Best of Ravenna on a Private Tour

Ravenna, a city steeped in history, offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy its rich cultural heritage. A private guided tour through Ravenna‘s UNESCO-listed sites promises an intimate and personalized experience, showcasing the city’s architectural gems and stunning mosaics. From the Basilica di Sant’Apollinare Nuovo to the Baptistery of Neon, this 2.5-hour journey allows travelers to uncover the fascinating blend of Roman and Byzantine influences that have shaped Ravenna’s enduring legacy. With a certified guide at the helm, visitors can expect to gain valuable insights into the city’s past, setting the stage for a truly memorable exploration.

Key Points

• Explore Ravenna’s UNESCO-listed Byzantine and early Christian monuments, including the Basilica of San Vitale, Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, and Dante’s Tomb, on a private guided tour.

• Benefit from a certified guide’s extensive knowledge of Ravenna’s rich Roman and Byzantine heritage and the opportunity for deeper exploration of the sites.

• Admire the exquisite, well-preserved early Christian mosaics that adorn the walls and ceilings of Ravenna’s historic monuments.

• Enjoy a personalized experience with up to 10 participants and flexible scheduling, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

• Conveniently access Ravenna from the port or nearby cities, with shuttle bus services and transportation options available to facilitate exploration of the city’s cultural gems.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

As per the overview, this private tour of Ravenna’s UNESCO-listed sites provides visitors with an in-depth exploration of the city’s renowned Byzantine mosaics and early Christian monuments.

Priced from $257.44 per group of up to 10 participants, the 2.5-hour tour is led by a certified guide with a master’s degree in Sacred Art and a degree in Preservation of Cultural Heritage.

Visitors can expect to visit five key sites, including the Basilica di Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, Dante’s Tomb, the Archiepiscopal Museum, the Baptistery of Neon, and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, before concluding at the Basilica of San Vitale.

The tour is available in English and Italian, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a 15-minute visit to the Basilica di Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, renowned for its stunning Byzantine mosaics.

Next, you’ll spend 15 minutes at Dante’s Tomb, paying respects to the renowned Italian poet.

The Archiepiscopal Museum, with its 20-minute tour, offers a glimpse into Ravenna’s rich ecclesiastical history.

• The Baptistery of Neon, with its 20-minute exploration, features exquisite early Christian mosaics.

• The Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, another 20-minute stop, is a prime example of Late Antique architecture.

• The tour culminates with a 30-minute visit to the Basilica of San Vitale, a true masterpiece of Byzantine art and architecture.

Cultural Significance

Ravenna’s UNESCO-listed monuments showcase the city’s remarkable Roman and Byzantine heritage.

Visitors can explore well-preserved early Christian mosaics that adorn the walls and ceilings of these historic sites. The Basilica of San Vitale, a stunning example of Byzantine architecture, features intricate mosaics depicting biblical scenes and figures.

Nearby, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia houses magnificent 5th-century mosaics that provide a glimpse into Ravenna’s golden age. Across town, the Baptistery of Neon and the Archiepiscopal Museum also house exceptional examples of late antique art and architecture.

Travelers can enjoy Ravenna’s captivating past and discover how this city played a pivotal role in the transition from the Roman to the Byzantine era.

Guide Credentials

Leading the private tour is Luana, a certified tour guide and leader with a master’s degree in Sacred Art and a degree in Preservation of Cultural Heritage.

Luana’s expertise spans:

• Extensive knowledge of Roman and Byzantine mosaics
• Deep understanding of Late Antique Ravenna’s rich history
• Passion for showcasing the city’s early Christian monuments

With her academic credentials and practical experience, Luana is well-equipped to guide visitors through the stunning UNESCO-listed monuments of Ravenna, bringing the city’s rich cultural heritage to life.

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Logistics and Accessibility

The meeting point for the private tour is located in front of the Church of St. Apollinare Nuovo.

From the port, it’s a 13 km distance, with shuttle buses and taxis available for transportation.

However, this tour may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as accessibility could be a concern.

Visitors are advised to adhere to the dress code, which prohibits wearing shorts or sleeveless shirts.

Getting to Ravenna

Getting to Ravenna is relatively straightforward, as the city is well-connected. There are several options for travelers:

• By train: Ravenna has a central railway station with connections to major cities in Italy, including Venice, Bologna, and Milan.

• By car: Ravenna is easily accessible by the A14 motorway, and there are several parking options in the city center.

• By shuttle bus: Many cruise lines and tour operators offer shuttle services from the port city of Ravenna to the city center, providing a convenient option for those arriving by ship.

With these transportation choices, visitors can easily reach Ravenna and begin their exploration of this UNESCO-listed city’s rich historical and cultural heritage.

Private Tour Inclusions

Typically, the private tour of Ravenna’s UNESCO sites includes access to five remarkable monuments.

Visitors will explore the stunning Basilica di Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, Dante’s Tomb, the Archiepiscopal Museum, the Baptistery of Neon, and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia.

The tour culminates at the magnificent Basilica of San Vitale, where guests can marvel at the splendid Roman and Byzantine mosaics.

Throughout the 2.5-hour experience, a knowledgeable, certified guide shares insights into Ravenna’s rich history and cultural significance.

With the flexibility of a private tour, visitors can delve deeper into the early Christian monuments and uncover the secrets of this captivating Italian city.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

To book the private tour of Ravenna’s UNESCO sites, customers can reserve their spot online and pay later. The tour offers free cancellation if canceled 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for travelers’ plans.

Some key details about the booking and cancellation policy:

• Customers can reserve their spot and pay later, allowing for easy booking.
• A full refund is available if the tour is canceled 24 hours before the scheduled start time.
• The tour accommodates up to 10 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

With these flexible booking options and generous cancellation policy, exploring Ravenna’s rich cultural heritage on a private tour is made simple and stress-free for visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed Inside the Historical Sites?

Photography is generally allowed inside the historical sites, but visitors should be respectful and avoid using flash. Some sites may have specific restrictions, so it’s best to check with the guide or site staff before taking photos.

Can We Stop for a Local Meal During the Tour?

The tour doesn’t include a stop for a local meal. However, the guide can provide recommendations for good nearby restaurants if guests wish to extend their visit and enjoy a local meal after the tour concludes.

Do We Need to Bring Our Own Headphones for the Audio Guide?

The tour does not include an audio guide, so participants don’t need to bring their own headphones. The tour is led by a live guide who provides commentary throughout the visit to Ravenna’s UNESCO-listed monuments.

Are Child Discounts Available for the Tour Price?

The tour price is based on the group size, not individual participants. No specific child discounts are mentioned in the tour details provided. Guests can reserve now and pay later for the tour.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Focus on Specific Interests?

The tour can be customized to focus on specific interests. Travelers can discuss their preferences with the guide and the itinerary can be tailored accordingly within the 2.5-hour tour duration.

Recap

Ravenna’s private tour offers a captivating exploration of its UNESCO-listed landmarks, showcasing the city’s Roman and Byzantine heritage. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, visitors can enjoy the stunning mosaics, architectural wonders, and cultural significance of Ravenna’s iconic sites, making this a must-see destination for those seeking a deeper understanding of Italy’s rich historical tapestry.

You can check if your dates are available here: