Top reasons to visit Ferrara
- Historic Charm: Ferrara boasts a rich history with its stunning palaces, churches, and the magnificent Este Castle, perfect for history enthusiasts.
- Cultural Delights: Experience the vibrant cultural scene, including local opera and charming neighbourhoods filled with friendly locals.
- Family-Friendly Activities: With recreational parks and engaging attractions, Ferrara offers fun for visitors of all ages.
- Picturesque Streets: Wander through cobbled streets and picturesque squares that showcase the city's enchanting atmosphere.
- Diverse Accommodations: Ferrara provides a range of comfortable lodging options, catering to every traveler's needs.
Find great hotels in and around Ferrara
Discover a charming selection of accommodation options in Ferrara, Emilia-Romagna, perfect for every type of traveller. Whether you seek a family-friendly hotel, a quaint bed and breakfast, or pet-friendly facilities, Ferrara offers a variety of choices. With its rich history and vibrant culture, you’ll find the ideal base to explore the city while enjoying comfortable rooms and excellent amenities tailored to both leisure and business needs.
- Best Western Palace Inn Hotel: Nestled in Ferrara, the 4-star Best Western Palace Inn Hotel is an excellent choice for those seeking a blend of comfort and convenience. With a guest rating of 8.6, this hotel caters to business travellers and pet owners alike. The property is pet-friendly, allowing for a stress-free stay with your furry companions. Amenities include complimentary Wi-Fi, meeting facilities, and a business centre, making it suitable for corporate guests. Visitors have appreciated the welcoming atmosphere and attentive service, ensuring a pleasant stay.
- Hotel Touring: Boasting a guest rating of 8.8, Hotel Touring is a delightful 3.5-star accommodation perfect for families and business travellers. Located in the heart of Ferrara, this hotel provides a range of child-friendly amenities such as a shared playground and babysitting services, ensuring that younger guests are well catered for. The hotel also offers comfortable rooms equipped with modern conveniences, allowing for a relaxing environment after a day of exploring. Guests have noted the warm hospitality and family-oriented services that make this hotel stand out.
- Hilton Garden Inn Bologna North: Located 39km from Ferrara, the 4-star Hilton Garden Inn Bologna North is ideal for those seeking a nature-themed getaway while maintaining access to urban conveniences. With a guest rating of 8.2, this hotel welcomes pets and focuses on wellness and natural experiences. Guests can enjoy a tranquil atmosphere with outdoor space and wellness amenities. The property features an on-site restaurant and fitness centre, catering to both leisure and business travellers. The combination of serene surroundings and modern facilities makes this hotel a compelling choice.
Where to stay near Ferrara
Immerse yourself in the enchanting charm of Ferrara, a city steeped in history and vibrant culture. Families and outdoor enthusiasts will delight in exploring its cobbled streets, picturesque squares, and the impressive Este Castle. Nearby, discover charming neighbourhoods with friendly locals and rich heritage. For a comfortable stay, various accommodations are available in Ferrara, allowing you to fully experience the city's unique atmosphere and captivating surroundings.
- Tamara: Nestled approximately 13km from Ferrara, Tamara is a tranquil village offering a unique blend of business and leisure experiences. While its visitor numbers tend to remain consistent year-round, peaks are observed in July and from September to October. The village is equipped with a convention centre and event conference venue, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a productive getaway. Visitors can enjoy the serene atmosphere and explore the surrounding countryside, providing a refreshing contrast to the bustling urban life of nearby Ferrara.
- Bondeno: Located about 18km from Ferrara, Bondeno is a vibrant city known for its outdoor and eco-friendly adventures. The city attracts visitors especially from March to April and in June, with a slight dip in numbers during August and October to November. Bondeno is a haven for nature enthusiasts, boasting picturesque hiking trails through lush landscapes and a charming park. The nearby nature reserve offers a glimpse into the region's rich biodiversity, while its monuments reflect the city's historical significance, making it a rewarding destination for both adventure seekers and culture buffs.
