We will be on a tour of Northern Italy in June and will have to decide between a day in Bologna or Ferrara. For those who have been to both which would you choose if you could only do one and why? Any help would be appreciated.
Posted by
Vienna, Austria
5534 posts
Bologna- because of the food and market.
Posted by
Toledo, Ohio, US
11613 posts
I would choose Ferrara. The food is as good as Bologna's, and the Castello Estense is a major sight. The Duomo, a couple of museums, just walking around is more appealing to me than Bologna (and I love Bologna).
Posted by
the Netherlands
2487 posts
Ferrara is indeed very nice and its quiet provincial atmosphere might come as a relief after big and crowded cities. The south-east corner almost feels like a large village. Don't forget the Palazzo dei Diamanti and the other palazzi nearby.
Posted by
Brisbane, Australia
7175 posts
I would echo Zoe. Being in Ferrara feels like you have made a nice discovery, still off the main tourist path.
Posted by
82 posts
Another reinforcement of Zoe's advice recommending Ferrara. The restaurants in Ferrara are excellent, sites are well presented (don't miss Palazzo Schifanoia), and the walk from the train station to the center is only about 20 minutes. It is a lovely city and a wonderful break from the crowds at the more well-known tourist destinations.
Posted by
Boise, ID, USA
2334 posts
And still another vote for Ferrara. I'm not sure I can pinpoint a reason, but Bologna just didn't appeal to me.
Posted by
OP
29 posts
Thank you for the replys. I have been leaning towards Ferrara and this really helped.
Brian