrara's grand cathedral, Duomo di San Giorgio, a Gothic masterpiece with intricate stained-glass windows and soaring bell tower.
  • Take a leisurely bike ride on the ancient city walls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best ways to appreciate Ferrara's greenery and tranquility.
  • End the day with a delicious dinner of local specialties at Osteria del Ghetto, a charming restaurant in the old Jewish quarter, serving hearty pasta dishes and fresh seafood.
  • Ferrara may be small compared to the likes of Rome or Florence, but it packs a mighty punch in terms of history, culture and gastronomy. From imposing castles to elegant palaces, from Gothic cathedrals to ancient walls, the city is a veritable feast for the senses. And when it comes to food, Ferrara is no slouch either, with a colorful array of regional specialties like cappellacci di zucca (pumpkin ravioli), salama da sugo (a spicy pork sausage), and pampepato (a chewy chocolate cake). So come and discover Ferrara, and get lost in its timeless allure.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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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

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Type of trip

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