Built by the Renaissance rulers of the Este family, Estense Castle dominates the center of Ferrara—an oft-overlooked town on the Po River in the Emiglia-Romagna region of northeast Italy. The Estes also built Diamanti Palace, and everywhere you walk, bike, or Segway in this pedestrian-friendly town, you’ll find marvelous medieval and Renaissance architecture (as well as plenty of things to do). In fact, the entire town, from its historic center to surrounding medieval walls, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It's best to visit Ferrara during spring and summer (March through September), when you can take advantage of the warm weather by riding bikes around town, visiting the Po Delta Park, or heading to beaches near Comacchio and Ravenna. Seasonal events to remember include the Palio in late May, the Busker’s Festival in late August, and the International Festival, which draws journalists and writers from all over the world in early fall.
Signs around town announce that Ferrara is la città delle biciclette, or the "City of Bicycles." And it's true: Ferrara is among the most bike-friendly cities in Europe. Biking and walking are your best options for getting around the historic center and surrounding medieval walls. Otherwise, TPER (Trasporto Passeggeri Emilia-Romagna) buses serve the city and region, but driving is more convenient—though much of the city center is not accessible by car.
Visiting Ferrara during the Palio is a treat. Usually held through most of May, the special event remains largely as it was in the 13th century. It's a month-long celebration with parades, races, and games between the town's eight rival contrade (districts) to win the banner of Saint George, the town's patron saint. Highlights include the procession of hundreds of traditionally-costumed locals to the Estense Castle in mid-month, and the Palio races held toward the end of May.
