Ravenna might not be the first city that springs to mind when you think of Italy, but this hidden gem is a treasure trove of history and art. Known for its stunning mosaics, Ravenna boasts eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the breathtaking Basilica di San Vitale and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia. Each site tells a story of the city’s rich Byzantine past, making it a paradise for history buffs and art enthusiasts alike. Strolling through Ravenna’s charming streets, you’ll discover quaint cafes and local trattorias serving up delicious Emilia-Romagna cuisine. Be sure to try the piadina, a traditional flatbread filled with savory ingredients, or indulge in the region's renowned wines. The vibrant atmosphere is perfect for leisurely afternoons spent people-watching or exploring the local artisan shops. Ravenna is also a cultural hub, hosting events like the Ravenna Festival, which celebrates music and dance in its historic venues. Whether you're wandering through ancient churches or enjoying a gelato in the sun, Ravenna offers a unique blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. Fun fact: this city was once the capital of the Western Roman Empire, making it a significant stop on your Italian adventure!
Ravenna, Italy
Top things to do in Ravenna
15 attractions, landmarks and museums worth your time, ranked by traveler reviews.
Basilica of San Vitale
The Basilica of San Vitale is a 6th-century church in Ravenna, Italy, renowned for its stunning Byzantine mosaics and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Mausoleum of Galla Placidia
The Mausoleum of Galla Placidia is a small 5th-century building in Ravenna, Italy, with some of the oldest and finest mosaics in the city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Basilica of Sant'Apollinare Nuovo
A 6th-century basilica in Ravenna renowned for its stunning mosaic friezes depicting processions of saints and martyrs.
Basilica of Sant'Apollinare in Classe
A 6th-century basilica in the ancient port of Classe, famous for its magnificent apse mosaic and collection of early Christian sarcophagi.
Basilica of San Francesco, Ravenna
A 5th-century church where Dante's funeral was held, featuring a crypt with a mosaic floor often submerged in water.
Tomb of Dante
Neoclassical monument housing the remains of poet Dante Alighieri, a pilgrimage site for literature lovers.
Baptistery of Neon
Oldest baptistery in Ravenna, renowned for its stunning mosaic ceiling depicting the baptism of Christ.
Arian Baptistery
5th-century Arian baptistery with a unique mosaic of Christ's baptism featuring a distinct depiction of John the Baptist.
Archiepiscopal Museum, Ravenna
Museum housing early Christian artifacts, including the ivory throne of Maximian and the Chapel of Sant'Andrea with its mosaics.
Teatro Comunale Alighieri
Historic 19th-century opera house hosting performances of opera, ballet, and concerts.
Palace of Theodoric
Remains of the 5th-6th century palace of the Ostrogothic king, with mosaic floors on display.
Ravenna Cathedral
Ravenna's main cathedral, rebuilt in the 18th century, featuring a 5th-century baptistery and a museum of sacred art.
San Giovanni Evangelista, Ravenna
A 5th-century church built by Empress Galla Placidia, famous for its 13th-century mosaic floor depicting the Fourth Crusade.
Classe, ancient port of Ravenna
Archaeological site of the ancient Roman port of Ravenna, with ruins and the nearby Basilica of Sant'Apollinare in Classe.
Ravenna
Ravenna is a historic city in Emilia-Romagna, Italy, famous for its stunning late Roman and Byzantine mosaics, with eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Tickets & tours
Skip the queue in Ravenna
Compare live prices for entry tickets, guided tours and day trips from trusted local operators.
Some booking links are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We never let this influence which places we recommend.