Ravenna tours

Things to do in Ravenna

Golden mosaics shimmer from ancient church walls, hidden courtyards invite quiet reflection, and centuries of stories linger in the cool shade of narrow lanes. Ravenna, once the capital of a fallen Roman Empire, today stands as a city of extraordinary beauty, artistry, and timeless spirit. Choosing Ravenna tours that are private and customizable lets you step deeper into the city's mosaic-covered soul — exploring its UNESCO treasures and local life in a way that feels personal and unforgettable. Many travelers visiting Ravenna also explore nearby cities like Bologna, Rimini, and Ferrara, crafting a Ravenna itinerary rich with artistic masterpieces, seaside escapes, and hidden historic gems. With a private Ravenna tour, you experience every glittering detail and every secret alleyway exactly the way you want to. Top 10 Must-See Attractions in Ravenna From dazzling mosaics to ancient tombs, Ravenna offers a treasure trove of masterpieces waiting to be discovered: Basilica di San Vitale Step into this sixth-century marvel where glittering mosaics swirl across the walls, depicting vivid biblical scenes and imperial grandeur. Mausoleum of Galla Placidia Wander beneath a star-strewn mosaic ceiling inside one of the oldest and most magical early Christian monuments in the world. Basilica di Sant'Apollinare Nuovo Admire rows of golden saints and colorful processions covering the walls of this grand basilica, where East meets West in shimmering artistry. Basilica di Sant'Apollinare in Classe Travel just outside the city to experience soaring arches and a brilliant apse mosaic glowing with vivid greens and golds. Dante’s Tomb Pay respects to Italy’s greatest poet at his quiet resting place, surrounded by peaceful gardens and historical chapels. Battistero Neoniano (Neonian Baptistery) Gaze up at the stunning mosaic of Christ’s baptism encircled by the twelve apostles, one of Ravenna’s oldest surviving artworks. Battistero degli Ariani (Arian Baptistery) Discover the contrasting views of early Christianity in this smaller, serene baptistery crowned with delicate mosaics. Piazza del Popolo Relax in the heart of Ravenna’s lively center, where Venetian columns, outdoor cafés, and elegant palazzos create a timeless gathering space. Museo Nazionale di Ravenna Explore an eclectic collection of Roman artifacts, medieval art, and fascinating archaeological finds in this quiet, atmospheric museum. Basilica di San Francesco Visit the simple, serene church where Dante once prayed, and marvel at the crypt submerged under clear waters, home to small fish. Explore Ravenna Off the Beaten Path Beyond its UNESCO-listed marvels, Ravenna offers quieter corners and authentic local moments for those who linger longer: Via Cavour Artisan Shops Wander along this charming street filled with workshops and boutiques where modern artisans carry on ancient crafts. Teca Art Gallery and Mosaic Studios See how contemporary artists are keeping Ravenna’s mosaic tradition alive, creating stunning new works from ancient techniques. Darsena Waterfront Relax along the canal-front where modern art installations, cafés, and colorful reflections create a vibrant new energy in the historic port district. Teodorico Park Enjoy a peaceful stroll through this large, leafy park near the famous Mausoleum of Theodoric, ideal for a quiet break. Local Pastry Shops Savor Ravenna’s traditional sweets like "torta di riso" and "pinza" at cozy local bakeries where recipes are treasured for generations. Day Trip Ideas from Ravenna Ravenna’s central location makes it easy to explore the Emilia-Romagna region’s culinary, artistic, and seaside delights: Bologna’s Food and Towers Dive into the lively streets of Bologna, tasting fresh pasta, admiring medieval towers, and savoring authentic Emilia-Romagna flavors. Rimini’s Roman and Seaside Charms Walk through Roman arches and sunbathe on golden beaches in this historic and playful Adriatic town. Ferrara’s Renaissance Splendor Cycle through quiet medieval streets and visit grand palaces and cathedrals in this UNESCO World Heritage city of art and history. Comacchio’s Lagoon Adventures Explore the "Little Venice" of the Po Delta, where canals, colorful houses, and eel fisheries tell a story of life shaped by the water. Travel Tips for Your Visit to Ravenna A few simple tips can help you enjoy Ravenna even more fully: Best Times to Visit: April to June and September to October offer pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and ideal light for admiring mosaics. Getting Around: Ravenna’s historic center is compact and walkable. Bicycles are popular for reaching nearby churches and the countryside. What to Wear: Comfortable walking shoes are essential for cobbled streets. Modest clothing is appreciated when visiting religious sites. Local Etiquette: A cheerful “Buongiorno” is always welcome. When dining, it’s polite to linger and savor — meals in Emilia-Romagna are a celebration. Explore Ravenna Your Way Ravenna is a city of whispered stories and shimmering wonders — a place where every mosaic tile, quiet piazza, and sunlit courtyard invites you to slow down and look closer. Whether you’re drawn to ancient art, peaceful gardens, or lively streets filled with local life, your experience here is uniquely yours. With ToursByLocals, your Ravenna journey becomes private, flexible, and deeply authentic. Find your perfect guide and let Ravenna's timeless beauty unfold before you — one glittering step at a time.