Ravenna, the former capital of the Western Roman Empire, boasts a remarkable cultural heritage that continues to captivate visitors. This private guided tour offers an immersive experience, exploring the city’s UNESCO-listed early Christian monuments and their stunning mosaics. From the Basilica di Sant’Apollinare Nuovo to the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, each site holds a unique story that reveals Ravenna‘s pivotal role in the late antique period. By delving into the artistic and historical significance of these iconic landmarks, travelers can uncover the captivating essence of this remarkable Italian city.

This experience made our list of the 13 Best Private Drivers In Ravenna.

Key Points

Best of Ravenna on a Private Tour - Key Points

  1. Explore Ravenna’s UNESCO-listed early Christian monuments on a private guided tour, including the Basilica di Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, the Baptistery of Neon, and the Basilica of San Vitale.

  2. Admire the mesmerizing mosaics adorning the walls and ceilings of these iconic landmarks, showcasing Ravenna’s rich artistic and cultural heritage.

  3. Gain insights into the historical significance and architectural grandeur of these late Roman and Byzantine-era structures from a knowledgeable local guide.

  4. Enjoy effortless access to the sites with pre-purchased entry tickets, allowing for a seamless and immersive experience.

  5. Be aware that the tour may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as it involves navigating several historic sites with limited accessibility features.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

Best of Ravenna on a Private Tour - Tour Overview

This private guided tour of Ravenna’s UNESCO-listed sites offers an immersive exploration into the city’s Roman and Byzantine heritage, with prices starting from €6,285 per group of up to 8 participants.

Over the course of 2.5 hours, visitors will explore the history of Late Antique Ravenna, discovering the mesmerizing mosaics that adorn the city’s early Christian monuments.

The tour includes guided visits to the Basilica di Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, the Archiepiscopal Museum, the Baptistery of Neon, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, and the iconic Basilica of San Vitale, allowing travelers to appreciate the artistry of early Christian craftsmen.

This comprehensive experience provides a unique opportunity to uncover the grandeur and significance of Ravenna’s renowned cultural treasures.

Itinerary

Best of Ravenna on a Private Tour - Itinerary

The private tour begins at the Basilica di Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, where a 15-minute guided tour provides an introduction to the site.

Visitors then proceed to the Archiepiscopal Museum for a 20-minute guided tour, followed by a visit to the Baptistery of Neon, also with a 20-minute guided tour.

Next, the group explores the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, with a 20-minute guided tour, before concluding the experience with a 30-minute guided tour of the iconic Basilica of San Vitale.

Throughout the tour, guests will explore the history of late antique Ravenna and marvel at the stunning Roman and Byzantine mosaics that adorn these UNESCO-listed sites.

Highlights

Best of Ravenna on a Private Tour - Highlights

Visitors will discover early Christian monuments that showcase the grandeur of Ravenna’s artistic heritage. They’ll admire the mesmerizing mosaics that adorn the walls and ceilings of these UNESCO-listed sites, marveling at the artistry of early Christian craftsmen.

The tour culminates with an exploration of the iconic Basilica of San Vitale, where guests can fully enjoy the grandeur of late antique architecture. From the intricate mosaic work to the impressive scale and design of these structures, the highlights of this tour offer a comprehensive look at Ravenna’s rich cultural and historical significance.

Inclusions

Best of Ravenna on a Private Tour - Inclusions

The tour includes a private guided experience and all necessary entry tickets to the monuments. This ensures guests can fully enjoy the rich history and mesmerizing mosaics of Ravenna without any hassle.

The inclusions provide:

  • Effortless access to the UNESCO-listed sites
  • Insightful commentary from a knowledgeable local guide
  • The opportunity to delve deep into the art and architecture of the late Roman and Byzantine eras
  • A stress-free exploration of Ravenna’s architectural gems

With these thoughtful inclusions, the private tour offers an exceptional way to discover the best of Ravenna, where every step unveils the captivating legacy of this historic city.

More Great Tours Nearby

Exclusions

Best of Ravenna on a Private Tour - Exclusions

This tour may not accommodate people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. The itinerary involves navigating several historic sites, some of which don’t have ramps or elevators.

Visitors with limited mobility may find it challenging to access certain areas or fully participate in the guided tours. The tour provider has specified that it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues.

Guests should consider their physical abilities before booking. While the tour offers an immersive experience exploring Ravenna’s UNESCO-listed sites and stunning mosaics, it may not be the best choice for travelers with accessibility needs.

Those with concerns are encouraged to discuss options with the tour operator prior to booking.

Exploring UNESCO-Listed Sites

Best of Ravenna on a Private Tour - Exploring UNESCO-Listed Sites

On this private tour, guests’ll explore Ravenna’s UNESCO-listed sites, seeing the city’s rich history and stunning early Christian mosaics.

The tour takes visitors through the Basilica di Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, the Archiepiscopal Museum, the Baptistery of Neon, and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia – all UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Here, they’ll be captivated by:

  • The kaleidoscopic mosaics adorning the walls and ceilings
  • The grandeur and architectural elegance of these ancient monuments
  • The stories of late antique Ravenna, a once-thriving hub of the Byzantine Empire
  • The remarkable craftsmanship and artistry of early Christian artisans

Guests will leave with a deeper appreciation for Ravenna’s cultural treasures and the enduring legacy of its stunning mosaics.

Discovering Roman and Byzantine Mosaics

Best of Ravenna on a Private Tour - Discovering Roman and Byzantine Mosaics

Guests will discover the exceptional Roman and Byzantine mosaics that have captivated visitors for centuries throughout Ravenna’s UNESCO-listed sites.

These mesmerizing works of art, adorning the walls and ceilings of churches and monuments, showcase the remarkable skill and creativity of early Christian craftsmen.

From the intricate depictions of biblical scenes in the Basilica of San Vitale to the stunning images of Christ and his apostles in the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, these mosaics offer a glimpse into the artistic and spiritual world of Late Antique Ravenna.

Visitors will be awed by the vibrant colors, precise patterns, and breathtaking attention to detail that characterize these timeless masterpieces.

History of Late Antique Ravenna

Best of Ravenna on a Private Tour - History of Late Antique Ravenna

Ravenna’s pivotal role in the history of Late Antiquity stemmed from its strategic location and close ties to the Roman imperial court. As the western capital of the Roman Empire in the 5th century AD, the city witnessed a remarkable flourishing of art, architecture, and religious influence that left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of the era.

Ravenna became a hub of Byzantine power and influence in the West.

The city saw the construction of magnificent churches adorned with stunning mosaics.

Ravenna played host to emperors, popes, and influential figures of the time.

The city evolved into a center of scholarship, education, and cultural exchange.

This legacy of Late Antique Ravenna continues to captivate and inspire visitors today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Best of Ravenna on a Private Tour - Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The maximum group size for this tour is 8 people. The tour overview states that it is a private guided tour ‘from €6,285 per group up to 8’, indicating the maximum group size is 8 participants.

Are There Any Stops Not Mentioned in the Itinerary?

The itinerary provided does not mention any additional stops beyond the listed sites. The tour appears to focus solely on the key UNESCO-listed monuments and mosaics in Ravenna during the 2.5-hour private guided experience.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Suit Individual Preferences?

The tour can be customized to suit individual preferences. Travelers can work with the tour provider to adjust the itinerary, focus on specific sites, or add additional stops not mentioned. The tour is flexible to accommodate guests’ interests.

Are There Any Additional Costs Not Included in the Tour Price?

The tour price covers the private guided tour and monument entry tickets. However, any additional expenses like transportation, meals, or personal purchases are not included and would incur extra costs for the participants.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The cancellation policy typically allows for full refunds if canceled at least 24-48 hours in advance. Later cancellations may incur penalties. Customers should review the tour operator’s specific cancellation terms prior to booking.

Recap

Ravenna’s private guided tour offers a captivating exploration of the city’s UNESCO-listed early Christian monuments.

Visitors can marvel at the mesmerizing mosaics adorning the walls and ceilings, seeing the rich cultural and historical significance of this remarkable Italian destination.

This immersive experience provides an in-depth look into Ravenna’s artistic heritage, leaving a lasting impression on all who embark on this captivating journey.

You can check availability for your dates here: