Friends, ready to swap crowds for shimmering stone stories? Ravenna hides eight UNESCO-listed mosaic monuments, leafy plazas, and an easy hop to the Adriatic.

With walkable lanes, quick trains from Bologna, and gentle prices, this is the Italian art city that still feels human-sized. Here’s a concise, price-checked plan for a brilliant visit.

Getting There

From Bologna Centrale, regional trains reach Ravenna in 1–1.25 hours; fares usually €7–€12 ($8–$13). The historic center is flat and compact—most landmarks sit within a 10–15-minute stroll. Prefer wheels? Bikes rent for €10–€15/day, perfect for the shaded streets toward the UNESCO sites.

Neonian Baptistery

Ravenna’s oldest standing monument pairs a plain octagon outside with a luminous ceiling inside. The central medallion shows a famed immersion scene surrounded by bright tesserae. Plan 20–30 minutes; bring a small mirror (or use your phone) to admire the vault without neck strain.

San Vitale

A masterpiece of space and color, this octagonal basilica dazzles with golds, lapis blues, and marble inlays. Give it 40–50 minutes—stand under the dome, then circle slowly; every step changes the light on the tesserae. Photography is usually allowed without flash.

Galla Placidia

Steps from San Vitale, this small cross-shaped building glows with deep night-sky mosaics. Capacity is limited; timed entry often allows 5–10 minutes inside. It’s short—yet unforgettable—so arrive at your slot a few minutes early.

Sant’Apollinare Nuovo

Long nave, long stories: processions of figures, palaces, and cityscapes sweep along both walls. Sit on the side benches to let the narrative bands reveal themselves. Allow 30–40 minutes.

Dante’s Tomb

The poet’s resting place is a small marble memorial in the center; entry is free (donation appreciated). Nearby, the Dante Museum (check current hours) adds context for ~€4–€6. Swing by early evening when lanes are calm.

Theodoric Mausoleum

In Parco di Teodorico, this stark stone structure carries a single colossal roof slab. Inside is simple; the engineering is the star. Reach it on foot or by local bus; plan 20–30 minutes plus park time.

National Museum

Next to San Vitale, the Museo Nazionale gathers carved ivories, marble fragments, textiles, and finds from Ravenna’s UNESCO monuments. It’s a smart add-on in hot or rainy weather; set aside 45–60 minutes. Tickets typically €6–€8; combo reductions appear in season.

City Squares

Piazza del Popolo anchors the center with historic facades and outdoor tables. Prices for coffee hover around €1.50–€2.50 at the counter and €2.50–€3.50 seated. Stroll the surrounding lanes for artisan shops and gelaterie (scoops €2–€3).

Marina Escape

Marina di Ravenna offers long sandy strands, a paved pier, and sunset strolls. Bus lines from the center take 25–35 minutes for ~€2–€3 each way; summer shuttles run late. Beach clubs rent loungers/umbrellas (€18–€28 for two plus shade); free stretches exist between concessions.

Cesenatico Trip

For a classic seaside day, train to Cesenatico (35–45 minutes, €3–€5). Wander the Leonardesque canal harbor, lounge on pale sand, and return by dusk. Great add-on if you’re skipping the marina crowds.

Theme Thrills

Families love Mirabilandia (bus or car 15–20 minutes from town). Day tickets are usually €29–€39 ($32–$43) online; parking €5–€7. Coasters, a giant wheel, and summer splash zones make a full 5–7-hour outing.

Stay & Eat

Where to stay: Central guesthouses and boutique hotels run €90–€140 per double; budget rooms €50–€80; apartments €80–€120. Staying near Via di Roma or Piazza del Popolo keeps walks short.

What to eat: Try piadina flatbreads (€5–€8) with cheeses/veg, handmade cappelletti (€10–€14), salads, grilled veggies, and fruit tarts. Tap water is safe; carry a reusable bottle. Many kitchens feature affordable lunch menus on weekdays.

Smart Logistics

Dress modestly and carry a light scarf for sites with dress codes. A compact tripod is usually not permitted. Summer heat makes 09:00–11:00 and 16:30–19:00 the best mosaic windows; midday fits museums or siesta. Most places accept cards, but small coins speed up bus tickets and gelato stops.

Conclusion

Ravenna rewards unhurried eyes: plan one full day for mosaics, another for squares and the mausoleum, and a seaside or theme-park finale. Which mix fits your style—art all day, or art plus sand and sunsets? Share your dates and budget, and a tailored route with timed entries and meal stops is yours.