Ravenna, Italy: The Ultimate 3-Day Adventure!

Experience the timeless beauty of Byzantine art and architecture in Ravenna.

22 April 2023

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.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Art and Mosaics

  • Check into the charming Hotel Mosaico, located in the heart of Ravenna with a lovely garden
  • Start the day at the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, a small but stunning chapel with intricate mosaics
  • Visit the Basilica of San Vitale, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with incredible Byzantine mosaics
  • Have lunch at Al Borgo, a cosy trattoria serving homemade pasta and fresh seafood
  • Explore the National Museum of Ravenna, showcasing a collection of medieval and Renaissance art
  • End the day with a sunset walk along the beautifully landscaped Viale degli Aciroli, overlooking the sea
Day 2

History and Food

  • Grab breakfast at Bar Centrale, a local favourite serving croissants and cappuccino
  • Discover the ancient history of Ravenna at the Archaeological Museum, featuring Etruscan and Roman artefacts
  • Walk to Dante's Tomb, the final resting place of the great Italian poet
  • Enjoy a panini and wine at the bustling Mercato Centrale, a traditional market with fresh produce
  • Take a cooking class at Cucina Mia, learning to make traditional Emilian dishes like lasagne and tortellini
  • End the day with a nightcap at Caffè Letterario, a trendy bar with live music and literary events
Day 3

Beach and Relaxation

  • Spend the morning at the beautiful Lido Adriano beach, just a short bus ride from Ravenna
  • Have lunch at La Tavernetta sul Mare, a beachfront restaurant serving fresh seafood and pizza
  • Take a boat tour of the Po Delta National Park, spotting local wildlife like flamingos and herons
  • Relax at the Terme di Punta Marina, a thermal spa with thermal pools and saunas
  • Have dinner at Osteria del Sole, a rustic restaurant with a warm and welcoming atmosphere
  • End the day with a stroll around the Piazza del Popolo, soaking in the historic sights of Ravenna's main square.

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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