Ravenna is a treasure trove for lovers of early Christian art, Byzantine splendor, and history. Its mosaic-covered churches are some of the most stunning in Italy, with stories that date back over 1,500 years. What makes Ravenna especially appealing is its walkability and the wealth of guided options that reveal behind-the-scenes stories and historic details not visible to the casual visitor. Tours like the UNESCO Monuments and Mosaics Guided Tour offer a comprehensive introduction, blending expert insights with easy access to the city’s key sites. Whether you’re into detailed mosaics, local food, or private experiences, Ravenna’s tour scene has plenty to offer.
If you’re keen on seeing Ravens’ most famous mosaics, exploring on a guided walk makes a world of difference. Or, if you prefer flexibility, a digital guide allows you to wander at your own pace. For a special treat, a private tour such as Best of Ravenna on a Private Tour offers personalized attention, perfect if you want a tailored experience. And for those arriving on a cruise, the Port to Venice Deluxe Tour combines a scenic transfer with exploring Venice’s waterways.
1. Ravenna: UNESCO Monuments and Mosaics Guided Tour
This 3-hour guided tour is the most popular way to learn about Ravenna’s mosaic masterpieces. Led by an expert, you’ll visit must-see sites like the Basilica of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, San Vitale, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, and the Neonian Baptistery. The tour is designed to highlight why these buildings are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, with detailed stories behind each mosaic and architectural feature. The guide’s knowledge makes these ancient works come alive, and many reviews praise how well-paced and informative the experience is. Guests particularly value the ability to skip lines and enjoy the sites without feeling rushed.
What sets this tour apart is its balanced itinerary—covering major monuments in a manageable timeframe, with just enough free time for photos. It’s ideal for travelers who want a rundown with the comfort of a guided expert. The tour costs around $32 per person, offering excellent value given the depth of insight and convenience.
Bottom line: If you want a well-organized, informative tour that unlocks the secrets of Ravenna’s mosaics, this is the one to choose.
2. Ravenna: UNESCO Mosaics Entry Tickets
For under $15, this combo ticket grants access to five of Ravenna’s top UNESCO sites, including San Vitale, Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable exploring on your own and want the flexibility to plan your day. The ticket is valid for seven days, so you can spread out your visits over a couple of days. Many visitors appreciate the convenience of purchasing all-access passes with a single ticket, along with discounts at the shops.
Guests note that the mosaics are some of the finest worldwide, and this allows the freedom to revisit favorites or take extra time at each site. However, some reviews mention occasional issues with ticket recognition, so it’s best to plan in advance. This option works best for travelers who enjoy self-guided exploration but want to avoid the hassle of ticket lines.
Bottom line: A budget-friendly way to see Ravenna’s masterpieces at your own pace, especially if you’d like to revisit sites or visit over multiple days.
3. Ravenna, the Most Beautiful Mosaics in the City of Paradise
This 2.5-hour private tour is perfect for those seeking a personalized experience. Led by Il Papavero’s guides, it can be tailored to your interests, whether that’s art, history, or just relaxing in beautiful surroundings. The tour visits key landmarks like Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, Dante’s tomb, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, and San Vitale, with the guide weaving stories seamlessly into the visit.
Guests love how flexible and attentive the guides are, making it ideal for families or those with specific needs. The tour costs around $198.54 per group of up to 15, making it a good value if you’re traveling with friends or family. The personal touch means you can ask questions, linger longer, or focus on particular sites that interest you most.
Bottom line: A top pick for travelers who want a relaxed, custom experience with expert interpretation.
4. Best of Ravenna on a Private Tour
This private tour offers an intimate, flexible 2-3 hour exploration of Ravenna’s main attractions. Led by a dedicated guide, you’ll visit the Basilica di Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, Dante’s tomb, the Quadrarco of Braccioforte, and more. Entry fees are not included, giving you the option to choose which sites to prioritize. The guide’s ability to adapt the tour to your pace and interests makes it a favorite among travelers seeking a tailored visit.
Reviewers mention guides like Luana as knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive—perfect for those who prefer a more relaxed, in-depth look. Costing around $290.27 for a group of up to 12, it’s an excellent value for a personalized experience. This option is suitable for travelers who want to avoid crowds and have direct interaction with their guide.
Bottom line: The best choice if you want a custom itinerary with the comfort of a private guide.
