Ravenna: Mosaics and Highlights Guided Tour with Admission Ticket

Ravenna , Italy

Ravenna: Mosaics and Highlights Guided Tour with Admission Ticket

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About this experience

Join a small group for an exclusive guided tour through Ravenna, the city of mosaics.

Discover the treasures of early Christian art and marvel at the intricate Byzantine mosaics. Stroll through Ravenna's charming city center, and experience the Magnificent Mosaics of Ravenna.

Perfect for history enthusiasts, art lovers, and cultural explorers, this tour offers a deeply immersive experience with insider knowledge and unforgettable encounters with Ravenna's rich heritage.

The combined ticket includes the Basilica of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, the Neonian Baptistery (Self-guided), the Basilica of San Vitale, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, and the Archiepiscopal Museum and Chapel (Self-guided).

Available options

Ravenna: Mosaics and Highlights Guided Tour with Admission Ticket

What's included

Expert local guide

Small groups led by expert guides

2.5 hours small group tour

Admission Tickets to the all mentioned sites

Detailed itinerary

Start your journey with a visit to Sant'Apollinare Nuovo, a stunning basilica known for its colorful mosaics and impressive architecture. It was once a Palatine Chapel and later became a place of worship. The mosaic panels in the nave tell biblical stories from both the Old and New Testaments. Marvel at the craftsmanship and vibrant colors that bring these stories to life. See the Procession of the Magi, a breathtaking portrayal of the three wise men traveling to meet the infant Jesus.

Visit the Tomb of Dante, a national monument built in 1781 to honor the famous poet Dante Alighieri.

Located next to the Basilica of San Francesco in central Ravenna, this site is full of history. Then, explore the underwater mosaics of the Basilica of San Francesco, revealing more of Ravenna's cultural treasures.

Stop 4

Continue to the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, a magnificent monument featuring early Christian art. This UNESCO World Heritage Site will enchant you with its mosaics on the walls and ceiling. The deep blue tones and intricate designs take you back to the 5th century. Admire the beautiful mosaic of the Good Shepherd, a symbol of the Christian faith.

Next, visit the Basilica of San Vitale, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture. The intricate mosaics covering the walls and ceilings will captivate you. Look for the apse mosaic of Emperor Justinian and his court and the stunning mosaic of Empress Theodora. The basilica's octagonal shape and tall dome showcase the architectural skill of the time.

Conclude your tour with free time to discover the beauty and charm of Ravenna's city center. Your combined ticket also includes entry to the Neonian Baptistery and the Archiepiscopal Museum and Chapel, which you can explore on your own.

What's not included

Transportation to the meeting point

Guided tour of Neonian Baptistery, Archiepiscopal Museum and Chapel

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

36 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.9

15 reviews

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Clients must arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before the start of the tour. This is due to the timed entry of the tickets.

Tickets are timed and expire within 5 to 10 minutes.

Please be advised that it is not possible to join the tour after it has commenced

Sites visited during this tour are subject to occasional closures due to holy observances. In such cases, your guides will provide explanations from outside of the sites. For last-minute closures, modifications may be communicated at the tour start time.

Guests are kindly requested to dress respectfully when visiting sacred sites.

Meeting point

We will meet in front of the main entrance of Ravenna Railway Station, located on Viale Farini. The tour guide will have a signboard that says, “Walks In Europe”.

Important notes

Please make your way to the meethng spot, your guide will have the tickets for you to use during the tour.

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