Top Ravenna Historical Tours

Christian works of art abound in Ravenna, but the most fascinating examples of the city are the mosaics. Make sure you don't miss any of the fantastic mosaics with this walking tour through the streets of Ravenna's historic center. In the company of a certified guide, you will be able to admire UNESCO World Heritage monuments such as the Basilica of San Vitale and enjoy a rich commentary on art and architecture.

Get more out of your time in Ravenna, and discover the history behind the city’s mosaics and below-ground crypts with a private guide. Skipping the bustle of the standard group tours, you’ll explore at a pace that works best for your personal group, and focus on the sights of Ravenna that interest you most. Highlights include visits to the Archiepiscopal Museum and the Basilica di Sant'Apollinare Nuovo.

Ravenna's UNESCO-listed mosaics, dating from the Byzantine and Roman empires, are among Italy's cultural treasures, but these massive works can be overwhelming to cover on your own. Gain a deeper understanding of their history and significance and cover the highlights in just a few hours on this private walking tour. With a dedicated guide, you'll enjoy personalized attention and a flexible itinerary, plus timed entrance to the top sights to avoid waiting in line.

The guides of Il Papavero are able to adapt the tour to every need and type of clientele, always creating a pleasant atmosphere and without weighing down the historical-artistic explanations. It will be an unforgettable tour!

Discover the beauty of Ravenna's UNESCO mosaics with this guided tour. The eternal beauty of the mosaics kept inside some of the most famous UNESCO monuments of Ravenna, on a small group guided tour of the city center, and the UNESCO monuments known throughout the world. When booking, choose whether to start the tour directly from Ravenna, or whether to leave from Bologna by train, purchasing the option with return train tickets included.

Get ready to explore one of Italy’s most fascinating historical cities, where Roman grandeur and Byzantine brilliance continue to shine through its art and architecture. Go at your own pace, anytime. The tour is guided step by step by your walking tour app. It's hands free, press play and be guided through history. On this walking tour, we’ll explore the stories behind Ravenna’s ancient basilicas, mosaic masterpieces, and monuments that have shaped centuries of European history. You’ll visit landmarks like the Basilica of San Vitale, Dante’s Tomb, and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, each showcasing the city’s importance as a crossroads of faith, empire, and creativity. Along the way, we’ll walk through quiet piazzas, grand palaces, and serene gardens that keep Ravenna’s timeless beauty. Let’s start your tour at San Giovanni Evangelista, one of the city’s oldest and most historic churches.

Discover the best of Ravenna on a private tour, and get an in-depth look at the history behind the city’s Byzantine mosaics. As you walk with just your personal group, you’ll explore the city’s early Christian monuments and the hear the stories behind them. Just note that entry fees to the monuments are not included.

Experience your Ravenna vacation on your own, listening to the audio content of our app on your smartphone. It will be like having at your side a tour guide who will tell you the history, points of interest and curiosities of the city. Once organized, take your first step into town as your audio guide tells you surprising facts and curiosities about its streets. Look up at monuments and increase your understanding. Benefit from an audio guide without an expiry date plus no tickets to collect or meeting place. Listen to the audio guide online, or offline. The audio content is professionally created by a group of top authors and interpreted by TV and radio professionals. The smartphone is yours and you will therefore not have contact with unsanitary devices provided by third parties. There is no need to book or to be present at a specific time or date. The Audioguide can be downloaded and used immediately, it never expires, and any date/time indicated here is not binding!

Discover the delights of Tuscany on a private day trip from Florence. With a knowledgeable private driver, travel through the renowned Chianti wine region to visit the towns of Siena and San Gimignano. See famous landmarks like Siena’s Piazza del Campo, home to the annual Palio horserace, and the medieval hilltop towers of San Gimignano.

