The ancient city of Ferrara offers some of Europe’s finest Renaissance streetscapes and medieval charm, all perfectly suited for walking tours. This UNESCO city‘s well-preserved walls, Jewish Ghetto, and grand palaces tell fascinating stories of Italy’s first planned city.
The best tours here take you through the imposing Estense Castle and the striking Romanesque Cathedral, while weaving through narrow cobblestone streets that haven’t changed much since medieval times. Small-group walking tours, typically 2-3 hours long, provide the richest experience, with guides who know the hidden corners and best photo spots.
Our favorite walks combine art history with food sampling stops, particularly around Via delle Volte, where you can taste local specialties like salama da sugo and cappellacci pasta. The evening tours are especially atmospheric, when the medieval streets are lit by traditional lanterns.
Check out these top-rated walking tours of Ferrara:
Good To Know
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The Medieval Ferrara and the Jewish Ghetto Walking Tour offers a 2-hour immersive experience exploring the city’s rich history and cultural heritage, including the Jewish Ghetto.
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The Ferrara Private Walking Tour provides a personalized 3-hour experience led by a certified guide, showcasing the captivating history and architecture of Ferrara.
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The Ferrara: 2-Hour City Center Walking Tour discovers the Renaissance charm of Ferrara, exploring the city’s fascinating urban planning and customizing the tour to suit interests.
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The Ferrara City Center Private Walking Tour with a Local Guide offers a more personal experience, with a guide providing insights into the UNESCO-listed city center.
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The Ferrara: Walking Tour, Highlights and Food Tastings combines a 2.5-hour walking tour of the city’s highlights with opportunities to sample regional specialties and wine.
Medieval Ferrara and the Jewish Ghetto Walking Tour
This guided walking tour immerses you in the rich history and cultural heritage of medieval Ferrara, including the captivating Jewish Ghetto. Lasting 2 hours, it costs from $149.96 per group of up to 6 people.
You’ll admire medieval and 20th-century architecture, explore the Garden of the Finzi-Continis, and learn about notable figures like Byron and Goethe. The tour starts at the Castello Estense courtyard, passes by historic landmarks, and ends at the 15th-century Italian Synagogue.
Included are headsets and a paper map, allowing you to clearly hear the guide and navigate the city. Check available dates and reserve now, paying later.
Read our full review: Medieval Ferrara and the Jewish Ghetto Walking Tour Review
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Ferrara Private Walking Tour
Explore the captivating history and architecture of Ferrara on this private walking tour. Operated by Bologna Tour & Best Italy Tour, the Ferrara Private Walking Tour provides a personalized experience for your group.
Priced from $152.88 per person, this tour offers a lowest price guarantee. You’ll be led by a certified guide, and the 3-hour experience is accessible to most travelers, though it’s not wheelchair-friendly.
The tour starts and ends at Piazza Trento-Trieste, with visitors advised to arrive 10 minutes early. Gratuities are included, and you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.
Read our full review: Ferrara Private Walking Tour Review
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Ferrara: 2-Hour City Center Walking Tour
Discover the captivating Renaissance charm of Ferrara on this 2-hour guided walking tour. Explore the city’s fascinating urban planning, the first modern city design, and customize the tour to suit your interests.
You’ll see the Renaissance Herculean addition and the inner courtyard of Palazzo dei Diamanti, visit the Estense Castle and several historic piazzas, and discover the old Medieval streets and former Jewish Ghetto. Led by an expert guide, you’ll learn about Ferrara’s rich history as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Priced at $96.40 per group up to 5 people, this tour is likely to sell out, so check availability and reserve now with the pay later option.
Read our full review: Ferrara: 2-Hour City Center Walking Tour Review
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Ferrara City Center Private Walking Tour With a Local Guide
Set out on a captivating private walking tour through the UNESCO-listed city center of Ferrara, led by a knowledgeable local guide. You’ll start from the central meeting point at Piazza Savonarola and explore the Romanesque architecture of Ferrara Cathedral.
Venture into the city’s historic Jewish district and meander through the medieval streets. The tour provides a more personal experience, allowing for greater interaction with the guide, who’ll share insights into Ferrara’s rich history.
Choose between a morning or afternoon tour, with the walk lasting approximately 2 hours and ending at Piazza Trento e Trieste. Moderate fitness is required, and appropriate attire is necessary for visiting places of worship. This private tour is for your group only.
Read our full review: Ferrara City Center Private Walking Tour With a Local Guide Review
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Ferrara: Guided City Highlights Walking Tour
Take in the Renaissance grandeur of Ferrara on this guided city highlights walking tour. For $128.54 per person, you’ll explore UNESCO-listed Ferrara over 2.5 hours, led by a certified guide.
Admire the Castello Estense, Romanesque Cathedral, and other historic monuments. The tour covers key sights like the Palazzo Diamanti, Addizione Erculea, and Jewish Ghetto. Just note it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues.
Book now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Discover the best of Ferrara’s Renaissance wonders on this comprehensive walking tour.
Read our full review: Ferrara: Guided City Highlights Walking Tour Review
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Ferrara: Private Walking Tour With Local Guide
A private walking tour with a local guide offers an immersive exploration of Ferrara’s captivating Renaissance heritage. Spanning 3 hours, you’ll visit the Estense Castle, the former residence of the Este family.
Stroll through the Jewish Ghetto and along the medieval cobblestone streets of Via delle Volte. Discover the city’s main square, Piazza Trento e Trieste, as your guide unveils Ferrara’s storied past. With entry tickets to the castle included, you’ll enjoy privileged access to this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
However, the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users. Wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather to fully experience this captivating private walking tour.
Read our full review: Ferrara: Private Walking Tour With Local Guide Review
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Ferrara: Walking Tour, Highlights and Food Tastings
This 2.5-hour walking tour offers an engaging exploration of Ferrara’s highlights, complemented by delectable food and wine tastings. Led by a licensed local guide, you’ll skip the lines and discover the city’s fascinating history, from the Rotonda Foschini to the Biblioteca Comunale Ariostea.
Along the way, you’ll savor regional specialties like pumpkin-filled pasta and a charcuterie and cheese board, plus a refreshing gelato. With a small group limited to 10 participants, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience. Booking is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
However, note that this tour isn’t suitable for vegans or those with gluten intolerance.
Read our full review: Ferrara: Walking Tour, Highlights and Food Tastings Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Average Duration of the Walking Tours?
The average duration of these walking tours is typically between 2 to 3 hours, allowing you to explore the city’s highlights at a leisurely pace and learn about its rich history and architecture.
Are the Walking Tours Wheelchair Accessible?
The walking tours are generally wheelchair accessible, though you’ll want to check with the tour operator to confirm accessibility for any specific tour. Most provide accommodations for visitors with mobility needs.
Do the Tours Provide Discounts for Students or Seniors?
Many walking tour providers in Ferrara offer discounts for students and seniors. You’ll need to inquire about specific tour pricing and policies to see if you qualify for any discounted rates.
Are There Any Restrictions on the Number of Participants?
Most walking tours have restrictions on group size, often capping the number of participants. You’ll want to check with the tour operator ahead of time to see if there are any limits on the group size for their walking tours.
Can the Tours Be Customized to Suit Individual Preferences?
Yes, many walking tour providers in Ferrara offer customizable tours to suit your preferences. You can often request modified routes, specialized themes, or private group sizes to personalize your experience.
The Sum Up
Whether you’re interested in Ferrara’s medieval history, its Jewish heritage, or simply exploring the city’s highlights, these walking tours offer a great way to discover the charming streets and landmarks of this UNESCO-listed city. With knowledgeable guides and customizable options, you’ll be able to tailor your experience to your interests and enjoy an in-depth exploration of Ferrara’s rich cultural and architectural offerings.