30 Best Tourist spots & Things to Do in Ravenna | Jan 2025
{{best_tourist_attraction_info.title}}
{{best_tourist_attraction_info.description | description_string_length}}
{{best_tourist_attraction_info.reviews.combinedAverageRating.toFixed(2)}} ({{best_tourist_attraction_info.reviews.totalReviews}} reviews)
From {{best_tourist_attraction_info.pricing.summary.fromPrice.toLocaleString("en-US", {style:"currency", currency:"USD"})}}
{{best_tourist_attraction_info.pricing.summary.fromPriceBeforeDiscount.toLocaleString("en-US", {style:"currency", currency:"USD"})}}
Save {{(best_tourist_attraction_info.pricing.summary.fromPriceBeforeDiscount - best_tourist_attraction_info.pricing.summary.fromPrice).toLocaleString("en-US", {style:"currency", currency:"USD"})}}
What activities can I do in Ravenna?
Ravenna, Italy is a city known for its rich history and stunning Byzantine mosaics. Here are some of the top things to do in Ravenna: 1. Visit the Basilica di San Vitale: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its exquisite Byzantine mosaics. The interior is adorned with beautiful mosaics depicting biblical scenes and portraits of important figures. 2. Explore the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia: This small but stunning mausoleum is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is known for its intricate mosaics, particularly the depiction of the Good Shepherd. 3. Discover the Arian Baptistery: Located next to the Basilica di San Vitale, this baptistery is a unique example of early Christian art. The mosaics here depict scenes from the life of Christ. 4. Wander around the Dante District: Ravenna is also known for its connection to the famous Italian poet Dante Alighieri. Explore the narrow streets of the Dante District, visit the Dante Museum, and see the tomb of Dante in the Basilica di San Francesco. 5. Explore the Domus dei Tappeti di Pietra: This archaeological site showcases the remains of ancient Roman houses with well-preserved mosaic floors. It offers a fascinating glimpse into daily life in Ravenna during Roman times. 6. Visit the Basilica di Sant'Apollinare in Classe: Located just outside Ravenna, this basilica is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is known for its stunning mosaics and its impressive Byzantine architecture. 7. Take a leisurely stroll through the Piazza del Popolo: This lively square is the heart of Ravenna and a great place to relax, people-watch, and enjoy a coffee or gelato. 8. Explore the National Museum of Ravenna: Housed in the former Benedictine monastery of San Vitale, this museum showcases a vast collection of artifacts from Ravenna's history, including sculptures, mosaics, and archaeological finds. 9. Take a bike ride along the city walls: Ravenna is surrounded by well-preserved ancient walls, and cycling along them offers a unique perspective of the city and its surroundings. 10. Enjoy the local cuisine: Ravenna is known for its delicious food, particularly its seafood dishes. Don't miss the opportunity to try traditional local specialties like piadina, a type of flatbread, and cappelletti, a stuffed pasta dish. These are just a few of the many things to do in Ravenna. The city is a treasure trove of art, history, and culture, and it is definitely worth exploring in detail.
When is the best time to travel to Ravenna?
The best time to travel to Ravenna, Italy is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October). During these months, the weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius (59 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit). This makes it ideal for exploring the city's outdoor attractions, such as the stunning mosaics and historical sites. Additionally, visiting Ravenna during the shoulder seasons allows you to avoid the large crowds of tourists that flock to the city during the summer months. This means shorter queues at popular attractions and a more peaceful and authentic experience. However, if you don't mind the higher temperatures and larger crowds, the summer months (July and August) can also be a good time to visit Ravenna. Just be prepared for hotter weather, with temperatures sometimes exceeding 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit). It's worth noting that Ravenna can be quite cold and rainy during the winter months (December to February), so it's not the most ideal time for outdoor activities. However, if you're interested in the city's indoor attractions, such as its museums and churches, visiting during the winter can still be enjoyable.
Travel culture you should know when traveling to Ravenna
Ravenna, located in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, is a city rich in history, culture, and art. It is renowned for its well-preserved Byzantine mosaics, which have earned it a place on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Here are some highlights of Ravenna's travel culture: 1. Byzantine Mosaics: Ravenna is famous for its stunning Byzantine mosaics, which adorn several of its churches and monuments. The most famous ones can be found in the Basilica di San Vitale, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, and the Basilica di Sant'Apollinare Nuovo. These mosaics are considered masterpieces of early Christian art. 2. Dante's Tomb: Ravenna is the final resting place of the renowned Italian poet Dante Alighieri. His tomb is located in the Basilica di San Francesco, and it attracts many literary enthusiasts and scholars. 3. UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Ravenna is home to an impressive eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the aforementioned mosaics, as well as other important monuments like the Arian Baptistery, the Neonian Baptistery, and the Archiepiscopal Chapel. 4. Opera and Music Festivals: Ravenna hosts an annual opera festival known as the Ravenna Festival, which takes place in various historic venues throughout the city. It attracts opera lovers from around the world. Additionally, Ravenna is known for its vibrant music scene, with concerts and performances happening throughout the year. 5. Cuisine: Emilia-Romagna is famous for its delicious food, and Ravenna is no exception. Visitors can indulge in local specialties such as piadina (a thin flatbread), cappelletti (stuffed pasta), and the region's renowned Parmigiano Reggiano cheese. Ravenna also has a thriving wine culture, with several wineries offering tastings and tours. 6. Festivals and Events: Ravenna hosts a variety of cultural events and festivals throughout the year. The Ravenna Festival, mentioned earlier, is one of the highlights. Other events include the Ravenna Jazz Festival, the Ravenna Nightmare Film Festival, and the RavennaMosaico International Contemporary Mosaic Exhibition. 7. Biking: Ravenna is a bike-friendly city, with many dedicated bike paths and rental services. Exploring the city by bike is a popular activity among locals and tourists alike, allowing you to see the sights at a leisurely pace. Overall, Ravenna offers a unique blend of history, art, music, and gastronomy, making it a must-visit destination for culture enthusiasts.