- Polesella: Situated also 18km from Ferrara, Polesella is a city that embraces eco-friendly living and cultural experiences. Its peak tourist season falls between August and September, as well as December, while quieter months include May and October to November. Polesella boasts beautiful family-friendly beaches and wetlands that invite exploration and relaxation. The area's commitment to preserving nature and fostering cultural activities makes it a delightful stop for those looking to immerse themselves in the local environment while enjoying a variety of outdoor pursuits.
Things to do in Ferrara
Shopping
In the heart of Ferrara, you can explore local markets like Mercato Coperto and enjoy unique finds. If you're up for a drive, Centro Commerciale Il Castello offers a larger shopping experience with a variety of brands and options to choose from.
Recreation
In Ferrara, the Terme di Salsomaggiore offers thermal baths and wellness treatments, ideal for relaxation. The Centro Benessere Il Glicine features a range of massages and beauty therapies, set in a tranquil environment, while enjoying the local culinary delights enhances your rejuvenating experience.
Adventure
Explore the majestic Este Castle, an impressive fortress surrounded by picturesque moats and lush gardens. For a thrilling experience, cycle along the city’s ancient walls, taking in stunning views of Ferrara’s historic architecture and vibrant streets filled with local culture.
Nightlife
Discover La Dolce Vita in Ferrara for a vibrant atmosphere with cocktails and live DJs. Visit Bar Centrale for a relaxed vibe and enjoy local wines. For a taste of traditional Italian music, head to Cantina di Ferrara, where you can savour regional delicacies and mingle with locals.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Ferrara
Ferrara offers numerous ways to save during your visit. Enjoy free attractions such as the Ferrara Cathedral and Via delle Volte. Walking or biking are excellent, cost-effective transport options. For accommodation, January to February and August are the cheapest months to visit, with Monday being the least expensive day to stay. Book your hotel about a month in advance or explore last-minute deals on Expedia. Combining your hotel, flights, and activities in a package can also lead to significant savings. Always remember to filter for the best prices on Expedia.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Ferrara are January to February and August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March, May and September, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Ferrara is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Ferrara is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Ferrara is Thursday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To discover the most economical prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Ferrara with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Ferrara
Ferrara is ideal for family, outdoor, and city-themed holidays, boasting attractions like historic palaces, churches, and piazzas. Visitors can delve into the cultural heart of Ferrara with its historic centre and magnificent Ferrara Cathedral. For a comfortable stay, explore the best hotels in the area, ensuring a memorable experience for all travellers seeking a blend of history and family-friendly activities.
- Palazzo dei Diamanti: This historic palace is renowned for its stunning diamond-shaped façade, showcasing Renaissance architecture. Visitors can explore its art exhibitions and enjoy the cultural ambiance that permeates this magnificent building.
- Ferrara Cathedral: A striking example of Romanesque architecture, Ferrara Cathedral features intricate sculptures and a magnificent façade. The interior boasts beautiful frescoes and is a serene space for reflection amidst the bustling city.
- Piazza Ariostea: This expansive square serves as a gathering place, surrounded by historical buildings. It offers a lively atmosphere, making it ideal for people-watching and enjoying local events while soaking in the rich cultural heritage of Ferrara.
Best time to go to Ferrara
The best time to visit Ferrara is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Ferrara
Travelling to Ferrara is convenient with access to three major airports. Bologna (BLQ-Guglielmo Marconi) is the closest, located 43km away, with luxurious options like the 5-star Grand Hotel Majestic già Baglioni and the 4.5-star Starhotels Excelsior nearby, both offering shuttle services. Florence (FLR-Peretola), situated 119km from Ferrara, features the 5-star Bernini Palace and Palazzo Montebello, both providing airport transport services. For those considering Pisa (PSA-Galileo Galilei), located 159km away, fine hotels such as Bagni di Pisa Palace & Thermal Spa and Hotel Pisa Tower Plaza are available, with nearby access to the airport. Each option ensures a pleasant stay with excellent transport services.