Ravenna Historic Downtown Self Guided Audio Walking Tour
Active
1h - 1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Get ready to explore one of Italy’s most fascinating historical cities, where Roman grandeur and Byzantine brilliance continue to shine through its art and architecture. Go at your own pace, anytime. The tour is guided step by step by your walking tour app. It's hands free, press play and be guided through history.
On this walking tour, we’ll explore the stories behind Ravenna’s ancient basilicas, mosaic masterpieces, and monuments that have shaped centuries of European history.
You’ll visit landmarks like the Basilica of San Vitale, Dante’s Tomb, and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, each showcasing the city’s importance as a crossroads of faith, empire, and creativity.
Along the way, we’ll walk through quiet piazzas, grand palaces, and serene gardens that keep Ravenna’s timeless beauty.
Let’s start your tour at San Giovanni Evangelista, one of the city’s oldest and most historic churches.
Available options
Ravenna Historic Downtown Self Guided Audio Walking Tour
What's included
Great deal, one purchase and it never expires.
Offline maps: no signal, no problem! Works perfectly without cellular or wifi.
Go anytime at your own pace. Stop and go anytime. The tour never expires.
See All the sites and don't miss out with your in depth route.
Great narration that keeps you interested as you walk.
Fun storytelling that shares the history of the Ravenna bringing it alive.
Easy to use, press play and the stories play automatically as you drive.
Detailed itinerary
1
Colonna di Sant'Apollinare honors the city’s dedication to its first bishop and patron saint, Saint Apollinaris. It's a great place to explore.
2
The tour starts outside the Basilica di San Giovanni Evangelista at the gate. You'll hear it's history and story then be guided step by step through Ravenna.
3
The tour passes by a local Mosaic shop to point out it's work, and you can pop in to see mosaics at work.
4
Palazzo di Teodorico in Ravenna is a small but fascinating early-medieval structure, long thought to be King Theodoric’s residence but now understood as a 7th–8th century gatehouse for the imperial palace complex. Its façade with arches and niche fronts Via di Roma near Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, and inside you can see reused Roman and Byzantine elements plus mosaics from the underlying late‑antique palace. Excavations revealed earlier Roman villas and an imperial residence later remodeled in Theodoric’s time, so the site condenses several centuries of Ravenna’s political and artistic history.
5
Great spot to relax and it has a great historic story.
6
Check out the outdoor Banksy mural mosaic and hear about it's story.
7
See the historic statues outside the art museum and hear it's story.
8
The legend of the Greek Madonna centers on a marble bas-relief of the Virgin Mary, believed to be Byzantine in origin. You'll hear that hear.
9
Not to miss spot. The Basilica di San Francesco dates back to the mid-5th century, when it was originally known as the Chiesa degli Apostoli, an early Christian sanctuary later rededicated to Saint Peter.
10
Yes, this is Dante’s Tomb. Now, why is Dante important?
Dante Alighieri is important because his epic poem The Divine Comedy written circa 1308 1321 is considered a masterpiece of world literature and the cornerstone of the Italian language.
11
Giuseppe Garibaldi was one of Italy’s most influential figures, known as a soldier, patriot, and revolutionary leader of the 19th-century Risorgimento, the movement that unified Italy from separate states into a single nation.
12
Not to be missed spots, with a great historic story.
What's not included
No human guide, this is a self guided tour on your walking tour app
No admission, most spots are free, but this is all outside.
Available languages
Audio guide
EN
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
The tour starts outside the Basilica di San Giovanni Evangelista at the gate. You'll hear it's history and story then be guided step by step through Ravenna.
Important notes
Thank you for booking The Ravenna Walking Tour: Discover the City of Mosaics, Monuments & Byzantine Marvels
Quick overview:
1. Get the WalknTours app
2. Register
3. Unlock the tour by choosing the tour and use code bill0612 to unlock it
Full ticket:
HOW TO TAKE YOUR TOUR
*Do not purchase the tour in the WalknTours app. Use Code bill0612
*If you purchased more than one ticket make sure each user registers a unique account and email address. You will use the same experience code bill0612
Step 1: Download the WalknTours app on iPhone or Android.
https://onelink.to/ffpuug
Step 2: Register an Account or Login
Step 3: Open the Tour
Select Ravenna (Or select the tour in the Near Me section)
Select The Ravenna Walking Tour: Discover the City of Mosaics, Monuments & Byzantine Marvels and click it.
