Ravenna: Highlights Private Walking Tour With Entry Tickets

Ravenna’s Byzantine heritage is truly captivating, and a private walking tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore its wonders. Guided by local experts, visitors can explore the UNESCO-listed Mausoleum of Galla Placidia and the Basilica of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, marveling at their exquisite mosaics. With seamless access to these sites and a flexible itinerary, the tour promises an immersive experience. But what secrets do these ancient monuments hold, and how do they reflect the city’s remarkable cultural significance? Prepare to be amazed as you uncover the captivating essence of this Italian gem.

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

Key Points

• Explore Ravenna’s renowned Byzantine mosaics and historical monuments on a private 3-hour walking tour guided by a local expert.
• Visit the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia to admire its exquisite 5th-century Christian mosaics and architectural significance.
• Discover the magnificent Byzantine-era mosaics in the Basilica of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Enjoy seamless access to top attractions with included entry tickets, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
• Customize the tour sequence to cater to your interests and explore Ravenna’s rich history and cultural heritage at your own pace.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This private walking tour of Ravenna allows visitors to discover the city’s rich history and cultural heritage over the course of 3 hours.

Participants will visit major monuments like the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia and Basilica of Sant Apollinare Nuovo, and explore the city’s renowned mosaics with the guidance of a local expert.

The tour includes entry tickets to multiple attractions, ensuring seamless access to Ravenna’s top sights.

Comfortable shoes are recommended, and the tour is flexible, with the sequence of visited monuments subject to change based on availability and visitor flows.

Customization is possible within the city center area, allowing guests to tailor the experience to their interests.

Mausoleum of Galla Placidia

One of the first stops on the tour is the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, a remarkable 5th-century structure that showcases Ravenna’s rich Byzantine heritage.

This small, unassuming building is home to some of the finest examples of early Christian mosaics in the world. Visitors will be captivated by the intricate designs and vivid colors that adorn the walls and ceilings.

The mausoleum’s interior is divided into three main sections, each with its own unique set of mosaics. Highlights include the stunning image of Christ as the Good Shepherd and the symbolic representation of the four Evangelists.

With its impressive artistry and historical significance, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia is a must-see on any tour of Ravenna.

Basilica of Sant Apollinare Nuovo

Located just a short distance from the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, the Basilica of Sant Apollinare Nuovo stands as one of Ravenna’s architectural gems.

The basilica boasts an impressive collection of exquisite Byzantine mosaics that adorn its interior walls.

Dedicated to Saint Martin of Tours, the basilica’s striking 5th-century mosaics depict scenes from the life of Christ and feature a procession of virgins and martyrs.

Visitors can marvel at the stunning depictions, which showcase the remarkable skill and artistry of the Byzantine mosaicists.

The basilica’s well-preserved state and its status as a UNESCO World Heritage site make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Ravenna’s rich cultural heritage.

Meeting Point and Logistics

The tour meeting point is where the traffic-free zone begins, allowing easy access for both the guide and participants. Guests are advised to arrive at the designated location punctually to ensure a smooth start to the walking tour.

The guide will be waiting to greet the group and provide any necessary information before the exploration of Ravenna’s highlights commences.

Since the tour involves walking, comfortable shoes are recommended. Visitors should also note that certain attire, such as sleeveless shirts, is prohibited in some of the religious sites.

The sequence of visited monuments may vary depending on availability and crowd levels, providing flexibility in the itinerary. Plus, opening hours and closures on public holidays can impact the tour, so guests are advised to check for any updates prior to the scheduled date.

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Recommended Attire and Items

Aside from the comfortable shoes recommended for the walking tour, visitors should also be mindful of the appropriate attire when visiting the religious sites in Ravenna. Sleeveless shirts are prohibited in these sacred spaces, so guests are advised to dress respectfully.

Along With comfortable shoes, the tour organizers suggest the following items:

1. Sunhat or cap to protect against the sun
2. Sunscreen to prevent sunburn
3. Water bottle to stay hydrated
4. Camera to capture the breathtaking mosaics and monuments

Flexibility and Customization

Despite the set itinerary, the tour sequence may change based on availability and visitor flows, allowing for a more adaptable experience.

Plus, the guide can customize the tour within the city center area to cater to guests’ specific interests.

While the tour’s opening hours are subject to change, the Ravenna card provides entry to the major attractions.

Visitors should note that some sites may be closed on public holidays or weekly breaks.

The flexibility of the tour ensures guests can make the most of their time in Ravenna, experiencing the city’s rich history and cultural heritage at their own pace and preference.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Ravenna’s rich historical and cultural heritage captivates visitors, showcasing the city’s pivotal role in shaping Europe’s early medieval period. As the capital of the Western Roman Empire and the Byzantine Exarchate, Ravenna’s monuments reflect its illustrious past.

The Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features stunning 5th-century mosaics that symbolize the transition from the Roman to the Byzantine era.

The Basilica of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo boasts magnificent 6th-century mosaics, depicting scenes from the life of Christ and the triumph of the Christian faith.

The Arian Baptistery, with its magnificent 5th-century mosaics, showcases the theological disputes that shaped early Christianity.

The Basilica of San Vitale, another UNESCO treasure, exemplifies the harmonious blend of Byzantine and Western architectural elements.

Highlights and Attractions

The tour’s highlights introduce visitors to Ravenna’s unparalleled mosaic artistry, where vibrant hues and intricate designs captivate the senses.

Guests will explore the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring stunning 5th-century mosaics.

Another must-see is the Basilica of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, showcasing breathtaking Byzantine-era mosaics depicting scenes from the life of Christ.

Throughout the tour, the guide shares insights into Ravenna’s rich history and cultural heritage, immersing participants in the city’s storied past.

With the included Ravenna card, visitors can seamlessly access the tour’s featured attractions, ensuring a hassle-free experience exploring Ravenna’s remarkable artistic and architectural wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet Dog on the Tour?

No, pets are generally not allowed on walking tours. The tour guide and venue policies likely prohibit bringing pets, as they can disrupt the tour experience for other participants. Guests should check the tour details for any pet restrictions.

Is the Tour Available in My Native Language?

The tour is typically offered in multiple languages, including the customer’s native language. Customers should inquire about language options when booking the tour to ensure it is available in their preferred language.

What if I Get Hungry During the Tour?

If the visitor gets hungry during the tour, they can stop for a quick snack or meal at one of the cafes or restaurants located within the city center area. The guide can recommend suitable options along the tour route.

Can I Use My Smartphone for Photos During the Tour?

Yes, visitors can use their smartphones to take photos during the tour. However, they should be mindful of not disrupting the guide or other participants. Flash photography may also be prohibited in certain sites.

Is There a Bathroom Break Scheduled During the Tour?

The tour does not have a scheduled bathroom break. However, the guide will likely accommodate reasonable requests to use restroom facilities during the tour at appropriate times and locations, as needed. The exact timing is flexible based on the group’s preferences.

Recap

The Ravenna Highlights Private Walking Tour provides an immersive experience into the city’s remarkable Byzantine heritage.

Visitors can explore the UNESCO-listed Mausoleum of Galla Placidia and Basilica of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo, guided by a local expert.

With included entry tickets and a flexible itinerary, this tour offers an unforgettable opportunity to uncover Ravenna’s captivating essence, offering a seamless way to discover its rich history and cultural significance.

You can check availability for your dates here: