Dante's Ravenna: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

Ravenna , Italy

Dante's Ravenna: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

Active

(15 reviews)

45m - 1h

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Take a wander through the last capital of the Western Roman Empire, the capital of the kingdom of the Goths and the Byzantine exarchate. On this self-guided audio tour, you'll also get a taste of the power of the great republic of Venice as well as the 19th century Italian Risorgimento, all the while accompanied by some of the most famous mosaics in the world in the presence of many UNESCO heritage sites.

The tour starts in ancient Rome, with the mausoleum of Galla Placidia and then takes you after the fall to the Basilica of San Vitale. We then head through the middle ages to the 19th century, as we move to Piazza del Popolo. Afterwards, we head back to the time of the Gothic domination with the Baptistry of the Ariana before going to see an elaborate cover-up operation in the Basilica of Sant’Apollinare Nuova. Finally, we pay a visit to the mortal remains of the great poet Dante Alighieri, father of the Italian language.

Available options

Dante's Ravenna: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

What's included

VoiceMap App for Android and iOS

Lifetime access to this tour in English

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

The tour starts outside the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia. You'll have the option of going inside or moving on to the next stop on the tour.

Stop 2 Pass by

The tour passes the Basilica of San Vitale where you learn more about its fascinating history. You'll have the option of going inside or moving on to the next stop on the tour.

You pass by the Church of San Domenico and briefly hear about it's history.

You'll walk through the Piazza del Popolo on this tour.

The tour passes by the Baptistry of the Arians where you will learn a bit about its history.

The tour passes by the Basilica of Sant Apollinare Nuova where you'll have the option of moving on to the next stop on the tour or going inside.

The tour passes by the Alighieri Theatre.

The tour briefly stops on the outskirt of the Piazza Garibaldi.

The tour takes you to Dante's tomb.

The tour ends at the Basilica of San Francesco which is in close proximity to lots of other attractions and restaurants.

What's not included

Smartphone and headphones

Transportation

Food and drink

Tickets or entrance fees to any museums or other attractions en route

Available languages

Audio guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.3

11 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Before arrival, please install the VoiceMap mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. This is a self-guided audio tour that you can start, pause, or restart at any time and complete at your own pace. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. VoiceMap has sent you an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

1. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
2. Create an account
3. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
4. Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE
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• You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.
• This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.
• When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.
• Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

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