Things to do in Ravenna

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Ravenna which includes heritage architecture, a church or cathedral and interior views
Ravenna
Ravenna showing a square or plaza
Ravenna
Ravenna showing a church or cathedral, heritage architecture and a park

Ravenna Attractions

It's hardly surprising that so many vacationers return to Ravenna every year. This appealing city is full of things to do. Whether you're interested in exploring the local sights or attempting more action-packed experiences, you'll never be bored here.

If you're ready to discover the best of Ravenna, join a few of the top tours & day trips on offer, and have an experienced guide show you the most popular sites. Offering free cancellations and no added fees, our {79 fun activities in Ravenna fun activities in Ravenna} are also worth browsing through.

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Ravenna must see attractions

1. Mirabilandia

With its range of roller coasters and themed worlds, Mirabilandia is a limitless playground for children of all ages. The theme park, which has a vast water world section, features some of the most exhilarating rides in Europe. Provide a thrilling time for your kids at the shows and rides of one of Italy’s largest amusement parks.
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Mirabilandia showing rides and a waterpark as well as a small group of people

2. Basilica of San Vitale

Eastern art blends with Catholic tradition in the Basilica of San Vitale, considered one of the most important destinations for early Christian art in the country. This octagonal church in central Ravenna is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors come from around the world to see its stunning mosaics, cavernous interior and the maze depicted on the church floor. Join a guided tour of the Basilica of San Vitale to learn about its history or attend a musical event to hear the church’s heavenly acoustics.
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Basilica of San Vitale featuring a church or cathedral

3. Ravenna Cathedral

With its blue-green dome and majestic façade, the Ravenna Cathedral is one of the city’s crowning jewels. The current incarnation dates back to 1734, although churches have stood on this spot since the 4th century. Pass through the arched portico and gaze at the opulent religious decorations in the interior.
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Ravenna Cathedral

4. Piazza del Popolo

Bordered by the town hall and Baroque church, the Piazza del Popolo is the principal square in Ravenna. It was constructed beside a former canal by the Venetians in the 15th century. Admire the pair of columns topped by statues of saints, similar to the design of Venice’s Piazza San Marco.
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Piazza del Popolo which includes a sunset, a square or plaza and street scenes

5. Dante Alighieri's Tomb

Visit Dante Alighieri’s Tomb to learn about how the Florentine poet’s politics led him to spend his final years in Ravenna. Dante Alighieri, considered among the most notable Italian writers in history, was buried in the city. Today visitors travel from around the world to pay tribute at his tomb. Visit Dante Alighieri’s Tomb to hold your own tribute, reflect in the peaceful atmosphere, admire the neoclassical monument and see the urn containing the epitaph written by Bernardo Canaccio.
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Dante Alighieri\'s Tomb which includes street scenes

6. Mausoleum of Galla Placidia

The sister of Roman Emperor Honorius built the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia as her final resting place during the second quarter of the 5th century. Yet Galla Placidia’s body was never returned to Ravenna. She was instead buried in Rome in A.D. 450. Today, the small building is open to the public and features one of the most breathtaking interiors in the city.
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Mausoleum of Galla Placidia which includes religious elements, heritage elements and interior views

7. Mausoleum of Theodoric

The Mausoleum of Theodoric is a structure of intriguing architectural design, divided into two decagonal layers. It was built in the 6th century by the Ostrogothic King Theodoric the Great, whose remains were initially entombed within, before later being removed.
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Emilia-Romagna which includes heritage architecture

8. Arian Baptistry

Constructed in the 5th century by King Theodoric the Great, the Arian Baptistery offers a glimpse into the past. It is famous for the shimmering mosaics of biblical scenes that decorate the interior walls. Capture photos of the octagonal building, with the adjacent Spirito Santo Church providing a backdrop.
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Arian Baptistry showing heritage elements

9. Basilica of Sant' Apollinare Nuovo

A fascinating history and a collection of impressive mosaic walls draw visitors to the Basilica of Sant’ Apollinare Nuovo. This large church is among the oldest religious sites in Ravenna and belonged to a number of religions before it was consecrated as part of the Catholic Church. The basilica is one of many UNESCO World Heritage listed sites in Ravenna. View the art inside, considered to be some of the most important in the area.
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Basilica of Sant\' Apollinare Nuovo showing heritage architecture and heritage elements

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Recommended things to do in Ravenna

Number of things to do
79
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Audio guides to discover Ravenna, the city of golden mosaics: $5
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

What to do in Ravenna

Free Things to Do in Ravenna

Heading to Ravenna on a budget? The following can be seen for nada.

Museo D'Arte della Citta - Talk to the friendly staff or curator and learn all about the unique collections on exhibit here.

Piazza del Popolo - Get acquainted with some of the local people and seek out the real personality and soul of this place.

