Ferrara is a city that rewards visitors with its well-preserved medieval streets, Renaissance architecture, and a rich tapestry of history that’s still very much alive. Unlike some Italian cities that feel overrun with travelers, Ferrara offers authentic, immersive experiences—whether you’re wandering its historic center or cycling along its scenic walls. We especially love the Ferrara: Medieval Ferrara and the Jewish Ghetto Walking Tour, which offers a thoughtful look at the city’s layered past, and the Private Bike Tour, which makes exploring both the top sights and the city’s lush surroundings so effortless. If you’re short on time but want to enjoy a full day out, the Ferrara & Lunch In Osteria from Bologna provides a perfect blend of sightseeing and local cuisine.
Below, you’ll find a careful selection of the best tours in Ferrara, each offering its own flavor—whether through walking, biking, or a day trip—so you can pick the one that best matches your interests and pace.
1. Ferrara: Medieval Ferrara and the Jewish Ghetto Walking Tour
This 2-hour guided walking tour immerses you in the main symbols of Ferrara’s culture, focusing on its medieval roots, Renaissance architecture, and Jewish heritage, including a stroll through the Garden of the Finzi-Continis. The tour begins at either L.go Castello or Caffetteria del Castello Estense, making it flexible for travelers arriving in different parts of the city. During this walk, you’ll explore the castle walls, the historic Jewish ghetto, and the elegant palaces that tell the story of Ferrara’s significant family, the Este, and their influence over centuries.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on the city’s social and economic history, along with vivid stories about people like Duchess Lucrezia Borgia who once lived in the Castello d’Este. Your guide will also lead you through the Garden of the Finzi-Continis, connecting literature and history in a meaningful way. Reviews praise Elizabetha’s deep knowledge, with one visitor calling her “very, very knowledgeable and giving an interesting overview of the town’s history.” It’s an ideal choice if you want a compact, insightful experience that combines architecture, history, and Jewish heritage.
Bottom line: This tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Ferrara’s layered past in just two hours, perfect for history enthusiasts and those interested in cultural stories.
2. Ferrara: Private City Highlights Guided Bike Tour
For those who prefer to see more of the city in less time, this 2.5-hour private bike tour hits all the key sights—Castello Estense, Palazzo Diamanti, the city walls, and the Jewish Ghetto. It’s a great way to enjoy Ferrara’s laid-back bike lifestyle, which locals cherish as a way of life. During the ride, you’ll discover the Renaissance Palazzi linked to the Este family and Lucrezia Borgia, along with the university’s historic buildings.
Your guide, Elisabetta, is praised for her ability to share Ferrara’s stories while keeping the ride fun and accessible. One review highlights how she “piqued curiosity” with her knowledge and made the town’s history come alive. Riding along the city’s green walls, you’ll get a fresh perspective on Ferrara’s unique combination of urban and natural beauty. The tour naturally fits those who love active exploration and want a personalized experience without the constraints of a large group.
Bottom line: This private bike tour is excellent for active travelers who want a flexible, intimate way to explore Ferrara’s main sights and get a feel for its relaxed lifestyle.
3. Ferrara & Lunch In Osteria – Private Day Tour From Bologna
If you’re staying in Bologna but eager to explore Ferrara, this 7.5-hour day trip combines sightseeing with authentic regional food. The tour includes a private transfer from Bologna, so you won’t have to worry about logistics, leaving you free to enjoy the experience. Once in Ferrara, you’ll take a guided tour of UNESCO-listed sites, walking through the city’s most important landmarks at a relaxed pace.
After the sightseeing, you’ll enjoy a traditional Italian lunch at a historical osteria, where you can savor local specialties like handmade pasta or regional wines. This tour is ideal if you want to combine history, culture, and culinary delights in one manageable day. The itinerary is flexible, and the tour is praised for its “private, personalized experience” that lets you get a real taste of Ferrara without feeling rushed.
While some reviews note the tour’s length, for most travelers, the balance of transportation, guided sightseeing, and food makes it a great value. Perfect for those with limited time who want an immersive day.
Bottom line: This day trip offers a comprehensive look at Ferrara with the bonus of a delicious meal, ideal for travelers based in Bologna looking for a seamless experience.
How to Choose
Choosing between these tours depends on your interests, pace, and how deeply you want to explore Ferrara. If history and architecture are your priorities, the Walking Tour gives a compact yet meaningful introduction. For active travelers who want to see more of the city’s layout and enjoy a personalized experience, the Private Bike Tour is hard to beat. If your time in Italy is limited and you want a full day that combines sightseeing and food, the Day Trip from Bologna offers excellent value.
Consider your fitness level, your interest in Jewish heritage, and whether you prefer walking or biking. Booking early is advisable, especially in high season, as Ferrara’s tours tend to fill quickly.
Ferrara offers a range of engaging tours that highlight its medieval roots, Renaissance splendor, and contemporary charm. Whether you prefer a guided walk, a bike ride through the city’s green spaces, or a day trip from Bologna with a delicious lunch, there’s a tour to match your style. For history lovers, the walking tour provides depth and storytelling; for active explorers, the bike tour offers a dynamic way to see the city; and for those short on time, the full-day trip from Bologna delivers a convenient, all-in-one experience.
No matter your choice, booking in advance will ensure you get the most out of your visit. Ferrara’s quiet streets and fascinating stories await—time to make your plans.