Full-Day Ravenna Tour: Byzantine Mosaics, Italian Cuisine & Historic Sites
Morning: Discover Ravenna’s Iconic Byzantine Mosaics
Begin your tour with an in-depth guided visit to Ravenna’s renowned Byzantine mosaics, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Experience early Christian and Byzantine art from the 5th and 6th centuries in Ravenna’s most celebrated locations.
Featured Sites:
- Basilica di San Vitale
See the intricate mosaics of Emperor Justinian and Empress Theodora, featuring stunning colors and detail that make this basilica a highlight of Byzantine art in Italy. - Mausoleum of Galla Placidia
Explore this small yet striking mausoleum, where vivid mosaics depict early Christian themes in an awe-inspiring, peaceful setting.
Mid-Morning: Piazza del Popolo & Mercato Coperto
After your mosaic tour, enjoy a relaxed stroll through Piazza del Popolo, Ravenna’s central square, followed by a visit to Mercato Coperto. This bustling indoor market showcases local specialties, from produce to artisan foods, offering an authentic glimpse into Ravenna’s food culture.
Tasting Experience at Mercato Coperto:
Sample a Piadina Romagnola, a classic soft flatbread filled with cured meats such as Prosciutto di Parma or Salame Felino, paired with Squacquerone, a soft and tangy cheese that complements the piadina’s warm, savory flavors.
Lunch: Traditional Italian Meal in Ravenna
Enjoy a gourmet Romagna-style lunch at a popular osteria in the heart of Ravenna, featuring classic dishes inspired by local ingredients and traditional recipes.
Sample Dishes:
- Tagliatelle al Ragù
Hand-rolled pasta served with a rich meat sauce, exemplifying Emilia-Romagna’s mastery of fresh pasta. - Cappelletti in Brodo
A delicate pasta filled with cheese, served in a flavorful broth.
Pair your meal with Sangiovese or Albana, local wines that enhance the flavors of Romagna cuisine.
Afternoon: Sant’Apollinare Nuovo & Dante’s Tomb
Continue your historical journey through Ravenna with a guided visit to Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, an ancient basilica filled with vibrant mosaics illustrating scenes from the life of Christ and the saints.
- Dante’s Tomb
Conclude your afternoon with a visit to the tomb of Dante Alighieri, Italy’s most revered poet and author of The Divine Comedy, adding a literary touch to your exploration of Ravenna’s historical sites.
Late Afternoon Option: Wine Tasting at Fattoria Zerbina
End your day with an optional wine tasting at Fattoria Zerbina, a boutique winery nestled in the scenic countryside near Ravenna. Sample Sangiovese di Romagna and Albana di Romagna wines, paired with local snacks like Parmigiano Reggiano and cured meats, in a relaxing vineyard setting.
Ravenna’s Unique Culinary Scene
Ravenna’s cuisine is a blend of rustic inland flavors and fresh Adriatic seafood. The dishes are prepared with simple, fresh ingredients that showcase Emilia-Romagna’s rich agricultural traditions.
- Piadina Romagnola
This soft flatbread, often filled with cured meats and cheeses, is a must-try local specialty. - Egg-Based Pasta
Try handmade pasta like Tagliatelle al Ragù and Cappelletti in Brodo for a taste of authentic Emilia-Romagna cuisine. - Seafood
Ravenna’s coastal location brings fresh seafood to the table, including specialties like Brodetto di Pesce (fish stew) and Fritto Misto (fried seafood). - Cured Meats and Cheeses
Known for exceptional cured meats, the region also offers cheeses like Squacquerone, often paired with the local Piadina Romagnola. - Regional Wines
Sample wines like Sangiovese di Romagna and Albana di Romagna to complement the bold flavors of Romagna cuisine.
Tour Information
- Duration: Full Day (Approximately 8 hours)
- What’s Included:
- Guided tours of Ravenna’s Byzantine mosaics and historical sites
- Tastings at Mercato Coperto and a gourmet lunch at a local restaurant
- Optional wine tasting at Fattoria Zerbina winery (additional cost)
- What’s Not Included:
- Gratuities
- Transportation (available upon request)
- Sites Visited:
- Basilica di San Vitale
- Mausoleum of Galla Placidia
- Piazza del Popolo and Mercato Coperto
- Sant’Apollinare Nuovo
- Dante’s Tomb
- Optional: Fattoria Zerbina winery
- Child-Friendly: Yes
- Availability: Year-round (excluding public holidays)
Book your Ravenna tour today and experience the timeless art, food, and wine of this unique region in Emilia-Romagna.
FAQs for the Private Full-Day Gourmet and Mosaics Tour in Ravenna:
What are the must-see mosaics in Ravenna?
The Basilica di San Vitale and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia are the top must-see mosaic sites in Ravenna. These UNESCO World Heritage sites feature some of the finest examples of early Christian and Byzantine mosaics, depicting religious and imperial scenes that are breathtaking in their detail and beauty.
How long does the Private Full-Day Gourmet and Mosaics Tour in Ravenna last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, including visits to the mosaic sites, a gourmet lunch, tastings, and optional wine tasting. It’s a comprehensive full-day experience designed to immerse you in both the artistic and culinary heritage of Ravenna.
Is lunch included in the Ravenna tour?
Yes, lunch is included in the tour. You’ll enjoy a traditional Romagna meal atone of the most famous osterias in Ravenna. The menu features classic dishes like Tagliatelle al Ragù and Cappelletti in Brodo, paired with local wines.
Can I visit the mosaics and have a food experience on the same day?
Absolutely! This tour is designed to combine Ravenna’s famous mosaics with its rich food culture. You’ll explore the art and history of Ravenna in the morning, followed by a food and wine experience in the afternoon, making it the perfect blend of culture and cuisine.
What food will I taste during the Ravenna tour?
You’ll taste Piadina Romagnola, a local flatbread served with cured meats like Prosciutto di Parma and Salame Felino. At lunch, expect to try fresh pasta dishes like Tagliatelle al Ragù and Cappelletti in Brodo, paired with local wines such as Sangiovese and Albana di Romagna.
Is this tour suitable for families with children?
Yes, this tour is family-friendly. Children will enjoy the vibrant mosaics and can also participate in the tastings. The food is accessible and includes a variety of simple, delicious dishes that are perfect for kids.
Can I book a private wine tasting on the Ravenna tour?
Yes, an optional private wine tasting at a wineryis available. You’ll sample regional wines like Sangiovese and Albana, paired with local cheeses and cured meats. This can be arranged upon request as part of your tour.
Do I need to buy entry tickets to the mosaic sites in Ravenna?
Yes, entry tickets are required for the mosaic sites such as the Basilica di San Vitale and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia. The approximate cost is €10 per person for a combined ticket. We recommend purchasing tickets in advance or as part of your private tour package.
Is the Private Full-Day Gourmet and Mosaics Tour in Ravenna customizable?
Yes! This is a private tour, and we can customize the itinerary to suit your preferences. Whether you’d like to focus more on the art, extend your wine tasting experience, or visit additional historical sites, we can tailor the tour to meet your needs.
What wines are produced in the Ravenna region?
Ravenna is part of the Emilia-Romagna wine region, famous for producing wines like Sangiovese di Romagna, a smooth red, and Albana di Romagna, a full-bodied white. You’ll have the opportunity to taste these wines during the tour, paired with local dishes and snacks.
How far in advance should I book the Private Full-Day Gourmet and Mosaics Tour in Ravenna?
We recommend booking at least 2 months in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. This ensures availability for both the mosaic sites and gourmet experiences, including wine tastings if requested.
Is transportation provided on the Ravenna tour?
Transportation is not included by default, but we can arrange private transport for you upon request. Whether you’re coming from Bologna, Florence, or another nearby city, we can organize a comfortable transfer to and from Ravenna.
What’s the best time of year to visit Ravenna?
Ravenna is beautiful year-round, but the best times to visit are spring and fall when the weather is mild. The cooler months make walking through the city more pleasant, and you can enjoy both the mosaics and outdoor markets in comfort.
What makes Ravenna’s food unique?
Ravenna’s cuisine reflects the best of Emilia-Romagna with a focus on simple, high-quality ingredients. You’ll find dishes featuring fresh pasta, Piadina flatbreads, and cured meats like Prosciutto di Parma. The city’s location near the Adriatic Sea also means that seafood is a big part of the local diet, with dishes like Brodetto di Pesce and Fritto Misto being popular.
Can I book this tour as part of a larger group?
Yes, this tour can be booked for both individuals and larger private groups. Contact us for group rates and customization options to ensure that your group has the best experience.
Are vegetarian options available during the tastings and lunch?
Yes, vegetarian options are available. Ravenna’s traditional cuisine includes plenty of delicious vegetarian dishes, such as Tortelli di Zucca (pumpkin-filled pasta) and various local cheeses. Please inform us of any dietary preferences in advance.
Is the Private Full-Day Ravenna Gourmet and Mosaics Tour wheelchair accessible?
Some parts of the tour, including certain historical sites, may have limited wheelchair accessibility due to uneven terrain or steps. Please let us know if you have any specific accessibility needs, and we’ll do our best to accommodate them.
Suggestions for Other Tours and Experiences You May Like:
- Best of Bologna – Wine, History & Food Tour
Want to taste the heart of Emilia-Romagna? Join us on a Bologna Food Walking Tour to savor local favorites like mortadella and tortellini at historic markets. - Renaissance Cooking Class in Florence
Step back in time with our Renaissance Cooking Class in Florence, where you will learn how to prepare authentic Renaissance-era dishes using traditional techniques and ingredients
