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Want to discover the Renaissance city of Ferrara, a jewel of the Po Valley where the Este family left an indelible mark on its streets and squares? Good news, Ferrara is very accessible by train from France and major European cities, with regular connections via Milan or Bologna that keep you close to the heart of Italy. Here’s our guide for a 100% train cultural escape where historic palaces, medieval walls, and artistic heritage blend together, no flying, no car.
You'll depart from Paris Gare de Lyon aboard a TGV to Milan, a journey of roughly seven hours, then transfer to a Trenitalia Intercity that takes about an hour to reach Ferrara Centrale. The whole trip takes around eight and a half hours with just one change, and the city‑center arrival puts you within walking distance of the historic walls and the Este Palace. Frequent departures keep the schedule flexible, and the train’s comfortable seating makes the long ride feel short.
In Ferrara, there's no shortage of options: the well‑preserved medieval walls frame the historic center, while the Palazzo dei Diamanti and the Cathedral of San Giorgio showcase the city’s artistic legacy. Strolling through the Este Palace gardens offers a quiet escape from the lively streets, and a taste of local cuisine, such as the famed salame di Felino and sweet frittelle, satisfies the palate. The city’s rhythm shifts from the calm of its Renaissance squares to the bustling energy of its markets, all easily explored on foot or by the efficient local bus network.
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