Ravenna

Ravenna was once the capital of the Western Roman Empire, the Ostrogothic Kingdom, and the Byzantine Exarchate. It houses eight UNESCO World Heritage monuments celebrated for their outstanding early Christian and Byzantine mosaics. The city’s historical significance and peaceful, pedestrian-friendly centre make it perfect for culture lovers seeking authenticity 

Top Things to Do

1. Must‑See Early Christian Monuments (UNESCO)

The city’s finest heritage is found across eight sites, often covered by combination tickets:

• Basilica of San Vitale – Iconic mosaics of Emperor Justinian and Empress Theodora inside a breathtaking Byzantine architectural gem .

• Mausoleum of Galla Placidia – Intimate and evocative, with a deep-blue mosaic starry ceiling and glowing symbolism 

• Neonian (Orthodox) Baptistery – Late 4th/early 5th-century octagonal structure showcasing the finest baptistery mosaic cycle

• Arian Baptistery – Fresher and simpler mosaic decorations reflecting Theodoric’s Arian faith 

• Also included: Basilica of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, Sant’Apollinare in Classe, Archiepiscopal Chapel of St Andrew, Mausoleum of Theodoric

2. Museo Nazionale di Ravenna

An excellent complement to mosaics, this museum displays archaeological finds, medieval artifacts, and local sculpture and pottery

3. Dante Museum & Tomb

Located in the former Franciscan convent, this museum explores Dante’s life, writings, and includes the cloister garden where his remains were hidden during WWII 

4. Historic Centre & Local Life

Wandering the car‑free centre reveals buzzing piazzas, local osterias, and a relaxed Italian rhythm—times feel slower here 

5. Marina di Ravenna Beach & Pineta

Just 12 km east: golden sands, beach bars, and sea air—perfect for an afternoon break or sunset aperitivo

6. Attend Ravenna Festival

Held in June–July, the festival enlivens historic venues with opera, jazz, dance, and classical music under starry nights 

Eat & Drink

• Piadina Romagnola: Flatbread sandwiches with prosciutto, burrata, or pistachio—try them at local stands like Profumo di Piadina

• Regional Cuisine: Enjoy rich eggless pasta, creamy cheeses, hearty meats, and local wine tastings—popular at cooking classes or markets .

• Mercato Coperto: Great for tasting piadina, Parmigiano, cold cuts, and emilia wine in lively local vibe 

Travel Tips

• Best season: Late spring to early fall avoids heavier winter crowds—ideal for mosaics, festivals, and coastal visits 

• Getting there: Easily reached by train or car from Bologna, Florence, or Rimini. The centre is pedestrian-only and compact 

• Getting around: Walkable centre; bike rentals are available. Beach and mausoleum trips may require transit or car.

• Length of stay: One full day covers main mosaics; staying 2–3 days lets you enjoy museums, local dining, beach time, and maybe a festival.

Where to Stay

• Historic centre hotels and B&Bs: Charming options like Albergo Cappello or Centrale Byron lie within walking distance of monuments and dining 

• Nearby beach lodgings offer seaside access at Marina di Ravenna.

• Day‑trip cycles bring you easily to Rimini, Comacchio, and the Po Delta for broader exploration.