5. Ravenna Port to Venice with Deluxe Tour by Boat and Gondola
For cruise passengers, this 7-hour shore excursion combines hassle-free travel with an authentic Venice experience. After being picked up at Ravenna Port, you’ll transfer by private vehicle to Venice. Then, enjoy a scenic water taxi ride along the Grand Canal, guided visits to St Mark’s Square, Rialto Bridge, and Doge’s Palace, topped off with a romantic gondola ride limited to five passengers.
Guests highlight the seamless logistics and the chance to see Venice’s waterways up close. The tour costs roughly $231 per person, which includes transportation, a guide, and the gondola ride—making it a well-priced option considering the convenience and access. It’s ideal for travelers with limited time who want the highlights without the stress of independent planning.
Bottom line: A stress-free, all-in-one day trip to Venice that’s perfect for cruise guests wanting a memorable taste of Italy’s most romantic city.
6. Wonderful Ravenna, visit 3 UNESCO sites with a local guide on a private tour
This 2-hour private tour is tailored to those who want an efficient yet intimate visit to Ravenna’s top UNESCO sites. Led by Silvia, the guide offers an engaging overview of early Christian monuments, including San Vitale, Galla Placidia, and Dante’s tomb. The tour combines historical insights with storytelling, creating a vivid picture of Ravenna’s past. The group is small (up to 10), and entry fees are not included.
Guests appreciate Silvia’s engaging style and her ability to make art and history accessible. At $320.99, this tour fits travelers who prefer a quick but meaningful exploration without rushing. It’s perfect for visitors on a tight schedule or those who want a private, personal guide.
Bottom line: Ideal if you want a concise, personalized introduction to Ravenna’s UNESCO treasures.
7. Ravenna UNESCO Monuments with Pasta, Piadina and Gelato Tasting
This 3-hour walking tour combines Ravenna’s celebrated monuments with a delicious taste of local cuisine. It visits San Vitale, Galla Placidia, and Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, with guided insights into their artworks. The culinary part features tastings of piadina, pasta, and gelato in authentic local spots. The food adds a delightful dimension to the cultural experience, making it perfect for foodies who want more than just sightseeing.
Priced at about $93.68 per person, the tour offers good value, especially for those interested in combining art and taste. Reviewers point out the quality of the food and the knowledgeable guide, Marta, who makes the mosaics’ stories come alive. This tour suits travelers who want a relaxed pace, with a focus on both art and authentic local dishes.
Bottom line: Great for those who want to combine sightseeing with tasty bites and culture.
8. Private Walking Tour: Discover Ravenna’s Stunning Mosaics
This 3-hour private walking tour offers a deep dive into Ravenna’s rich collection of mosaics and monuments. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll visit the Basilica di Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, San Francesco, and Dante’s tomb, gaining insight into the stories behind each masterpiece. The tour is customizable, allowing you to focus on specific sites or themes.
Reviews praise the personalized approach and the guide’s ability to explain complex art in an accessible way. The cost of $185.09 for a group of up to 10 makes it a practical choice for those seeking an intimate experience. It’s perfect for history lovers or those who prefer a relaxed, tailored visit.
Bottom line: The best option for a private, detailed exploration of Ravenna’s mosaics and architecture.
9. Ravenna: Mosaics and Food Guided Walking Tour with Tastings
This 3-hour tour combines Ravenna’s artistic highlights with a culinary journey. The visit includes San Vitale, Galla Placidia, and Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, with guided commentary. The food tastings feature regional dishes, making the experience rich in both stories and flavors.
At $61.75 per person, it offers good value for a full sensory experience, especially for those interested in local cuisine. Reviewers love the mix of mosaics and food, noting the guide’s knowledge and friendliness. It’s suitable for travelers who want a balanced combination of sightseeing and tasting.
Bottom line: Perfect if you want to enjoy Ravenna’s mosaics and its culinary traditions in one walk.
10. Ravenna: Mosaics and Highlights Guided Tour with Admission Ticket
This 2.5-hour guided tour covers Ravenna’s most important sites with a focus on art and architecture. It includes Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, Dante’s tomb, San Francesco, Galla Placidia, and San Vitale. The tour’s small-group format ensures a personalized experience with pre-booked entry tickets for convenience.
Reviews emphasize the guide’s passion and the high quality of storytelling, making the mosaics truly come alive. At $56.67 per person, it offers good value for a concise, curated experience. It’s best suited for travelers who want a well-organized, immersive introduction without overextending their schedule.