CHECK A NEW COUNTRY OFF YOUR BUCKET LIST! Just an hour from Ravenna lies San Marino, UNESCO World Heritage, a clifftop fairytale nation perched high above the clouds on Mount Titano. This isn't just a city, it’s a sovereign state (the fifth-smallest and arguably most intriguing on Earth) with a history as dramatic as its views. PRIVATE SAN MARINO EXPERIENCE We’ll climb the medieval First Tower (Guaita), where you’ll stand on the rocky peak for a bird’s-eye view stretching all the way to the Adriatic Sea. Wander the cobbled heart of the city, from the stately Piazza della Libertà to the grand Basilica, uncovering how this tiny nation remained independent for centuries. (Optional) Traditional Lunch Above the Clouds Free time to shop/enjoy San Marino beauty... 09:30 AM PRIVATE Pick-up from Ravenna, 1 hour drive 10:30 AM 2.5 hours San Marino tour with historical local GUIDE 01 PM Lunch (optional) 3 PM Stroll through San Marino shops/market 5 PM Drop-off in Ravenna or Bologna

First stop is Sant'Apollinare Nuovo, a basilica famous for its vibrant mosaics and striking architecture. Originally a Palatine Chapel, it later became a place of worship. The mosaics depict biblical scenes from both the Old and New Testaments, including the famous Procession of the Magi, showcasing the journey of the wise men to meet the baby Jesus. Next, we visit the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its mosaics, create a mesmerizing, ethereal atmosphere. Don’t miss the remarkable Good Shepherd mosaic, a powerful Christian symbol. We then explore the Basilica of San Vitale, a true Byzantine masterpiece. The intricate mosaics, including the iconic depictions of Emperor Justinian and Empress Theodora, highlight the grandeur of the period. Finally, we visit the Battistero Neoniano, renowned for its early Christian mosaics. - Admission tickets (12,50€) not included, our guide will assist you with the purchase -

Connect with the history and architecture of Ravenna through a private self-guided audio tour. Set out independently at a convenient time and get access to maps and audio content. Learn about the stories behind landmarks like the Basilica of San Vitale and Piazza del Popolo. Complete the experience with a visit to the tomb of renowned poet Dante Alighieri.

This is the complete tour to explore Ravenna city and mosaics in one day with a native guide. Ravenna is well known around the world for its byzantine architecture and mosaics, as you will see in the beautiful Basilica of Sant'Apollinare Nuovo and the Basilica of San Vitale, both of them UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Then, you will walk through the “Zone of Silence”, an area in the city center were the main highlight is the Tomb of Dante Alighieri and where you will find many monuments linked to thrfamous writer: the Quadrarco of Braccioforte, the Old Franciscan Cloisters and many more. Enjoy the descriptions of your guide inside the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, one of the oldest buildings of the city, and learn about the Battistero Neoniano. Discover the Archiepiscopal Museum and the beautiful Chapel of St. Andrews as you listen to interesting and fascinating commentaries and anecdotes. We are sure that this 5-hours tour will make you fall in love with the city of mosaics!

Ravenna is a city endowed with UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and this experience puts the spotlight on them. On a half-day walking tour, you’ll see the Basilica of San Vitale, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, and the Basilica of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, plus you’ll get the inside track on Ravenna’s culinary treats with tastings of “piadina,” pasta, and even gelato. Just note that any entry fees are extra.

The Best Way to Discover Ravenna: Scavenger Hunt & Self-Guided Tour. Play, learn, and walk! Explore at your own pace with a 100% self-guided activity. Start anytime (24/7) with no guides or schedules. Pause for a photo at Piazza del Popolo or the historic Porta Adriana and resume whenever you're ready—even the next day. This unique team-building activity is perfect for couples, families, and groups. The "Complete City" Package - Everything you need in one app: Interactive Game: Solve puzzles and discover 10+ major attractions, plus hidden gems revealed along the way. Audio & Text: Listen to our audio guide or read the history/legends of each site. Insider Tips: Access hand-picked local restaurant and shop recommendations. What you will visit: Giardini Pubblici di Ravenna, Basilica di Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, Teatro Comunale Alighieri, Dante’s Tomb, Battistero Neoniano, Piazza del Popolo, Mercato Coperto, Porta Adriana, Basilica of San Vitale, and Mausoleo di Galla Placidia.

Book your trip to the Domus of the "Stone Carpets" in Ravenna, a place that celebrates the rich cultural heritage and artistic skill of the city. Located among cobblestone streets and historic buildings, this archaeological area offers a glimpse into the ancient art of mosaic. At the entrance, you will be greeted by vibrant colors and intricate patterns that tell stories of daily life, myths, and religious themes. The precision of artisans from centuries ago is evident in every detail. A remarkable aspect of the Domus is its commitment to preservation, which has kept these ancient treasures intact. You can admire the meticulous restoration work that has brought the mosaics back to their original splendor. The Domus is also a center for cultural and educational exchange, with guided tours, workshops, and exhibitions. Don't miss the chance to experience an unforgettable journey through time and tradition. Book your visit now!

