Luggage Storage Ferrara

About Ferrara

Capital of the Ferrara province, the city of Ferrara has a population of around 130,000 people. Once a center of chemical engineering, Ferrara has lost most of its heavy industry and relies increasingly on tourism to support its economy. Luckily, the town has been recognized as UNESCO World Heritage site, so it gets its share of visitors. Around 230,000 people visit the city each year, and it's a number the city is keen to increase.

The main draw of Ferrara is its historic charm. This city goes back a long way. In fact, the area has been populated since at least the 6th century BC, and was once the site of an important Etruscan town. Ferrara became part of the Roman Empire and later was conquered by Lombards and Franks. The Frankish rulers gifted the town to the Pope, but by the 12th century it was a free city. Ferrara was fought over by the famous Guelph and Ghibelline families that controlled much of central and northern Italy, but ended up in the hands of the House of Este. This family ruled the city from 1264 until 1598.

Ferrara then became ruled by the papacy again and remained part of the papal states until the unification of Italy in 1861. The fascist regime which replaced the Italian monarchy built a plant intended to produce synthetic rubber in Ferrara, and as a result, the city was bombed by the Allies during World War II. Luckily, many of the historic Renaissance building survived and give Ferrara its unique charm today.

Things to do in Ferrara

Ferrara's location in the Northeast of Italy makes it a popular day trip from better-known cities such as Bologna and even Venice. But there's plenty to do in this smaller town. And perhaps best of all, Ferrara is relatively undiscovered. You can enjoy what it has to offer without the huge crowds you'll find in better-known Italian cities.

• Explore the home of Ferrara’s ruling family at the Castle Estense. This dramatic castle rises directly out of an artificial lake and has been the center of power in the city since the 14th century.

• Learn more about the history of Ferrara and the region at the National Archaeological Museum. This institution contains artifacts from the very earliest period of Etruscan civilization in the region, plus relics from the Roman, Medieval, and Renaissance periods.

• Stretch your legs on the old city walls. The Renaissance was a turbulent time in central Italy, and Ferrara, like many cities, built massive defensive walls to protect itself from its neighbors. Now, you can walk almost the whole length of the city walls and admire views out over the surrounding countryside.

• Surround yourself with nature at Ferrara Botanical Gardens. Administered by the University, this garden is home to nearly 2000 different species of plants. Admire the exotic plants in the greenhouses or enjoy the serenity of the Japanese garden.

• See the ancient heart of Ferrara at the Cathedral of St. George. This striking Renaissance building occupies a central square in the city and is the perfect place to take in the atmosphere. Admire the art and architecture of Ferrara's main church and then enjoy a coffee or a meal at one of the many sidewalk cafés.

Transit options in Ferrara

• Bologna is the nearest international airport to Ferrara. A bus from the airport will take you to Bologna central train station, and from there you can catch a train to Ferrara. The whole journey takes around an hour.

• Ferrara train station sits just outside the center of the city. Trains from here connect the city to Bologna, Parma, Modena, Venice, and other cities throughout Italy.

• Buses 2, 6, 11, 13, and others stop outside the train station and can take you to the most popular tourist sites in the city. Alternatively, you could rent a bike. Getting around by bicycle is extremely popular in Ferrara, so you'll fit right in with the locals if you choose this means of transport.

Luggage storage in Ferrara

The historic heart of Ferrara is extremely walkable. And generally, that's the best way to explore the city. By traveling on foot, you allow yourself to slow down and discover the quirky charm of this ancient city. Alternatively, getting around by bike is also popular and makes it even easier to explore the town.

Either way, you won't want to be weighed down with heavy bags. Bounce provides convenient and safe luggage storage in Ferrara so that you can explore more easily. Drop off any size of bags for as long as you like and see everything the city has to offer.

Activities and attractions near Ferrara

• Po river: For the ultimate in relaxation with a historical twist, take a boat trip on the Po river. This historic waterway is the longest river in Italy and has been Ferrara's lifeblood since the city was founded. A boat cruise lets you see the city from a different angle and enjoy a drink while you learn more about the history of the region. A boat is no place for heavy bags, so make sure to drop yours off at a Bounce luggage storage locker in Ferrara before climbing aboard.

• Bologna : Make the quick trip to Bologna to see another fascinating Italian city. Only half an hour away by train, Bologna is known for its massive Gothic church and iconic 12th-century towers that offer incredible views across the city. Of course, this being Italy, it's also a great place to eat. You’ll find an endless variety of restaurants that celebrate the Emilia-Romagna region's produce and cuisine.

• Venice: A train ride of approximately an hour and a half from Ferrara will bring you to Venice. One of the most touristed cities in the world, the floating city of Venice needs no introduction. But even though it can get incredibly crowded, especially in the summer months, Venice remains a place you simply have to see at least once in your lifetime. Once you have explored this network of narrow streets and romantic canals, you'll almost certainly want to return again and again.