Bottom line: A solid choice for art lovers wanting a comprehensive but manageable tour.
11. Ravenna Mosaics and Highlights Private Tour with a Local Guide
This 3-hour private tour offers an in-depth exploration of Ravenna’s key monuments, including San Vitale, Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, and Dante’s tomb. Led by a local art historian, it provides detailed insights into the symbolism and craftsmanship behind the mosaics.
Guests appreciate the flexible timing and the chance to ask questions freely. At $225.50 for a group of up to 10, it’s a good investment for a personalized, educational experience. This tour is ideal for travelers who want to understand the art on a deeper level.
Bottom line: The best pick for those seeking a tailored, art-focused visit with expert commentary.
12. BEST MEDIEVAL VILLAGES GETAWAY – Private Day Tour from Bologna
If you want to escape the city, this 8-hour private tour takes you to two medieval villages, Brisighella and Dozza. The trip includes a lunch, olive oil tasting, and walks through charming streets and historic sites. Travel is by private vehicle, with a guide who shares stories about the region’s medieval history.
Guests love the balance of sightseeing, food, and relaxed pace. At $473.15 per person, it’s an investment, but the experience of visiting authentic villages with private transport is priceless. It suits travelers looking for a full day of culture outside Ravenna.
Bottom line: Ideal for those who want a day away from the crowds and love exploring picturesque, historic towns.
13. Ravenna Mosaics and Art – Half day private guided tour
This 2.5-hour private tour takes you into Ravenna’s most iconic mosaics and monuments, with a focus on art and craftsmanship. Led by an expert, you’ll visit San Vitale, Galla Placidia, and Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, and learn about the stories behind the images. The flexibility of the schedule and the personalized attention make this ideal for travelers wanting a deeper understanding.
Guests emphasize the guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge, with some mentioning how much more meaningful the mosaics become with proper context. Costing around $211.26 for a group of up to 10, it’s a worthwhile option for art lovers.
Bottom line: Perfect if you want a tailored, artist-focused exploration of Ravenna’s mosaics.
14. Ravenna: Highlights and Mosaics Guided Tour with Tickets
This 2.5-hour small-group tour covers Ravenna’s top sights, including Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, Dante’s Tomb, San Vitale, and Galla Placidia. It includes pre-paid tickets, making entry straightforward. The guide provides engaging stories, helping you connect with Ravenna’s art and architecture.
Reviews praise the guide’s passion and the well-paced itinerary. At $55.80 per person, it’s a cost-effective way to see multiple sites with a knowledgeable guide. It’s suited for visitors who want a balance of sightseeing and storytelling without a long commitment.
Bottom line: A reliable, engaging option for a quick but thorough overview.
15. Ravenna: Digital guide made with a Local for your tour
For those who prefer DIY exploring, this digital guide offers a self-guided experience created with a local. At just $6, it’s an affordable way to discover Ravenna at your own pace, with stories, curiosities, and foodie tips included. Many reviews highlight how easy it is to download and use, with some praising its practicality over traditional tours.
This option is perfect for travelers on a tight schedule or those who want to customize their visit without the constraints of a scheduled tour. It’s also a great choice for tech-savvy visitors who enjoy discovering new places independently.
Bottom line: Best suited for independent explorers who want a flexible, budget-friendly guide.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Ravenna
When selecting your ideal tour, consider your budget, interests, and time availability. If you love art and want expert insights, the UNESCO Monuments and Mosaics Guided Tour or the Private Walking Tour are excellent options. For those who want a flexible experience, the combo entry tickets or the digital guide provide independence at a low cost.
Travelers interested in combining food and sightseeing should consider the Food and Mosaics Tour, which blends culinary delights with art appreciation. Private tours offer intimacy and customization, perfect for families or special groups, while group tours can be more economical and social.
Booking early is advisable, especially in high season, to secure spots at your preferred time. If you’re arriving on a cruise, the Port to Venice Deluxe Tour is an excellent way to maximize limited time.
Ravenna’s tours span from expert-guided walks through breathtaking mosaics to private, tailored experiences and self-guided digital explorations. Whether you’re here for the art, the history, or the food, there’s a perfect option to fit your style. For a city packed with spectacular UNESCO sites, early booking ensures you don’t miss out on the best moments—so choose your adventure and get ready to enjoy Ravenna’s treasures firsthand.