Delve deep into Ravenna, known as the “city of mosaics” for the magnificent UNESCO-listed Byzantine mosaics adorning many of its landmark churches, with this comprehensive art history-focused tour. Cover highlights like the Basilica of San Vitale, the Basilica di Sant'Apollinare Nuovo, the Battistero Neoniano, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, and more in just hours. Learn about the symbolism and craftmanship behind these treasures with insights from your guide as you explore.

This tour offers a seamless way to explore two enchanting medieval villages in just one day, freeing you from the inconvenience of arranging a rental car. Benefit from the comfort of private transport, accompanied by a locally born and raised guide who brings fascinating insights. Highlights along the way include a traditional lunch, an olive oil tasting session in Brisighella, and a leisurely walk through the historic heart of Dozza.

Embark on a private journey through Ravenna's captivating history. Explore the Basilica of Sant'Apollinare in Classe, a 6th-century marvel of architecture and mosaic art. Marvel at majestic mosaics depicting Jesus' Transfiguration and Sant'Apollinare in prayer. Continue to the acclaimed Classi Museum, tracing Ravenna's evolution through immersive exhibits. Delve into daily life, spirituality, and innovative museum technologies. Conclude enlightened about Ravenna and Classe's historical and cultural significance. Whether a history buff, art lover, or curious traveler, this experience promises unforgettable memories and a newfound appreciation for the world's beauty.

YOU’LL BE ABLE TO VISIT RAVENNA, THE CITY OF MOSAICS, AND HAVE A TYPICAL SEAFOOD LUNCH ON THE BEACH IN ONE DAY! I will Pick you up directly in Bologna downtown with a private car. Don't worry, will get in touch for exact pick up location the day before your experience. *Tour is PRIVATE* Ideal for families, group of friends, couples, solo traveler. *INCLUDING* - Pick-up & drop-off from Bologna - Transfers by comfortable private vehicle - Certified Tour Leader born and raised in the area - Certified Historical Guide for Ravenna sights - All tickets for Ravenna sights Guided visit of Unesco World Heritage Sites of San Vitale, Galla Placidia and St. Apollinare Nuovo to admire the stunning Byzantine world heritage. Then we'll take a walk to Dante's Tomb and the Piazza del Popolo, the "Venetian" Main Square. Finally we will drive to the Adriatic Coast where we will have a typical lunch on the beach, tasting some of the best italian seafood.

Recognized with UNESCO World Heritage status, Ravenna's mosaics and architecture dazzle. But knowing who's who in the artworks and parsing the complex mix of peoples and cultures during the Byzantine era isn't easy. Skip the research and see the sights in all their glory on this walking tour with a private guide—tickets at your own expense. Learn about Justinian, Theodoric, Theodora, Dante, and more as you soak up the sights.

The mosaics of Ravenna—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—are one of Emilia Romagna’s most popular attractions. But travelers who visit without a guide risk missing out on crucial cultural and historical context. Listen to in-depth explanations during this private walking tour, which includes stops at San Vitale, Sant'Apollinare Nuovo, and Sant'Apollinare In Classe basilicas, and more, all in just two hours.

DISCOVER THE CAPITAL OF MOSAICS LIKE AN INSIDER! This PRIVATE experience blends the breathtaking art of the Byzantine Empire with the laid-back charm of Italian summer... From the silent beauty of UNESCO basilicas to a seafood lunch with your toes in the sand, this is the ULTIMATE RAVENNA DAY TRIP. GUIDED VISIT (with a local historical guide) of the UNESCO Big Three: San Vitale, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia and Sant'Apollinare Nuovo. You won’t just see these 1,500-year-old masterpieces, your private historian will bring their secrets to life. A Walk with Dante, pay your respects at the tomb of the "Father of the Italian Language" and soak in the Venetian-style elegance of Piazza del Popolo. After the history, we’ll drive to the Adriatic Coast for a lazy seafood lunch at a traditional beach club (bagno). 09:30 AM PRIVATE Pick-up (Downtown or Cruise Port) 10 AM Guided "Deep Dive" into Ravenna’s world-famous Mosaics. 1 PM Lunch on the Beach 3:30 PM Return to Ravenna