Renaissance Ring

An intermodal loop itinerary that connects Ferrara to its Delizie

Starting point from
Porta Paola - Ferrara
Duration
50 km
Length
1 day

Transport methods

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An intermodal loop itinerary by bike and boat, leaving from and returning to Ferrara. The itinerary involves cycling through the countryside outside Ferrara and visiting the Delizia del Belriguardo and del Verginese. Finally, from Sabbioncello San Vittore, you board a ferry and return to the city by sailing on the Po di Volano.

DETAILED ITINERARY

Departing from Porta Paola, turn left to follow the moat of the Walls to the Po di Volano, crossing the southeastern limits of the city, headed toward Aguscello.

A mix of roads and paths will lead you through farmland, historical landmarks, and archaeological treasures. As you approach Gualdo and Voghenza, you’ll reach the heart of the itinerary, home to two Renaissance jewels: the Delizia del Belriguardo, an oasis of beauty featuring the Sala delle Vigne and its Renaissance frescoes, and the Delizia del Verginese, a stately residence with castle-like features. The journey continues in pursuit of the ancient splendour of the area, until you reach the riverbanks of the Po di Volano. At Villa della Mensa, the river dock at Sabbioncello San Vittore marks the start of the second phase of your adventure. 

Your adventure ends with a restful riverboat journey, taking in the surrounding landscape as you return to the city.

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

  • During the itinerary you will see some of the most famous Delizie Estensi in the province of Ferrara;
  • The journey can be divided into two sections, depending on transportation: round trip by bike or going by bike and returning by boat;
  • If you choose to return by boat, you MUST make a reservation in advance;
  • This itinerary is already well structured and can be done, preferably in organized groups;
  • It is possible to add a guided tour of the Delizia del Verginese and del Belriguardo, but Villa della Mensa can only be seen from the outside;
  • Can be done in one way or the other.
Porta Paola
Step 1

Porta Paola

The inside of Porta Paola is a technological Visitor Center, with an interactive SmartMap that allows visitors to discover the history of the walls in the South of Ferrara.

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