Shopping list or souvenirs to buy when traveling to Ravenna
When visiting Ravenna, Italy, there are several shopping options for souvenirs and unique items. Here are some suggestions for your shopping list: 1. Mosaics: Ravenna is famous for its stunning Byzantine mosaics, and you can find various mosaic-inspired items such as jewelry, home decor, and small mosaic pieces to take home. 2. Ceramics: Look for beautiful hand-painted ceramics, including plates, bowls, vases, and tiles. These colorful pieces are often inspired by the region's history and art. 3. Piadina: This traditional Italian flatbread is a specialty of the Emilia-Romagna region, and you can find piadina stands or shops where you can purchase freshly made ones to enjoy or bring back as a delicious souvenir. 4. Wine and Olive Oil: Emilia-Romagna is known for its excellent wines and olive oil. Look for local wineries or specialty shops where you can find a variety of regional wines and olive oil to take home. 5. Leather goods: Italy is renowned for its leather craftsmanship, and you can find high-quality leather products in Ravenna. Look for leather bags, wallets, belts, and shoes in local shops. 6. Artisanal Food Products: Explore local food markets or specialty shops to find artisanal food products from the region. These can include traditional pasta, sauces, cheeses, cured meats, and sweet treats like piadina biscuits or traditional pastries. 7. Books and Guides: If you're interested in learning more about the history and art of Ravenna, consider purchasing books or guides about the city's mosaics, architecture, or cultural heritage. Remember to check the customs regulations of your home country regarding any food or alcohol items you plan to bring back as souvenirs. Enjoy your shopping experience in Ravenna!
Ravenna travel review
Ravenna, Italy: A Timeless Gem of Art and History Nestled in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, Ravenna is a city that exudes an enchanting charm with its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant artistic heritage. Known for its UNESCO World Heritage Sites and an abundance of Byzantine mosaics, Ravenna stands as a testament to the cultural and artistic prowess of Italy. If you are a history enthusiast or an art lover, Ravenna is a destination that should be at the top of your travel list. One of the highlights of Ravenna is its collection of exquisite Byzantine mosaics, which have earned the city the title of ""Capital of Mosaics."" These intricate works of art can be found in various locations throughout the city, but the most famous ones are housed in the UNESCO-listed Basilica di San Vitale and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia. The mosaics, with their vibrant colors and intricate details, depict biblical scenes, emperors, and saints, transporting visitors back in time to the Byzantine era. Another must-visit site in Ravenna is the Basilica di Sant'Apollinare Nuovo, renowned for its stunning mosaics that line the walls of the nave. These mosaics narrate the story of Christ's life, and their sheer beauty and historical significance leave visitors in awe. The Basilica di Sant'Apollinare in Classe, located just outside the city, is also worth a visit. With its well-preserved mosaics and peaceful ambiance, this basilica offers a serene escape from the bustling city center. Aside from its mosaics, Ravenna boasts an impressive array of historical sites. The Mausoleum of Theodoric, a grand tomb built for the Ostrogothic king, is a striking example of early medieval architecture. Its massive stone structure and intricate decorations are a testament to the power and wealth of the Gothic rulers. The Arian Baptistery, a small octagonal building, is another architectural gem that showcases the blending of different artistic styles. Ravenna's rich history extends beyond its ancient monuments. The city was once the capital of the Western Roman Empire and later served as the seat of the Ostrogothic and Byzantine rulers. This historical significance is evident in the grandeur of the city's architecture and the remnants of its past. Exploring the narrow streets of Ravenna's historic center, visitors can discover charming piazzas, medieval towers, and picturesque canals that add to the city's allure. In addition to its historical and artistic treasures, Ravenna offers a vibrant culinary scene. The region of Emilia-Romagna is renowned for its gastronomic delights, and Ravenna is no exception. Indulge in local specialties such as piadina, a thin flatbread filled with savory ingredients, or cappelletti, small pasta dumplings typically served in a rich broth. Pair your meal with a glass of Sangiovese wine, produced in the nearby hills, for a truly authentic taste of Ravenna. Whether you are captivated by art, fascinated by history, or simply seeking a destination that exudes charm and beauty, Ravenna is a city that will leave a lasting impression. Its awe-inspiring mosaics, ancient monuments, and rich cultural heritage make it a must-visit destination for any traveler. So, immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of Ravenna and let its art and history transport you to a bygone era.