Ferrara is a city that charms visitors with its well-preserved medieval streets, Renaissance architecture, and lively piazzas. Unlike some tourist spots that feel overwhelmed or overly commercialized, Ferrara offers a welcoming, human-sized experience that’s perfect for walking and exploring at your own pace. Whether you’re passionate about history, architecture, or local culture, Ferrara’s tours include options for every interest. We particularly like the Ferrara: City Highlights Walking Tour with Local Guide for its lively storytelling and genuine insight into the city’s medieval roots. The combination of a small group and a knowledgeable guide makes this a personable way to start your visit.
For travelers seeking a more personalized experience, the Discover Ferrara, City of the Renaissance offers an exclusive private tour with custom options. Night lovers, meanwhile, might prefer the Private Ferrara Tour of City Highlights by Night to enjoy Ferrara’s illuminated monuments away from daytime crowds. Each tour provides a unique way to see and understand Ferrara’s layered story, making it easier to choose one that matches your interests and travel style.
1. Ferrara: City Highlights Walking Tour with Local Guide
At number 1 on our list is the Ferrara: City Highlights Walking Tour with Local Guide. Priced at just $17 per person, it’s a budget-friendly way to get to know this Renaissance city intimately. The tour lasts about 2 hours and covers key sights like the Estense Castle, Corso Ercole I d’Este, Diamanti’s Palace, and Ariosta Place. Your guide will share stories about the Este family, legends, and the city’s evolution from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on the “true soul” of Ferrara—its architecture, narrow streets, and human-sized feel. With an average rating of 4.5/5 based on 146 reviews, many visitors highlight the engaging guide Emma, who’s described as “very prepared and captivating.” It’s ideal for travelers who want a quick yet rich introduction, with a mix of history, legends, and local color. The tour’s affordability and small-group atmosphere make it perfect for those on a budget or short on time. Expect a lively stroll through authentic Ferrara, with plenty of photo opportunities and stories along the way.
Bottom Line: This tour offers an excellent introduction for first-timers wanting to see the highlights without breaking the bank.
2. Discover Ferrara, City of the Renaissance
Number 2 on our list is the Discover Ferrara, City of the Renaissance, a private walking tour that offers a more tailored experience. For around $121 per group (up to 10 people), it provides approximately 2 hours of personalized sightseeing. Starting at a central location, your guide will take you through Castello Estense, Ferrara Cathedral, and Piazza del Municipio. This tour is designed to maximize your time and adapt to your interests, with the itinerary flexible to include food, history, or specific landmarks.
What makes this tour unique is its customization and the chance to learn about Ferrara’s culture, food, and history in a more intimate setting. It’s a good choice for travelers who prefer a private guide, want to focus on specific topics, or have limited time but desire a deeper connection. The tour’s detailed highlight of Castello Estense—notably its moat and architecture—gives visitors a real sense of the city’s Renaissance grandeur.
Reviewers praise guide Manuela’s friendly and knowledgeable approach, emphasizing the tour’s thorough history and cultural insights. It’s an excellent option for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a flexible, in-depth experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking a personalized, flexible exploration with a focus on culture and history.
3. Private Ferrara Tour of City Highlights by Night
Our top choice for night-time ambiance is the Private Ferrara Tour of City Highlights by Night. Priced at over $278 per person, this 2.5-hour outdoor tour is designed for those wanting a romantic, crowd-free experience of Ferrara’s illuminated monuments. You’ll meet your guide beside the Statua di Girolamo Savonarola before wandering through the Jewish Ghetto, Via delle Volte, and the Castello Estense’s exterior, all under the glow of evening lighting.
The tour’s highlight is experiencing Ferrara’s medieval streets and squares when they’re least crowded, with many buildings and landmarks beautifully lit up. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy walking in the evening, photography, and discovering the city’s atmospheric side away from daytime tourism. The route includes historic streets, arches, and churches, ending with a lively visit to the bars and cafes along Via delle Volte—perfect for a relaxed nightcap.
Reviews are limited but glowing, with one describing it as a way to “see the city without crowds and in a different, magical light.” The tour’s focus on outdoor exploration and its intimate setting make it a romantic pick for couples or night photography enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those looking to combine sightseeing with the ambiance of Ferrara at night, especially if avoiding daytime crowds is a priority.
$278.07 per person
How to Choose
When selecting the right tour in Ferrara, consider your budget, interests, and how much time you want to spend exploring. If you’re after a cost-effective introduction, the City Highlights Walking Tour is hard to beat. For a more personalized experience, the private Discover Ferrara tour lets you tailor your visit. If you love evening atmosphere and fewer crowds, the Night Tour is the way to go.
Think about what you want to see most—Renaissance castles, medieval streets, or lively squares—and choose accordingly. Booking early is advisable, especially for the private and night tours, as they tend to fill up quickly. Consider your fitness level; all these tours involve walking, so comfortable shoes are a must.
Final Thoughts
Ferrara offers a range of excellent tour options that cater to different interests and budgets. For a quick, affordable overview, the City Highlights Walking Tour is an excellent choice. If you prefer a more in-depth, bespoke experience, the private tour provides flexibility and intimacy. And for a romantic evening amid illuminated streets, the Night Tour offers a memorable way to end your day.
No matter which tour you choose, booking in advance helps ensure you get the time and experience you’re after. Ferrara’s historic streets await—enjoying its Renaissance charm is a highlight you won’t want to miss.