Dante Alighieri's Tomb - Flick through your guidebook and find out why this place deserves a spot on your must-see list.

Arian Baptistry - Take a moment for some prayer or meditation at this peaceful religious site.

Things to Do in Ravenna with Kids

Ravenna is an excellent place for a family vacation. Bring the kids along and try these popular family friendly experiences together:

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Ravenna? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Discover the most popular places to visit in Ravenna

Mirabilandia showing rides and a waterpark as well as a small group of people

Mirabilandia

An inverted roller coaster, a tower drop and one of Europe’s largest houses of horrors are among the highlights in the themed worlds of this amusement park.

Mirabilandia
Basilica of San Vitale featuring a church or cathedral

Basilica of San Vitale

Listen to opera, join a historical tour or admire breathtaking 6th-century mosaics at this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Basilica of San Vitale
Ravenna Cathedral

Ravenna Cathedral

Standing between two plazas, this 18th-century Baroque cathedral has an imposing façade and myriad religious artworks. Check out the historic relics in the museum.

Ravenna Cathedral
Dante Alighieri\'s Tomb which includes street scenes

Dante Alighieri's Tomb

Pay your respects to one of Italy’s most accomplished poets at a charming tribute located at the final resting place of Dante Alighieri.

Dante Alighieri's Tomb
Piazza del Popolo which includes a sunset, a square or plaza and street scenes

Piazza del Popolo

Sculpted saints rise from the cobbles of this central plaza whose historic buildings provide a window into its Venetian past.

Piazza del Popolo
Mausoleum of Galla Placidia which includes religious elements, heritage elements and interior views

Mausoleum of Galla Placidia

While Galla Placidia’s body was never actually laid to rest in this mausoleum, it attracts visitors for its stunning mosaics and reliefs.

Mausoleum of Galla Placidia
Emilia-Romagna which includes heritage architecture

Mausoleum of Theodoric

Admire the fascinating geometric proportions of this ancient tomb that was fit for a king and view the picturesque park from the balcony.

Mausoleum of Theodoric
Arian Baptistry showing heritage elements

Arian Baptistry

Inspect the colorful domed mosaic of Christ to learn about the religious philosophies of the Arians and their king in this baptismal structure.

Arian Baptistry
Basilica of Sant\' Apollinare Nuovo showing heritage architecture and heritage elements

Basilica of Sant' Apollinare Nuovo

One of Ravenna’s most popular historic sites is this mosaic-walled church with a turbulent past dating back to the 6th century.

Basilica of Sant' Apollinare Nuovo

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Ravenna

Photo "Marina di Ravenna" by karel291 (CC BY) / Cropped from original
Photo by karel291 (CC BY)

Marina di Ravenna

Forlì

Forlì

Cervia showing a bay or harbor

Cervia

Faenza

Faenza

Milano Marittima featuring a park

Milano Marittima

Cesena

Cesena

Photo "Russi" by Nicola Cardinali (CC BY) / Cropped from original

Russi

Bertinoro

Bertinoro

Frequently asked questions

Is Ravenna worth visiting?
Ravenna has a unique blend of attractions, local charm and culture. Whether you're into history, nature or traditional food, there are many things you'll find here.
How do I spend a day in Ravenna?
Mirabilandia and Lido Adriano Beach are two great places to kick-start your sightseeing adventures. Remember to check out the retail and dining options in Ravenna while you're in town too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Ravenna?
Mirabilandia is one of the top tourist attractions in Ravenna and deserves a place on every itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Ravenna?
You can easily tour popular attractions like Ravenna Cathedral, Lido Adriano Beach and Spiaggia Marina di Ravenna with a three-day trip to Ravenna. On average, most travelers book two days here. There's plenty to discover nearby too, so stay a while longer and venture to Province of Ravenna.
Is Ravenna a walkable city?
With popular neighborhoods and top sights within walking distance of the city center, Ravenna is a good destination to explore on foot. Wander between Ravenna Cathedral and Dantes Museum. Then take a stroll around Casa Ottani, located 2 miles from downtown, and Porto Fuori, which is roughly 3 miles away.
What are some activities to do in Ravenna with kids?
Planning what to do in Ravenna with kids is easier than ever. Whether you're traveling with teenagers or little ones, there are many family-friendly sights to keep everyone entertained here.

What to do in Ravenna for adults?
There's no shortage of things to do in Ravenna, with entertainment for adults of all ages. Cap off your day with a visit to National Museum of Ravenna or TAMO Museum.
Are there free things to do in Ravenna?
From visiting parks to wandering around vibrant neighborhoods, it's easy to discover free things to do in Ravenna. If you need new ideas, ask for recommendations from a local tour guide. Ravenna Cathedral is a great spot for anyone wanting to save on their traveling adventures.

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