Things to do Ravenna
Ravenna, a charming town in Emilia Romagna, Italy, often remains undiscovered on typical tourist itineraries. However, it's a hidden gem that can be conveniently explored in a day or two, especially when travelling from nearby Bologna and Florence. If you've chosen to incorporate Ravenna into your Italian journey, explore the top activities in Ravenna to ensure you get the most out of your trip! Discover its remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Sites, renowned for their stunning mosaics dating back to the Byzantine era. Be amazed by the magnificence of the Basilica di San Vitale, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, and other historical gems that radiate Ravenna's abundant cultural legacy.
Piazza del Popolo
While many guides suggest starting your Ravenna exploration with religious sites, we believe that Piazza del Popolo, the city's main square, offers the best introduction to the true essence of Ravenna. Located in the heart of the historic district and a stone's throw away from important churches, this vibrant square is ideal for immersing yourself in the local culture.
Relax at a café, observe the daily routines of the friendly locals, and soak in the charming atmosphere. Marvel at the Municipal Palace and other Government Buildings that adorn the square, adding to its historic allure.
Piazza del Popolo is a must-visit destination, providing a natural feel of Ravenna and setting the stage for further exploration of the city's captivating offerings. When in Ravenna, exploring this lively square should be one of the top things to do in Ravenna.
The Neonian Baptistery
One of the impressive religious buildings in Ravenna, the Neonian Baptistery, also known as the Neon Baptistery, holds significant historical importance as the oldest structure in the city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Its characteristic octagonal design sets it apart, and it stands adjacent to Saint Andrew's Chapel. Yet, the real wonder resides within its inner sanctum, embellished with lively mosaics and elaborate adornments portraying religious depictions of Saint John the Baptist and the Apostles.
The Baptistery's location atop a former Roman Bath complex further enhances its historic significance, making it a must-visit site when exploring the rich heritage of Ravenna. Exploring this ancient Baptistery is among the top things to do in Ravenna for history and art enthusiasts.
Galla Placidia Mausoleum
When exploring UNESCO sites in Ravenna, the Galla Placida mausoleum is an absolute must-visit destination. This remarkable structure, named after the daughter of Theodosius I, a former Roman emperor, boasts stunning decorations and masterpieces, earning it a unique architectural reputation.
The mausoleum stands as a tribute to Galla Placida, and its interior is adorned with mesmerizing artwork and intricate designs that leave visitors in awe.
The fusion of historical importance and artistic excellence renders the Galla Placida mausoleum a must-visit destination on any Ravenna travel plan. Discovering this exceptional site is among the top things to do in Ravenna for history and art enthusiasts alike.
Saint Vitale Basilica
Among the stunning religious buildings in Ravenna, the Basilica of San Vitale stands out with its unassuming facade, belying the grandeur within. Upon entering, guests are spellbound by the extraordinary and intricate details adorning the interior. The arches and columns boast lavish decorations and refined craftsmanship, creating an awe-inspiring ambience.
The basilica's large octagonal dome is a sight to behold, adorned with breathtaking mosaics that rank among Italy's finest examples of Byzantine artwork. Exploring the Basilica of San Vitale is a must-do in Ravenna, allowing you to immerse yourself in the city's rich history and architectural brilliance.
It is a top-rated attraction among the things to do in Ravenna for art and history enthusiasts.
Saint Francis Basilica
When visiting Ravenna, don't miss the Basilica di San Francesco, an essential landmark often explored together with the Basilica of San Vitale. Though simpler in design, it holds immense historical significance for the city.
The basilica houses important artefacts and tombs closely connected to Ravenna's past, making it a beloved and popular site. The tenth-century bell tower adds to its charm, but the real highlight is the ancient crypt, sometimes submerged underwater, which holds the tomb of a fifth-century bishop.
Exploring this crypt is a unique experience that offers a glimpse into the city's rich history and is among the top things to do in Ravenna.
Theodoric’s Tomb
The Mausoleum of Theodoric stands as a significant attraction in Ravenna, drawing numerous tourists seeking to connect with the city's storied past.
This imposing domed mausoleum, built in Istrian stone during the sixth century, is the final resting place of Theodoric, the renowned king of the Ostrogoths. His personal choice of Ravenna as his eternal resting place reflects the city's historical importance.
Today, the mausoleum stands amidst the serene green fields of Theodoric Park, captivating visitors with its architectural grandeur and historical significance. Exploring this remarkable site is an essential thing to do in Ravenna to truly understand its rich and influential past.
Sant’Apollinare Nuovo Palace
The Basilica of Sant'Apollinare Nuovo stands as another remarkable testament to Ravenna's Ostrogothic past and is a must-visit attraction for history enthusiasts.
Constructed by King Theodoric in the sixth century, this former palace transformed into a basilica is dedicated to Christ the Redeemer. It features a breathtaking array of stone arches and a splendid bell tower.
Once inside, visitors are treated to a visual feast of rich mosaics and opulent decorations, a recurring feature in many of Ravenna's churches and palaces.
Exploring the lavish interior of Sant'Apollinare Nuovo is an essential thing to do in Ravenna to witness the opulence of the Ostrogothic Kingdom during its glorious era.
Dante Alighieri’s Tomb
Ravenna holds a significant connection to Italian literary history as the final resting place of the renowned poet Dante Alighieri. While Florence may be associated with Dante's life, it is in Ravenna where visitors can pay homage to his tomb.
As the paramount poet in Italian literature, Dante's literary opus, La Divina Commedia, stands as an unmatched creation, portraying his odyssey through Hell, Purgatory, and Paradise.
For language enthusiasts and those intrigued by Italian culture, a visit to Dante's tomb is a must- things to do in Ravenna. Discover the writer who united the diverse Italian dialects into a unified language, leaving an indelible mark on the country's literary heritage.
Ravenna’s National Museum
Among the things to do in Ravenna, a visit to the former Benedictine Monastery, now transformed into the National Museum of Ravenna, is a must.
This captivating museum showcases a remarkable collection reflecting the city's rich past, featuring archaeological discoveries, art, and relics gathered from Ravenna and its surroundings.
A highlight of the museum is the fascinating exhibition of ancient weapons, including many from the Ostrogoth Kingdom.
Immerse yourself in history as you explore the extensive array of artefacts, providing a deeper understanding of Ravenna's cultural heritage. For history enthusiasts and art lovers alike, the National Museum of Ravenna offers a captivating journey through time.
Arian Baptistery
When exploring the things to do in Ravenna, don't miss the Arian Baptistery, a significant religious building dating back to the sixth century. Built by King Theodoric, it shares architectural similarities with many other churches and baptisteries in the city.
The true marvel lies in its ceiling mosaic, depicting the baptism of Jesus Christ, a breathtaking artwork that exemplifies the city's rich artistic heritage. Step into this historic edifice and be awe-inspired by the intricate details and religious significance it holds.
The Arian Baptistery is a must-visit destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in Ravenna's cultural and historical wonders.
Via Cavour
When in Ravenna, take a stroll down the vibrant Via Cavour, the city's most important street. It offers a unique experience, perfect for shopping and admiring the architectural marvels of the historic city centre.
Explore the charming boutiques and shops or simply soak in the beauty of the surroundings. Along the street, you'll find a delightful array of restaurants, trattorias, bars, and coffee shops where you can savour the delectable cuisine of Emilia Romagna.
Indulge in cold cuts, cheese, wine, and mouthwatering tortellini pasta or cappelletti al ragú sauce, making it a must-visit destination to savour the flavours of the region.
Enjoy Ravenna’s foodie scene
Ravenna offers a delightful range of foodie experiences for travellers to relish. Start your culinary adventure with a classic Italian aperitivo, sipping on refreshing drinks before dinner. When it's time to sample the local delicacies, don't miss the seafood-based risottos and kinds of pasta, bursting with flavours from the Adriatic Sea.
For a unique taste, indulge in Castrato di Romagna, a tantalizing dish of ram meat marinated in salt and rosemary. These delectable dishes capture the essence of the region's culinary heritage, making it a must-do for any food lover visiting Ravenna. Indulge in the tastes and fully embrace the culinary pleasures of the town.
Ravenna stands as a captivating Italian destination that presents a plethora of historical and cultural marvels. With its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, captivating religious structures, and notable landmarks, Ravenna is a treasure trove for aficionados of history and art.
From the ancient mosaics of the Neonian Baptistery to the grandeur of the Basilica di San Vitale, each attraction tells a unique story of the city's illustrious past. The town's advantageous position makes it readily reachable, and its fewer tourists result in a more cost-effective and pleasurable excursion.
Be sure to delve into the local culinary scene, indulging in the region's delightful cuisine and wines.
Embrace the charm of Ravenna and immerse yourself in its fascinating offerings, making your Italian adventure truly memorable. Therefore, when organizing your upcoming journey, make sure to incorporate the wide array of captivating activities in Ravenna for an enriching and unforgettable adventure.
Where is Ravenna and How can I go there?
Ravenna, strategically nestled in northern Italy between Bologna and San Marino, holds a significant place in the Emilia Romagna region. As the capital of its province, Ravenna enjoys excellent connectivity through an efficient train system, linking it to major cities in the area. Additionally, buses facilitate access from various towns in Emilia Romagna and even some critical Tuscan cities.
For international travellers, reaching Ravenna involves flying into Italy's significant airports like Fiumicino in Rome or Malpensa in Milan, followed by a convenient train journey to the town. Once in Ravenna, explore its rich cultural heritage through a range of things to do in Ravenna, from exploring UNESCO World Heritage Sites with ancient mosaics to discovering its captivating historical treasures.
Important Things to Know about Ravenna
Ravenna may not boast the same fame as some other Italian destinations, but its illustrious past as the capital of various empires, such as the Western Roman Empire and the Kingdom of the Ostrogoths, makes it an intriguing city to explore. Steeped in history, Ravenna offers an incredible array of historic sites, remarkable buildings, museums, and churches, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Beyond its historical charm, Ravenna's proximity to the Adriatic coast's seaside resorts and other popular tourist attractions like Pisa, Florence, San Gimignano, Siena, Lucca, and Bologna, adds further allure to this captivating city. Embrace a fulfilling Italian adventure by discovering the diverse things to do in Ravenna.
When to Visit Ravenna
Ravenna's relatively lower tourist influx compared to Florence or Rome offers a silver lining – finding affordable accommodation and tickets to attractions, even during the bustling summer season, becomes a breeze. The city enjoys the delightful climate characteristics of both Tuscany and Emilia Romagna, with extended warm summers, enjoyable springs, crisp autumns, and occasionally rainy and chilly winters.
Whether you're exploring the numerous historic sites, remarkable buildings, and museums or immersing yourself in the city's captivating past, Ravenna promises an enriching experience. Enjoy the charm of this hidden gem, relish the serene atmosphere and discover the fascinating things to do in Ravenna throughout the year.
Where to Stay in Ravenna
When organizing your Ravenna visit, contemplate the ease of exploring key areas and attractions by walking. Opting for accommodation in the city centre or near the main train station ensures a smart and hassle-free experience. Here are two excellent options to check out when booking a hotel in Ravenna:
Appartamento Corte Callegari: Located just 700 meters from the town centre, this top-rated and affordable bed and breakfast offers a delightful stay. The pet-friendly property boasts a kitchen, a cosy seating area, and the choice of a continental or buffet breakfast each morning. It's an ideal base for your exploration of Ravenna's rich heritage and cultural attractions.
B&B Corso Diaz: If you're on a budget and seeking a central location, this bed and breakfast near Ravenna Station is perfect for you. Enjoy the convenience of a lovely shared garden, providing a tranquil space to unwind after a day of walking and exploring Ravenna's historic sites and UNESCO World Heritage wonders.
With these accommodation choices, you can make the most of your time in Ravenna and indulge in the many exciting things to do in Ravenna.
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