Ravenna , Italy

Ravenna in half a day

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About this experience

You can visit Ravenna even in half a day: this will be enough to know its culture and history and to realize how this town is rich in architecture and art by the knowledge of the different religions that during the past strongly influenced all the mosaics decorations and its buildings.

Available options

Ravenna in half a day

What's included

Guided tour

Detailed itinerary

Our tour will start from the Church of Sant’ Apollinare Nuovo and after walking in Piazza Del Popolo the main square and Dante’s tomb area will end at the Basilica of San Vitale. (first half VI cent.). All the monuments involved in our tour are in the city centre – walking area where we can also also drink a good coffee!

Sant’Apollinare Nuovo (end V cent.) is in Via di Roma near the railway station.

This area is very quiet. The external of the church is very simple but inside you can find beautiful mosaics decorations of Justinianean age (Catholic) and the age of Theodoric (Arian faith) .

In fact this church has been defined the “church for two religions”: we will discover together why.

The king Theodoric in fact (454-526) of arian religion commissioned the building of this church at the end of V cent. Mosaics decorations got inspiration from the influence of the greek-roman taste and from Justinian mosaic taste . Consequently it is the most characteristic building concerning the ravennate byzantine art.

Mosaics decorations on the walls allow us to follow the evolution from the age of king Theodoric to Justinian one, an important melting port of different cultures and languages.

From Via di Roma we will go to the city centre to reach the “silent area” : here the famous Italian poet Dante Alighieri lived. This area is dedicated to its memory and cult . His tomb is a simple neo-classical building near St.Francis cloisters and church in which in 1321 Dante’s funerals took place.

Next monument of our tour will be the Battistero Neoniano (beg.V cent.) from bishop Neon who got the baptistery decorated with the mosaics of the dome. It is situated near the actual cathedral and it is richly decorated with stuccos, inlays of polychrome marbles and mosaics: different techniques integrated themselves perfectly to give life to an extraordinary united and harmonic complex.

Stop 4

After the visit to the Baptistery we will reach the basilica of San Vitale (VI cent.) the byzantine monument “par excellence” . The church has a central octagonal plan and its wonderful panels that represent the emperor Justinian with its suite and the empress Theodora, his wife, are famous all over the world.

Both the scenes as well as their artistic value have a documentary one really extraordinary. From them in fact we can deduce the splendour of the byzantine court.

Stop 5

Going out of the basilica we go towards the mausoleum of the roman empress Galla Placidia. It was built within the first half of the Vth cent. probably by Galla Placidia.

It is a little construction but on entering you will be impressed by the magnificence of the decorations and of the mosaic scenes, especially by the unreal atmosphere in which you find yourselves.The lunette of the Good Shepherd among his flock is one of the most beautiful mosaics of Early Christian Art.

What's not included

Lunch

single entrance ticket to 5 monuments

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT FR

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.7

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 3.5

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Ravenna

Ravenna is renowned for its well-preserved late Roman and Byzantine architecture, including eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The city is a treasure trove of intricate mosaics, making it a must-visit for art and history enthusiasts. Its rich cultural heritage and serene atmosphere offer a unique blend of ancient and modern Italian life.

Top Attractions

Basilica di San Vitale

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its stunning Byzantine mosaics, which depict religious and imperial scenes. The basilica is a masterpiece of early Christian architecture.

Historical/Religious/Architecture 1-2 hours €9.50 (combined ticket with other sites)

Mausoleo di Galla Placidia

Another UNESCO-listed site, this small mausoleum is renowned for its exquisite mosaics, which are among the best-preserved in the world. It is a testament to the artistic achievements of the early Byzantine period.

Historical/Religious/Architecture 30-45 minutes €9.50 (combined ticket with other sites)

Battistero Neoniano

This octagonal baptistery is another UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring beautiful mosaics that date back to the 5th century. It is one of the oldest surviving baptisteries in Christendom.

Historical/Religious/Architecture 30-45 minutes €9.50 (combined ticket with other sites)

Dante Alighieri's Tomb

This monument honors Dante Alighieri, the famous Italian poet who spent his final years in Ravenna. The tomb is a significant cultural site and a place of pilgrimage for literature enthusiasts.

Historical/Cultural 30 minutes Free

Parco della Pilotta

This large public park is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. It features beautiful gardens, walking paths, and a playground, making it an ideal place for a leisurely stroll or picnic.

Nature/Relaxation 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Piadina

A traditional flatbread filled with various ingredients such as cheese, cured meats, and vegetables. It is a popular street food in the region.

Snack Vegetarian options available

Cappelletti in Brodo

A traditional pasta dish consisting of small, hat-shaped pasta filled with meat and served in a rich broth.

Dinner Contains meat and gluten

Romagna Coast Fish Soup

A hearty seafood soup made with a variety of fresh fish and shellfish, tomatoes, and herbs.

Dinner Contains seafood and gluten (if served with bread)

Squacquerone

A soft, creamy cheese often spread on piadina or eaten with bread. It has a mild, slightly tangy flavor.

Snack/Dessert Contains dairy

Popular Activities

Boat tours in the Po Delta Cycling in the countryside Picnicking in Parco della Pilotta Enjoying a spa day Visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites Attending local festivals Boating in the Po Delta Swimming at nearby beaches

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

These months offer pleasant weather with fewer tourists, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

15°C to 28°C 59°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, French, German
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Ravenna is a safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it is important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services

Getting there

By air

Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport • 80 km from Ravenna
Forlì Airport • 50 km from Ravenna

By train

Ravenna Station

By bus

Ravenna Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is efficient and affordable, with frequent services throughout the day. Buses are a convenient way to get around Ravenna.

Taxis

Available • Apps: MyTaxi, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Centro Storico San Rocco Porto

Day trips

Bologna

80 km from Ravenna • Full day

Bologna is a vibrant city known for its medieval architecture, rich history, and delicious cuisine. It is a great day trip from Ravenna, offering a mix of cultural and culinary experiences.

Comacchio

30 km from Ravenna • Half day to full day

Comacchio is a charming town known for its canals and historic center. It is often referred to as the 'Little Venice' of the Po Delta and offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty.

San Marino

100 km from Ravenna • Full day

San Marino is a small, independent country nestled in the Apennine Mountains. It is known for its medieval architecture, stunning views, and rich history. A day trip to San Marino offers a unique cultural experience.

Festivals

Ravenna Festival • June to July Mosaico Festival • May to June Fiera di San Romualdo • February

Pro tips

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites early in the morning to avoid crowds
Try local specialties like piadina and cappelletti in brodo at traditional trattorias
Explore the city on foot or by bike to discover hidden gems and charming streets
Attend local festivals and events for a unique cultural experience
Learn a few basic Italian phrases to enhance your interactions with locals