Discover Ravenna: A 3-Day Family Adventure on a Budget

Discover history, art, and fun in Ravenna, where family adventures never end.

19 July 2023

Ravenna, Italy offers a delightful family-friendly trip with its rich history, enchanting mosaics, and relaxed atmosphere. Explore the city's numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the stunning mosaics in the Basilica of San Vitale and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, which will captivate both adults and children alike. From bike rides along the famous city walls to gelato tasting in quaint piazzas, Ravenna is a perfect destination for a memorable family vacation.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Beauteous Byzantine Beginnings

  • Start your exploration at Basilica di San Vitale, a stunning 6th-century church adorned with intricate mosaics depicting biblical scenes.
  • Take a stroll to the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, a tiny gem buried in unexpected splendor, its mosaic ceiling making you feel like you're floating in the night sky.
  • Indulge in a gelato pit stop at Gelateria Dolce Vita, where the flavors are as vibrant as the mosaic masterpieces dotting this enchanting town.
  • Visit Dante's Tomb, paying homage to the renowned poet who found solace and inspiration in Ravenna, his final resting place in an unassuming corner.
  • Explore the National Museum of Ravenna, housing an extraordinary collection of ancient art and artifacts that transport you back to Ravenna's glorious past.
Day 2

Marine Magic and Seaside Serenity

  • Embrace the beach vibes at Bagno Perla, a family-friendly coastal resort offering soft golden sands, crystal-clear waters, and a range of water activities.
  • Discover the surreal beauty of Mirabilandia, an amusement park boasting roller coasters, water slides, and fantastical shows that will leave your adrenaline pumping.
  • Relish a seafood feast at Osteria del Tempo Perso, a beloved restaurant serving up fresh catches of the day and flavors that sing of the ocean.
  • Unwind with an evening walk along the Porto Canale, a picturesque canal lined with boats, charming cafés, and the vibrant hues of the setting sun.
  • Spoil the kids with a gelato from Gelateria Artigianale, where innovative flavors like balsamic vinegar and Parmesan cheese will astound their taste buds.
Day 3

Culture, Crafts, and Culinary Delights

  • Immerse yourself in Italian culture at the Dante Alighieri Theatre, catching a mesmerizing opera or ballet performance that resonates with the spirit of Ravenna.
  • Seek out the bustling Mercato Coperto, a lively covered market where locals gather to purchase fresh produce, aromatic spices, and delectable regional specialties.
  • Unleash your creative side at the Classe Arts & Crafts Village, where talented artisans showcase their skills in pottery, wood carving, glassblowing, and beyond.
  • Savor a leisurely lunch at Trattoria da Ivan, where traditional dishes bursting with bold flavors are served with a side of warm Italian hospitality.
  • End your Ravenna escapade with a sweet send-off from Cioccolateria Adami, a chocolate lover's paradise offering luxurious confections and heavenly hot chocolate.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Ravenna, Italy by plane is to fly into Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport and then take the Aerobus shuttle to Bologna Centrale train station. From there, take a train to Ravenna. The whole journey takes around 2 hours.

Car

If you are driving, the best way to get to Ravenna is to take the A14 motorway and then exit at Ravenna.

Train

You can take a train from major cities in Italy such as Milan, Florence, or Rome to Ravenna. The central train station in Ravenna is called Ravenna train station.

Boat

Unfortunately, there are no boats that go directly to Ravenna as it is an inland city. However, you can take a boat ride along the nearby Adriatic coast from nearby locations such as Rimini or Cesenatico.

Bus

There are buses that connect Ravenna to other cities in Italy such as Bologna and Rimini. The main bus station in Ravenna is called Piazzale Aldo Moro.

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A trip to Ravenna, Italy, as a tourist promises a remarkable experience with its incredible mosaic art, captivating historic architecture, and scenic beauty. Visitors can explore the historic landmarks like the UNESCO-listed Basilica di San Vitale and magnificent Mausoleo di Galla Placidia. Moreover, indulging in regional delicacies and strolling through the charming streets of the city is an added delight for tourists.

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As a tourist, a trip to Ravenna, Italy can be described as a treasure trove of rich history and stunning art. The city is renowned for its collection of Byzantine mosaics, including those housed in its various World Heritage Sites, such as the Basilica of San Vitale, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, and the Baptistry of Neon. In addition to its cultural offerings, Ravenna also boasts picturesque parks, quaint cafes and shops, and a lively nightlife scene that offer unforgettable experiences to visitors.

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