Things To Do
in Ravenna
Ravenna is a beautiful city located in the Emilia-Romagna region of northern Italy. It is renowned for its well-preserved Byzantine mosaics, which can be found in various churches and monuments throughout the city. Ravenna was once the capital of the Western Roman Empire and later the capital of the Ostrogothic Kingdom.
Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular destination for art and history enthusiasts.
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Grazie" - Thank you
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Mi scusi" - Excuse me
- "Arrivederci" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Basilica di San Vitale, known for its stunning mosaics. Don't miss the adjoining Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, dripping with artistry.
Head to the Basilica di Sant'Apollonia in Classe to admire its intricate mosaics and peaceful surroundings. Enjoy a leisurely lunch in a nearby café for a taste of local cuisine.
Stroll through the historic city center and linger at Piazza del Popolo. Enjoy a traditional Italian dinner at a local trattoria.
Begin with a guided walking tour of Ravenna to learn about its rich heritage and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The tour will cover notable landmarks including Dante's Tomb.
Visit the Archiepiscopal Museum and the nearby Basilica di San Francesco. The beautiful interiors and fascinating artifacts will captivate your interest.
Cap off your day with a scenic sunset walk alongside the ancient walls of Ravenna. Dine at a restaurant with outdoor seating for the perfect atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and cultural heritage with UNESCO World Heritage sites
- Stunning mosaics and architectural landmarks
- Less touristy compared to other Italian cities, offering a more authentic experience
- Gastronomic delights, including traditional Italian cuisine
- Charming canals and scenic views
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities
- Smaller size may lead to fewer activities and attractions
- Could be challenging for non-Italian speakers due to less tourist infrastructure
- Public transportation options may be limited
- Can be hot and humid during summer months
Best Activities in Ravenna
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning mosaics and architecture of this ancient basilica, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Enjoy the beautiful natural landscapes of Ravenna while cycling through the pinewood forests surrounding the city.
Relax and unwind on the sandy beaches of Lido di Dante, just a short distance from Ravenna.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ravenna with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ravenna
Visit one of these nice places.
The stunning Byzantine mosaics provide a picturesque backdrop for photographs, especially in the morning light.
This historic site offers a unique and scenic viewpoint of the city, perfect for capturing memorable photos.
This medieval fortress provides panoramic views of Ravenna and its surrounding landscape, ideal for photography enthusiasts.
Food in Ravenna
Ravenna Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A flatbread filled with a variety of savory ingredients such as prosciutto, squacquerone cheese, and arugula. Try it at Antica Trattoria Rinascimento.
Must-Try!
Small, hat-shaped pasta filled with a delicious mixture of meats, typically served in a rich broth. Visit Trattoria La Rustica for an authentic taste.
A unique pasta made with breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, eggs, and nutmeg, often served in a flavorful broth. Sample this dish at Ca' de Ven.
A variation of Piadina from the Romagna region, often stuffed with local cheeses, cured meats, and fresh vegetables. La Piada del Melarancio is a prime spot to enjoy this specialty.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ravenna better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market offering an array of fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, meats, and artisanal products. Don’t miss the local street food stalls here offering fried seafood and arancini.
This market features a delightful selection of local street food, including piadina, panini, and traditional sweets like ciambella and crostata.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When visiting Ravenna, it's important to show respect for the city's historical and religious sites, such as the beautiful mosaic-filled churches and the famous mausoleum of Theodoric. Visitors should dress modestly and behave respectfully to maintain the sanctity of these cultural landmarks.
In Ravenna, locals take pride in their traditional cuisine, which includes dishes like piadina, cappelletti, and passatelli. When dining out, it's important to appreciate and respect the local food culture, including adhering to Italian dining customs such as using utensils properly and following the local dining hours.
Italian culture places a strong emphasis on politeness and courteous behavior. It's important for visitors to greet locals with a friendly 'buongiorno' or 'buonasera,' and to use 'per favore' (please) and 'grazie' (thank you) when interacting with locals, whether in shops, restaurants, or on the street.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Ravenna with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Ravenna
Ensure a smooth experience
In Ravenna, Italy, it is common to leave a small tip of 5-10% at restaurants if you receive good service, although it is not obligatory. Tipping in other service industries, such as taxis and hotels, is also discretionary.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Ravenna, especially in larger establishments. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases and in more traditional or rural areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Ravenna.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warmer weather, blooming flowers, and milder crowds.
Hot weather, peak tourism season, and lively atmosphere.
Mild weather, fewer tourists, and the opportunity to witness the grape harvest.
Cool weather, fewer crowds, and the chance to experience festive holiday markets.
Ravenna at Night
Hiking in Ravenna
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A vast natural park offering numerous hiking trails through dense forests, scenic views, and diverse wildlife.
A beautiful park located at the mouth of the Po River, featuring trails along the wetlands, lagoons, and rich birdlife.
A mountain area offering various hiking routes with picturesque views, waterfalls, and opportunities for nature observation.
This national park provides a range of trails through lush forests and historic monasteries, perfect for hiking and exploration.
Known for its stunning limestone formations and chalk hills, this park features trails with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Ravenna through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Ravenna by plane.
The closest major international airport to Ravenna, located approximately 80 kilometers northwest. It serves a wide range of domestic and international flights.
Located about 60 kilometers northwest of Ravenna, this airport offers a limited number of international flights, primarily to European destinations.
Situated around 100 kilometers southeast of Ravenna, this airport serves both domestic and some international routes.
Approximately 180 kilometers west of Ravenna, this airport is a major hub for international flights, especially to and from Europe.
Located about 160 kilometers northeast of Ravenna, this is one of the largest airports in northern Italy, offering extensive international service.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of Ravenna's population consists of Italian nationals, who make up approximately 90% of the city's demographic.
Ravenna has a diverse community of foreign residents, including significant populations from Romania, Morocco, and Albania.
A considerable percentage of Ravenna's residents are elderly, reflecting demographic trends seen in many Italian cities.
This group includes students and young professionals, who represent a smaller demographic compared to the elderly.
The population of children and adolescents makes up a smaller segment of the total demographic in Ravenna.
The Soul of Ravenna
Discover the essence of Ravenna through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in Ravenna, with several local teams participating in various leagues, including amateur and professional levels.
Volleyball is widely played in Ravenna, with various clubs and recreational leagues for both men and women, contributing to its strong community presence.
Basketball enjoys a significant following in Ravenna, with local youth clubs and competitive teams helping to cultivate talent in the sport.
Handball is gaining popularity in Ravenna, with several clubs competing at regional levels and promoting the sport in schools.
Rugby has a dedicated following in Ravenna, with clubs offering programs for youth and adults, fostering a strong team spirit and community involvement.
Cycling is a favored recreational activity in Ravenna, supported by scenic routes along the coastline and through the surrounding countryside.
Swimming is a popular sport in Ravenna, with numerous facilities and clubs available for training and competitions, particularly in the summer months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ravenna.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While many traditional dishes in Ravenna include meat and dairy, several restaurants and cafes in the city offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly alternatives. Osteria Dell' Accademia and Ristorante Diana are known for their diverse and creative vegetarian menus.
Visitors with gluten intolerances can enjoy gluten-free versions of regional classics at restaurants like Al Passatore and Ristorante Capannina.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Ravenna with these cultural adventures.
