Travel Postcard: 48 hours in Ferrara, Italy

FERRARA, Italy, (Reuters Life!) - Got 48 hours to explore Ferrara, the picturesque Italian town famed for its Renaissance art and bicycle-peddling natives?

Reuters correspondents with local knowledge tell you how to get the most out of a weekend getaway to this hidden gem off Italy's well-worn tourist track.

Yet to be invaded by the armies of tourists that flock to better-known neighbors like Venice or Florence, Ferrara retains much of its medieval charm that makes wandering through its cobble-stoned piazzas and streets feel like a trip back in time.

But an increasingly vibrant nightlife, rich local cuisine and an annual buskers festival that attracts street performers from around the globe mean the once sleepy town is quickly carving a place for itself on the tourist map.

FRIDAY

6 p.m. Ease into the weekend in style with an aperitivo at the Leon D'Oro pasticceria facing the regal cathedral in the centre of town. You'll feel like you've stepped into a different age as you gaze up at the cathedral's imposing facade and watch everyone from grannies to policemen lazily bike across the cobble-stoned piazza.

8 p.m. The Ferrarese, like their compatriots across Italy, know a thing or two about dining well. Head to Ristorante Max in the shadow of the town's red brick castle for fresh seafood that can be washed down with a long list of Italian wines on offer.

Try the 'grancevola' or crab -- a local delicacy -- prepared with lime and oil and the Il Fritto del Max platter that is surprisingly light despite packing an assortment of fried fish and zucchini. End with the restaurant's rich chocolate treats.

Ask to take home the pretty red crab shell the grancevola is served in as a token souvenir.