Ravenna Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, see, and eat in Ravenna, Italy, with our comprehensive travel guide. Explore Ravenna's cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, local cuisine, and more.


Introduction to Ravenna

Nestled in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, Ravenna is a city steeped in rich history, art, and culture. Once the capital of the Western Roman Empire, Ravenna is now a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its breathtaking mosaics, ancient architecture, and stunning natural scenery.

Ravenna’s prime location near the Adriatic Sea and the Apennine Mountains makes it the perfect destination for travelers seeking both culture and adventure. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll highlight the best things to do, see, and eat in Ravenna, along with insider tips and practical information to help you plan your trip.

List of Places to Visit in Ravenna

  • Basilica di San Vitale: This sixth-century church boasts exquisite Byzantine mosaics and is considered one of the most important early Christian monuments in the world.
  • Mausoleum of Galla Placidia: Located next to the Basilica di San Vitale, this small mausoleum houses some of the most beautiful mosaics in Ravenna.
  • Basilica di Sant’Apollinare Nuovo: This fifth-century church was originally built as the palace chapel of King Theodoric and has stunning mosaics depicting biblical scenes.
  • Dante’s Tomb: The final resting place of the famous Italian poet Dante Alighieri, this is a must-visit for literature lovers.
  • National Museum of Ravenna: Housed in an ancient Benedictine monastery, this museum features a vast collection of Byzantine and early Christian art and artifacts.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Ravenna is home to some of the most important cultural and historical sites in Italy. Here are a few noteworthy museums and historical places:

  • The Archiepiscopal Museum: Home to a wide collection of religious art and artifacts from Ravenna and surrounding areas, this museum provides a glimpse into the city’s past.
  • The Domus of the Stone Carpets: Discovered in 1993, this ancient Roman mansion features incredible mosaics and frescoes.
  • The Dante Museum: Dedicated to the life and work of the author of the “Divine Comedy”, this museum offers visitors a glimpse into Dante’s life and legacy.

Natural Attractions of Ravenna: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

If you’re looking for an adventure in Ravenna, there are plenty of outdoor activities to choose from:

  • Cervia Salt Pans: Located just south of Ravenna, this nature reserve is home to a diverse array of bird species and offers visitors the chance to see flamingos in the wild.
  • Beaches: Ravenna is known for its pristine beaches, some of the best in Italy.
  • Po Delta Park: Spanning across the Po River Delta, this park features a vast network of wetlands and lagoons with plenty of opportunities for bird watching and hiking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ravenna

If you enjoy exploring on foot or by bike, here are some routes to try:

  • Basilica di San Vitale Loop: This easy loop takes you from the city center out to the Basilica di San Vitale and back.
  • Ravenna to Rimini: This 25-mile route takes you along the coast from Ravenna to Rimini and offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.
  • Po Delta National Park Bike Tour: This guided bike tour takes you through the beautiful wetlands and lagoons of Po Delta National Park.

Best Things to Do in Ravenna: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of things to do in Ravenna, from exploring ancient monuments to trying local cuisine. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Mosaic Workshops: Learn how to create stunning mosaics in the traditional Byzantine style.
  • Local Food Tour: Sample Ravenna’s traditional dishes and learn about the city’s culinary history on a guided food tour.
  • Wine Tasting: Visit local wineries and taste some of the region’s best wines.
  • Boat Tour of Po Delta: Take a boat tour of Po Delta and see the park’s wetlands and lagoons up close.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ravenna

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Ravenna, here’s a suggested itinerary:

  • Day 1-2: Explore the city center and visit the famous mosaics at Basilica di San Vitale and Mausoleum of Galla Placidia.
  • Day 3: Take a tour of the Cervia Salt Pans and see the flamingos in their natural habitat.
  • Day 4: Visit the Po Delta National Park and take a guided bike tour.
  • Day 5: Take a boat tour of the Po Delta and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
  • Day 6: Learn about Ravenna’s culinary history on a local food tour, followed by a wine tasting.
  • Day 7: Visit the Dante Museum and pay homage to the great poet.

Food and Drink Scene of Ravenna

Ravenna is known for its delicious cuisine, which is heavily influenced by the surrounding land and sea. Here are some dishes and beverages you must try:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Piadina: A traditional flatbread that is often stuffed with cheese, prosciutto, and vegetables.
  • Brodetto: A seafood stew made with a variety of fish and shellfish.
  • Cappelletti in Brodo: Tiny stuffed pasta served in a rich broth.
  • Passatelli: A local specialty made with breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and nutmeg, often served in a broth or with ragù.

Local Beverages

  • Sangiovese: The signature grape of Emilia-Romagna, this red wine is rich and flavorful.
  • Romagna Albana: A white wine that pairs well with seafood dishes.
  • Lambrusco: A popular sparkling red wine made from the lambrusco grape.

