Ferrara is one of Italy’s most bicycle-friendly cities: almost 30% of local traffic is on two wheels, with bike rentals easily found in every neighborhood.
Ferrara cycling itinerary
A delightful cycling route in Ferrara gives you an overview of the Este city, starting from Porta Paula and the medieval Walls. It continues past the San Giorgio Church, Ferrara’s original urban core, and the monastery of Sant’Antonio in Polesine, home to precious Giotto-style frescoes, before reaching the Palazzo di Ludovico il Moro, now the National Archaeological Museum.
At Palazzo Schifanoia—once the leisure retreat of the Este family, a stone’s throw from both the city center and the Po River—don’t miss the breathtaking Hall of the Months, one of the most famous and significant fresco cycles of the Italian Renaissance.
Next is Casa Romei, a gorgeous example of a 15th-century noble residence, followed by a wander through the atmospheric alleyways of the Jewish Ghetto. Your route then opens onto the grand Cathedral Square, dominated by the imposing Cathedral and its striking pink and white marble bell tower attributed to Leon Battista Alberti.
A short ride brings you to the Estense Castle, emblem and pride of Ferrara—a massive structure that is both formidable fortress and graceful residence. Today, some fifty rooms are open to visitors, offering insights into the history of the Dukes of Este and Ferrara’s extraordinary Renaissance chapter.
Continuing your bike tour, you’ll pass Borgo Leoni and Ariostea Square. Then, cycle amidst the tranquillity and greenery of the grand Orti gardens, and reach the northern Walls, where you can enjoy open views over the countryside and the Po. From here, descend the Porta degli Angeli and onto Corso Ercole I d’Este—one of Europe’s most charming streets, linking medieval Ferrara with its Renaissance expansion. Spacious and airy, Corso Ercole I exudes floral scents from the private gardens of the elegant houses that line the road, especially in spring and summer.
Several historic palaces border this avenue, most notably the Palazzo dei Diamanti, famed for its international art exhibitions and events.
