What to see in Ravenna

[hrt4girls]

For our cruise in May, our ship will be in port in Ravenna for the day of boarding and not leave until the following evening.  That gives us time to see the area around Ravenna.  There are a couple of ship excursions but I was wondering if anyone has experience with using a local tour guide or doing it on your own.  Any advice would be helpful.  Thanks!

[cruisemom42]

Ravenna was a capital of the Roman empire following the fall of Rome and has a rich history. The most unique and interesting historical sites are those containing absolutely stupendous mosaics dating from the very early Christian period. Constantinople once had similar mosaics but they were nearly all destroyed during a period when the Church felt they were contrary to doctrine. 

 

Once you get to Ravenna, which is about 20 minutes or so by shuttle or taxi, the city itself is easily walkable. In a day you can visit all of the main sites with mosaics, including two cathedrals, a tomb, and two baptisteries. There is a ticket available that includes access to most or all of these places, you can purchase it at any of the stops, I think and it's a good deal.

 

Here is more info on the mosaics and their history:  https://notaboutthemiles.com/ravenna-mosaics-how-to-see-in-one-day/

 

 

[vapersecutor]

I don’t remember anything about the transfer from the ship to the town but when we got to town we rented bicycles. There was a paved bike path which ran to several of the tombs.  We enjoyed the country side and tombs.

 

https://notaboutthemiles.com/ravenna-mosaics-how-to-see-in-one-day/

[LynnSD]

We found a guide through Tour by Locals., did a walk to see all the mosaic sites, then she gave us a couple of recommendations for lunch!

[Host Jazzbeau]

Rick Steves Venice covers Ravenna and has a guided walk (pp 384-392) that covers all the mosaic and other sites.

[lynncarol]

Loved those mosaics!  You can easily walk to all of the sites once in town.  You will probably need advance admission tickets however since lines can be long to purchase them.  We bought ours online and spent a lovely day (and night) in Ravenna.