Ravenna Private Guided Tour of Top Sites Ancient Mosaics and Piadina Food Tasting

Ravenna is an Italian seaside city with a rich history and stunning architectural heritage. Byzantine-era mosaics, towering basilicas, and famous poet Dante’s tomb all call Ravenna home. If you’re a first-time visitor to the city, it’s essential to have a knowledgeable guide to ensure you don’t miss any of the highlights. That’s where the Ravenna Private Guided Tour of Top Sites Ancient Mosaics and Piadina Food Tasting comes in.

Overview

This half-day private walking tour of Ravenna provides a tailored introduction to the city’s top sites, all led by an art historian guide. You’ll get an up-close look at Ravenna’s famous mosaics and even enjoy a food and wine tasting where you can sample regional products. The tour includes visits to the basilicas of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo and San Vitale, as well as a stop at Dante’s tomb. Choose between morning and afternoon tour timings to suit your schedule.

What’s Included

The Ravenna Private Guided Tour of Top Sites Ancient Mosaics and Piadina Food Tasting includes the following:

• Food Tasting
• Wine Tasting
• Local Guide
• Gratuities
• Hotel Pickup and Drop-Off

Meeting and Pickup

The meeting point for this tour is the NH Hotel Ravenna, located at Piazza Goffredo Mameli 1 48100 Ravenna RA Italy. It’s just a short walk from the Ravenna train station, and the guide will be waiting for you outside the hotel’s entrance.

The Tour Itinerary

The tour begins with a visit to the Basilica of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, one of Ravenna’s oldest churches. The basilica boasts a vibrant collection of Byzantine mosaics, all of which date back to the early 6th century. Your guide will take you on a walking tour of the basilica, pointing out key features and sharing insights into the artworks’ history and significance. Next, you’ll visit the Basilica of San Vitale, another 6th-century church home to Ravenna’s most famous mosaics. The basilica is famous for its intricate Byzantine-style mosaics and architecture, and you’ll get an up-close look at them during your guided tour. The last stop on the tour is the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, a small building with a rich interior. Galla Placidia, who lived in the 5th century, was a powerful Roman Empress and the sister of Emperor Honorius. Her mausoleum boasts some of Ravenna’s most beautiful mosaics, including a stunning representation of the night sky. Finally, the tour concludes with a food and wine tasting that includes the sampling of the typical local flatbread called “piadina” and delicious regional products.

Book Your Tour Now

If you’re a first-time visitor to Ravenna, the Ravenna Private Guided Tour of Top Sites Ancient Mosaics and Piadina Food Tasting is a must. You’ll get a personalized introduction to the city’s most significant sites, all led by an expert guide. And, of course, the food and wine tasting is a delightful way to end your tour. To book your tour, click on book the tour here.

Ravenna City: FAQ Guide

Ravenna is a charming city located in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy. Known for its mosaics, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and cultural richness, this city has become a popular tourist destination. To help you plan your trip, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions about Ravenna.

1. What are some of the must-visit tourist attractions in Ravenna?

• The Mausoleum of Galla Placidia: This small, unassuming building houses some of the most stunning mosaics in Ravenna.
• The Basilica of San Vitale: This 6th-century church is home to some of the most extensive and well-preserved mosaics in the world.
• The Mausoleum of Theodoric: This tomb is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features an impressive stone dome.
• The Arian Baptistery: This is one of the oldest buildings in Ravenna and was constructed in the 5th century AD. It is known for its beautiful mosaics and unique octagonal shape.
• The Dante Museum: This museum is dedicated to the works of the famous poet Dante Alighieri, who spent some time in Ravenna during the early 14th century.

2. When is the best time to visit Ravenna?

The best time to visit Ravenna is between April and June, or between September and October. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are not as large as in the summer months. July and August can be quite hot, and many locals go on vacation during this time, which means some businesses may be closed.

3. What is the local cuisine like in Ravenna?

The cuisine of Ravenna is heavily influenced by its location near the coast. If you’re a seafood lover, you’ll find plenty of delicious dishes to try, such as spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams) or risotto ai frutti di mare (seafood risotto). Additionally, Ravenna is known for its piadinas, which are flatbreads stuffed with various fillings such as prosciutto, cheese, or vegetables. Don’t miss out on trying the local wine, Sangiovese, which pairs well with many of the local dishes.

4. Is it easy to get around Ravenna?

Yes, it is relatively easy to get around Ravenna, whether by foot, bike, or public transportation. The city is compact and walkable, and many of the major tourist attractions are located within a few kilometers of each other. There are several bike rental shops throughout the city, which is a popular mode of transportation for both tourists and locals. Additionally, Ravenna has a good public transportation system, with buses and trains connecting the city to other parts of Emilia-Romagna.

5. What are some lesser-known places to visit in Ravenna?

While the well-known tourist attractions are not to be missed, there are also some lesser-known places in Ravenna that are worth a visit. These include:

• The Oratory of Sant’Andrea: This small chapel is located near the Basilica of San Vitale and is famous for its Byzantine-style mosaics.
• The Museo Nazionale: This museum is located in the Palazzo Rasponi delle Teste and features a collection of art and artifacts from Ravenna’s history.
• The Archiepiscopal Museum: This museum is located in the Archbishop’s Palace and features a collection of religious artifacts and artwork from the 6th to the 19th century.
• The Piazza del Popolo: This beautiful square is surrounded by historic buildings and is a popular place to relax and people watch.

6. What is the weather like in Ravenna?

Ravenna has a Mediterranean climate, which means mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. During the summer months, temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while the winter months are generally mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing.

7. Are there any special events or festivals that take place in Ravenna?

Yes, there are several special events and festivals that take place in Ravenna throughout the year. These include:

• Ravenna Festival: This is an annual festival of music, dance, and theater that takes place throughout the city during the months of June and July.
• Festa di San Vitale: This festival celebrates the patron saint of Ravenna and takes place on April 28th each year.
• Fiera di San Giovanni: This is a traditional festival that takes place in Ravenna’s historic center during the last week of June.

8. What are some day trips that can be taken from Ravenna?

There are several day trips that can be taken from Ravenna, including:

• Bologna: This vibrant city is home to stunning architecture, world-class museums, and some of the best food in Italy.
• Ferrara: This historic city is known for its impressive medieval architecture and tranquil atmosphere.
• San Marino: This tiny country is located within Italy and is known for its stunning mountain scenery and rich history.

Book Your Tour Now

Ravenna is a city rich in history, culture, and beauty. From its stunning mosaics to its delicious cuisine, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in this charming Italian city. Hopefully, this FAQ guide has answered some of your questions and helped you plan your trip to Ravenna. Enjoy your travels!

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Ravenna

Ravenna is located in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy and is known for its beautiful Byzantine mosaics, rich history, and a wide range of cultural sights. If you are looking to spend some quality time as a tourist in Ravenna, then you have come to the right place. In this guide, we will take you through some of the best ways to spend your time as a tourist in Ravenna. From exploring the beautiful cultural sights to engaging in local activities, we have got you covered.

1. Visit the Magnificent Basilicas

One of the primary attractions of Ravenna is its beautiful basilicas. The city is home to some of the most significant and well-preserved Byzantine mosaics in the world. There are eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the city alone, seven of which are churches. Start with the Basilica of San Vitale, which is the most famous of them all. It is home to some of Ravenna’s most beautiful mosaics, and it is well worth the visit. The mosaics depict various scenes from the Old and New Testaments and are breathtakingly beautiful. Next on your list should be the Basilica of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, which is famous for its beautiful mosaics depicting the saints and the story of Saint Apollinare. Other great basilicas to visit include the Basilica di San Francesco, Basilica di Sant’Apollinare in Classe and the Basilica of Sant’Apollinare in Classe.

2. Explore The Ravenna’s Historic Centre

The historic center of Ravenna offers a treasure trove of beautiful sights and cultural activities. The winding streets and ancient structures are sure to take you back in time. Head to Piazza del Popolo, which is at the heart of the city’s historic center. It is home to the beautiful Palazzo Vecchio and the iconic Clock Tower. You can also visit the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, which is located in the center of the city. It houses some of the most beautiful Byzantine mosaics in the world, and a visit here is a must.

3. Enjoy the Local Cuisine

One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the local culture is by trying the local cuisine. Ravenna offers a wide range of mouth-watering dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Some of the must-try dishes include Piadina, a traditional Italian flatbread filled with a variety of delicious ingredients, and Passatelli, a type of pasta made with bread crumbs, cheese, and eggs. If you are a seafood lover, then you are in luck as Ravenna is located close to the sea. You can try out some delicious seafood dishes such as spaghetti alle vongole or stuffed calamari.

4. Explore the Outlying Countryside

While Ravenna’s historic center offers plenty of cultural activities, the surrounding countryside is also worth exploring. Rent a bike or a car and head out to the countryside to experience the breathtaking beauty of the region. You can take a leisurely bike ride through the Po Delta Regional Park or explore the beautiful vineyards of Emilia-Romagna. Meanwhile, nature lovers can enjoy the stunning scenery of the Parco Regionale della Vena del Gesso and the Parco Regionale della Valle del Trebbia.

5. Engage in Local Activities

Finally, another great way to spend your time as a tourist in Ravenna is by engaging in local activities. The city offers a wide range of activities, including cooking classes, wine tasting, and ceramic workshops. You can also attend local festivals and events, such as the Ravenna Festival or the Festa di San Giovanni Battista. These events offer an excellent opportunity to interact with the locals and explore the local culture.

Book Your Tour Now

Whether you are a history buff or a foodie, Ravenna offers plenty of activities to keep you busy. From visiting the beautiful basilicas to exploring the countryside, there is something for everyone in this fantastic city. So, pack your bags, book your tickets, and get ready to be dazzled by the beauty of Ravenna.