Ferrara , Italy

Ferrara Food Tasting and Walking Tour

Active

(1 reviews)

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Ferrara, city of Renaissance and UNESCO World Heritage, has a very old history about food traditions, started with the Este family in the XVI Century. A food tour in Ferrara is the best way for discovering the main monuments of this wonderful city: the beautiful Estense Castle, the Cathedral and the Ducale Palace, Schifanoia Palace, the urbanistic project Addizione Erculea.
During a Food Tour in Ferrara, accompanied by local expert guides and escorts, you will have the opportunity to find out all the secrets about its food excellences and old traditions: ricciola, a salty dough for breakfast; pasticcio di maccheroni; pumpkin’s cappellacci (tortelloni); salami of Ferrara; coppia, typical bread; pampapato and tenerina, chocolate cakes; Fortana, local wine.

Available options

Ferrara Food Tasting and Walking Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Taste of Macaroni Pasticcio

Cured-meats with local bread and local wine

Private certified guide

Breakfast with savory pasta and cappuccino/coffe

Quick lunch with hand-mae pasta and dessert, glass of wine

Detailed itinerary

First food stop for the breakfast as people used to do in Ferrara: a savory pasta + cappuccino. This is one of the most famous and the best Pastry Shop of Ferrara, located in the city centre. Here you will see also fresh food of gastronomy, hand-made pasta, local bread and cakes.

Walk with the guide through one of the most famous medieval street of the city

After a short walk with the guide through narrow streets, you will arrive at the main square of the city; here you will pass by the Dom, the oldest Wine Shop of Europe and the famous Estense Castle

Second food stop for a typical "aperitivo": a selection of fresh cured-meats as prosciutto, mortadella and salami of Ferrara, called "zia", with local bread (coppia), a taste of "pasticcio", a casket of macaroni with white ragù, mushrooms and truffle, all enclosed in a sweet pasta and a glass of local wine (sand wine).

Stop 5 Pass by

Walking to the last food stop, you will pass around the famous and wonderful Estense Castle. The guide will explain you the history and secrets about this medieval jewel.

Stop 6

Last stop at the Cafeteria of Palazzo dei Diamanti (Diamonds Palace), the most famous palace of the city which keeps a secret into a legend: a real diamond on its walls! Quick lunch with 2 fresh hand-made pasta: pumpink's tortelloni and an exclusive pasta of the restaurant with with ragù, a glass of Prosecco and dessert Tenerina (the chocolate cake of Ferrara)

What's not included

Tickets to monuments or museums in Ferrara

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

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

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Our guide will meet you in front of Porta Paola. The guide has a signboard with the logo fo My Motorland or your name.

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