If you’re exploring Emilia-Romagna and looking for the perfect day trip east of Bologna, look no further than Ravenna. Just over an hour away by train, this often-overlooked city offers a rich blend of history, art, and peaceful charm. Ravenna is especially famous for its dazzling early Christian mosaics—some of the best preserved in the world.
Here’s how to spend a perfect day in Ravenna.
🚆 Getting There from Bologna
Trains from Bologna Centrale to Ravenna run frequently throughout the day and take around 1 hour and 15 minutes. The ride is comfortable, inexpensive, and drops you right near the historic center—no car needed.
🏛️ Morning: Step into the World of Ancient Mosaics
Start your visit with the crown jewels of Ravenna’s UNESCO World Heritage sites:
- Basilica di San Vitale – Known for its vibrant 6th-century mosaics of Emperor Justinian and Empress Theodora.
- Mausoleo di Galla Placidia – A tiny, magical structure covered in starry blue mosaics.
- Basilica di Sant’Apollinare Nuovo – With walls lined by processions of martyrs and virgins in stunning detail.
Buy a combined ticket that gives access to several mosaic sites and skip the queue.
✍️ Midday: Visit Dante’s Tomb and the Historic Center
Just a short walk from the mosaics, you’ll find the Tomba di Dante, the final resting place of Italy’s greatest poet. Stroll the peaceful streets of the center, admire the neoclassical buildings, and explore Ravenna’s elegant, calm vibe.
🍝 Lunch: Enjoy Fresh Adriatic Seafood
Head to a traditional osteria or seafood trattoria. Local favorites include:
- Cappelletti al ragù (similar to tortellini, stuffed with cheese or meat)
- Grilled Adriatic fish
- Piadina romagnola – A local flatbread served with prosciutto, cheese, or grilled vegetables
Try Ristorante Ca’ de Ven for a cozy and historic setting with excellent regional cuisine.
🌊 Optional: Marina di Ravenna or Classe
If you want to go further, take a short bus or taxi to:
- Marina di Ravenna – A peaceful Adriatic seaside town with a relaxing beach, just 15–20 minutes away.
- Basilica di Sant’Apollinare in Classe – Another UNESCO site with monumental mosaics and a serene setting, located just outside the city.
Both are perfect add-ons for nature lovers or history buffs.
☕ Afternoon: Coffee, Shopping, and Gelato
Return to the city center for a gelato from Papilla or Rivareno, and browse artisan shops selling handmade ceramics, olive oil, and mosaic art. Ravenna’s laid-back atmosphere makes it ideal for a relaxing afternoon stroll before heading back to Bologna.
🕔 Return to Bologna
Catch a late afternoon or early evening train back to Bologna. With a heart full of beauty and a phone full of mosaic photos, you’ll be glad you made the trip.
Why Choose Ravenna for a Day Trip?
Ravenna is a quiet cultural gem, with breathtaking art, relaxed streets, and delicious food—all without the crowds of more famous Italian cities. For travelers seeking something deeper and more peaceful, it’s a perfect complement to Bologna’s bustle.