Click "Enter Experience Code"
Enter the Experience Code bill0612
Click apply
The tour is now unlocked and you can take it anytime.
To take the tour go outside the Basilica di San Giovanni Evangelista and press play
If you have questions call/text US +1 (888) 959-7789 or email info@walkntours.com
About Ravenna
Ravenna is renowned for its well-preserved late Roman and Byzantine architecture, including eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The city is a treasure trove of intricate mosaics, making it a must-visit for art and history enthusiasts. Its rich cultural heritage and serene atmosphere offer a unique blend of ancient and modern Italian life.
Top Attractions
Basilica di San Vitale
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its stunning Byzantine mosaics, which depict religious and imperial scenes. The basilica is a masterpiece of early Christian architecture.
Historical/Religious/Architecture
1-2 hours
€9.50 (combined ticket with other sites)
Mausoleo di Galla Placidia
Another UNESCO-listed site, this small mausoleum is renowned for its exquisite mosaics, which are among the best-preserved in the world. It is a testament to the artistic achievements of the early Byzantine period.
Historical/Religious/Architecture
30-45 minutes
€9.50 (combined ticket with other sites)
Battistero Neoniano
This octagonal baptistery is another UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring beautiful mosaics that date back to the 5th century. It is one of the oldest surviving baptisteries in Christendom.
Historical/Religious/Architecture
30-45 minutes
€9.50 (combined ticket with other sites)
Dante Alighieri's Tomb
This monument honors Dante Alighieri, the famous Italian poet who spent his final years in Ravenna. The tomb is a significant cultural site and a place of pilgrimage for literature enthusiasts.
Historical/Cultural
30 minutes
Free
Parco della Pilotta
This large public park is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. It features beautiful gardens, walking paths, and a playground, making it an ideal place for a leisurely stroll or picnic.
Nature/Relaxation
1-2 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Piadina
A traditional flatbread filled with various ingredients such as cheese, cured meats, and vegetables. It is a popular street food in the region.
Snack
Vegetarian options available
Cappelletti in Brodo
A traditional pasta dish consisting of small, hat-shaped pasta filled with meat and served in a rich broth.
Dinner
Contains meat and gluten
Romagna Coast Fish Soup
A hearty seafood soup made with a variety of fresh fish and shellfish, tomatoes, and herbs.
Dinner
Contains seafood and gluten (if served with bread)
Squacquerone
A soft, creamy cheese often spread on piadina or eaten with bread. It has a mild, slightly tangy flavor.
Snack/Dessert
Contains dairy
Popular Activities
Boat tours in the Po Delta
Cycling in the countryside
Picnicking in Parco della Pilotta
Enjoying a spa day
Visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Attending local festivals
Boating in the Po Delta
Swimming at nearby beaches
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
These months offer pleasant weather with fewer tourists, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
15°C to 28°C
59°F to 82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Italian
- Widely spoken: English, French, German
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Ravenna is a safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it is important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
Getting there
By air
- Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport • 80 km from Ravenna
- Forlì Airport • 50 km from Ravenna
By train
Ravenna Station
By bus
Ravenna Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is efficient and affordable, with frequent services throughout the day. Buses are a convenient way to get around Ravenna.
Taxis
Available • Apps: MyTaxi, FreeNow
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Centro Storico
San Rocco
Porto
Day trips
Bologna
80 km from Ravenna • Full day
Bologna is a vibrant city known for its medieval architecture, rich history, and delicious cuisine. It is a great day trip from Ravenna, offering a mix of cultural and culinary experiences.
Comacchio
30 km from Ravenna • Half day to full day
Comacchio is a charming town known for its canals and historic center. It is often referred to as the 'Little Venice' of the Po Delta and offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty.
San Marino
100 km from Ravenna • Full day
San Marino is a small, independent country nestled in the Apennine Mountains. It is known for its medieval architecture, stunning views, and rich history. A day trip to San Marino offers a unique cultural experience.
Festivals
Ravenna Festival • June to July
Mosaico Festival • May to June
Fiera di San Romualdo • February
Pro tips
- Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites early in the morning to avoid crowds
- Try local specialties like piadina and cappelletti in brodo at traditional trattorias
- Explore the city on foot or by bike to discover hidden gems and charming streets
- Attend local festivals and events for a unique cultural experience
- Learn a few basic Italian phrases to enhance your interactions with locals
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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