Ferrara stands out as a must-visit destination thanks to its beautifully preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture, intimate streets, and rich history. Unlike larger cities, Ferrara’s human scale makes it perfect for walking tours that feel personal and immersive. We love the Ferrara: City Highlights Walking Tour with Local Guide, which offers a lively introduction to the city’s soul, from the Estense Castle to Ariosta Place. This tour’s engaging guides and legend-filled stories make it an excellent choice for first-time visitors. Whether you’re interested in art, history, or simply wandering charming streets, Ferrara’s tours deliver authenticity and a sense of discovery. We also enjoy the private Discover Ferrara, City of the Renaissance for a tailored experience, perfect for those wanting a customized deep dive into the city’s treasures.
In this list, you’ll find a variety of tour types—guided walking tours, private explorations, culinary classes, and nighttime strolls—each highlighting different facets of Ferrara. Whether you’re after a quick overview or an in-depth culture, these experiences showcase what makes Ferrara a unique Italian city. Below, we explore each one to help you decide which best suits your travel style.
1. Ferrara: City Highlights Walking Tour with Local Guide
At number 1, the Ferrara: City Highlights Walking Tour with Local Guide offers a comprehensive yet relaxed introduction to Ferrara’s most important sights. For just $17 per person, you get a 2-hour walk through the streets filled with stories, legends, and history. The guide shares insights into the Estense Castle, Corso Ercole I d’Este, and the Diamanti Palace, making this a perfect first stop. With a solid 4.5-star rating from 146 reviews, the tour is praised for its engaging storytelling and approachable pace. Emma, the guide, is especially commended for her knowledge and involvement. It’s ideal for travelers who want a friendly overview without breaking the bank. The small-group setting makes it easy to ask questions and get a real feel for Ferrara’s medieval and Renaissance past.
Bottom Line: Great value and perfect for an easy, informative intro.
2. Ferrara: 2-Hour City Center Walking Tour
At number 2, the Ferrara: 2-Hour City Center Walking Tour hits the mark for its focus on urban planning and architectural innovation. With an impressive 4.8-star rating from 32 reviews, this tour emphasizes the city’s modern design roots, especially the work of Biagio Rossetti who expanded the city in 1492. The tour is flexible—customizable to your interests—and includes key sights like the Ferrara Cathedral and Corso Ercole I d’Este. It’s a quick but enriching overview, perfect if you only have a short stay but want to grasp Ferrara’s unique Renaissance planning. Since it’s guided by experts, it’s a good choice for those seeking a more academic perspective.
Bottom Line: Ideal for history enthusiasts who want a tailored, fast-paced exploration.
3. Discover Ferrara, City of the Renaissance
At number 3, the Discover Ferrara, City of the Renaissance offers a private, personalized walking experience. For around $121, up to 10 people can enjoy a tailored 2-hour tour that covers highlights like the Castello Estense, Ferrara Cathedral, and Piazza del Municipio. This tour is praised for its flexibility—your guide can adapt to your interests, whether that’s art, food, or local stories. The tour includes entry to the castle (though interior access is not part of this specific tour), and reviews highlight guides like Manuela for their friendliness and expertise. It’s perfect for small groups or families wanting a more intimate, relaxed exploration with a personal touch.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting a custom experience with insider knowledge.
4. Ferrara: Estense Castle Guided Tour
Number 4 on our list is the Ferrara: Estense Castle Guided Tour, a must for castle lovers. For only $15 per person, you get a 2-hour tour exploring Ferrara’s most iconic symbol. The guide takes you through frescoed halls, secret chambers, and underground prisons, revealing legends of the Este family. The tour is praised for its detailed storytelling, though some reviews mention a slight delay in guide arrival. The castle’s grandeur and the chance to peek into the medieval fortress make this a great choice for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts. The short duration ensures you experience the highlights without fatigue.
Bottom Line: An affordable, engaging way to dive into Ferrara’s medieval fortress.
5. Ferrara Tour of Must-See Attractions with Local Top Rated Guide
Number 5 is a private, 3-hour tour that covers Ferrara’s top attractions, including the Estense Castle, Jewish Ghetto, and Piazza Ariostea. With a high price point of about $312 per person, this tour is tailored for those wanting a comprehensive day with a focus on architecture, history, and local culture. The guide’s insights provide depth, and tickets to the castle are included for convenience. It’s ideal for travelers who want a deep dive without rushing and appreciate personalized service. Reviewers like the guide Marta for her knowledge and flexibility. This tour is perfect if you want to maximize your time and see Ferrara’s most celebrated sites comfortably.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those seeking an in-depth, customized experience.
6. Private Cooking Class of Ferrarese cuisine
Number 6 offers a Private Cooking Class that lasts about 5 hours and costs around $92 per person. This experience immerses you in authentic Ferrarese dishes with hosts Sofia and Matteo, who bring 25 years of experience. The class combines hands-on cooking, learning local secrets, and enjoying the meal together—truly a warm, convivial way to connect with Ferrara’s culinary traditions. Reviews highlight the hosts’ friendliness and the memorable, delicious results. It’s best suited for food lovers who want to get behind the scenes and enjoy a relaxed, social environment.
Bottom Line: Perfect for culinary enthusiasts wanting to cook and eat local specialties.
7. Cesarine: Dining & Cooking Demo at Local’s Home in Ferrara
Number 7 is a Cesarine dining and cooking experience that includes a 2.5-hour live cooking demonstration and a 4-course meal. For $98, you’ll learn recipes passed down by regional families, prepare dishes like pasta and desserts, and savor the results with regional wines. The warmth of local hosts Carla and Fabio makes it more than just a meal—it’s an authentic cultural exchange. Reviews praise the hospitality and the chance to see how locals cook in their own homes. This experience caters to travelers who love food, storytelling, and informal settings.
Bottom Line: A memorable way to enjoy Ferrara’s culinary traditions in a relaxed, homey atmosphere.
8. Guided tasting of local wines
Number 8 features a guided wine tasting that costs $28 per person. It includes sampling three regional wines paired with cured meats and typical specialties. This concise experience is ideal for wine lovers wanting to discover Ferrara’s excellence wines and regional flavors without a lengthy commitment. Reviews describe it as “delicious and lovely,” making it a good add-on after a day of sightseeing or as part of a food-focused day. Perfect for those who want a relaxed, educational way to appreciate local drinks.
Bottom Line: A tasty, affordable introduction to Ferrara’s wine culture.
9. Ferrara Walking Tour with Audio and Written Guide
Number 9 is a self-guided walking tour with digital guide. Priced at just $6.88, it allows you to explore at your own pace over 2-3 hours. The guide covers key landmarks like Via delle Volte, the Jewish Ghetto, and Ferrara Cathedral, sharing stories and curiosities along the way. This option suits independent travelers who enjoy a flexible schedule but want expert insights without a guide.
Bottom Line: Budget-friendly, flexible, and perfect for tech-savvy explorers.
10. Ferrara: Walking Tour, Highlights and Food Tastings
Number 10 offers a 2.5-hour walking tour combining highlights and food. It features stops at the Estense Castle, Cathedral, and local restaurants for tastings. Meeting at Rotonda Foschini, it provides a balanced taste of Ferrara’s sights and flavors. It’s ideal for travelers who want a compact experience blending culture and cuisine in one outing.
Bottom Line: Well-rounded choice for those wanting both sightseeing and tasting.
11. Ferrara Food Tasting and Walking Tour
At number 11, this food and walking tour costs about $215 and lasts roughly 3 hours. Led by local guides, it combines cultural sites like the Estense Castle and Ducale Palace with stops for local specialties including pastries, cured meats, and macaroni dishes. Reviewers mention the excellent combination of food and history, highlighting the friendly guides’ expertise. This tour is perfect for foodies who want to learn about Ferrara’s culinary roots while exploring its monuments.
Bottom Line: For gastronomic travelers seeking history and authentic tastes.
12. Ferrara Highlights Private Tour by Night
Number 12 is a nighttime private tour that lasts about 2.5 hours and costs approximately $200 per person. It offers a romantic, quieter look at Ferrara’s illuminated sights, including the Castello Estense, Jewish Ghetto, and Via delle Volte. The ambiance at dusk adds a special touch, and small groups ensure a personalized experience. If you enjoy photography or simply want a peaceful stroll after daytime crowds, this tour provides a unique perspective.
Bottom Line: Best for night owls or those seeking a magical, less crowded experience.
13. Ferrara Private Walking Tour
Number 13 features a private walking tour lasting around 2.5 hours, emphasizing the Este family’s influence and frescoed churches. Guides like Assunta earn praise for their expertise and ability to make history engaging—even in rainy weather. This tour works well for those who prefer a personalized, leisurely pace without rushing through highlights. With reviews noting the guide’s professionalism, it’s a solid choice for anyone who values expert storytelling and a flexible schedule.
Bottom Line: Excellent for small groups or couples wanting a customized, in-depth walk.
14. Treasure Hunt 2.0 in Ferrara – A Devil of an Assistant
Number 14, the Treasure Hunt 2.0, adds a fun twist to exploring Ferrara. For $39 per group, you use your smartphone to solve clues and uncover secrets during a 3-hour adventure. Ideal for families, couples, or friends who want to combine sightseeing with entertainment, this interactive experience encourages discovery through a playful, modern format. Reviews highlight the fun and engaging nature of the hunt. It’s perfect if you prefer an active, game-like experience over traditional tours.
Bottom Line: A lively, entertaining option for all ages and groups.
15. Ferrara Noire: un tour nella cronaca nera del passato
Finally, Ferrara Noire offers a 1.5-hour explore the darker side of Ferrara’s past—murders, witch hunts, and secret societies. Perfect for fans of crime stories or macabre history, this tour is conducted by licensed guides who ensure a fun, engaging experience for all ages. It’s a different way to see Ferrara through its shadows, ideal for evening or night outings.
Bottom Line: For curious travelers interested in Ferrara’s mysterious and eerie history.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Ferrara
Choosing the perfect tour depends on your interests, budget, and how much time you want to spend. If you’re after a rundown with a friendly guide, the City Highlights Walking Tour is a solid choice. For a more personalized experience, consider the Discover Ferrara private tour, or if food is your main focus, the Food Tasting and Walking Tour will satisfy your appetite for local flavors. For history lovers, the Estense Castle Guided Tour offers a deep dive into Ferrara’s medieval fortress.
Budget travelers might prefer the self-guided audio tour, while families or groups seeking fun should try the Treasure Hunt. Night owls or romantic couples will enjoy the private night tour, taking in the city’s illuminated sights. Remember to consider the duration, your interests, and whether a private or group experience suits your style best. Booking early is advisable, especially for popular private and culinary experiences.
Final Thoughts
Ferrara offers a variety of tours that cater to different interests—whether you want a quick overview, a private deep dive, or culinary adventures. For those seeking a comprehensive introduction, the City Highlights Walking Tour is hard to beat, especially at its affordable price. Food lovers should not miss the chance to cook with locals or enjoy an authentic dinner in a local home. History buffs will appreciate the castle tour, which reveals the medieval heart of Ferrara.
No matter your style, Ferrara’s diverse tours ensure a memorable experience. Book early to secure your spot—these authentic, well-curated experiences fill up quickly, especially in peak season. Whether you’re in search of history, food, or fun, Ferrara’s tours bring this charming city to life in a way that’s both authentic and delightful.