Where to Stay in Ravenna: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Ravenna has a wide range of accommodation options to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious hotels.

  • Albergo Cappello: A cozy guesthouse located in the city center, with a charming garden and terrace.
  • Hotel Centrale Byron: A modern hotel located in the city center, with spacious rooms and a rooftop terrace.
  • Palazzo Galletti: A historic luxury hotel housed in an 18th-century palace, featuring elegant rooms and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views.

What to Buy in Ravenna: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some souvenirs and local products to consider buying:

  • Mosaic Art: Take home a piece of Ravenna’s artistic heritage with a handcrafted mosaic.
  • Piadina Maker: Make your own piadina at home with a traditional piadina maker.
  • Romagna Wine: Bring home a bottle of Romagna wine to enjoy with friends and family.

Local Culture and Customs of Ravenna

Ravenna has a rich cultural heritage, which is reflected in its art, cuisine, and local customs. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Dress Code: When visiting churches or religious sites, be sure to dress modestly.
  • Language: Italian is the official language of Ravenna, although many locals also speak English.
  • Tipping: Tipping is not customary in Italy, but rounding up the bill is appreciated.
  • Greetings: Greetings are important in Italian culture. When meeting someone, it’s customary to shake hands and say “buongiorno” (good day) or “buonasera” (good evening).

Best Time to Visit Ravenna

The best time to visit Ravenna is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are thinner. July and August can be hot and humid, with lots of tourists.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ravenna

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Ravenna:

Do:

  • Explore the city by foot or bike: Ravenna is a walkable city, filled with beautiful mosaics, ancient churches, and charming streets.
  • Try the local cuisine: Ravenna’s culinary scene is one of the best in Italy, so be sure to sample the local dishes.
  • Visit during the off-season: Visit Ravenna in the spring or fall to avoid the crowds and hot summer weather.

Don’t:

  • Touch the mosaics: When visiting the ancient churches and monuments, be sure to respect the artwork and not touch the mosaics or frescoes.
  • Expect to find many English speakers: While many locals do speak English, it’s always helpful to brush up on some basic Italian phrases.
  • Overbook your itinerary: Ravenna is best explored at a leisurely pace, so avoid overbooking your itinerary and allow time to relax and enjoy the city.

Safety and Health

Ravenna is a safe and healthy destination, although it’s always important to take standard safety precautions while traveling.

Safety in Ravenna

  • Pickpocketing: As with any popular tourist destination, pickpocketing can be a problem in Ravenna, especially in crowded areas.
  • Traffic: When crossing the street in Ravenna, be sure to pay attention to traffic and cross at designated crosswalks.

Health in Ravenna

  • Water: Tap water in Ravenna is safe to drink.
  • Vaccinations: No specific vaccinations are required to visit Ravenna.

Getting to Ravenna: Transportation Options and Logistics

Ravenna is well-connected by both public and private transportation.

Airports Near Ravenna

  • Federico Fellini International Airport (RMI): Located in Rimini, approximately 50 minutes by car from Ravenna.
  • Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport (BLQ): Located in Bologna, approximately 90 minutes by car from Ravenna.

Bus Stations Near Ravenna

  • Ravenna Bus Station: Located in the city center, with several local and regional bus connections.
  • Autostazione Ferrara: Located in Ferrara, approximately 30 minutes by train from Ravenna.

Other Options

  • Train: Ravenna is well-connected by train, with direct connections to Bologna, Florence, Rome, and Venice.
  • Car: Ravenna is easily accessible by car, with several major highways connecting it to neighboring cities and countries.

How to Get Around Ravenna

Ravenna is a small city, best explored on foot or by bike. However, there are several options for getting around the city:

  • Bike Rentals: Rent a bike from one of the many rental shops in the city center.
  • Bus: Ravenna has a local bus system, with several routes connecting different parts of the city.
  • Taxi: Taxis are available throughout the city.

Where to Go Next from Ravenna: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have extra time to explore the region, here are some nearby destinations to consider:

  • Bologna: A vibrant university town known for its lively food scene and stunning architecture.
  • Florence: One of Italy’s most famous cities, with world-class art and architecture.
  • Venice: A unique city built on water, known for its canals, bridges, and stunning architecture.

Conclusion

We hope this comprehensive travel guide has inspired you to visit Ravenna. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, this charming city has something for everyone. With its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and delicious cuisine, Ravenna is a destination you won’t want to miss.

Ceiling mosaic in the Baptistry of Neon Ceiling mosaic in the Baptistry of Neon Apse mosaic - Basilica of San Vitale Apse mosaic - Basilica of San Vitale Arian Baptistry ceiling mosaic Arian Baptistry ceiling mosaic The Mausoleum of Theoderic The Mausoleum of Theoderic "The Good Shepherd" mosaic, Mausoleum of Galla Placidia