Ravenna is a city made for exploration, especially if you love mosaics, history, and authentic Italian flavors. Its well-preserved Byzantine monuments and stunning artworks make it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and art lovers alike. But Ravenna isn’t just about its own treasures—its proximity to Venice and its rich culinary scene mean there are plenty of ways to make your visit memorable. We particularly enjoyed the Port to Venice boat and gondola tour for a smooth, hassle-free day in Venice, especially for cruise passengers. The combination of water taxis, walking, and a gondola ride gives a true sense of Venice without the chaos of navigating alone. Want a deep dive into Ravenna’s mosaics? The Ravenna Mosaics and Art tour offers a rich, private experience that brings the city’s ancient artworks to life. Or perhaps you’re curious about Ravenna’s food scene? The Food and Mosaic Tour combines local bites with a look at Ravenna’s legendary mosaics. For self-guided explorers, the Dante Audio Tour offers flexibility to walk at your own pace and visit Dante’s tomb. And if you seek a comprehensive, personalized experience, the Private Walking Tour covers Ravenna’s UNESCO sites with a dedicated guide.
1. Ravenna Port to Venice with Deluxe Tour by Boat and Gondola
At number one, this stress-free day trip is perfect for cruise ship passengers wanting to see Venice without the hassle of navigating on their own. For around $231, you get a seamless transfer from Ravenna Port to Venice, with luggage storage included. The highlight is exploring Venice with a mix of walking, water taxis, and a gondola ride for up to five passengers. Your professional guide provides commentary, making sure you hit the landmarks like St Mark’s Square, Rialto Bridge, and Doge’s Palace, all while avoiding the usual summer crowds and bridge congestion. The 2.5-hour transfer through Italy’s scenic countryside is followed by a 30-minute water taxi ride, and you’ll spend about an hour exploring Venice’s core spots. Many travelers praise the smooth ride and the personal touch of the guide, Claudia, who is celebrated for her enthusiasm and knowledge. While some mention the long drive and a small language barrier with the driver, most find the overall experience well worth the cost and effort. This tour is ideal if you want an easy, comfortable way to fit Venice into a short port day.
Bottom Line: A hassle-free, personalized Venice experience perfect for cruise passengers seeking comfort without sacrificing highlights.
2. Ravenna Mosaics and Art – Half day private guided tour
For lovers of art and history, this private tour offers a comprehensive look at Ravenna’s most iconic mosaics. Priced at about $211 for up to 10 people, it lasts around 2.5 hours, making it perfect for a quick yet enriching visit. The tour visits key sites like Basilica di San Vitale, Mausoleo di Galla Placidia, and Basilica di Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, all renowned for their dazzling mosaics that date back to the Byzantine period. What makes this experience stand out is the personal touch of a guide who is passionate about Ravenna’s art—many reviews mention how their guide, Cynzia, brought these ancient works vividly to life with her art history background. The tour allows you to understand the stories and craftsmanship behind the mosaics, transforming a visual experience into a meaningful one. The reduced admission outside high season makes this a good value, especially for art lovers who want to maximize their time.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those wanting expert insight into Ravenna’s mosaics and a private, flexible schedule.
3. Ravenna Food and Mosaic Tour with Taste Bologna
Combine Ravenna’s culinary delights with its famous mosaics on this 3.5-hour tour, priced at about $137 per person. Starting from Piazza del Popolo, you’ll walk through Ravenna’s historic streets, sampling local specialties like fried sardines, Piadina, and Sangiovese in a cozy tavern. Meanwhile, your guide shares stories about Ravenna’s history and its artistic masterpieces, including visits to Basilica di San Vitale and Mausoleo di Galla Placidia, with admission included. Guests rave about the food, mentioning Silvia’s passion and how the tour perfectly combines art, culture, and local flavors. The small group size (max 10) ensures an intimate experience, and many find the food stops to be highlights in their trip. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a taste of Ravenna’s culinary traditions alongside its art—especially if you prefer a leisurely pace with plenty of tastings and stories.
Bottom Line: Perfect for foodies and art lovers who want a well-rounded, small-group experience.
4. Dante’s Ravenna: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
Looking for flexibility? The Dante’s Ravenna Audio Tour offers a budget-friendly way to explore at your own pace for only $11.99. This 45-minute to 1.5-hour tour gives you access to maps and audio commentary, bringing to life landmarks like Dante’s tomb, Basilica of San Vitale, and Piazza del Popolo. It’s designed for independent explorers who enjoy learning as they go, with stories about Ravenna’s landmarks and Dante Alighieri’s connection to the city. Many reviewers find this option very convenient and informative, though a few mention the app can be tricky to operate initially. It’s best suited for travelers comfortable with self-guided tours and looking to keep costs low. The flexibility to start when you want and skip lines makes this a popular choice for independent travelers or those with limited time.
Bottom Line: An economical choice for independent explorers eager to learn about Ravenna at their own pace.
5. Ravenna Top Sights and Monuments Private Guided Walking Tour
For travelers seeking a comprehensive, personalized experience, this private tour for around $171 offers a detailed walk through Ravenna’s UNESCO World Heritage sites. Lasting approximately 3 hours, your dedicated guide will take you to Piazza del Popolo, Archiepiscopal Museum, Baptistero Neoniano, Basilica di San Vitale, and more. All entrance tickets are included, and the private format allows you to customize the itinerary based on your interests. Guests praise the guide Flora, for her engaging storytelling and deep knowledge, which makes art and history come alive. This tour is well-suited for those who want a thorough, behind-the-scenes look at Ravenna’s most significant monuments, with the advantage of flexible pacing and personal attention.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting an in-depth, customized exploration with an expert guide.
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
When selecting a Ravenna tour, consider your budget, time availability, and specific interests. For a quick, stress-free Venice day trip, the Ravenna Port to Venice offers unmatched convenience, especially if you’re arriving by cruise. If art is your passion, the Mosaics and Art provides a deep dive into Ravenna’s masterpieces, while food lovers should consider the Food and Mosaic tour for a flavorful experience. Budget travelers might prefer the Dante Audio Tour for its affordability and flexibility. For those wanting a detailed, tailored visit, the Private Guided Walk is hard to beat.
Think about how much time you have—some tours are short, others let you explore longer—and whether you prefer expert guides or self-guided adventures. Booking early, especially in high season, guarantees better availability and options.
Final Thoughts
Ravenna offers a fantastic mix of art, history, food, and scenery. Whether you’re a cruise passenger looking for a smooth Venice day trip, an art lover eager to see Byzantine mosaics, or a foodie wanting local flavors, there’s a perfect tour for you. The deluxe boat and gondola trip stands out for ease and comfort, while the mosaic and art tour offers a rich cultural experience for those who want depth. For independent explorers, the self-guided Dante tour provides great value and flexibility.
No matter your style or schedule, Ravenna’s diverse tour options make it easy to craft a memorable visit. To ensure you don’t miss out, consider booking your preferred tour early—this city rewards travelers with keen eyes and open minds.