What to See in Ravenna in One Day

A day itinerary to discover Ravenna, the City of Mosaics

Nestled in the heart of Romagna, Ravenna is a treasure trove of art, history, and culture that continues to captivate its visitors. Once the capital of the Western Roman Empire, and later of the Ostrogothic Kingdom and the Byzantine Empire, Ravenna is an unmissable destination for those eager to explore an architectural marvel. The city boasts eight UNESCO World Heritage sites and offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the magic of mosaic art.

 

5 Must-Sees in Ravenna

  1. The UNESCO World Heritage Monuments

Topping the list of things to see in Ravenna are its eight UNESCO-listed monuments, designated as World Heritage in 1996. These early Christian and Byzantine buildings open a window onto the city’s glorious past:

  • Mausoleum of Galla Placidia
  • Neonian Baptistery
  • Arian Baptistery
  • Basilica of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo
  • Basilica of Sant’Apollinare in Classe
  • Archiepiscopal Chapel of St Andrew
  • Basilica of San Vitale
  • Mausoleum of Theodoric

 

  1. Dante’s Tomb

Dante Alighieri died in Ravenna between 13 and 14 September 1321, having just completed Paradiso, the final part of the Divine Comedy.

Today, the poet’s remains rest in a small yet elegant neoclassical temple built between 1780 and 1782, designed by architect Camillo Morigia. Located in the heart of medieval Ravenna, within a restricted traffic pedestrian zone known as the Zone of Silence, the tomb is a place of reverence and quiet reflection.

 

  1. The Archaeological Park of Classe and the Classis Museum

To trace Ravenna’s story from its Etruscan-Umbrian roots to the early Middle Ages, don’t miss a visit to the Classe Archaeological Park, which includes the Basilica of Sant’Apollinare in Classe, the ancient port, and Classis Ravenna – Museum of the City and Territory.

 

  1. The Crypt of the Basilica of San Francesco

In the heart of the city, in the square of the same name, stands the impressive Basilica of San Francesco, hiding a fascinating crypt where the remains of Bishop Neon are kept. The submerged mosaic floor, complete with swimming goldfish, offers an almost dreamlike spectacle.

 

  1. The Contemporary Mosaic Collection at MAR

Ravenna is world-renowned as the capital of mosaics – both ancient and contemporary. The most significant modern collection can be found at MAR – Ravenna’s Museum of Art.

 

After visiting the museum and diving into the enchantment of this timeless craft, we recommend a stop at PIXEL Mosaici, Lea Ciambelli’s workshop.

Here, not only can you purchase handcrafted works, but you can also take part in mosaic-making courses – from hand-cutting the tesserae to placing them and completing your own artwork.

  

Ravenna and Surroundings… 

Just a few kilometres from the Adriatic coast, Ravenna is also an ideal destination for cultural day trips for those staying in Milano Marittima, just a 20-minute drive away (we spoke about it here), or the charming seaside town of Cesenatico.

Nicknamed the “little Miami of Romagna”, Milano Marittima is perfect for beach lovers in search of great food, warm hospitality, and relaxed, family-friendly luxury. That’s exactly what you’ll find at Hotel Bellettini, which has welcomed guests since 1956 with its enviable seaside location, just a stone’s throw from the town centre and the ancient pine forest. 

From its wellness area with outdoor pool, to suites with panoramic views and Jacuzzi tubs, family rooms, and Chef Fabio Colladio’s à la carte menus, this unique and exclusive hotel is ready to cater to every need.

The crown jewel of Hotel Bellettini is its private beach, where guests can relax and enjoy good food under the sun. Don’t miss the surprise of Ristorantino “Spiaggia 297”, a beachfront gem offering a tempting menu for lunch with a sea view or an aperitivo at sunset.

In Cesenatico, meanwhile, an unforgettable stay awaits at the Hotel Lungomare, the only four-star property in the area with a wellness centre directly overlooking the beach.

It’s the perfect choice for those who, in summer, want to enjoy both the historical and natural wonders of Romagna and the waters of the Adriatic Sea — or even for cycling enthusiasts looking to follow in the tracks of legendary champion Marco Pantani.

Staying here means training: from March to November, the hotel offers over 100 different bike tours, including 6 daily routes for road bikes, gravel, e-bikes and MTB, tailored to 6 fitness levels, each with expert local guides. Hotel Lungomare is also the exclusive Pinarello bike rental partner in Emilia-Romagna.

June is approaching…Ravenna and its surroundings await with an exciting range of experiences to make your summer in Romagna truly unforgettable!