Ferrara Walking Tour Highlights and Food Tastings

Ferrara , Italy

Ferrara Walking Tour Highlights and Food Tastings

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About this experience

Enjoy a 2.5-hour guided tour of Ferrara that includes tastings of local specialties such as "cappellacci alla zucca" (pumpkin-filled pasta), charcuterie, cheese, wine, and gelato.

Begin at Rotonda Foschini, a quaint square with a circular layout. Enjoy the local vibe as you explore. Then, wander through Piazzetta S. Anna, a charming square with historic buildings and cozy cafes. Take a break at a local osteria to sample a delicious charcuterie board with regional meats and bread, paired with a fine Emilia-Romagna wine.

Visit the impressive exterior of Castello Estense, a medieval fortress, before heading to a local restaurant to taste "cappellacci alla zucca." Stroll along Via delle Volte, a picturesque medieval street. Pass by the Biblioteca Ariostea, a beautiful library, and end your tour in the lively Piazza Trento e Trieste. Conclude with a refreshing gelato.

Available options

Ferrara Walking Tour Highlights and Food Tastings

What's included

Ferrara Highlights With Local Food Tastings

Local Licensed Tour Guide

Detailed itinerary

Begin your day at Rotonda Foschini, a charming square with its distinctive circular structure. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the local atmosphere.

Wander through Piazzetta S. Anna, a picturesque little square known for its historic buildings and cozy cafes.

Stop 3 Pass by

Explore the exterior of Castello Estense, a stunning medieval castle at the heart of Ferrara. Admire the architecture and learn about its rich history.

Stroll along Via delle Volte, a charming medieval street with arches and atmospheric surroundings.

Pass by the Biblioteca Ariostea, an impressive library with a rich collection of books.

Conclude your guided tour at Piazza Trento e Trieste, the main square in Ferrara. Take in the vibrant atmosphere and snap photos of the surroundings.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The guide will wait for you in Rotonda Foschini

About Ferrara

Ferrara, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its well-preserved Renaissance architecture and rich cultural heritage. The city is famous for its medieval and Renaissance-era walls, castles, and palaces, making it a haven for history and architecture enthusiasts. Its unique urban layout and historic center provide a glimpse into the past, while its vibrant atmosphere and cycling culture offer a modern twist.

Top Attractions

Castello Estense

The Castello Estense is a medieval castle that served as the residence of the Este family, who ruled Ferrara for over three centuries. The castle is a prominent landmark and offers a fascinating glimpse into the city's history.

Historical/Architecture 1 to 2 hours €7 (includes audio guide)

Ferrara Cathedral (Cattedrale di San Giorgio)

The Ferrara Cathedral is a stunning example of Romanesque and Renaissance architecture. Dedicated to Saint George, the cathedral is a significant religious and cultural landmark in the city.

Religious/Architecture 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (donations appreciated)

Palazzo dei Diamanti

Palazzo dei Diamanti is a remarkable Renaissance palace known for its distinctive diamond-shaped facade. The palace houses the National Art Gallery of Ferrara and hosts various exhibitions and cultural events.

Architecture/Museum 1 to 2 hours €8 (includes access to the National Art Gallery)

Parco Massari

Parco Massari is a beautiful public park located just outside the historic center of Ferrara. The park is a popular spot for locals and visitors to relax, walk, and enjoy nature.

Nature 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Ferrara

The National Archaeological Museum of Ferrara showcases a rich collection of artifacts from the ancient Etruscan, Roman, and medieval periods. The museum offers a fascinating journey through the city's ancient history.

Museum 1 to 2 hours €6

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pasta e Piselli (Pasta with Peas)

A traditional Emilian dish made with pasta, peas, pancetta, and Parmigiano Reggiano cheese. It's a comforting and flavorful dish that showcases the region's love for simple, high-quality ingredients.

Main dish Contains meat and dairy

Salama da Sugo

A traditional Ferrara sausage made with ground pork, fat, and spices, then cooked in a sweet and sour sauce. It's a unique and flavorful delicacy that's often served as an antipasto.

Cold cut Contains pork

Cappellacci di Zucca

A traditional Ferrara pasta dish made with pumpkin-filled pasta shells, served with a sage and butter sauce. It's a delicious and hearty dish that's a must-try for pasta lovers.

Main dish Contains dairy and eggs

Gnocco Fritto

A traditional Emilian fried bread, similar to a doughnut, that's often served as an accompaniment to cured meats and cheeses. It's a crispy and delicious treat that's perfect for snacking.

Bread Contains gluten and dairy

Popular Activities

Hiking and biking in Parco del Delta del Po Boat tours of the Po Delta region Cycling around the city's historic center Picnicking in Parco Massari Enjoying a coffee or gelato at a local café Strolling through the historic center and admiring the architecture Visiting museums and galleries Attending local festivals and events

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather, ideal for exploring the city's historic sites and enjoying outdoor activities. The city is vibrant with cultural events and festivals during these periods.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, French, German
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

CET (GMT+1), CEST (GMT+2) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Ferrara is generally a safe city to visit, with low levels of violent crime and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in crowded areas and tourist hotspots, so it's important to keep your valuables secure and be vigilant.

Important Precautions:

• Keep your valuables secure and be vigilant in crowded areas and tourist hotspots
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services, and insist on using the meter or agreeing on a fare before starting your journey
• Be cautious when using ATMs or payment terminals, and cover the keypad when entering your PIN

Getting there

By air

Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport • 50 km (31 miles)

By train

Ferrara Station

By bus

Ferrara Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The public bus system in Ferrara is operated by TPER and covers most of the city. Buses are a convenient and affordable way to get around, with frequent services and stops near major attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: MyTaxi, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Centro Storico (Historic Center) Quadrante Nord (Northern District) Quadrante Est (Eastern District)

Day trips

Bologna

50 km (31 miles) • Full day

Bologna is a vibrant and historic city known for its medieval architecture, rich culinary traditions, and prestigious university. It's a great destination for those interested in history, art, and food.

Comacchio

50 km (31 miles) • Half day

Comacchio is a charming coastal town located in the Po Delta Regional Park. The town is known for its picturesque canals, historic buildings, and rich fishing heritage. It's a great destination for those interested in nature, history, and local culture.

Ravenna

60 km (37 miles) • Full day

Ravenna is a historic city known for its stunning mosaics, ancient churches, and rich cultural heritage. It's a great destination for those interested in art, history, and architecture.

Festivals

Ferrara Ball • May Ferrara Buskers Festival • September Ferrara Palio • May and September

Pro tips

Explore the city on two wheels, as Ferrara is known for its cycling culture and has a variety of bike rentals and bike-sharing options
Try the local specialties, such as Salama da Sugo, Cappellacci di Zucca, and Torta di Rose, at traditional osterias and pastry shops
Visit the historic center on a Sunday morning, when the streets are less crowded and the atmosphere is more relaxed
Take a day trip to nearby destinations, such as Bologna, Comacchio, or Ravenna, to explore the region's rich history and culture
Attend a local festival or event, such as the Ferrara Ball, Ferrara Buskers Festival, or Ferrara Palio, to experience the city's vibrant arts and culture scene