Ravenna: Exclusive Private Walking Tour With a Local Expert

Ravenna’s captivating history and artistic legacy come to life on an exclusive private walking tour. Led by knowledgeable local experts, this immersive 3-hour experience invites visitors to discover the city’s iconic sites, from the vibrant Sant’Apollinare Nuovo to the UNESCO-listed Mausoleum of Galla Placidia. Guests will be mesmerized by the stunning Byzantine mosaics and early Christian art, all while receiving insightful commentary that brings Ravenna’s unparalleled heritage into sharp focus. Whether rain or shine, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through one of Italy’s most captivating destinations.

Key Points

• An exclusive private tour led by local experts, providing in-depth insights into Ravenna’s iconic Byzantine mosaics and early Christian art.
• A 3-hour guided experience visiting four UNESCO-listed sites: Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, Basilica of San Vitale, and Battistero Neoniano.
• Guided visits focus on the historical and artistic significance of the mosaics, enhancing the understanding of Ravenna’s rich cultural legacy.
• Admission tickets not included, but the guide assists with purchases, ensuring a seamless experience.
• Outstanding customer reviews praising the knowledgeable and passionate guides, who provide a captivating and informative tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Ravenna Private Walking Tour offers an exclusive, private experience led by local experts. Priced from €129.00 per person, the 3-hour tour allows visitors to explore four iconic sites – Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, Basilica of San Vitale, and Battistero Neoniano.

The tour includes guided visits to each site, focusing on Byzantine mosaics and early Christian art. Admission tickets aren’t included, but the guide will assist with purchases.

The tour operates rain or shine and offers a live guide in Italian and English. Cancellation up to 24 hours in advance is free, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.

Itinerary Highlights

The Ravenna Private Walking Tour takes visitors on a journey through four iconic sites, each offering a glimpse into the city’s rich Byzantine heritage.

The tour includes guided visits to Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, known for its vibrant biblical mosaics.

Next, guests explore the UNESCO-listed Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, featuring shimmering mosaics and the iconic Good Shepherd mosaic.

The tour then visits the masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, the Basilica of San Vitale, with its intricate mosaics of Emperor Justinian and Empress Theodora.

Finally, the Battistero Neoniano showcases early Christian mosaics, including the baptism of Christ.

Site Descriptions

Notable for its vibrant mosaics depicting biblical scenes, Sant’Apollinare Nuovo showcases the iconic Procession of the Magi.

The Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features shimmering mosaics including the captivating Good Shepherd mosaic.

As a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, the Basilica of San Vitale boasts intricate mosaics of Emperor Justinian and Empress Theodora.

The Battistero Neoniano is renowned for its early Christian mosaics, including the striking baptism of Christ depicted in the ceiling mosaic.

These sites offer a captivating glimpse into Ravenna’s rich artistic and historical legacy.

Sant’Apollinare Nuovo

Sant’Apollinare Nuovo stands as a testament to Ravenna’s vibrant history, showcasing its renowned mosaics that depict biblical scenes.

The church’s interior is adorned with a procession of 22 virgins, beautifully rendered in vibrant mosaics, marching towards the figure of Christ.

The iconic Procession of the Magi mosaic, featuring the three wise men following the Star of Bethlehem, is a highlight of the tour.

Visitors can marvel at the intricate details and the splendor of these early Christian artworks, which offer a glimpse into the rich cultural and religious heritage of this remarkable city.

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Mausoleum of Galla Placidia

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia is renowned for its shimmering mosaics and the captivating Good Shepherd mosaic.

Visitors are captivated by:

1. The intricate, jewel-toned mosaics decorating the interior.

2. The symbolic imagery of the Good Shepherd, representing Christ, surrounded by his flock.

3. The architectural features, like the barrel-vaulted ceiling and the elaborate geometrical patterns.

4. The historical significance as the final resting place of the Western Roman empress Galla Placidia in the 5th century.

These elements combine to create a profound and immersive experience for those exploring this remarkable mausoleum.

Basilica of San Vitale

The Basilica of San Vitale stands as a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, renowned for its intricate mosaics that depict Emperor Justinian and Empress Theodora.

Construction of this UNESCO World Heritage Site began in the 6th century and features an octagonal plan with striking decorative elements.

Visitors are captivated by the stunning mosaics, which showcase the power and splendor of the Byzantine Empire.

The basilica’s impressive dome, ornate apse, and lavish interior create an atmosphere of awe and wonder, transporting guests back to the glory days of Ravenna’s storied past.

Battistero Neoniano

Renowned for its early Christian mosaics, the Battistero Neoniano stands as a captivating testament to Ravenna’s rich history. Within this octagonal baptistery, visitors are awed by the stunning ceiling mosaic depicting the baptism of Christ. The mosaic’s vibrant colors and intricate details captivate the eye, transporting one back to the early 5th century.

Other notable features include:

1. The striking floral patterns that adorn the walls, creating a serene and contemplative atmosphere.

2. The central baptismal font, a symbol of spiritual renewal.

3. The architectural elegance, with its harmonious blend of Byzantine and Roman influences.

4. The overall sense of timelessness that permeates the Battistero Neoniano.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

Ravenna’s Private Walking Tour has earned an outstanding 5/5 rating based on 84 reviews, with travelers consistently praising the knowledgeable and passionate guides.

Visitors emphasize the tour’s informative and engaging nature, highlighting the guides’ ability to provide rich historical context.

Feedback praises the guides’ enthusiasm for sharing Ravenna’s art and history, creating an immersive and memorable experience.

Reviewers note the tour’s ability to bring the city’s Byzantine mosaics and early Christian architecture to life.

The Sum Up

This exclusive private walking tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Ravenna’s extraordinary artistic and historical legacy. Guided by local experts, visitors will explore the city’s captivating Byzantine mosaics and early Christian art at four iconic sites, including the UNESCO-listed Mausoleum of Galla Placidia. With insightful commentary and a rain-or-shine policy, this immersive 3-hour journey provides an unforgettable experience of Ravenna’s unparalleled heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: