You may not have heard of the Emilia Romagna region in Italy. But we are sure you’ve heard of Ferrara, Italy’s Renaissance Marvel. Ferrara is a half an hour train from Bologna.
We are architects and are convinced that Ferrara boasts some of the most incredible renaissance buildings in the world. UNESCO agrees with us and has included Ferrara in its List of World Heritage Sites.
Besides, Ferrara has splendid nature all around. As you can imagine, the food and wine are absolutely delicious. Since it’s a university town, the vibe is relaxed and fun.
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Get Lost on the Streets of the Old Town
One of the things we love doing when in Ferrara is walking. You can walk four hours aimlessly without a plan. Porta Paola is the nicest access gate to the Old Town.
Our favorite street is cobbled Via della Vittoria. It leads to the city’s most famous shopping street, Via Giuseppe Mazzini. The Jewish Guetto is near. It’s one of the oldest in Europe.
Don’t skip the one and only Rotonda Foschini, behind Ferrara’s Opera house. To rest under ancient tall trees, go to Pareschi Park, next to the University.
Visit the Castello Estense
No matter how many castles you’ve seen in your life, the Castello Estense is in a league of its own. You need at least two hours to see the castle.
The castle has a church, a prison, a museum, several halls and the most amazing frescoes. The moat around the castle is pretty impressive too.
We strongly recommend paying the 2 extra euros to access the tower. It’s over 100 steps to the top but the views will take your breath away.
Visit the Cathedral
Ferrara’s Cathedral is even older than the Castle. Construction of the temple began in 1135. The temple was consecrated in 1177. Before entering the temple, check out the incredible arches that surround it.
Unlike most Romanesque churches, this one has a lot of Gothic elements. Note the gothic arches in the main facade, where the Madonna and Child sculpture is.
Enter the church and prepare to be dazzled. You will notice that it’s Baroque from the inside. Indeed, the interior was completely redone in the 18th Century after a fire destroyed the original one.
Stroll along City’s Most Picturesque Street
Though Ferrara is a small city, it features one of Italy’s most famous streets: Via delle Volte. We always begin our at walk at Via de la Giuoco del Pallone.
The oldest section of the street is some 1200 feet (700 m) long. Nevertheless, you can keep on walking along Via Capo delle Volte a couple of extra blocks.
The medieval street got its name from the numerous arches that cross it. However, it was once known as the prostitutes street. Go when the sun sets to get the most amazing pictures.
Visit a Museum or Two
There are 16 museums in Ferrara, including the Cathedral Museum in front of the temple. That said, we believe you should visit at least three. The National Archaeological Museum of Ferrara is our favorite.
It’s inside Costabili Palace, a renaissance masterpiece. The collection inside will leave you speechless. The museums garden is worth the extra 1e ticket. The Museo di Casa Romei is nearby.
The small museum used to be the house of a rich mediaeval merchant. Finally, visit Palazzo dei Diamaniti, where the National Art Gallery is. You will recognize it from its diamond cladding.
Meet the Locals in the Central Park
As mentioned, Ferrara has a relaxed and easy going vibe. In particular in the late afternoon when day tourists leave. The best place to mingle with the locals in Massari Park.
We love walking under the ancient ginkgo and cedar trees. There are several paths, benches, and playgrounds. It’s safe at all times and no dogs are allowed.
It’s a walled park. Once done with the park, walk along the historic Ercole I D’Este Avenue. If you like gardens, check the University’s botanical gardens in front of the Park.
Visit an Old Monastery Now Cemetery
Ferrara’s grandest green area, Certosa Charterhouse, dates back 600 years. Its life began as a Monastery in the 15th Century. Napoleon used it as barracks in 1799. It became a cemetery in 1813.
Some of Ferrara’s most celebrated citizens are buried here. The place is stunning, in particular the church. The gardens are huge and very peaceful. It’s a great place to enjoy nature and architecture.
If you have time, check the Jewish cemetery behind Certosa. The lovely garden dates back to the 18th Century.
Walk along the City Walls
We love biking and walking along Ferrara’s ancient city walls. The walls are 8 miles (12 km) long. However, you can walk or bike along 6 miles (9 km).
Granted, most of the wall has been destroyed, but several towers and gates still remain. Look out for Porta degli Angeli and for Porta Paola. Go in the afternoon for memorable pictures.
The best preserved section of the wall, called Riccardo Bacchelli, is to the north. The nicest section is the tree covered Montagnola. Ferrara is super safe, so you can walk even at night.
Try Delicious Italian Cuisine
Italian food needs no introduction. It has conquered the entire world. Ferrara is famous in Italy for its incredible pasta, Cappellacci. You won’t be able to stop eating the pumpkin filled hat-shaped delicacy.
Our favorite restaurant in Ferrara is Trattoria Le Nuvole. It’s a family owned place visited mostly by locals. Ask your waiter for suggestions and prepare to over eat.
For seafood we go to Lemoko. The fancy restaurant is inside a former chapel within a lovely garden. Their wine list is as incredible as the food.
Go on a Day Trip to Comacchio
If you have enough time, you have to go to Comacchio, one of the cutest little towns in the whole of Europe. Not only that, but most tourists overlook it, so you will enjoy a lot of space.
Comacchio is 30 miles (50 km) east of Ferrara on the River Po delta. Buses from Ferrara take 1.2 hours to get there. Comacchio is inside a lagoon! Ancient bridges connect the 13 islands that make up the town.
It’s full of churches, museums and palaces. Do yourself a favor and spend at least one night at the historic Al Ponticello.
Where to Stay in Ferrara
The best places to stay in Ferrara are in the Old Town. We’ve stayed at the wonderful Duchessa Isabella Collection by Uappala and loved it. The only 5 star hotel in the city is a couple of blocks from the palace.
The rooms are extra comfy and it’s got a fantastic spa with a hot tub and a sauna. Another great option is the Hotel Ferrara. If you can afford it, book the massive deluxe room with castle views.
Considering its class and location, the Hotel Nazionale is great value for money. It’s next to the cathedral. The complimentary breakfast is delicious.
