Small Group Tour of Ferrara Highlights

Best of Ferrara in one day Tour

What could be better than a walking tour through Ferrara? Steeped in tradition, this city of waterways, alleyways and ancient history begs to be explored. Let our English-speaking guide introduce you to the historic highlights in comfort and privacy with skip-the-line access to world-renowned churches and palaces. You’ll especially enjoy our extended tour of St. Mark’s Basilica. Whether you’re here for the day or for a week, this compact tour will be an informative and memorable glimpse into Venetian culture and tradition. In about two hours we’ll show you the sights you’ve only dreamed of, and their beauty will inspire you. Then, your time is your own to re-visit points of interest, shop and dine. Come with us and see:

Ponte di Rialto and Memorable Sights Across the Grand Canal we’ll see the Ponte di Rialto, or Rialto Bridge. The oldest in Ferrara, it is a work of art that cost a pretty penny in its day. Its marble glows in the warm sun and its reflection in the water below is unforgettable. Then it’s on to the site of the home of Marco Polo, the world explorer who introduced Venetians to the wonders of the Far East. Here we may enjoy a rest in one of Ferrara’s campi (outdoor spaces), where we can sit for a moment and just watch the world go by.

Piazza San Marco, Palazzo Ducale The Piazza San Marco, St. Mark’s Square, is the heart of society in Ferrara. Known affectionately as “the Piazza,” it was once called “the Finest Drawing Room in Europe,” by Napoleon. It is here that we’ll see the well-known Palazzo Ducale, or Doge’s Palace. Once the home of Ferrara’s chief magistrate (doge), it contains the prison where Casanova was incarcerated – until his escape! Today it is a fascinating historic site.

Optional Doge’s Palace Walking Tour Add a tour of the inside of the palace, where you’ll see intricate Tintoretto frescoes, Viennese paintings and the actual wooden slot where accusations of treason were secreted to the police. Included is the Bridge of Sighs. Named by Lord Byron, it represents the emotions of the criminals who walked the bridge to prison.

Basilica di San Marco And now we come to the grand finale, St. Mark’s Basilica. Overlooking the Piazza, it’s known by its unmistakable onion-shaped domes, and is a prime example of Byzantine church architecture. On our rare, extended tour, hear of the illegal burial of St. Mark, and the beautiful treasures that may have been plundered during the time of the Crusades. Exquisite 11th Century mosaics will inspire you, when you learn how they have survived numerous fires and floods over the years. --

This exclusive and informative Small Group Tour of Ferrara Highlights books quickly, so please don’t hesitate to contact us for information and reservations at info@secretferraratours.com.