Ferrara

Ferrara is a beautifully preserved Renaissance city and UNESCO World Heritage Site, shaped by the Este dynasty. Its wide streets, vast Este Castle, and flat layout make it famous as a city of bicycles.

Things to do

• Explore the Este Castle — Tour the moated medieval fortress that dominates the city center.
• Cycle the City Walls — Ride a bike along the intact Renaissance walls encircling the city.
• Visit the Cathedral — Admire the Romanesque-Gothic facade of the Cathedral of San Giorgio.
• Explore the Jewish Ghetto — Walk the historic ghetto with its museums and medieval alleyways.
• Visit Palazzo Schifanoia — See the breathtaking Renaissance frescos depicting months and courtly life.

Food to try

• Cappellacci di Zucca — Large pasta pockets filled with sweet pumpkin and amaretti, a Ferrara specialty.
• Salama da Sugo — A unique aged pork sausage braised slowly and served with mashed potato.
• Pampepato — A spiced chocolate and pepper cake traditional to Ferrara's Christmas season.
• Coppia Ferrarese — A distinctive twisted bread roll with IGP status, crispy and flavorful.

Local customs & good to know

• Cycling is the norm — Rent a bike — locals cycle everywhere and it is the best way to explore.
• Quiet evenings — Ferrara is a calm city; nightlife is subdued so embrace the relaxed pace.
• Jewish heritage — Show respect when visiting the synagogue and Jewish Museum in the historic ghetto.