Ferrara Hotels

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  Hotel Villa Regina

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  Hotel San Paolo

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  Astra Hotel

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  Hotel Santo Stefano

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  Best Western Palace Inn Hotel

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  Hotel Ferrara

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  Hotel Nazionale

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  Hotel Fondo Catena

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  Hotel Touring

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  Hotel Ripagrande

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In 1995, the center of Ferrara, in northern Italy, was made a world heritage site stating, "...a fine example of a town planned in the Renaissance that has managed to retain the integrity of its historic center". In 2006 this city became the headquarters for the Italian Hermitage Museum, becoming one of only five cities worldwide to link with the Russian Museum and giving rise to the Hermitage-Italy Foundation. This does not mean that it is quiet, reserved place only dedicated to its history. In fact it is one of Europe's greenest cities and it embraces youth in the universities and modern culture in the cinemas and art. Ferrara hotels offer great services and facilities that are stylish and everything you would expect from any Italian holiday.

The nearest airport is in Bologna about 45 minutes drive away. Having your own transport is a good idea but it does not have to be a car. Ferrara is a city of bicycles. They are everywhere and Ferrara hotels can give advice on hiring, safety and parking. This is a great way to see the city and cheap as well.

The fact that the city center is a world heritage site means that there are a lot of fabulous buildings, churches, museums and galleries to visit. It is impossible to say 'you have to see this' because there is just so much to see and it is all special. Personal taste and absorption rates will dictate how much time you want to dedicate to admiring the history of the city. There are miles of city walls with paths on top, which you can stroll around and soak up the atmosphere without getting bogged down with the details. Being one of the greener cities also means there are some classic gardens to visit and admire. Venice is just an hour and a half away by train and these run daily.

However beautiful the buildings are, remember that you are in Italy. Ferrara hotels will be able to guide you to the local shops where fabulous Italian designer clothing and shoes can be found. When you have found the perfect outfit, it is time to go and find one of the many Italian restaurants and enjoy local dishes accompanied by locally produced wines. Where there are students there are going to be bars and clubs to cater for them. Ask around and find where they all spend their time and join in. If that is not to your taste then try the many galleries, theaters and exhibition centers. There is always something going on. Ferrara also has some special events and festivals that run annually and can be planned into your itinerary.

The Medieval festival of Palio of St George is held on the last Sunday of May. This festival has been held, in almost the same way, every year since it was made official in 1279. The whole month of May is given over to celebrations, parades and competitions between the 8 different districts that make up the parish. Ferrara sotto le stele, an important Italian festival takes place in June and July and there are concerts held in the square of the castle throughout the period.

The Buskers Festival brings together the world's best street musicians in the last week of August. During this time you will hear old tunes and new ones, music from a variety of cultures and a range of instruments that may raise a few eyebrows - cowbells, saws, washboards and glasses have all made appearances before. There is no competition between the buskers just a celebration of music.

Ferrara Balloon Festival is the biggest in Italy and spans 10 days in September, the sky fills with hot air balloons and it is a wonderful sight. Teams from all over the globe participate in the event. You are able to try tethered balloon flights, parachute jumps and flights over the city during this time. The festival is gradually expanding to embrace other attraction and displays which are air related, such as kite flying.

Between October and May, the atmosphere and music of jazz clubs is reproduced every weekend in the Torrione di San Giovanni, with international guest players.

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